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If you're thinking about a new car, you probably are thinking about how to get the most bang for your buck. You want a high-quality car that has the features you want without breaking the bank. In the compact sedan market, two options leap to the front of the line, the Kia K4 and the Toyota Carolla. But which one to choose? Looking at the 2026 Kia K4 vs Toyota Corolla comparison is a good start. Both vehicles have solid reputations, but they differ in ways that could influence your decision. If you prioritize technology, comfort, safety, or value, understanding those differences can help you make the best choice for you. Performance and Powertrain When you compare the 2026 Kia K4 vs Toyota Corolla, you'll see both sedans offer capable everyday performance. The Kia K4 is powered by a 190 hp turbocharged engine that delivers a spirited driving experience, while the Corolla relies on naturally aspirated engines that prioritize efficiency over punch. If you want a little more energy behind the wheel, you may find the K4's turbocharged setup more engaging on both city streets and highways. Interior Space and Comfort The K4 has a modern cabin with available heated and ventilated front seats, a driver's memory seat, and a more premium feel at comparable price points. The Corolla is known for a functional, reliable interior, but it doesn't always match the K4's level of available comfort upgrades in the same trim range. Technology and Connectivity Both sedans include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the K4 steps things up with available dual panoramic displays, wireless charging, and over-the-air software updates. These connected features make the K4 feel more current for drivers who rely on their vehicle's tech daily. The Corolla offers a clean infotainment setup, but its technology suite can feel more reserved compared to the K4's feature-forward approach. Safety Features Safety is a priority for both models, and this is one area where the differences between the Kia K4 vs Toyota Corolla become important. The K4 comes standard with a robust suite of driver assistance technologies, including auto emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot collision warnings, and rear cross-traffic alerts. The Corolla also includes standard safety features, but the K4's available Highway Driving Assist and additional sensor coverage give it an edge for drivers who want more comprehensive coverage. Warranty and Value Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile Limited Warranty is one of the strongest in the segment and gives the K4 a clear advantage. Toyota's warranty is solid, but it doesn't match Kia's coverage. When you factor in the K4's features, comfort, and warranty together, the overall value proposition is difficult to overlook. Find Your Next Sedan Near Shiloh, IL The 2026 Kia K4 vs Toyota Corolla comparison shows that both are capable compact sedans, but the K4 brings more technology, available comfort features, and a stronger warranty to the table. If you're ready to explore your options in person, Auffenberg Kia is conveniently located to serve drivers throughout Shiloh, Illinois. Stop by or visit auffenbergkia.com to browse current inventory and connect with our team.

With gas prices getting up there, it's no wonder most people are looking for vehicles that will give them the best gas milage to help keep their fuel costs down. That's why the 2027 Kia Telluride hybrid gas mileage figures are getting a lot of attention right now. This three-row SUV combines serious power with improved efficiency, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to have to fill up less. If you're driving the whole crew to practice or heading out on a weekend road trip, the Telluride Hybrid is designed to go the distance without constant stops at the pump. What the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid Delivers at the Pump When it comes to the 2027 Kia Telluride hybrid's gas mileage, drivers can expect up to 35 MPG combined in front-wheel drive and 31 MPG in all-wheel drive with an estimated FWD range of 637 miles. For a full-size SUV with seating for up to 8 passengers and a bold, capable stance, those numbers represent a big improvement over non-hybrid models. The turbo-hybrid powertrain delivers up to 329 hp with 339 lb-ft of torque, so you're not giving up performance to gain efficiency. Power and Performance Behind the Numbers The 2027 Telluride Hybrid earns its fuel efficiency through a turbo-hybrid system that works seamlessly with everyday driving. No matter if you're merging onto the highway or navigating stop-and-go traffic, the hybrid system helps manage energy use without requiring any extra effort from the driver. The gas mileage benefits are most noticeable during mixed driving conditions, where the hybrid system can contribute most effectively. 2027 Kia Telluride Family Friendly Features Beyond the fuel savings, the 2027 Kia Telluride's family friendly features make it one of the most well-rounded options in the three-row SUV segment. From its spacious interior and flexible seating configurations to available driver assistance technologies, this SUV is built with everyday family life in mind. The cabin is designed to keep passengers comfortable on longer trips, and the available technology features help drivers stay connected and aware on the road. How the Telluride Hybrid Stacks Up for Everyday Use Choosing an SUV that works hard every day means thinking beyond just gas mileage. The Telluride hybrid's gas mileage is a big reason to consider this model, but its overall package is what keeps buyers coming back. It's a vehicle built for real life, from school drop-offs and grocery runs to weekend getaways and everything in between. Visit Auffenberg Kia to Learn More If you're ready to explore the 2027 Kia Telluride hybrid, our experts at Auffenberg Kia are here to help. We have the resources and expertise to help you find the right trim and configuration for your family's needs.

First of all, we bet you're wondering, what Is a Kia K4 Service Loaner? A Kia K4 service loaner is a vehicle that a dealership uses temporarily to provide transportation to customers while their own cars are being serviced. They are part of the dealership's active fleet, which means they are maintained to high standards throughout their time in service. Once they are retired from loaner duty, they become available for purchase often at a compelling value compared to a brand-new model. The 2026 Kia K4 is a sharp, agile sedan with a modern design that stands out in its class. It offers a stylish interior, responsive handling, and a range of tech features that make everyday driving genuinely enjoyable. Picking up a service loaner is a smart way to get into this vehicle without paying the full sticker price of a new car. The Service Loaner Benefits One of the biggest benefits to purchasing a service loaner vehicle is the condition of the vehicle itself. Because these cars are used as courtesy transportation for customers, they are regularly inspected, cleaned, and kept in excellent mechanical shape. Dealership technicians handle any needed maintenance along the way, so the vehicle's history is well-documented and trustworthy. Another key service loaner benefit is the relatively low mileage these vehicles typically have. Since they are used locally and for short-term transportation needs, they often have far fewer miles than a typical used car of the same age. That means you get a nearly new car at a reduced cost. Why the Kia K4 Makes a Great Loaner Purchase The Kia K4 is one of the more exciting sedans in the current Kia lineup. Its bold exterior styling and well-appointed cabin make it feel premium without the premium price tag. The K4 also supports Kia Connect, which gives drivers access to vehicle connectivity features that enhance convenience, security, and comfort daily. Buying a Kia K4 service loaner also means you are getting a vehicle that has been operated and cared for by dealership staff who know Kia products inside and out. Why Choose Auffenberg Kia Auffenberg Kia is a trusted resource for drivers in Shiloh, IL, who are looking for quality vehicles and a straightforward buying experience. When you purchase a Kia K4 service loaner here, you are working with a team that understands the product and can walk you through the vehicle's complete service history with transparency. Kia also backs its vehicles with an industry-leading warranty, and depending on the terms, some of that original coverage may still apply to a service loaner purchase. That added peace of mind makes the decision even easier for buyers who want reliability without sacrificing value. Is a Kia K4 Service Loaner Right for You? If you are in the market for a stylish, well-maintained sedan and want to make the most of your budget, a Kia K4 service loaner deserves a close look. You get a vehicle that has been professionally cared for, carries low mileage, and comes backed by the expertise of a reputable Kia dealership. This is the kind of purchase that checks a lot of boxes quality, value, and confidence all in one package. Come in and see us at Auffenberg Kia to see what Kia K4 service loaner options are currently available and find the one that fits your needs.

There’s no compact sedan quite like the 2025 Kia K4, showing off a sleek fastback design, a tech-forward cabin, and spacious, comfortable interior. For drivers in Shiloh, Illinois, this innovative vehicle offers a perfect blend of style, safety, and performance tailored to the state’s diverse roadways. Whether you're commuting through town or embarking on a scenic drive, the 2025 Kia K4 is built to deliver an exceptional driving experience. more A Bold New Design for the Modern Driver The 2025 Kia K4 makes a striking first impression with its "Opposites United" design philosophy. Its fastback styling, wide stance, and signature tiger-nose grille give it a sporty yet sophisticated look that stands out on Illinois roads. The hidden rear door handles and muscular flanks add to its athletic appeal, while the available GT-Line Turbo trims introduce even more dynamic accents like exclusive 18” alloy wheels and LED cube lighting. Inside, the K4 offers a spacious cabin with premium materials and thoughtful design elements. With up to 98.7 cu. ft. of passenger volume, Best-in-Class 2 nd -row legroom, and a trunk capacity of 14.6 cu. ft., this Kia sedan ensures comfort and practicality for both daily drives and weekend getaways. If you want a sportier feel, the GT-Line Turbo trims show off GT-Line sport seats, bold red upholstery options, and a sport steering wheel with paddle shifters to complement that powerful performance. Cutting-Edge Technology at Your Fingertips The 2025 Kia K4 is packed with advanced technology features designed to keep you connected and in control. Dual 12.3” touchscreens create a panoramic command center, seamlessly integrating navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ lets you access apps, playlists, and more, while Kia Connect provides 3 years of complimentary access to remote services like vehicle diagnostics and location tracking. Upgrade to the 30” digital cockpit for multiple camera views and enhanced driver experience. And with the Digital Key 2, you can conveniently use your smartphone as a key, making it easier than ever to lock, unlock, and start your vehicle. Whether you're navigating Shiloh's city streets or heading out on a road trip, the K4's tech-forward features enhance every journey. Safety Features That Inspire Confidence Boasting the title of IIHS Top Safety Pick+, your well-being is a top priority in the 2025 Kia K4, which comes equipped with an array of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Following Assist help prevent accidents by monitoring your surroundings and providing timely alerts or interventions. The available Surround View Monitor offers a 360-degree view of your vehicle's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. Additionally, the K4 includes 8 standard airbags and innovative systems like Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Avoidance Assist for added peace of mind on Illinois's busy highways. With these cutting-edge safety technologies, the K4 ensures you and your passengers are protected every step of the way. Performance Tailored for Illinois Roads Under the hood, the 2025 Kia K4 offers two engine options to suit different driving preferences. The standard 2.0L 4-cylinder engine delivers a peppy 147 hp for smooth and efficient performance, while the available 1.6L turbocharged amps that up with 190 hp and 195 lbs.-ft. of torque, giving you an extra adrenaline rush. Both engines are paired with front-wheel drive and advanced transmissions that optimize fuel efficiency without compromising on responsiveness. Whether you're navigating Shiloh's winding backroads or cruising on the highway, the K4's precise handling and comfortable ride make it an ideal companion for Illinois drivers. Visit Auffenberg Kia to Experience the 2025 Kia K4 Ready to see what makes the 2025 Kia K4 a standout choice among compact sedans? Visit Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, to explore this innovative vehicle in person. Our team is here to help you find the perfect trim and features to match your lifestyle and driving needs. Experience the Future of Driving with the New Kia K4 The 2025 Kia K4 is more than just a compact sedan—it's a statement of modern design, advanced technology, and uncompromising safety. Perfectly suited for Illinois roads, this vehicle offers a driving experience that stands out in every way. Discover the difference yourself by visiting Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL. The future of driving starts here with the all-new Kia K4!

There's something about longer days and warm weather that makes the open road feel like an invitation. For Kia drivers, summer is the perfect season to take advantage of everything your vehicle has to offer — from responsive powertrains to cabin technology designed for long-distance comfort. So, if you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, these summer road trip tips for Kia drivers will help you make the most of every mile. more Check Your Kia Before You Leave the Driveway Knowing how to prepare your Kia for a summer road trip starts well before you back out of the garage. Heat can put extra strain on your vehicle's systems, so a quick pre-trip inspection goes a long way. Check your tire pressure, since hot pavement can cause pressure to fluctuate and affect handling. Look over your coolant level to make sure your engine stays at a safe operating temperature during long highway stretches. Don't forget to top off your windshield washer fluid, inspect your wiper blades, and verify that all lights are functioning properly. If your Kia is due for an oil change or a routine service visit, it's worth scheduling that before you hit the road. A well-maintained vehicle is a reliable one, and summer road trips are better with a well-maintained vehicle. Make the Most of Your Kia's Technology One of the best parts of driving a Kia on a long trip is the cabin technology built to keep you connected and comfortable. Many Kia models offer available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, so your navigation and playlist are always within reach. Kia Connect, available through the Kia Access app, allows you to monitor your vehicle remotely, which is especially helpful when you're making stops along the way. If you're driving one of Kia's hybrid or plug-in hybrid models — like the 2026 Sorento Hybrid or the 2026 Sportage Hybrid — your vehicle's energy management system is already doing some of the heavy lifting for you. Knowing how to prepare your Kia for a summer road trip also means understanding your powertrain's strengths and planning fuel or charging stops accordingly. Pack Smart and Use Your Kia's Space Wisely Kia's lineup of SUVs and crossovers offers generous cargo space, but packing strategically still makes a difference. Heavier items should sit flat on the cargo floor, while frequently needed items — like snacks, sunscreen, or a first-aid kit — should stay within easy reach. Avoid blocking your rear visibility and consider investing in genuine Kia cargo organizers or accessories to keep things tidy throughout the trip. If you're traveling with kids or pets, comfort and entertainment are just as important as the gear you bring. Many Kia models offer available rear USB ports and dual-zone climate control, which makes managing different comfort preferences much easier. These are practical summer road trip tips for Kia drivers that can reduce stress on even the longest drives. Stay Safe and Road-Ready All Summer Long Safety should always be part of how you prepare your Kia for a summer road trip. Many Kia models include available driver assistance features such as forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning — all designed to help reduce fatigue and keep you alert on long stretches of highway. Familiarize yourself with the features on your specific trim so you know what's available and how to use them effectively. It's also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your cargo area. Include items like a phone charger, jumper cables, a flashlight, water, and basic tools. Visit Us Before Your Next Adventure Summer road trip tips for Kia drivers come down to a few simple priorities: prepare your vehicle, use your technology, pack smart, and drive safe. From pre-trip maintenance checks to making the most of your Kia's cabin features, a little planning goes a long way toward a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Knowing how to prepare your Kia for a summer road trip means you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the ride. Stop by Auffenberg Kia at 1155 Berg Boulevard, Shiloh, IL 62269 to explore the current Kia lineup and schedule your pre-trip service today.

Finding the ideal family vehicle means prioritizing space, safety, and efficiency. Kia consistently delivers exceptional value with advanced technology and versatile seating. For drivers near Shiloh, IL, discovering your ideal match at Auffenberg Kia guarantees a smarter daily commute. Contact our team today to explore these incredible options and elevate your driving experience. more Why Kia Is a Smart Choice for Family Buyers Kia provides an industry-leading warranty for ultimate peace of mind. Several models earn top spots on the Consumer Reports© Recommended list, highlighting their exceptional reliability. Kia Connect© gives parents seamless remote monitoring and security tools directly through the Kia Access© app, simplifying busy routines. The 2026 Kia Telluride: Three-Row Space Without Compromise The 2026 Kia Telluride remains a top choice for large households. This three-row SUV delivers robust performance with up to 274 horsepower, conquering road trips and daily errands effortlessly. For enhanced efficiency, the upcoming 2027 Telluride Turbo-Hybrid introduces a hybrid powertrain. This addition brings significant fuel savings to an already remarkable flagship SUV. The 2026 Kia Sorento: Flexible Seating and Multiple Powertrain Options The mid-size 2026 Kia Sorento adapts to any lifestyle with standard, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid configurations. The Plug-In Hybrid variant excels at reducing daily fuel consumption while maintaining extensive range for longer vacations. It comfortably seats growing families without the bulky footprint of a full-size SUV. The 2026 Kia Carnival: The Minivan Reimagined for Modern Families The 2026 Kia Carnival redefines practicality with bold styling and maximum cargo capacity. Available as a standard MPV or hybrid, it seamlessly accommodates carpools and road trips. The Carnival Hybrid prioritizes outstanding fuel economy, keeping everyone comfortable and organized on every journey. The 2026 Kia Sportage: A Compact Option for Smaller Families For households needing a nimble SUV, the 2026 Kia Sportage delivers exceptional comfort and modern technology. Available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, it maximizes long-term fuel savings. The well-crafted cabin ensures a relaxing ride, and its compact size makes parking effortless. The 2026 Kia Niro: Efficient and Approachable for Everyday Use The 2026 Kia Niro minimizes trips to the pump with versatile hybrid and fully electric configurations. The Niro EV is ideal for home charging, providing an EPA-estimated 253-mile battery range on a single charge. It packages premium technology into an efficient, easy-to-drive compact footprint. Find Your Perfect Family Kia at Auffenberg Kia The 2025-2026 Kia lineup provides diverse solutions for every household, from the spacious Telluride to the eco-friendly Niro EV. Drivers in Shiloh, IL can experience these exceptional models firsthand. Visit Auffenberg Kia today to test drive your favorite model and discover the perfect vehicle for your family.

Getting a teenager behind the wheel is exciting and nerve-wracking. Parents searching for the best new Kia for teen drivers are on the right track. Kia's current lineup balances safety technology, everyday practicality, and long-term reliability. Contact Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, to discover these models and learn more. more Why Kia Makes Sense for Teen Drivers The brand checks many important boxes for families. Kia vehicles offer industry-leading warranty coverage, giving parents significant peace of mind. The lineup also features standard and available safety features across multiple trims. Families can get meaningful driver-assist technology without stretching their budget. The 2026 Kia K4: A Smart Starting Point for New Drivers The 2026 Kia K4 is a highly practical choice. This compact sedan offers a refined interior, modern connectivity features, and a manageable size, making it easy for newer drivers to handle city traffic. The K4 also offers a hatchback body style, adding cargo flexibility for teens juggling sports equipment or school bags. The K4 family is an excellent choice for those wanting something fresh and functional. The 2026 Kia Seltos: Compact SUV Confidence Many teen drivers prefer a slightly elevated driving position, making the 2026 Kia Seltos an ideal fit. It delivers the footprint of a compact vehicle with the visibility and versatility of an SUV. The Seltos provides more road presence without the bulk of a larger vehicle. Its intuitive tech features, including Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto©, make it approachable for younger drivers accustomed to digital interfaces. The 2026 Kia Sportage: Room to Grow The 2026 Kia Sportage is perfect for teens sharing a car with the family or needing extra space. This well-rounded crossover sits comfortably between compact and midsize, providing extra passenger room and cargo space. The Sportage offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, offsetting fuel costs over time. The Sportage delivers long-term flexibility on multiple fronts. Kia's Safety and Connectivity Features for New Drivers Kia's approach to driver support technology stands out. Many vehicles include features designed to assist newer, less experienced drivers in navigating roads safely. Kia Connect© helps families stay informed and keeps vehicles secure. When looking for the best new Kia for new drivers, visit Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, to experience these connected features firsthand.

When it comes to choosing the perfect hybrid SUV, the decision often boils down to comparing two standout options: the Kia Sorento Hybrid and the Kia Sportage Hybrid. Both models offer impressive performance, advanced technology, and eco-friendly efficiency, but which one is right for you? Let’s dive into the Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. Sportage Hybrid comparison to help you make an informed decision. more Performance and Efficiency The Kia Sorento Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid both deliver strong performance and fuel efficiency, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Sorento Hybrid features a 1.6L turbocharged hybrid powertrain with 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for those who need a bit more power for family trips or towing. On the other hand, the Sportage Hybrid boasts a class-leading turbocharged 1.6L engine with 232 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque, offering a sportier drive. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Sportage Hybrid edges ahead with an EPA-estimated 42 MPG combined on its LX trim, compared to the Sorento Hybrid’s EPA-estimated 37 MPG combined. If maximizing fuel savings is your priority, the Sportage Hybrid may be the better choice. Interior Space and Comfort When comparing interior space in the Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. Sportage Hybrid key differences emerge in their seating and cargo capacities. The Sorento Hybrid is a 3-row SUV that comfortably seats up to 7 passengers, making it an excellent option for larger families or those who frequently carpool. It also offers up to 75.5 cu ft of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. The Sportage Hybrid, on the other hand, is a 2-row SUV with seating for up to 5 passengers. While it doesn’t have the third row, it still provides ample space for passengers and cargo, with up to 73.7 cu ft of cargo room. For drivers who don’t need the extra seating but want a more compact and maneuverable vehicle, the Sportage Hybrid is a great fit. Technology Features Both the Sorento Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid come packed with advanced technology. Standard features on both models include a large touchscreen display with Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, as well as advanced driver-assistance systems like Auto Emergency Braking and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist. However, there are some differences in available upgrades. The Sorento Hybrid offers features like a 12-speaker Bose® premium audio system and a panoramic sunroof, while the Sportage Hybrid includes options like a dual panoramic display and a Harman Kardon® premium audio system. Depending on your tech preferences, one model may stand out as a better fit for your lifestyle. Safety and Warranty Safety is a top priority for both models, with each earning high marks in crash tests and offering advanced safety features like Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Additionally, both vehicles are backed by Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty, providing peace of mind for drivers throughout Shiloh. Auffenberg Kia Can Help You Decide Choosing between the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid ultimately depends on your specific priorities. If you need extra seating and cargo space for family adventures, the Sorento Hybrid is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more compact SUV with sporty performance and top-tier fuel efficiency, the Sportage Hybrid is hard to beat. No matter which model you choose, both offer exceptional value and innovation that drivers in Shiloh will appreciate. Visit Auffenberg Kia to experience these impressive hybrids firsthand!

Samuel has been with Auffenberg for just six months, but his path to the car business is anything but ordinary. Before joining the team, he worked in bartending and other service industry roles. He loved meeting new people and building relationships, but the late nights weren’t for him long term. more Then came a chance encounter at a gas station. Samuel struck up a conversation with someone his own age who worked in the car business — and absolutely loved it. Inspired by that conversation, Samuel submitted his application to Auffenberg the very next day. Before entering automotive sales, Samuel spent four years at SIU Edwardsville studying geography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). While he still loves geography, maps, and technology, he realized he wanted a career that kept him active and interacting with people instead of sitting behind a desk all day. That’s exactly what he found at Auffenberg. Samuel loves the fast pace of the car business, the technology in today’s vehicles, and most of all, the relationships he builds with customers and coworkers every day. If you stop by the dealership, there’s a good chance you’ll find him chatting with service customers — because he genuinely cares about people and wants every customer to feel welcome. Outside of work, Samuel enjoys spending time with friends and taking road trips. He loves scenic drives and discovering beauty in the little things along the way. One of his favorite destinations is Door County, Wisconsin, and one day he hopes to learn how to fly fish. We’re proud to have Samuel on the Auffenberg team!

He’s been with Auffenberg for almost three years, but he’s been in the automotive industry for almost twenty-five years. He started as an express oil change technician, then he became an alignment technician, then he worked in the aftermarket tire industry – he’s also been a service manager, a tire store manager and more – but he loves dealership life the best. more He originally wanted to be a chef – the restaurant he was working at had closed and a friend got him into the automotive industry. He’s so thankful. He still loves cooking – but just for those he loves (including his coworkers). He’s a specialist at smoking meats, especially turkey. He makes his own rub and his own brines. He comes in to work around 6:15 every morning – even though we don’t open until 7 am. That’s how he was raised. He likes to get everything set up and ready and organize all the night drops. When customers walk in at 7 am – he’s had his coffee and a minute to find his calm. The day can get chaotic from there. The phones start ringing and the lines start forming and he wades through all of it. He LOVES chatting with people – he enjoys when he has time to get to know his customers and his coworkers. He recently accepted the Kia Service Elite Regional Recognition Award – he was incredibly surprised and HONORED. It’s based on customer feedback and customer satisfaction numbers. Doug was shocked, “For some reason, people like me. Which is good, because I like people.” We are incredibly proud of Doug and all of the effort he puts in. He’s had three strokes – he’s overcome a lot in life and he still ALWAYS keeps a positive and happy demeanor. He’s also a father to a St. Louis City Cop and a father to a Navy veteran, plus he’s a grandpa. He’s been with his wife, Robin, for ten years. As part of his award, Kia allowed him to pick his favorite food truck ( BIPPs BBQ LLC) to treat the ENTIRE store to a celebratory luncheon!

Mike "Schreibs" Schreiber grew up in the car business, starting at just 14 years old helping sell cars on his dad’s body shop lot. From there, he’s done just about everything you can imagine: autobody painter, salesperson, finance manager, body shop manager, and technician—pretty much every role except turning wrenches as a mechanic. more What’s kept him in the industry all these years? Simple—he loves people. Whether it’s helping someone get into their dream car or mentoring younger team members through both work and life, that’s what drives him every day. One thing he won’t tolerate? Mean people. Around the dealership, he’s known for his sharp style, his “so-bad-it’s-good” rapping skills, and his deep (and sometimes random) movie knowledge that always keeps the team entertained. Outside of work, family is everything. He’s a proud girl dad to three daughters, a grandfather to two grandsons, and has a few bonus grandkids through his wife—so there’s never a dull moment. When he’s not at work, you’ll likely find him on his Harley-Davidson Road Glide ST… or more often, chasing after his grandkids and soaking up every minute with them. Passionate, experienced, and always ready to help—he’s someone you’ll be glad to have on your side when it’s time to find your next vehicle. And that's our General Sales Manager.

Please join us in congratulating Auffenberg Kia's Ben Banta - Journeyman Technician - on his 3rd Place Win in the 2026 Kia Skill National Cup - Technician Competition- Central Region - and it was his very first year competing! more Ben recently went to Irvine, California (the US Kia headquarters)  to compete in the 2026 Kia Skill National Cup - Technician Competition - Central Region. While he placed 3rd in the Central region (a huge accomplishment!) it should be noted the 1st and 2nd place winners from the Central region placed in the top five in the US. He is now cheering them on as they head to Korea to compete in the WORLD'S competition. The Technician Competition is a prestigious event where Kia techs compete on four different tasks with Kia techs from around the world. This was Ben's first year being nominated to compete. The instructors from the Kia training centers bugged the cars - the tasks included body networking, troubleshooting an EV, drivability (engine performance), and engine mechanics. The techs had to document everything on their repair order, explain their logic, among things. This was Ben's first-year competing, and he was nervous about the unknown. The day started at 7 am - and it was a full day - the technicians were only allowed 75 minutes per vehicle. Once he was finished - he was confident in two out of the four - the other two; he wasn't quite sure if he had done enough in the time he was allotted. Ben has been with Auffenberg Kia for six years, and he's been a technician for over 20 years. In high school, he took a small engine repair class, and he watched his dad work on cars at home. He looks forward to competing again in two years -  he's setting his sights on making it all the way to Korea for the World Cup!