Kia has rapidly assembled a lineup of appealing, high value cars and SUVs. Most contain higher levels of equipment than their competition, and all feature a long warranty.

A new body-on-frame SUV joins the Kia lineup this year. The mid-sized Borrego offers three rows of seating, and Kia's first production V-8. The capable Borrego can tow up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped.

The Kia Optima benefits from styling and powertrain upgrades for 2009. Both the four-cylinder and V-6 engines have increased power output.

Next up for Kia will be a production version of the Soul concept car.

• What's new for Kia
• Kia for 2009
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• Official Site
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Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2009 Kia Spectra seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2009 Kia Optima
• 2008 Kia Sorento
• 2009 Kia Borrego
• 2008 Kia Amanti
• 2008 Kia Rondo