US News Family Car 15 Models Selected
Kia Telluride Ranks 2nd by Rating
Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid and Kia Forte Also Included
1st Place Monster Truck Ram Lightweight Model Ram 1500
The Kia Telluride, a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) first launched in 2019, does not sell in Korea. It is a strategic vehicle aimed primarily at the United States, a paradise for SUVs and pickup trucks. As of March, 460,000 units have been sold in the U.S. alone. It is expected to surpass 500,000 units in the first half of the year. The Telluride is produced at a factory in Georgia, USA, and most of the vehicles are sold in the U.S.
On the 18th, U.S. News selected and announced 15 models as the "Best Vehicles for Moms and Dads." What are the criteria for a family car, a vehicle for moms and dads? Some prefer small but practical and economical cars, but in the U.S., where fuel costs are not a concern, the standard for family cars is undoubtedly size. They must have many features and ample passenger and cargo space. Since they are family cars, safety, durability, and reliability are also essential.
The Kia Telluride (base price $36,190, approximately 50 million KRW) scored 8.7 out of 10, ranking second among the 15 models. The media stated, "The Telluride ranked first among mid-size SUVs and won the 2024 Best 3-Row SUV for Families and Best 3-Row SUV for Value awards," adding, "The standard V6 engine provides sufficient power, and despite its spaciousness, it is easier to drive and handles better than most competitors in its class." They continued, "The Telluride can seat up to eight passengers, and even adults have ample space in all three rows," and "The cargo space is also generous."
Among domestic cars, three models made the list alongside the Telluride: Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid ($36,210, rating 8.0) and Kia Forte (domestic name K3, $19,990, rating 7.7). Regarding the Santa Fe Hybrid, the media said, "A smart choice for families, especially those with members soon to obtain a driver's license," and "Despite a competitive base price, it comes with many features, and many shoppers will likely be surprised by the elegant interior design and impressive craftsmanship." About the Forte, they commented, "It offers excellent reliability and safety and tremendous value," and "Both rear seats provide enough space for adults, and the design and materials are luxurious and attractive."
The number one spot went to the monster truck popular in the U.S., the Ram 1500 ($39,420, 8.9 points). The media praised it as "the best option for parents who want or need a full-size pickup," adding, "It is available in a variety of configurations, from basic work trucks to models with luxurious interiors and performance. All versions are safe and reliable." The third place by rating was the Honda Odyssey ($38,240, 8.6 points), fourth was the Mazda3 ($24,170, 8.5 points), and fifth was the Mazda CX-30 ($24,995, 8.4 points), among the top ranks.
Other models include ▲Subaru Outback ($28,895, 8.3 points) ▲Volvo V60 ($50,300, 8.3 points) ▲Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid ($53,425, 8.3 points) ▲Ford Bronco Sport ($31,230, 8.2 points) ▲Honda Accord Hybrid ($32,895, 8.2 points) ▲Rivian R1S ($74,900, 8.2 points) ▲Honda CR-V ($29,500, 8.1 points) ▲Toyota Highlander Hybrid ($40,970, 7.8 points), among others.
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