Last updated: 2026-03-04
Most Reliable Kia Models — Ranked in 2026
We ranked every Kia model and year in our database by reliability score. The average Kia scores 69/100 across all models and years. The 2025 Kia Sportage is the most reliable Kia with a score of 82/100.
Kia Reliability Rankings
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2025 Kia Sportage | 2025 | 82/100 | Excellent | 2 | 2.4 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 2 | 2025 Kia K5 | 2025 | 79/100 | Good | 2 | 4.0 | 4 | |
| 3 | 2022 Kia Sportage | 2022 | 79/100 | Good | 1 | 3.1 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 4 | 2024 Kia Sorento | 2024 | 79/100 | Good | 2 | 3.7 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 5 | 2025 Kia Telluride | 2025 | 78/100 | Good | 2 | 2.6 | 3.5 | $573/yr |
| 6 | 2024 Kia Sportage | 2024 | 78/100 | Good | 4 | 5.1 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 7 | 2024 Kia K5 | 2024 | 77/100 | Good | 2 | 4.3 | 4 | |
| 8 | 2021 Kia Sportage | 2021 | 76/100 | Good | 2 | 3.8 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 9 | 2025 Kia Sorento | 2025 | 75/100 | Good | 8 | 7.6 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 10 | 2019 Kia Sportage | 2019 | 74/100 | Good | 2 | 7.1 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 11 | 2021 Kia K5 | 2021 | 71/100 | Good | 6 | 14.3 | 4 | |
| 12 | 2020 Kia Sorento | 2020 | 71/100 | Good | 1 | 15.4 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 13 | 2023 Kia K5 | 2023 | 71/100 | Good | 4 | 13.9 | 4 | |
| 14 | 2023 Kia Sorento | 2023 | 70/100 | Good | 7 | 13.5 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 15 | 2024 Kia Telluride | 2024 | 69/100 | Good | 4 | 15.6 | 3.5 | $573/yr |
| 16 | 2025 Kia EV6 | 2025 | 69/100 | Good | 0 | 0.0 | 1.5 | |
| 17 | 2022 Kia K5 | 2022 | 69/100 | Good | 5 | 17.4 | 4 | |
| 18 | 2020 Kia Sportage | 2020 | 69/100 | Good | 2 | 16.5 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 19 | 2018 Kia Sportage | 2018 | 68/100 | Good | 3 | 17.7 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 20 | 2023 Kia Telluride | 2023 | 68/100 | Good | 5 | 14.5 | 3.5 | $573/yr |
| 21 | 2018 Kia Sorento | 2018 | 68/100 | Good | 3 | 21.5 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 22 | 2023 Kia Sportage | 2023 | 67/100 | Good | 9 | 18.3 | 4 | $462/yr |
| 23 | 2022 Kia Sorento | 2022 | 66/100 | Good | 10 | 19.6 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 24 | 2021 Kia Sorento | 2021 | 66/100 | Good | 6 | 26.5 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 25 | 2019 Kia Sorento | 2019 | 64/100 | Good | 2 | 39.7 | 4 | $533/yr |
| 26 | 2022 Kia Telluride | 2022 | 63/100 | Good | 6 | 28.1 | 3.5 | $573/yr |
| 27 | 2021 Kia Telluride | 2021 | 63/100 | Good | 4 | 29.9 | 3.5 | $573/yr |
| 28 | 2024 Kia EV6 | 2024 | 59/100 | Mixed | 2 | 17.5 | 1.5 | |
| 29 | 2020 Kia Telluride | 2020 | 55/100 | Mixed | 6 | 88.8 | 3.5 | $573/yr |
| 30 | 2023 Kia EV6 | 2023 | 52/100 | Mixed | 3 | 51.9 | 1.5 | |
| 31 | 2022 Kia EV6 | 2022 | 46/100 | Mixed | 3 | 117.8 | 1.5 |
Model Summaries
Kia EV6
The Kia EV6, covering model years 2022 through 2026, has an average reliability score of 75 out of 100, indicating a generally good reliability reputation. Data shows early models, particularly the 2022 version, have notable issues with the electrical system and power train, resulting in high complaint rates and multiple recalls, while later models, especially from 2025 onward, exhibit significant improvements with perfect scores and no reported issues. Potential buyers should consider the year-specific reliability trends, as the vehicle is best suited for those prioritizing newer models with fewer reported problems.
Average score: 57/100. Best year: 2025 (69/100). 5 years tracked.
Kia K5
The Kia K5, spanning model years 2021 to 2026, shows a notable improvement in reliability, with scores increasing from 75/100 in 2021 to 100/100 in 2026. Initial years exhibit issues primarily with the electrical and fuel systems, while later models, particularly 2024 onward, demonstrate significantly fewer complaints and higher reliability scores, suggesting improvements in design and manufacturing. The vehicle is best suited for buyers prioritizing high safety ratings, as evidenced by consistent 5-star NHTSA safety scores, and those seeking models from 2024 and beyond for reduced complaint rates and enhanced reliability.
Average score: 73/100. Best year: 2025 (79/100). 6 years tracked.
Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento, covering model years 2018 to 2026, presents an average reliability score of 81 out of 100, indicating an excellent reliability reputation. Common issues reported by owners include engine and powertrain problems, particularly in earlier models, with a noted improvement in complaint rates by 2026. With an estimated annual repair cost of $533, slightly above the compact SUV average, the Sorento is characterized by medium repair costs and is suited for buyers prioritizing a balance between reliability and cost.
Average score: 70/100. Best year: 2024 (79/100). 9 years tracked.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage, with an average reliability score of 73/100, is categorized as having good reliability, although specific model years like 2023 and 2026 show higher complaint rates and lower scores. Common issues reported by owners include engine and electrical system problems, particularly in earlier models, while the vehicle's estimated annual repair cost is $462, below the compact SUV average. This model may appeal to buyers seeking a compact SUV with a generally favorable reliability rating, but prospective owners should consider specific year-related issues and complaints.
Average score: 74/100. Best year: 2025 (82/100). 9 years tracked.
Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride, covering model years 2020 through 2025, holds an average reliability score of 71/100, classified as "Good," with a medium reliability rating of 3.5/5. Data indicates common issues such as windshield cracking and electrical system malfunctions, with annual repair costs estimated at $573. The 2025 model shows a significant decrease in complaint rates at 2.6 per 10,000 sold, suggesting improved reliability over earlier years, making it potentially suitable for buyers seeking a mid-sized SUV with a focus on recent model improvements.
Average score: 66/100. Best year: 2025 (78/100). 6 years tracked.
Also Compare
Most Reliable Used Cars (All Makes)
View rankings →
Most Reliable Acura Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Audi Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable BMW Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Chevrolet Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Dodge Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Ford Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable GMC Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Honda Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Hyundai Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Jeep Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Lexus Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Mazda Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Nissan Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Porsche Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Ram Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Subaru Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Tesla Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Toyota Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Volkswagen Models
View rankings →
Most Reliable Volvo Models
View rankings →
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the most reliable Kia?
- Based on our data, the 2025 Kia Sportage is the most reliable Kia with a score of 82/100 ("Excellent"). It has 2 recalls and 44 owner complaints.
- Are Kia vehicles reliable?
- Kia vehicles have an average reliability score of 69/100 across all models and years in our database. Individual models vary, so checking the specific model year you're considering is important.
- Which Kia models should I avoid?
- Based on our data, these Kia model-years are statistical outliers within their lines: 2018 Sportage (68/100), 2023 Sportage (67/100), 2019 Sorento (64/100), 2020 Telluride (55/100), 2022 EV6 (46/100). These have higher recall counts and complaint volumes relative to their siblings.
- How do Kia repair costs compare?
- Repair costs vary by model. Check the detailed rankings table above for estimated annual repair costs for each Kia model year.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
See incorrect data? Report an issue