By the Car Subscriptions Editorial Team · Updated 8 October 2026
- Founded
- 1944
- Headquarters
- Seoul, South Korea
- Part of
- Hyundai Motor Group
About Kia
Kia was founded in 1944 as a maker of steel tubing and bicycle parts, and went on to build bicycles, motorcycles and, from the 1970s, cars. After financial difficulties during the late-1990s Asian financial crisis, it was taken over by Hyundai in 1998, and the two companies now form Hyundai Motor Group while keeping separate design and branding. The company's name roughly translates as 'rising from Asia'.
Kia's UK reputation grew in the 2000s and 2010s on the back of good value and its seven-year warranty, while models such as the Sportage became regular best-sellers. It has since invested heavily in electric cars: the EV6, launched in 2021, was followed by the EV9, EV3, EV4, EV5 and the small EV2. Kia also offers petrol and hybrid models including the Picanto, Sportage, Niro and Sorento. Kia models have won numerous industry awards in recent years, and the brand regularly appears near the top of the UK new-car sales charts.
Kia on a car subscription
Kia suits subscribers who want a practical, well-equipped car and a wide choice of electric models in different sizes. The EV3 and EV6 are a popular way to try an EV without a long commitment, with low Benefit-in-Kind tax for company car users, while the Sportage hybrid suits drivers without home charging. Check the real-world range, the mileage allowance, insurance on the high-performance GT models, and whether the remaining manufacturer warranty matters to you on a short contract.
Popular Kia models
- Picanto
- Sportage
- Niro
- EV3
- EV6
- Sorento
Electric Kia models
- ⚡ EV2
- ⚡ EV3
- ⚡ EV4
- ⚡ EV5
- ⚡ EV6
- ⚡ EV9
Model availability on subscription changes often. Kia and its logo are trademarks of their owner; we are not affiliated with Kia.
Kia subscriptions: FAQs
Can I get a Kia on a car subscription in the UK?
Yes. Kia models are widely available on UK subscriptions and short leases, including several electric options. Availability changes, so check current listings.
Which electric Kias can I subscribe to?
Providers commonly list the EV3, EV6 and EV9, with newer models such as the EV2, EV4 and EV5 appearing as fleets are updated.
Is a Kia Sportage available on subscription?
The Sportage is one of the UK's most popular SUVs and is often offered in hybrid or plug-in hybrid form. Check the mileage allowance and lead times.