9 Best Used Kia to Buy in Canada in 2025
9 Best Used Kia to Buy in Canada in 2025
Posted on April 24, 2025
Kia has transformed from an economy brand to a respected automotive manufacturer known for reliability, innovation, and exceptional value. Canadian drivers have increasingly embraced Kia vehicles for their combination of affordability, feature-rich designs, and impressive warranty coverage.
This guide will help you navigate the best used Kia to buy in Canada, considering crucial factors including reliability history, value retention, maintenance costs, and standout features.
| Model | Best For | Price Range (Used) | Top Features | Reliability |
| Kia Seltos | Young professionals | $18,000-$32,000 | AWD option, tech features | 4.5/5 |
| Kia Forte | Commuters | $12,000-$22,000 | Fuel efficiency, value | 4/5 |
| Kia Soul | Urban drivers | $10,000-$20,000 | Versatile interior design | 4.5/5 |
| Kia Sportage | Small families | $15,000-$30,000 | All-weather capability | 4/5 |
| Kia Telluride | Large families | $38,000-$45,000 | Three-row seating | 4.5/5 |
| Kia Stinger | Performance fans | $30,000-$45,000 | Twin-turbo options | 4/5 |
| Kia Sorento | Mid-size families | $20,000-$38,000 | Flexible seating | 3.5/5 |
| Kia Rio | Budget buyers | $8,000-$16,000 | Affordability | 4/5 |
| Kia Niro | Eco-conscious | $18,000-$32,000 | Hybrid/EV options | 4/5 |
Top 9 Best Used Kia Models to Buy in Canada
1. Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos (introduced in 2020) represents one of the best used Kia models to buy for Canadians seeking a compact SUV with modern features. Despite being newer to the lineup, 2020-2025 models are increasingly available as leases end.
Key Features:
- Available all-wheel drive (ideal for Canadian winters)
- 10.25-inch touchscreen on higher trims
- Two engine options: efficient 2.0L or powerful 1.6L turbo
- Advanced driver assistance systems
Used Seltos models typically range from $18,000 for a 2020 LX to $32,000 for a loaded 2025 SUV. Reliability has been strong, though watch for DCT transmission issues in some 2020-2021 models and occasional infotainment glitches (usually fixable with updates).
The Seltos is perfect for young professionals or small families who want SUV capabilities without excessive size or fuel consumption.
2. Kia Forte
The Kia Forte, particularly the post-2019 redesign models, stands among the best used Kia cars to buy for value-conscious Canadians. This compact sedan combines efficiency with surprising comfort and technology.
Standout Features:
- Excellent fuel economy (up to 6.9L/100km highway)
- Standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Heated seats and a steering wheel on most Canadian-market models
- Spacious 434L trunk capacity
In the Canadian used market, expect to pay between $12,000 for a 2019 LX and up to $22,000 for a recent GT Limited. The Forte has earned above-average reliability ratings, though buyers should inspect the CVT transmission in used models and check for electrical system updates.
Ideal for commuters, first-time buyers, or anyone seeking maximum value in a well-equipped compact car.
3. Kia Soul
The Soul's distinctive boxy design makes it instantly recognizable and surprisingly practical for Canadian urban environments. The third-generation (2020-present) offers the most refined experience, though 2014-2019 second-generation models provide excellent value.
Why Consider the Soul:
- Class-leading interior volume in a compact footprint
- Distinctive styling with modern LED lighting
- Upright seating position with excellent visibility
- Versatile cargo space (up to 1,758L with seats folded)
Used Soul prices typically range from $10,000 for 2017-2018 models to $20,000+ for recent GT-Line editions. Reliability has been consistently good, though watch for turbo engine issues in some 2017-2019 models and suspension wear in earlier second-generation vehicles.
Perfect for city dwellers, style-conscious buyers, and those who need maximum utility in a small package.
4. Kia Sportage
The Sportage has evolved dramatically over its Canadian history, with the fourth (2017-2022) and fifth (2023-present) generations representing the model at its best. This compact SUV balances everyday drivability with genuine capability for Canadian conditions.
Canadian-Friendly Features:
- An effective all-wheel drive system with a locking center differential
- Winter-ready heating systems (heated seats, steering wheel)
- Good ground clearance for snow and rough roads
- Spacious interior with up to 1,703l cargo capacity
Expect to pay $15,000-$20,000 for 2017-2019 models and $22,000-$30,000 for 2020-2022 editions. Reliability is generally above average, though inspect cooling systems on 2017-2018 models and brake components on all years.
The sweet spot for value and features lies in the 2020-2022 models, which benefited from the mid-cycle refresh.
5. Kia Telluride
The Telluride (introduced for 2020) quickly became one of Kia's most coveted models, offering near-luxury accommodations at mainstream prices. As a newer model, the used vehicle inventory continues to build in the Canadian market.
Premium Features:
- Upscale interior materials that exceed its price point
- Spacious three-row seating for up to eight passengers
- V6 power with 5,000-pound towing capacity
- Comprehensive safety and technology package
Used Tellurides command premium prices, typically $38,000-$45,000, depending on year and trim. Reliability has been exceptional so far, with minimal reported issues beyond occasional infotainment system quirks.
Ideal for larger families who want a premium experience without the premium price tag of European luxury brands.
6. Kia Stinger
The performance-oriented Stinger represents Kia's bold move into the sports sedan market, offering genuine driving excitement with practical four-door utility. Available since 2018 in Canada, it's becoming an interesting used market option.
Performance Credentials:
- Available twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower
- Rear or all-wheel drive configurations
- 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.9 seconds
- Hatchback practicality with sedan styling
Canadian used market prices range from $30,000 for early base models to $45,000 for recent GT editions with the V6. Reliability has been good, though maintenance costs run higher than other Kia models due to performance components.
Perfect for driving enthusiasts who need four-door practicality but don't want to sacrifice excitement.
7. Kia Sorento
The mid-size Sorento bridges the gap between the compact Sportage and full-size Telluride, offering three-row flexibility when needed. Recent generations (2016-2020 and 2021-present) offer the best value and features.
Versatile Features:
- Available third row for occasional seven-passenger use
- Multiple powertrain options, including efficient turbo engines
- Available AWD with terrain management system
- Premium tech features even in mid-range trims
Used Sorento prices range from $20,000 for 2016-2018 models to $38,000 for recent SX models with low kilometres. Reliability has been generally good, though not quite at the level of some other Kia models.
Ideal for growing families who need occasional third-row seating but prefer a more manageable size than full-size SUVs.
8. Kia Rio
The subcompact Rio represents the most affordable entry point into Kia ownership, offering surprising refinement and features in a budget-friendly package. The latest generation (2018-present) offers the best combination of modern features and value.
Economy With Style:
- Excellent fuel efficiency (as low as 6.4L/100km combined)
- Standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on most Canadian models
- Surprising interior space for its compact dimensions
- Low ownership costs with simple maintenance requirements
Used Rio prices range from $8,000 for older models to $16,000 for recent years with low kilometres. Reliability has been consistently strong, with few significant problem areas reported.
Perfect for urban dwellers, first-time buyers, and those seeking maximum economy without sacrificing basic modern features.
9. Kia Niro
The Niro stands as Kia's dedicated electrified vehicle, available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions. Available since 2017 in Canada, it offers eco-conscious drivers an efficient option with crossover styling.
Green Features:
- Hybrid models achieve up to 4.4L/100km combined
- Electric version offers over 385km of range
- Practical crossover design with good cargo space
- Advanced regenerative braking system
Used prices range from $18,000 for early hybrid models to $32,000+ for recent EV versions. Reliability has been excellent, though specialized hybrid/EV components warrant professional inspection before purchase.
Ideal for environmentally conscious drivers who want efficient transportation without sacrificing utility.
Finding Your Best Used Kia in Canada
When searching for a used Kia to buy, consider these factors to match your specific needs:
For City Commuters: The Forte and Rio offer exceptional economy with increasingly refined features. Recent model years provide impressive technology even at lower price points, making them ideal for urban Canadian drivers prioritizing efficiency and value.
For Small Families: The Soul, Sportage, and Seltos provide versatile interiors with available AWD for Canadian weather conditions. These models balance reasonable dimensions for city parking with sufficient space for family needs.
For Larger Families: The Sorento and Telluride deliver three-row flexibility with premium appointments. Their robust AWD systems and generous ground clearance make them capable family haulers even in challenging Canadian winter conditions.
For Eco-Conscious Buyers: The Niro lineup offers hybrid and electric options that minimize both fuel costs and environmental impact. Their crossover utility makes them a practical choice for environmentally aware Canadian drivers.
For Performance Enthusiasts: The Stinger delivers genuine performance credentials with practical four-door utility. Its available AWD makes it a viable year-round driver even in challenging Canadian conditions.
Summing Up
The best used Kia car combines value, reliability, and features tailored to Canadian driving needs. The brand's dramatic improvement in quality and design over the past decade has created an excellent opportunity for used vehicle shoppers seeking maximum value.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Rio and Forte deliver remarkable economy with increasing refinement. Growing families will appreciate the versatility of the Soul, Sportage, and Seltos, while larger families should consider the three-row comfort of the Sorento or premium Telluride. Performance enthusiasts shouldn't overlook the surprisingly capable Stinger, while the Niro serves eco-conscious drivers with hybrid and electric options.
FAQs About Used Kia Vehicles
1. Are Kias reliable in Canadian winters?
Most modern Kia models perform admirably in Canadian winter conditions, particularly AWD-equipped SUVs like the Sportage, Seltos, and Sorento. Look for models with the Cold Weather Package, which typically includes heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and enhanced defrosting systems.
2. How do maintenance costs compare to other brands?
Kia maintenance costs typically run 10-15% lower than industry averages. Basic service intervals are straightforward, and parts availability has improved dramatically across Canada over the past decade. Models sharing platforms with Hyundai benefit from widespread parts networks.
3. Are parts readily available across Canada?
Yes, Kia's expansion in the Canadian market has resulted in excellent parts availability in most urban and suburban areas. Remote locations may experience slightly longer wait times for specialized components, but common maintenance items are widely stocked.
4. How well does Kia hold their value in Canada?
Kia's resale value has improved significantly in recent years. While still lagging behind Toyota and Honda in some segments, the gap has narrowed considerably. Models like the Telluride and Sportage have demonstrated particularly strong value retention, while the Stinger tends to depreciate somewhat faster due to its performance-oriented nature.
5. What should I budget for annual maintenance on a used Kia?
Average annual maintenance costs for used Kia models typically range from $400-700 for routine service, depending on model and age. Models with more complex systems (turbochargers, AWD) tend toward the higher end of this range.