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Writer's pictureHarry Tepe

Explore Indiana and Ohio’s Favorite Kia Models: The Top 3 Picks


Kia Telluride

Choosing the right car is a big decision. One fact stands out: Kia models are favorites in Indiana and Ohio. Our article will guide you through three top picks to make your choice easier.


Get ready for a journey with us!


Key Takeaways

  • Kia cars are popular in Indiana and Ohio because they're reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient. Models like the Telluride, Sorento, and Forte offer good value.

  • The top three Kia models each have unique strengths: Telluride is great for families needing space and power; Sorento offers style and fuel efficiency; Forte stands out for its affordability and economy.

  • Safety features across these Kias include Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, making them ideal for driving in busy areas.

  • Choosing a fuel-efficient model like the e-Niro or Niro Plug-In Hybrid can save around $4,500 over five years while also being better for the environment.

  • Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country provides an extensive inventory of pre-owned vehicles including these top Kia models alongside services that ensure customer satisfaction beyond purchase.


Why Choose Kia? The Benefits of Driving a Kia in Indiana and Ohio

In Indiana and Ohio, driving a Kia means you're behind the wheel of a car that's both reliable and eco-friendly. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country knows firsthand—Kias are built to last, with top-notch safety features and great gas mileage, making them perfect for our roads.


Reliability and Durability

Kia cars stand out for their reliability and durability. These vehicles are known for needing fewer repairs than many other brands. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter has seen this firsthand with models like the Kia Rio, noted as one of the most reliable cars with very low repair costs.


J.D. Power and RepairPal even rank Kia third among car brands for reliability.

Our customers enjoy less worry about breakdowns because Kias often start and run smoothly compared to rivals Chevrolet and Ford. Plus, average yearly repair costs for Kia are well below the industry's norm of $652, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to save on upkeep expenses over time.


With a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty alongside a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, choosing a Kia from our lot means you're investing in peace of mind on the road ahead.


Advanced Safety Features

Kia cars come with features that help keep you safe. They have Automatic Emergency Braking. This means the car can stop itself to avoid hitting something. There is also Blind Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist.


It helps you not crash into things in your blind spot when you try to change lanes. These features are great for driving in Indiana and Ohio where roads can be busy.

Another cool thing Kia offers is Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go plus Highway Driving Assist. This helps the car control its speed and keep a safe distance from other cars on highways, even stopping and starting again in traffic by itself.


For parking, there's a Surround View Monitor giving a bird's-eye view around the car, making it easier to see everything when you park. The Blind Spot View Monitor gives real-time images of what’s in your blind spots right on your dashboard screen, so changing lanes gets safer.


Choosing a Kia with these advanced safety features means less worry about accidents, whether cruising through city streets or long highway drives around Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country areas.


Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Friendliness

Kia models, such as the Kia e-Niro and the Niro Plug-In Hybrid, are excellent options for reducing fuel costs. The Kia e-Niro operates solely on electricity, producing zero emissions, making it beneficial for our breathing environment.


Alternatively, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid is capable of traveling for approximately 32-33 miles solely on electric power. Choosing a more fuel-efficient car could result in savings of around $4,500 over five years.


Selecting a fuel-efficient vehicle is also beneficial for the global environment. Vehicles that average at least 30 miles per gallon (mpg) release 5% fewer harmful substances than those that only average 20 mpg.


We always enjoy discussing with our guests at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country how choosing one of these Kia models benefits not just their financial status, but also contributes positively to the conservation of our environment.


Kia Telluride: The Ultimate Family SUV

The Kia Telluride stands tall as the ultimate SUV choice for families in Indiana and Ohio. It combines space, comfort, and tech to meet every need on the road.


Overview and Key Features

Kia Telluride stands out as an ultimate family SUV for those who seek adventure and comfort. It houses a powerful 3.8-liter V6 engine, pushing out 291 horsepower, enough to take you anywhere in Ohio or Indiana with ease.


This vehicle isn't just about power; it's smart too. With advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning, drivers can feel safer on any trip.

Looking inside, the Telluride offers a spacious cabin with 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, making it perfect for families or anyone needing extra room for their gear.


For peace of mind, it boasts high safety ratings—earning four stars from NHTSA and the "Top Safety Pick+" by IIHS. And with fuel economy at 22 mpg combined and an estimated monthly driving cost for the LX model at $189, this SUV is as efficient as it is capable.


Pros & Cons (Kia Telluride)

Looking for a top used model? The Kia Telluride might be right up your alley. Here's what we at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country think about it:


Pros:

  1. Spacious seating for 7 to 8 passengers makes it perfect for families.

  2. Offers a comfortable ride with high-quality interior materials, ensuring comfort on long trips.

  3. Boasts strong powertrains, providing enough power for most driving situations.

  4. Holds an average fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models, which is decent for its size.

  5. Comes with minor exterior styling tweaks for the 2024 model year, keeping its design fresh.

  6. Has a generous cargo capacity of 21 cubic feet behind the third-row seats, great for luggage or shopping bags.

Cons:


  1. Size may be challenging to maneuver in tight city spaces or crowded parking lots.

  2. Some might find its advanced features and tech options overwhelming at first.

  3. Fuel efficiency could be better compared to smaller vehicles or hybrid models, impacting long-term costs.


This SUV blends utility with style, proving itself as a worthy contender in its class. We invite you to explore it further at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, where we're committed to matching you with the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle and needs.


Kia Sorento

Kia Sorento: Versatile and Stylish Midsize SUV

The Kia Sorento stands out in our lineup as a versatile midsize SUV that combines style with function. Its spacious interior and advanced features make it a top choice for families and adventurers alike, setting the stage for many memorable journeys ahead.


Pros & Cons (Kia Sorento)

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we know our customers want a car that fits their life. The Kia Sorento might be the perfect match, with its mix of style and function. Here's what you need to know:

Pros:

  1. Sharp exterior design makes it stand out on the road. You'll turn heads driving this SUV.

  2. Its 2.5-liter turbo engine offers power when you need it, without guzzling gas.

  3. With 12 trim levels available, finding one that matches your needs is easy.

  4. Inside, there's lots of room for your stuff and comfy seating for passengers.

  5. Fuel efficiency is a big plus – getting up to 36 mpg means fewer stops at the pump.

Cons:

  1. Some drivers find the dual-clutch transmission clumsy. It can make shifting gears less smooth.

  2. The hybrid version doesn't excite everyone. It works, but some find it dull compared to other cars.

  3. While there's more room in the third row than before, larger adults might still find it tight.


Choosing a pre-owned Kia Sorento from Tom Tepe Autocenter gives you a stylish, efficient ride with ample space for most families or travel plans. We offer options that meet a range of preferences and budgets while ensuring you get a vehicle that is reliable and fun to drive.


Kia Forte: Affordable and Efficient Compact Sedan

The Kia Forte stands out as a compact car that blends affordability with efficiency. It offers drivers a way to save at the pump without sacrificing style or comfort—a balance we pride ourselves on providing at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country.


Pros & Cons (Kia Forte)

Looking for a top-notch sedan? Kia Forte stands out as a superb choice. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter has broken down the pros and cons for you.


Pros:

  1. Fuel efficiency: Offers a combined 34 MPG, saving money on gas.

  2. Cargo space: With 15.3 cubic feet in the trunk, there’s plenty of room.

  3. Safety features: Includes advanced options like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.

  4. Variety of trims: Comes in LX, LXS, GT-Line, and GT to fit different tastes.

  5. High safety rating: Earned 4 out of 5 stars from the NHTSA.

Cons:

  1. Power: Might feel less peppy compared to some rivals.

  2. Interior upscale feel: Some may find the cabin materials less luxurious than competitors'.

  3. Road noise: At higher speeds, road noise can be noticeable.

  4. Advanced tech limited to higher trims: Must choose pricier models for the best tech features.

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we think the Kia Forte’s pros far outweigh its cons for those shopping for an efficient and affordable sedan.


Kia Forte

Comparing the Top 3 Models: Telluride vs. Sorento vs. Forte

Looking at the Kia Telluride, Sorento, and Forte side by side brings their unique strengths into focus—each shines in performance, comfort, safety, and tech. At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we're excited to help you explore these options further.


Come see us for a test drive; find out which Kia is perfect for your drives through Indiana and Ohio.


Performance and Capability

Our top Kia models shine in performance and capability. The Kia Telluride leads with a 3.8-liter V6 engine, pushing out 291 horsepower. This power makes the Telluride a top choice for families who need strength for trips or towing.


Next, the Kia Sorento won’t let you down, offering two options: a hybrid 1.6L I4 Turbo engine for those watching their carbon footprint and wanting good gas mileage between 23 to 36 mpg.


Then there's the Kia Forte, an efficient sedan that boasts combined fuel efficiency of 34 MPG. This car proves perfect for daily commutes or long drives, saving money at the pump. Each model is designed to meet different needs but all share impressive capabilities on the road.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we stand by these models' ability to perform under various conditions—whether it’s city driving or exploring country roads in Indiana and Ohio.


Comfort and Convenience Features

Our Kia models stand out for their comfort and convenience. The Telluride, with room for up to 8 people and a cargo space of 21 cubic feet, makes family trips easy. Sorento offers many places to store your things and has big seating in the back row.


For those who like cars more than SUVs, the Forte has a trunk that holds 15.3 cubic feet.

Each model comes with features that make driving better. You get easy-to-use controls and comfy seats in all three Kias. They also have tech that helps you stay connected on the road.

Whether it's a long drive or quick trip around town, these cars are built to keep you comfortable.


Safety and Technology Innovations

Kia cars come packed with safety and tech features. For example, the Kia Telluride has adaptive cruise control and a blind-spot warning system. These help keep you safe on the road by adjusting your speed and alerting you if someone is in your blind spot.


The Kia Sorento offers advanced driver aids but watch out for dual-clutch transmission issues. Then there's the Kia Forte, which includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist too.


These systems can prevent accidents by automatically stopping or changing the car's path if it detects a possible collision.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we understand how important these innovations are for drivers in Indiana and Ohio. That's why our team always stays updated on the latest technology in vehicles to help our customers find their perfect match.


Whether it’s keeping your family safe with high safety ratings or making driving easier with lane-keeping assistance, we're here to guide you through all the choices available in our pre-owned inventory.


Choosing a vehicle that uses such smart technology means peace of mind on every trip, big or small.


The Importance of Choosing the Right Dealership

Finding the right dealership is key. It's like picking a trusted partner for your car journey. At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we know this decision matters. Our team works hard to make sure you feel at home from the moment you step in.


We offer top-quality vehicles, clear information, and support that doesn’t end when you drive off the lot. Come see why choosing us makes all the difference for your next car purchase.


Why Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country Stand Out

Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country emerge as premier options for those shopping for vehicles. Here's why we are a cut above:


  1. Extensive Inventory: Over 200 pre-owned vehicles, inclusive of sedans like the Kia Forte, medium-sized SUVs such as the Kia Sorento, and more.

  2. Fresh Chevy Models: Beyond Kia, we extend the freshest Chevy models - consider Silverado 1500 for heavy-duty tasks and Equinox for family trips.

  3. Simplified Financing: We extend financing choices for all credit backgrounds. Procuring pre-approval is fast and uncomplicated.

  4. Authentic Components: Only legitimate GM parts are utilized in repairs to ascertain your vehicle operates optimally.

  5. Proficient Maintenance: Our experts manage everything from regular upkeep to intricate repairs.

  6. Client Satisfaction: We hold a steadfast dedication to making every client's experience exceptional, from initial exploration to post-sale support.

  7. Unique Offers: Buyers discover exclusive bargains at Tom Tepe Autocenter unavailable elsewhere.

  8. Community-Centered: Serving Milan, Harrison, Aurora, Cincinnati, and Lawrenceburg signifies our profound dedication to our community's progress.

  9. Sustainable Ownership: Our aim is guiding every vehicle to persist with comprehensive service solutions aimed at extending care.


Opting for Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country implies becoming part of a family that maintains a concern for your driving experience long after your initial purchase.


Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

At our dealership, we know that finding the right pre-owned Kia is about more than just a sale. It's about happiness after leaving our lot. We saw that Kia ranked last in sales satisfaction, but customers love their cars afterward.


This drives us to work even harder for you. We aim to bridge that gap from the start.

Our team focuses on making your experience great from the moment you walk in. Whether it's exploring the fuel-efficient Kia Forte or checking out family favorites like the Telluride and Sorento, we're here for you.


With each visit, we want you to feel confident and excited about your choice. Clear information, patient answers, and honest advice are what we stand by—because your satisfaction is our success story.


Exclusive Offers and Services

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we offer special deals on vehicles that make owning a Kia more exciting. These include vehicle specials to help you save money. Our service team also offers parts specials for your car needs.


We provide many services to keep your car running smoothly. You can get an appraisal to find out how much your car is worth. Scheduled maintenance helps your car stay in good shape.


Plus, ordering genuine Kia parts from us means your car gets what it needs to run well.

Our goal is for each customer to feel great about their visit with us—whether they're buying a car or getting one fixed up!


Testimonials: What Customers are Saying About Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country

Our customers often share their stories. They talk about how our team helped them find the perfect car and gave them top-notch service.


Customer Service Experiences

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we pride ourselves on top-notch customer service. Our team works hard to make sure every shopper finds the perfect pre-owned model for them. Here's what customers say about their experiences:


  1. Multiple buyers have given our customer service and buying process a perfect score of 5 out of 5.

  2. Buyers love talking to Justin, our sales manager. They say he makes car buying easy and fun.

  3. Cory is another team member who gets high praise. Mama3gage Harris says Cory made her sales experience excellent.

  4. Trisha points out how knowledgeable and helpful our staff is, rating us 5 out of 5.

  5. Even though Jacob Ian Bladen gave us a 4 overall, he mentioned our repair quality needed work.

  6. We always aim for honesty in pricing, even if one reviewer felt differently.


Our goal is to keep improving so every customer leaves happy and excited about their purchase at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country.


Post-Purchase Support and Services

After you buy a car from us, the help doesn't stop. Our team makes sure you're happy with your purchase. If something isn't right, we want to know. You can count on us for any questions or needs that pop up after taking your car home.


Many customers have given us 5-star ratings for our service after buying their cars. They love how smooth everything goes and often mention Justin, our sales manager, for his top-notch help.


We also take care of any issues fast if they come up. Some people have told us about pricing problems or feeling misled but know we work hard to fix these concerns quickly. Our goal is always to make sure you feel good about your deal and treated fairly long after you leave the lot.


Financing Your Kia at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country

Getting a pre-owned Kia is exciting, and at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we make financing simple. Our team offers great options to fit your budget, making it easy for you to drive away in your dream car.


Financing Options and Affordability

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we offer many ways to pay for your new or used car. We know not everyone has the same credit history. That's why we give second chances to customers with past credit issues.


You can choose leasing or financing options that fit your budget. We work hard to get you good deals with local banks.


You can also start by applying online to see how much money you can borrow before you shop. Our team is here during business hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM and Saturday from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, but we are closed on Sunday.


Our goal is to make buying a car easy and affordable for everyone.


Easy Steps to Get Pre-approved

Getting pre-approved for your next vehicle is simple and secure at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country. Our online credit application makes starting the process fast and easy. Here's how:

  1. Visit our website.

  2. Look for the finance section.

  3. Click on the online credit application link.

  4. Fill in your personal information, like name, date of birth, and email.

  5. Decide if you want to share your consumer credit report with third parties.

  6. Submit your form securely via HTTPS with encryption for data safety.

  7. Wait for our finance team to contact you with options.


This streamlined process helps ensure that finding your next Kia, whether it's a sporty Kia Forte or a family-friendly Kia Telluride, is as smooth as possible. We make sure every step is clear and safe.


Service and Maintenance: Keeping Your Kia in Top Condition

Regular care for your Kia keeps it running like new. Our team uses state-of-the-art tools and genuine parts to make sure every vehicle gets top-notch service.


Comprehensive Service Offerings

Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter provides a wide range of services to keep your Kia running smoothly. We schedule service appointments and offer specials, plus support for any collision needs.


Every service is done by technicians using only genuine Kia parts. This means when you bring in your sportage or niro ev, you get top-notch care.


For our customers, we lock in service prices to protect against rising costs and give out dealership coupons to save money.


Choose us for all your maintenance needs and enjoy peace of mind knowing your car is in expert hands.


Technicians and Genuine Kia Parts

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we only let technicians work on your Kia. These experts have passed special tests to fix Kias the right way. They use genuine Kia parts that are made just for your car.


This means every part fits perfectly and works like it should.


We lock in prices to save you money from rising costs and give out coupons for extra savings at our dealership.


Conclusion

We explored Indiana and Ohio's favorite Kia models—Sportage, Sorento, and Telluride. These cars stand out for quality, design, and safety. At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we're here to help you find the perfect ride.


Our team is ready to offer top-notch customer service and great deals. So why wait? Come visit us for a test drive today!


Visit Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country Today

Check out Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country today for a great car buying experience. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect Kia.


How to Schedule a Test Drive

To schedule a test drive at Tom Tepe Autocenter, simply call our sales team at (812) 221-1044. We’re open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays.


Our friendly staff will help you pick a convenient time for your test drive. If you're interested in trying out a Kia Sportage or any other model, let us know. We make it easy for you.


Visiting our showroom offers the chance to explore our used Kia inventory up close. Whether it's the efficient Kia Forte or the versatile Sorento you want to experience, we've got them ready for you.


Our team ensures each vehicle is in top condition for your test drive, giving you peace of mind as you choose your next car at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country.


Contact Information and Directions

Visit us at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, conveniently located at 426 E Indian Trl, Milan, IN. It's uncomplicated to locate us for anyone interested in evaluating our top pre-owned models like the Kia Niro or Forte.


Reach out to our sales team at (812) 221-1044 if you require assistance with anything before your visit.. Our doors are open from Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

On Saturdays, we accept guests from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM and are closed on Sundays.


Reaching us is uncomplicated whether you're from Indiana or Ohio. When organizing your visit, it’s easy to inspect our used Kia inventory or beginning your financing application.

To make it even simpler, my team is prepared to guide you through each step - ensuring a seamless visit. We are excited to meet you soon and assist you in choosing your next vehicle.


Browse Used Kia Inventory

Looking for a pre-owned Kia? Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country has got you covered. We offer a wide selection of used Kia vehicles, with 251 options to choose from. You can easily find the perfect car for your needs.


Each vehicle comes with a detailed CarFax Vehicle History report, so you know exactly what you're getting.


We also make buying easy with our Finance Center. Here, we provide financing options that fit your budget. Plus, finding out your trade-in value is hassle-free. Explore our inventory today and discover why a used Kia might just be the smart choice for your next vehicle purchase.


Start Your Financing Application

Ready to drive home in a top pre-owned model? At Tom Tepe Autocenter, starting your financing application is easy. You just need to fill out an online form. It asks for your personal and address details.


We keep all your information safe with HTTPS encryption.


Call us at (877) 533-7916 if you have questions or need help. Our team is here to guide you through every step. Getting pre-approved helps make buying your next car smooth and quick.


Value Your Trade-In

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we make trading in your car simple and rewarding. You might have a vehicle to trade, like a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. We're here to tell you it can lower the cost of your next car.


Our team checks your car's condition, mileage, and market value. This way, we give you a fair price.


Our site has tools to start this process from home. Just enter details about your car and get an estimate fast. Then bring your car to us for a final check. We aim for clear deals with no surprises.


Trading in could be the smart move for saving on something newer or different, like a Kia Sorento or Forte that fits your life better.


FAQs

1. What are the top 3 favorite Kia models in Indiana and Ohio?

The top three favored Kia models in these states include the Kia K5, a luxury vehicle with an adaptive high-beam assist feature; the compact crossover, Kia Seltos, known for its hybrid powertrain; and lastly, the all-electric Kia Niro EV that boasts an impressive MPG equivalent.


2. How does the performance of these popular Kia models compare to other vehicles?

Compared to competing cars like Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 or Volkswagen Tiguan - our top picks offer competitive features. The torque-vectoring technology on the K5 provides superior handling while both Seltos and Niro EV excel in fuel efficiency when matched against similar compact crossovers or electric vehicles such as Hyundai Ioniq 5.


3. Are there any specific features that make these Kia models stand out from their competitors?

Certainly! The manufacturer's suggested retail price is quite attractive given their advanced features like gear selector menus found in luxury cars...and let's not forget about their exceptional fuel efficiency compared to even some hybrid vehicles!


4. Can you tell me more about the all-electic model among these favorites?

Sure thing! That would be our beloved Kia Niro EV...it competes head-on with other all-electric options like Tesla Model Y or Nissan Leaf but stands out due to its affordability without compromising essential features.


5. Do any of these preferred models come with a hybrid powertrain option?

Absolutely – take for instance our compact crossover pick: The Seltos offers a hybrid version which rivals others such as Mazda CX-30 or Subaru Forester when it comes to MPGe metrics.


6. How do consumers rate their experience with these chosen KIA models?

Users have highly rated them for their comfortable ride quality and up-to-date tech interface...notably comparing well against alternatives like Chevrolet Blazer or Honda Pilot in the midsize crossover category.



 

Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter

 

Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.


Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.

 

Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.


Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.

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