Representative Example: You could borrow £10,699 over 60 months with an initial payment of £495.89 (including £199 Admin Fee) followed by 58 monthly payments of £296.89 with a final payment of £495.89 (including optional £199 Option to Purchase Fee). Total amount repayable will be £19,012,40. 26.1% APR, annual interest rate (fixed) 13.3%.
Buying a Used Kia on Finance
Kia has grown into one of the most popular car brands in the UK. Known for affordability, long warranties, and improved design, Kia is now seen as a smart choice by many buyers and is one of the most widely available brands in the used car market. This guide covers the most popular used Kia models, what to expect when buying one, and what to know about reliability, costs, and servicing.
Kia has made big improvements in reliability over the years. Most newer models score well in driver satisfaction surveys. Models like the Sportage and Niro are praised for dependable engines and low repair rates. However, like all brands, some older models and engines have had issues.
For example, the Theta II petrol engine used in older Kia Optima, Sorento, and Sportage models faced problems like engine stalling, piston ring wear, and bearing failure. Kia extended the warranty on these engines to 10 years or 120,000 miles. Another issue involved a faulty high-pressure fuel pipe that increased fire risk leading to recalls for certain models made between 2011 and 2017.
Airbag faults were also reported in over 400,000 Forte, Sedona, and Soul models due to a damaged solder joint that affected proper deployment. While these issues have been addressed with recalls and extended warranties, it’s important to check if a used model has had its recall work completed.
When maintained properly, many Kias are reliable and can last well over 150,000 miles. Later models have improved in both build quality and engine performance.
Kia cars are known for being affordable to own and run. Whether you’re looking at a small car like the Kia Picanto or a bigger SUV like the Sportage, most models offer good value when it comes to ownership costs.
Fuel economy is one of Kia’s strong points. Smaller models like the Picanto or Rio can return up to 55–60 miles per gallon (mpg), which helps you save money at the pump. Even larger cars like the Ceed or Sportage offer 40–50 mpg, especially if you choose a hybrid version. Insurance costs for Kia cars are usually low, especially for smaller models. This makes them a great choice for younger drivers or anyone wanting to keep costs down. Road tax is also fairly low for most Kia cars because of their low CO₂ emissions.
Servicing a Kia is simple and often cheaper than with premium brands. Kia also offers service plans, which let you spread the cost of maintenance. Most garages can easily carry out repairs, and parts are widely available, so you’re less likely to face big repair bills. One of Kia’s biggest advantages is its 7-year/100,000-mile warranty.
If you go for a hybrid or electric Kia, like the Niro, Sportage Hybrid, or EV6, you can save even more. Hybrids use less fuel, and electric models are very cheap to run, especially if you can charge at home.
With proper maintenance, a Kia can last over 150,000 miles. Regular servicing and looking after wear-and-tear parts like brakes, suspension, and fluids will help the car last longer. Diesel models used for long journeys may have higher mileage but can remain reliable with care.
All cars need regular maintenance and servicing to keep the engine and other key parts working properly. The type of driving you do, such as short trips or long motorway journeys, also affects how often certain parts may need attention.
Kia cars are generally low cost to repair and service. Parts are widely available and used across different models, which helps keep prices down. Compared to premium brands like BMW or Mercedes, Kia servicing is much more affordable. Even when compared to a brand like Ford, Kia often comes out cheaper for basic repairs and maintenance.
For example, routine servicing, brake replacements, and even clutch repairs for a Kia can cost less than similar work on a Ford Focus or Fiesta.
Kia and Hyundai are part of the same parent company and often share engines, gearboxes, and other parts. This means both brands offer similar levels of reliability, fuel efficiency, and performance. However, there are some differences that might help you decide which is better for your needs.
Kia tends to focus on value and bold styling. Many of their cars have a sportier look and come with a generous list of features for the price. Kia also offers one of the best warranties on the market seven years from new, which can be a big advantage when buying used. On the second-hand market, this leftover warranty can give buyers more peace of mind.
Hyundai, on the other hand, usually aims for a more refined and mature design. Its interiors may feel slightly more premium in some models, and the ride comfort is often tuned for smoother, quieter driving. Hyundai also offers a five-year warranty as standard, which is still strong but slightly shorter than Kia’s. In terms of reliability, both brands score well. But when it comes to used car finance or buying on a tighter budget, many drivers find Kia offers better value for money.
Here are some of the most popular Kia models financed in the UK, and for good reason. Each one offers something different, depending on what the driver needs or prefers.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Kia,, finance could be a simple way to get the car you want without paying all at once. With HP, you make monthly payments and own the car at the end of the finance agreement.
Before applying, it’s worth checking your credit score, comparing offers, and making sure the car has a full service history. Choose a monthly payment that fits your budget. With Kia's strong reputation for reliability and value, financing one could be a right for you.
Remember: When buying any used vehicle, there’s always a chance that issues may come up later. If you’ve financed a car and start to notice mechanical problems, it’s important to contact both your finance provider and the dealership where you bought the vehicle. Acting quickly can help get the issue resolved and protect your rights.
The Sportage is one of Kia's best-selling models. It's a mid-size SUV that offers space, comfort, and good fuel economy. Popular with families, it comes with 1.6L petrol and diesel engines, as well as mild-hybrid options. The diesel version can return up to 54 mpg. Later models offer touchscreen infotainment, a digital driver display, and safety features like lane-keep assist. Boot space is 591 litres, ideal for everyday use.
The Ceed is a practical hatchback that competes with models like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. It comes with 1.0L and 1.5L petrol engines and a 1.6L diesel. Fuel economy is up to 64 mpg (diesel). Later models include Apple CarPlay, rear parking sensors, and good in-car tech. Boot space is around 395 litres. It's a solid option for drivers who want comfort and efficiency at a lower price.
A compact city car that’s perfect for new drivers or urban use. The Picanto has a 1.0L or 1.25L petrol engine and returns up to 58 mpg. Its small size makes it easy to park and cheap to run. Insurance groups are low, making it a popular pick for young person car finance and first time driver car finance. Boot space is 255 litres, but the rear seats fold to offer more room when needed.
The Niro is a hybrid crossover that’s efficient and practical. It's available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or full electric (e-Niro). The plug-in hybrid can do around 30 miles on electric power, and the full EV has a range of up to 282 miles. Boot space ranges from 324 to 451 litres depending on the version. The Niro suits drivers who want lower running costs and may benefit from electric car hire purchase deals.
The Rio is a small hatchback that’s larger than the Picanto but still easy to drive. It comes with 1.0L and 1.25L petrol engines and returns up to 56 mpg. The Rio offers more cabin space than many rivals in its class and includes features like a touchscreen infotainment system and reversing camera on later models. With a boot size of 325 litres, it balances practicality and cost.
