Kia

Kia has rewritten the rules for what a value-focused brand can deliver. From compact city cars through to spacious family SUVs and class-leading electric vehicles, every model is built around ownership programmes that take the stress out of buying new. Sharp styling, real-world technology and a clear investment in design and build quality have made Kia a default choice for Australian buyers who used to default elsewhere. It's no longer the underdog – it's the benchmark a lot of mainstream brands have to compete with. Worth comparing against any rival on your shortlist.