Kia continues its climb as a respected manufacturer. Shedding its economy car image, today, the company produces vehicles with an ideal combo of performance, features, and price. Kia builds quality, value-focused rides from the mid-size Telluride SUV to the Stinger sports sedan.

With so many Kia models, consumers can pick from various prices and feature sets. While there’s something for every budget, how much is the most expensive Kia?

Let’s find out.

The most expensive Kia is the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid

The $49,990 Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) is the most expensive Kia. For that, drivers get a midsize SUV with solid all-electric range and everyday versatility. Here are the details.

PHEVs let drivers make short trips in all-electric mode. That means no fuel consumption and zero emissions for a thrifty, clean ride. And with 32 miles of electric range, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid can handle almost any daily drive. For longer excursions, the gas engine kicks in, without the need to charge up.

Key to that is the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s advanced powertrain. A turbo 1.6-liter four combines with an electric motor for 261 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. That leads to the Sorento’s EPA-rated 79 MPGe and a 460-mile range. And since power is routed through an advanced AWD system, this compact SUV can handle varying road conditions.

Beyond that, the Sorento PHEV has the same useful attributes as the gas-powered version. Car and Driver praised its comfortable ride, well-appointed interior, and ample room. It’s an all-around SUV for everyone.

Even more expensive Kia models

While the Kia Sorento PHEV is the most expensive Kia, that doesn’t tell the whole story.

The SUV only comes in one trim, the SX Prestige. And it’s far from being a base model, with leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, and Bose premium audio. Those are luxury car features. And they lead to a higher MSRP.

Though other models might have lower starting MSRPs, when you consider optional trims, they’re pricier than the Sorento plug-in hybrid.

For example, the Kia Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro has a $53,185 starting MSRP. For that, drivers get all the bells and whistles.

Abundant standard features include Nappa leather seat trim, dual sunroofs, and X-Pro styling details. And there’s much, much more as Kia details.

With equipment like that, the top-of-the-line Telluride competes with the best in the business. Or, for sports car performance, sleek style, and all-electric efficiency, there’s the $61,600 EV6 GT. Combining an advanced 576-hp powertrain with four-door utility, this sporty SUV is fun and practical.

0-60 mph arrives in 3.2 seconds, and AWD ensures all-conditions versatility. But that does reduce the EV6’s range to only 206 miles. Still, with dynamics like that, a shorter range is a small price to pay.

Kia makes value-focused vehicles on par with top brands. As the company’s gained customers and accolades, they’ve added more expensive cars to their lineup. That’s only natural. Based on starting MSRP, the PHEV Sorento is the most expensive Kia. But when you look further, other models with upgraded trims take that title. And with their high-tech powertrains and first-rate equipment, the Telluride SX Prestige X-Pro and EV6 GT show what the brand is capable of.