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Kia has a successful model lineup, with cars that have stylish designs, good driving dynamics, and many useful technologies. Kia vehicles also typically offer much value, with many features at a budget-friendly price. Here are four affordable new Kia models that cost under $20,000.

What is the cheapest new Kia model?

Front angle view of silver 2023 Kia Rio, the cheapest Kia model that costs under $20,000
2023 Kia Rio | Kia

Like just about everything else, new cars are more expensive these days, making it more challenging to find one that doesn’t put a strain on your finances. However, Kia offers an affordable lineup of cars and SUVs. Here are four ones that cost less than $20,000, with their starting prices (MSRP):

  1. 2023 Kia Rio Sedan: $16,550 MSRP
  2. 2023 Kia Rio Hatchback: $17,490 MSRP
  3. 2023 Kia Forte: $19,490 MSRP
  4. 2023 Kia Soul: $19,790 MSRP

2023 Kia Rio is the cheapest Kia model

The 2023 Kia Rio subcompact car is by far the cheapest new Kia model — and one of the most affordable new cars available for all brands. It starts at $16,550 MSRP for the Rio Sedan and $17,490 MSRP for the Rio Hatchback. Many of the Rio’s subcompact competitors have been discontinued in the United States, such as the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, and Chevy Spark — as consumers increasingly favor crossover SUVs. However, the Rio still plugs away — to the benefit of budget-minded drivers.

Along with its affordable price, the Rio has many standard features, great fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. While the Rio leaves much to be desired for performance with its meager 120-hp inline-four engine, it’s easy to drive. 

2023 Kia Forte is an affordable choice for a compact car

Front angle view of gray 2023 Kia Forte, an affordable Kia model that costs under $20,000
2023 Kia Forte | Kia

Another affordable Kia model that costs under $20,000 is the 2023 Kia Forte compact sedan, which has a starting price of $19,490 MSRP. For car buyers looking to get a lot of “bang for their buck,” the Forte is a great choice. It has an eye-catching exterior design, high fuel economy, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a spacious cabin for its class. Also, even for the base trim, the Forte has a plethora of standard features.

2023 Soul is the cheapest Kia SUV

Side view of blue 2023 Kia Soul, the cheapest Kia SUV
2023 Kia Soul | Kia

The only new Kia SUV that costs under $20,000 is the 2023 Kia Soul subcompact crossover SUV, which starts at $19,790 MSRP. If you want an SUV that stands out from a crowd, then the Soul is for you, with its unique boxy shape and large grille. Other highlights of the Soul include its good handling, plenty of passenger and cargo space, and useful technologies. Also, like the other Kia models on this list, the Soul is a value-oriented choice with its multitude of standard features. 

If you want an affordable new Kia model that costs less than $20,000, then check out the 2023 Rio Sedan, 2023 Rio Hatchback, 2023 Forte, or 2023 Soul. Another thing that makes these Kia models affordable is their generous warranty coverage. They are all backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

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