Kia has introduced two completely redesigned crossover SUV models for 2023: the Sportage and the Niro. Moreover, the popular Telluride SUV gets a significant mid-cycle facelift. While the Sportage grows in size and capacity, the Niro introduces its three electric variants (HEV, PHEV, and EV) with more technology, better driving dynamics, green credentials, and a divisive new exterior design.
Another notable addition for the coming year is the much-anticipated EV6 GT, a high-performance version of Kia’s EV6 all-electric crossover, which debuts in 2022 and the automaker’s transition to electrification. And signaled commitment to clean mobility. The GT variant of the EV6 can reportedly go from zero to sixty mph in 3.4 seconds.
Kia has announced that it will introduce the EV9, its second mass-market electric vehicle (EV) in 2021, following the debut of the EV6 crossover, later in the model year.
The rest of the 2023 Kia model changes range from carryovers to minor modifications that improve technology and feature offerings. Here is the summary.
2023 Kia Carnival Alterations
After replacing the Sedona minivan with a new name and design in 2022, the Kia Carnival will continue in 2023 with upgraded technology and amenities for its SX and SX Prestige trim levels.
The SX now comes standard with a 12.3-inch integrated panoramic digital cluster and a 12.3-inch central display. Another new standard is blind spot warning. Standard on the range-topping SX Prestige is slide-flex seating for eight passengers with a second-row center multifunction seat. Optional VIP lounge seats in the second row are also new. Optional options for the SX and SX Prestige include a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system and streaming media capability.
Modifications to the 2023 Kia Forte
After receiving several significant upgrades for the 2022 model year, the Forte compact sedan returns for 2023 largely unchanged. For the new model year, all LX, LXS, and GT-Line trims with the 2.0-liter engine are SULEV30 compliant.
In terms of features, the Kia GT rounds out the technology package. However, the automaker adds FCA Fusion—a combination of forward collision warning with cyclist detection, electronic parking brake, highway driving assist (HDA), and navigation-based adaptive cruise control—to the dual-clutch automatic transmission. Along with the GT model. Previously, the FCA Fusion was included in the GT Technology Package.
2023 Kia K5 Alterations
In its third model year, the 2023 Kia K5 sport sedan receives minor updates. Kia discontinues the LX model, except for the LXS, EX, GT-Line, and GT trim levels. Also, all-wheel drive (AWD) is no longer offered on the base LXS model.
The well-equipped GT-Line now offers a panoramic moonroof kit as an additional feature. In addition to the large glass roof panel, the option package adds LED interior lighting around the B-pillars and windscreen and gloss black exterior trim to provide a luxurious appearance. GT-Line AWD now comes standard with a heated steering wheel. Kia adds acoustic glass to the front door windows of EX, GT-Line, and GT models to reduce interior noise.
Modifications to the 2023 Kia Rio
The sedan and hatchback body styles of the Kia Rio return unchanged for the 2023 model year, thanks to the addition of a sensor that alerts drivers when the engine oil is low.
Modifications to the 2023 Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos will continue to evolve until 2023 with minimal improvements in consumer technology and Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies (ADAS). Kia equips S FWD and S AWD grade levels with blind spot and rear cross traffic alert systems. Both levels get a 10.25-inch navigation display with optional satellite/HD radio and telematics. In addition, all 2023 Seltos levels feature new acoustic windscreen glass that reduces wind noise, resulting in a quieter cabin.
Modifications to the 2023 Kia Sorento
The gas-powered Sorento remains unchanged for 2023, while the Sorento Hybrid and Sorento Plug-in Hybrid receive minor but notable trim-level updates.
Kia has discontinued the base model Sorento Hybrid S and introduced an all-new SX-P trim as the range-topping vehicle. It includes Kia’s AWD system with a center locking differential and a Drive Mode system with snow mode as standard equipment. The SX-P comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a Bose premium audio system, and second-row captain’s seats. The EX model adds a front passenger seat with 8-way motorized adjustment.
Kia adds convenience to the range-topping Sorento PHEV SX-P variant for the 2018 model year, with retractable rear door sunshades, a 115-volt inverter that can charge household appliances, and a garage door opener. Includes standard HomeLink.
Conclusion
Additional enhanced convenience technologies now include a standard Wi-Fi hotspot and an optional digital key compatible with iPhone, Apple Watch, and Samsung Galaxy smartphones. The latest ADAS innovation is Highway Driving Assist 2, which includes semi-autonomous hands-on operation and automatic lane change technology.
Note:
The information in this article comes from Kia. As of October 20, 2022, this was correct, but may have changed since then. Please check the manufacturer’s website or nearest dealership for product details and availability.
