Kia spreading new key fobs across the lineup

New key fobs.

We’ve begun a review of all 15 Kia models and model variations and have come across one truly disturbing trend. The company is spreading new key fobs with separate mechanical keys through the product line.

Nine models and model variations now use the new fob, first put into use by sister company Hyundai several years ago. The fob and key are shown to the right.

It began with the introduction of the EV9. By 2026, Carnival, EV6, Sorento, Sportage and Telluride and the EV9 all use this key fob.

This trend will likely spread to the rest of the line.

In our opinion, this development is a prescription for disaster, as the mechanical keys can easily be lost or simply left behind.

There is certainly a smart phone app available from Kia, and I can attest to the fact that it works smoothly. However, lock and unlock features are available by paid subscription only.

We can’t help but feel like this combination will come back to haunt both companies.

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