With best-in-class rear-seat legroom and cargo space, the 2024 Kia Sportage is a spacious and comfortable ride that will take you where you want to go in style, on-road or off. And you can travel with peace of mind knowing you’re covered by Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty program. But the Kia Sportage’s advantages don’t end there. Below, we’ll dive into the many impressive features that you’ll love on your new Sportage.

The 2024 Kia Sportage: Enjoy the Ride

No matter which one of the Sportage’s seven trims you choose, you’ll be greeted with a spacious and inviting cabin every time you go for a ride. Rear-seat passengers will enjoy the best legroom in the class, plus reclining rear seats. Available heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel will keep you at the perfect temperature, no matter what it’s like outside. And an available panoramic sunroof allows everyone to take in the sun and sights.

To bring along all your gear, the rear cargo area offers a class-leading 39.6 cubic feet of cargo room, or fold down the 60/40 split-folding rear seats to reveal 74.1 cubic feet of space. A dual-level cargo floor helps keep sensitive items hidden from passers-by. For extra convenience, the available Smart Power Tailgate offers hands-free opening just by sensing your key.

On and Off-Road Performance

The 2024 Kia Sportage is powered by a 2.5-liter engine that produces 187 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft. of torque. Also available are hybrid and plug-in hybrid models that produce 227 horsepower and 261 horsepower, respectively. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers just the right blend of power and efficiency for any situation. Normal, Smart, Sport, and available Snow Drive Modes allow you to refine how the transmission responds to driver input.

An available all-wheel drive with center locking differential gives you more confidence to travel when road conditions are less than ideal, or when there’s no road at all. All-wheel drive models get an increased 8.3-inches of ground clearance for your off-road adventures. When equipped with trailer brakes, the Sportage can tow up to 2,500 lbs. Or, utilize the available high-utility roof rails to carry everything you need for the ultimate adventure.

Sportage X-Pro

The Sportage X-Pro is made for adventure and features exclusive styling, like matte black wheels and two-tone paint options with an Ebony Black roof. Inside, you’ll find SynTex seating with the Sportage X-Pro pattern, while outside you’ll find high-utility roof rails and durable black cladding for extra protection from the elements. Active All-wheel Drive with Multi-terrain Mode lets you take on the outdoors with confidence, while LED projector headlights help you see more clearly at night.

Advanced Safety

A host of standard safety features on the Kia Sportage help increase driver alertness and prevent collisions. The standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can detect cars, pedestrians, and bicycles in the Sportage’s path and apply the brakes in the event of an imminent frontal collision. To keep the vehicle centered in its lane, Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver of an unintended lane departure, and if the driver doesn’t respond, Lane Keeping Assist can steer the car back into its lane.

When starting on an incline, you don’t need to worry about the vehicle rolling backwards when you let off the brake pedal. Hill Start Assist Control will keep the vehicle stationary until it begins moving forward. For steep descents, Downhill Brake Control applies the brakes to keep the vehicle at 5 mph, enabling you to focus on steering the Sportage. And if the system detects that the driver’s attention has been reduced, Driver Attention Warning will issue an alert.

Leading Technology

Much of the technology in the Kia Sportage is controlled by a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, including the 6-speaker audio system. An available 8-speaker Harman Kardon Premium Sound system allows you to listen to your music, podcasts, and more in high-clarity sound. You can access all your phone’s playlists, apps, messaging, and navigation with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. And keep everything charged with available wireless charging and up to four USB-C chargers.

If you’ve ever had a hard time finding your car keys in your pocket or purse, you’ll appreciate the available Smart Key with Push Button Start. As long as your key fob is within range, you can lock and unlock doors, or start and stop the car with the push of a button. Available Blind-Spot View Monitor activates when you turn on your turn signal and shows a live view of the vehicle’s blind spots, enabling you to change lanes safely.

Making Parking a Breeze

Parking the Sportage is easy with the standard Rear-View Monitor with Dynamic Parking Guidance, which shows what’s behind the vehicle together with the bumper width. Meanwhile, rear Park Distance Warning provides an audible warning if an object is detected behind the vehicle. The available Surround View Monitor offers a view of all four sides surrounding the Sportage, which is useful for parking and maneuvering through tight spaces. 

Available Trims

Seven available Sportage trims offer something for everyone, starting with the LX. This entry-level trim features LED headlights and tail lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Audio, and more. The EX builds on the LX’s standard features, adding amenities like 18-inch alloy wheels, Blind Spot Detection Technology, a 12.3-inch Touchscreen Display with Navigation, Dual-Zone Auto Climate Control, and Smart Key with Push Button & Remote Start.

Adding to the EX features, the SX includes a Panoramic Sunroof, Harman Kardon Premium Audio System, Driver’s Seat Memory System, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go Highway Driving Assist. The top-of-the-line SX Prestige includes all SX features, plus 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, ventilated front seats, and Reverse Parking Collision Avoidance Assist.

X Trims

The Sportage X-Line AWD adds to the standard EX features with Active All-Wheel Drive, 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, roof rails, and X-Line SynTex Seat Trim with heated front seats. The next trim is the Sportage X-Pro, which adds Multi-Terrain Drive Modes, 17-inch matte black alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, smart power tailgate, and Harman Kardon Premium Audio System. And the Sportage X-Pro Prestige includes Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, ventilated seats, and front parking sensors.

If you’re ready to see the 2024 Kia Sportage in person, give us a call or stop by our showroom at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff would love to give you a tour of our inventory and offer you a test drive. 

Regular Kia maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle in good operating condition. But how do you know when it’s time to take your car in for a tune-up? Below, we look at 9 indicators your car should be checked, what to expect when you bring your vehicle into a Kia dealer, and how to find a qualified dealership near you.

9 Signs Your Kia Needs Maintenance 

1. There Are Puddles of Fluid Under Your Car 

If you notice dark spots or puddles underneath your car after it has been parked for a period of time, this is an indicator that you likely have a fluid leak. Depending on the color of the fluid, it could be oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or something else. If the fluid is dark brown, black, or has a rainbow film on the top, this is most likely oil. Transmission fluid appears red, while coolant has a neon green color.

Avoid driving your vehicle if you suspect any kind of leak. However, if there’s no way to get around it, be sure to check and top off your fluids frequently until you can get your car to a qualified mechanic for maintenance.

2. Your Oil Looks Dark or Dirty 

Motor oil starts with a light-brown color, almost like pancake syrup. As you drive your vehicle and the oil flows through your engine, it picks up dirt and debris particles, turning it a darker color. If your oil is very brown or black when you check it, this is a sure sign that your car needs maintenance right away.

3. It’s Getting Harder to Steer 

When your power steering fluid is leaking, your vehicle will get more difficult to steer over time. You may have a harder time turning corners or merging into traffic, which can be dangerous if this happens when you’re on a highway or around other cars. In some cases, steering issues they also be caused by problems with your vehicle’s electrical system.

4. You Hear Strange Noises When Driving 

For example, if your car is low on oil, you may hear your engine knocking when idling. If your brakes need maintenance, you may hear squealing or screeching when you bring your vehicle to a stop. You should ever ignore strange noises and try to drive your car anyway, since this could cause serious damage to your vehicle or even pose a safety issue for you and others on the road.

5. Your Car Is Jerking, Shaking, or Shuddering 

If your car shudders, shakes, or stalls when you drive, you may need Kia maintenance sooner rather than later. The problem could be with your tires, wheels, or even your engine block. When the car shakes can give you a few more clues as to what might be causing the issue. For example, shaking or shuddering that gets worse when you drive faster is likely related to your tires.

6. Your Battery Keeps Going Out 

If your battery keeps dying and you find yourself having to jumpstart your vehicle more often, some simple maintenance may be able to resolve the issue. A mechanic can test your battery to see if it will hold a charge and if not, replace it with a new unit.

In some cases, however, a dying battery can indicate a larger problem with the vehicle’s electrical system. Regular maintenance can help you catch potential issues like these quickly before they escalate to more expensive repairs.

7. You Start Losing Fuel Efficiency 

Poor fuel efficiency can be an indication that your vehicle is no longer performing as well as it used to. Cars and trucks with dirty oil, low fluids, and other common problems tend to use more gasoline per mile driven than vehicles that are in good working condition.

8. You Frequently Have to Air Up Your Tires

Your car’s tires are integral to its ability to get you where you need to go and keep you safe on the way. When these are low on air, out of balance, or have a more serious issue, your vehicle will need to be serviced right away.

One of the first signs of tire problems is low tire pressure and having to continually put air in your tires to keep them inflated, so if this happens to you, be sure to schedule an appointment with your local dealership as soon as they can get you in.

9. Your Vehicle’s Manufacturer Manual Recommends It 

You may have heard that cars need to have their oil changed every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. But did you know that this recommendation differs between vehicle makes and models?

Check your automobile’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals and if it’s time, take your vehicle in for maintenance and let the technicians know exactly what your manual says needs to be done.

How to Find a Reliable Kia Dealer Near You 

Choosing the right Kia dealer to service your vehicle is an important first step. The provider you choose should have robust experience working not only with Kia brand vehicles but also other makes and models. Look for a dealership that offers rental cars so you don’t have to worry about trying to use public transportation for everything while your car is being worked on.

What to Expect at Your Kia Maintenance Appointment 

When you take your car in to a Kia dealer for maintenance, the technician will do several things to service your vehicle and keep it running smoothly, including things like: 

• Changing your oil 
• Replacing your oil filter 
• Checking other fluids 
• Topping them off as needed
• Testing your battery 
• Check your tire pressure 
• Inspect and replace brakes 

Does your car need service? Contact us at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO to schedule your Kia maintenance and get on the road to a smoother ride today. In addition to rentals, we offer free Wi-Fi, snacks, a kids’ play center, and a business center if you prefer to stay on-site to make your wait more comfortable.

Whether you stick to suburban roads or you need to commute to work, a compact sedan like the 2024 Kia Forte is an excellent choice. The Forte has a sleek design and perky performance power ideal for city driving. This model is also incredibly fuel efficient, which is a great advantage for drivers who want to cut their carbon emissions. 

The 2024 Kia Forte: A New Take on the Compact Sedan

The entry-level Forte is the LX model, which is equipped with a 2.0-liter I4 engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also standard for the LXS and GT-Line models. A standard intelligent variable transmission for effortless acceleration and front-wheel drive ideal for urban performance are also standard for this powertrain configuration. 
If you opt for a model like the GT or GT Manual, then your Forte will come with a 1.6-liter turbocharged I4 engine. This turbocharged powertrain can produce 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, which enhances the overall acceleration speed of the compact sedan. When the Forte is outfitted with a turbocharged powertrain, a sport-tuned dual exhaust is a standard feature. 

Drive Mode Select

All five models of the 2024 Kia Forte come with three selectable drive modes. The default mode is Normal mode, which is perfect for everyday driving. With Normal mode, the Forte naturally balances its driving dynamics to provide a soft and smooth driving experience. The Sport driving mode enhances the performance of the engine, transmission, and steering wheel for a sportier experience. 
The third driving mode is the Smart mode, which allows the Forte to automatically adjust the vehicle dynamics to suit the current driving conditions. When the Smart mode is activated, the vehicle will analyze your driving habits and switch from Normal to Sport if you begin to drive more aggressively, such as if you are on the highway. 

Fuel Economy

The LX model has a fuel economy of 30 MPG in urban areas, 41 MPG on the highway, and 34 MPG combined. The LXS and GT-Line models, which each have an IVT transmission, get 28 MPG in the city, 39 MPG on the interstate, and 32 MPG combined. 
The GT trim has a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fuel economy of 27 MPG in the city, 35 MPG on the interstate, and 30 MPG combined. The GT Manual has a six-speed manual transmission and gets 22 MPG in urban areas, 31 MPG on the highway, and 26 MPG combined. 

Exterior

The LX model has power-adjustable outside mirrors, so you can customize your view of your blind side. This trim also comes with sturdy 15-inch steel wheels with full covers to protect your rims. Standard projector beam headlights optimize road illumination, and daytime running lights provide visibility even on overcast days. High beam assist, which automatically adjusts high beams based on oncoming traffic, is standard for all trim levels. 
The standard exterior paint colors for the LX model are Clear White, Gravity Gray, and Aurora Black Pearl. Models such as the LXS offer colors like Steel Gray, Snow White Pearl, Currant Red, Fire Orange, and Deep Sea Blue. 

Interior

The LX, like the rest of the 2024 Kia Forte models, has a five-passenger seating capacity. Key interior features for this model include remote keyless entry, which allows drivers to lock or unlock the vehicle by using a key fob, and a day/night rearview mirror that can minimize the brightness of headlights from the vehicles behind you. 
The LX also comes with a six-way manually adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seat, which is standard on all five Forte trims. Standard solar control glass can help keep the interior of the LX cool in the summer. The LX offers 15.3 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is more than enough for two or three large suitcases, as well as 96 cubic feet of interior volume for a comfortable ride experience for all passengers. 

Technology

The entry-level Forte LX comes with an eight-inch color touchscreen for the infotainment system. The infotainment system is compatible with hands-free smartphone integration so you can text, call, or stream your favorite content. This infotainment technology also supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth technology. A four-speaker audio system is standard for the LX model. 

Safety

The standard Drive Wise driver assistance technologies for the baseline LX trim include software such as forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, and driver attention warning. The forward collision avoidance system uses a combination of front-facing cameras and sensors to detect obstacles in front of the vehicle, including pedestrians who may be crossing the street. 
The lane keeping assist feature monitors the position of your vehicle within visible lane markers to offer a moderate amount of corrective steering if the Forte detects any lane drifting. The driver attention warning feature works by using software to analyze driver behavior to detect when the driver’s attention has reduced; when the software determines the driver’s attention has shifted away from the road, the vehicle will emit warnings. 

Why Does the LXS Model Stand Out?

The LXS model has two available Kia Drive Wise upgrades if you want to enhance your vehicle’s active safety. Safe exit warning works by using sensors to detect approaching vehicles. If a rear passenger tries to open the door when there is an oncoming car, the Forte will automatically lock the doors until the vehicle has passed and it’s safe to exit the vehicle. 
Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance can detect obstacles when the vehicle is reversing and provides emergency braking support if objects are identified to avoid fender-bender collisions. The LXS model also has an available upgrade for heated power-adjustable outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, which can keep your side-view mirrors clear even with winter snow, ice, and fog. 
The 2024 Forte carries over some of the best features from previous models and enhances your driving experience with standard driver assistance features. This model can even optimize the performance of your vehicle with selectable drive modes. To test out this remarkable compact sedan, drop by Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO today. 

Want to keep your Kia running right? You’ve got to take care of it. But what can you do when you have fluid leaking from the engine? Most leaks are best handled by a professional, and that means taking a trip to your Kia dealer.

Why Is Fluid Leaking From Your Car?

Have you spotted a mysterious puddle under your car? If it’s clear water on a hot day, it could be nothing more than condensation dripping from your air conditioner. Colored puddles, on the other hand, might be one of several vital fluids leaking out of your car, sending you down the road to serious car trouble and expensive repairs. The first step in any suspected leak is trying to identify the fluid.

Engine Oil Leaks

Engine oil is typically dark brown or black and feels slick. Leaking oil will usually come from the engine area. You might also notice smoke coming from your engine or the smell of burning oil.

What Happens If You Ignore an Oil Leak?

An oil leak can lead to severe engine damage. Insufficient lubrication increases your risk of total engine failure, and that means expensive repairs. Low oil levels also reduce the overall efficiency of your engine, which is bad news for your fuel economy and performance.

Dealing With Oil Leaks

Oil can leak due to degraded engine gaskets, a damaged oil pan, failing oil seals, or improper installation of one of these components. Our technicians can replace any faulty parts, and ensure all the pieces are properly fitted to prevent fluid leaking in the future.

Coolant Leaks

Coolant is pretty easy to identify compared to other fluids. It can be green, orange, pink, blue, or yellow, with a slimy feel and a sweet smell. If it’s leaking, it will usually come from the radiator or engine areas.

What Happens If You Ignore a Coolant Leak?

Neglecting a coolant leak can lead straight to an overheated engine. The longer you run your car without enough coolant in it, the higher the temperatures in the engine can go, speeding up wear and tear. Overheating can cause some serious damage to your engine and lead to a breakdown.

Dealing With Coolant Leaks

Cracked radiators, loose hoses, or deteriorated radiator caps are common causes. At the Kia dealership, our technicians can pressure test your system, replace any damaged parts, and check to be sure the system is sealed correctly.

Transmission Fluid Leaks

Slippery red or brown fluid leaking from the front or middle of your car is probably transmission fluid. If you see these stains on your driveway or notice a slick residue under your vehicle, bad news: it looks like your transmission is leaking.

What Happens If You Ignore a Transmission Fluid Leak?

If you don’t take care of a transmission fluid leak, your transmission can run dry. That means overheating, increased friction, and eventually, transmission failure. Low transmission fluid can also lead to erratic shifting and slipping gears, and can drastically reduce the lifespan of your transmission.

Dealing With Transmission Fluid Leaks

Damaged pan gaskets, failing seals, or degraded fluid lines are the top reasons for a leaking transmission. The technicians at your Kia dealer can repair or replace the damaged parts and refill the system to the correct level.

Brake Fluid Leaks

Brake fluid is clear to brown and slick, usually leaking near the wheels or under the brake pedal inside your vehicle. If you notice a small puddle or unexplained wetness along the lines or under your car after parking, it’s important to check if it’s brake fluid.

What Happens If You Ignore a Brake Fluid Leak?

Do not ignore leaking brake fluid. As brake fluid levels drop, the effectiveness of your braking system decreases, meaning you need more distance to stop. Delaying repairs to your brake system can lead to brake failure, putting you at a greater risk of accidents.

Dealing With Brake Fluid Leaks

Worn brake lines, damaged master cylinders, or leaking calipers are typical causes of brake fluid leaking. You’ll need professional help from your Kia dealer to replace the compromised parts, bleed the system to remove any air pockets, and refill it with high-quality brake fluid to ensure the best possible performance from your brakes.

Power Steering Fluid Leaks

Power steering fluid is typically red or light brown, similar to transmission fluid. If it’s leaking, you’ll usually find a drip or a puddle at the front of the car.

What Happens If You Ignore a Power Steering Fluid Leak?

If you ignore your power steering fluid leaking, it could lead to a complete loss of steering assistance, making your vehicle difficult and dangerous to steer. This loss of control can dramatically increase your risk of accidents. Operating a car with low power steering fluid can also cause damage to the pump and pieces of the steering system, leading to bigger bills than if you’d just gotten it fixed in the first place.

Dealing With Power Steering Fluid Leaks

Common issues that cause power steering fluid leaks include worn-out seals in the power steering pump or cracks in the fluid lines. To fix it, you’ll need to head to the Kia dealership. Our technicians can replace the damaged parts, flush the system to remove any contaminants, and refill it with fresh fluid to restore smooth and responsive steering.

Windshield Washer Fluid Leaks

Windshield washer fluid is typically light blue and watery, although it may also be orange or light green. Leaks are most likely to spring from the front of the car where the reservoir is located.

Dealing With Windshield Washer Fluid Leaks

This fluid typically leaks due to a cracked reservoir or damaged hoses. The technicians here at the dealership can quickly and easily replace any damaged parts, ensuring your washer system works perfectly when you need it.

Get Help From Your Kia Dealer

No matter the leak, professional help is key to a safe and effective repair. Our technicians are trained to handle your car specifically. We’ll use OEM parts that guarantee performance and fit, getting you back on the road as soon as possible.

Fluid leaks can range from mildly inconvenient to critically dangerous. If you’ve got a mystery leak coming from your car, call Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, to schedule an appointment today.