Window Tint for Your KIA: Tips and Advice from Tinting Chicago

KIA has built a strong reputation in the American market. It started as a budget-friendly automaker but quickly elevated its image. The brand offers sleek and contemporary vehicles that appeal to a wide audience. This design philosophy extends across its lineup, from sedans to SUVs. Kia actively incorporates the latest technology, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and intuitive infotainment systems, and focuses on hybrid and electric vehicles.

KIA Motors Corporation is South Korea’s oldest car manufacturer – it was founded in 1944. However, it started as a modest producer of bicycle parts. By the 1950s, KIA was making complete bicycles and motorcycles. Only in the 1970s KIA partnered with Mazda and Ford to enter the automotive industry. By the early 80s, the KIA company has fully switched to the production of cars. In the late 1990s, KIA merged with Hyundai. This partnership strengthened the brand – today, KIA produces over 1.6 million cars a year.

What are aftermarket upgrades for KIA?

KIA’s growing popularity has led to a rise in aftermarket modifications. More and more people are looking to customize their cars. KIA owners are interested in everything from performance upgrades to cosmetic changes to make their vehicles unique. Window tinting remains the most popular solution thanks to its aesthetic and practical benefits:

• Enhanced privacy. Tinted windows safeguard personal belongings and ensure privacy as they literally obscure the view inside the car.
• UV shield. Quality tints stop 99% of harmful UV rays. They act like sunscreen.
• Cooler interior. Tints reduce heat inside the vehicle and make the drive more comfortable.
• Reduced glare. Tinted windows improve visibility and reduce eye strain from the sun and headlights.
• Stylish look. Tints make the car sleeker and more elegant.
• Glass protection. Tints make the glass more resistant to shattering.

KIA’s most successful vehicles of the last decade?

KIA has noticeably increased its presence on US roads in recent years. American consumers appreciate its design, technology, and value. Here are the models that sold the best.

KIA Sportage. This compact SUV remains a consistent top-seller. It blends urban attractiveness with practical functionality, and a 187-horsepower engine offers a dynamic driving experience. In 2023, it was fully revamped with tech features such as parking assist and navigation-based cruise control. The Sportage is an excellent option for families.

KIA Telluride. This relatively new model has quickly become a segment leader. This midsize SUV has a spacious interior, advanced features, and an eye-catching design. Its versatility, along with its comfort and safety features, has made it a top pick for families and SUV fans. The model’s horsepower is 291.

KIA Sorrento. This midsize SUV is more affordable than many of its rivals. Thanks to a variety of modern technology and safety systems, it is both convenient and secure. Equipped with a range of engine options and 281hp, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, the Sorento is often chosen for family needs.

KIA Carnival. This is KIA’s modern interpretation of a minivan. Its stylish design, spacious interior for up to 8 passengers, and advanced features immediately attracted consumers. User-friendly amenities, like configurable seating and ample cargo space, made it a top choice for families. The hp is 287.

KIA Soul. This unusual-looking crossover is popular for its boxy design and practical interior. The low starting price, competitive features, and distinctive styling contributed to sales. The Soul’s engine delivers 147 hp. Its great blend of appearance and functionality attracts a wide range of buyers.

Kia Niro. This model is a pioneer in the compact hybrid crossover segment. It focuses on fuel efficiency and eco-friendly options. The Niro offers a choice of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Its horsepower is 139. It is excellent for urban driving, long commutes, and those seeking a practical yet stylish vehicle.

KIA Forte. This compact sedan is designed for younger drivers. It has a sporty exterior and a comfortable interior. Equipped with a capable engine, typically around 147 horsepower, the Forte promises a great driving experience. Its stylish design and good value make it a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers.

KIA Seltos. This stylish and compact SUV has gained popularity for its versatility. Nicely built and practical, it is a great option for a wide range of buyers. The Seltos emphasizes technology and comfort and offers a modern driving experience. It comes with various engine options and provides enough power for everyday use. The horsepower reaches 195.

KIA K5 (Optima). This is another popular midsize sedan by KIA. It is generously equipped for the price, which is why it has a big following. A robust engine exceeds 190 horsepower. Its spacious interior and advanced features make it a popular choice in the competitive midsize sedan segment.

KIA Rio. This is the brand’s entry-level subcompact model for the audience looking for a budget vehicle. Its fuel-efficient engine with around 120 horsepower provides a good balance of performance and economy. Its small size makes it a super choice for city driving and parking.

KIA sales in the US in 2022-24

KIA sales in the US are really impressive.

1. In 2022, the company sold 2,903,619 vehicles globally, and 693,549 units were sold in the US;
2. In 2023, the sales reached 3.1 million units worldwide, with 725,817 vehicles sold in the US;
   The brand has ambitious plans for 2024 – the target is 3.2 million units.

Six KIA models reached their highest-ever annual sales. These are Carnival, Niro, Seltos, Sportage, Telluride, and Forte.

KIA is a unique brand you know little about!

• Did you know that KIA vehicles are the official cars of the NBA? KIA partnered with the NBA to enhance brand visibility and attract a younger consumer segment. Sportage and Telluride are often seen at NBA events and in promotional materials.
• KIA is a known award winner. The brand has over 500 global awards, including the prestigious “Triple Crown” for the Telluride.
• KIA is recognizable from a distance thanks to its “tiger nose” grille. This bold design element, designed by Peter Schreyer, gives KIA a distinctive and assertive look.

Where can you install window tints on your KIA?

When you buy a new KIA car from the factory, you will get it with no window tints. KIA does not provide tinting services as a part of production. This is an aftermarket upgrade that is additionally bought. There are the following options:

• Car dealerships. Some Kia dealerships offer window tinting as an added service. However, their tint selection and installation quality may be questionable compared to specialized shops.
• Professional tinting shops. Certified installers offer a wide range of tint options and flawless installation. They ensure compliance with local regulations and provide extended warranties on their work.

Car enthusiasts can even tint windows on their own, as there are a lot of DIY window tint kits available for KIA. These kits include pre-cut film and installation tools. However, just one wrong step can spoil the final outcome. So, professional help is the optimal choice if you value quality.

Car window tints compliance in Illinois

If you are going to tint your car windows in Illinois, you must know the state’s specific laws and regulations. Illinois has more detailed rules than many other states, and they differ based on the type of vehicle and windows you want to tint.

• The windshield. For all vehicles, you may tint only the top 6 inches of the window.
• Front side windows. You cannot exceed a 35% VLT limit.
• Backside windows and rear windows. Sedans and coupes can have a 35% tint, and SUVs and vans can have a 50% tint.

Illegal tinting is a minor offense, with a $50-$500 fine for first-time violators. For second or subsequent offenses, it becomes a Class C misdemeanour, and the fine grows to $100-$500.

Protect your KIA’s paintwork with PPF

Once you have shielded your car’s windows, it is time to protect its paint. If you are looking for a really reliable solution, it is Paint Protection Film (PPF). This urethane film is applied to your Kia’s exterior to safeguard its surface from damage. PPF presents a powerful protection against scratches, chips, road debris, bugs, and environmental factors.

Tinting Chicago is a certified PPF installer. We offer various packages to match different needs and budgets:

• Full front end. It covers the hood, fenders, and bumper.
• Partial front end. It protects the most vulnerable areas, such as the hood and bumper.
• Door edges and handles. It shields high-impact areas prone to scratches.
• Custom packages. We protect selected areas of your car based on specific vehicle usage and preferences.

PPF is a wise investment that will keep your vehicle looking new and prolong its resale value.

What is KIA factory tint?
The company does not use tinting films in production. Window tinting is an aftermarket upgrade that comes at an additional cost.

Does KIA dealership tint windows?
Many KIA dealerships offer window tinting services as an additional option for customers purchasing new vehicles. However, the tint range and installation skills may be limited.

Does tinting windows void warranty KIA?
Tinting your windows should not void the warranty, but only if you use professional services and adhere to legal tinting limits.

Looking to window tint your new KIA?
Consider hiring experts to tint your KIA. If you are in Illinois, Tinting Chicago is to your service. Our team of professional installers offer high-class tints, flawless application, and extended warranties.