Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
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Having shown us teaser photos, Kia has now taken the wraps off its new Kia K9 flagship. The luxury sedan is the first-ever rear-wheel-drive Kia sedan, and is also said to be the most luxurious Kia to date.
Kia had previously teased the new sedan as the KH, but picked the K9 name to fit in with the company’s other Korean-market offerings. The letter K stands for Korea, Kinetic, and Kratos, the Greek work for domination. The number nine shows how the car fits in the company’s lineup, above the K5 (aka. Optima sedan) and K7 (the Cadenza).
The elegant sedan seems to blend design cues from many existing luxury sedans — the curved nose and swooping headlights remind us of the BMW 6 Series, the profile line suggests the Lexus GS, and the stubby tail with twin parallelogram exhaust tips apes the Lexus LS. Nonetheless, the Kia K9 looks sophisticated and classy. Plenty of chrome trim adorns the outside, include twin portholes on each front fender, and the rear window slopes gently toward the trunklid. Out front, the so-called “Tiger Nose” chrome grille defines the car as a Kia.
Little else has so far been revealed about the K9, but as it is based mostly on the Hyundai Genesis, we can expect some of that car’s engines and technologies to carry over. Kia says its new sedan offers the company’s “best of the best” handling, technology, and design. We also wonder whether features from the Kia GT concept, first shown at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, will reach production in the K9. The show car had a turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6 with 390 hp and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Kia K9 will go on sale in Korea within the next few months, but it’s unknown where else the new car might land. Kia has confirmed the luxury sedan won’t be sold in Europe, but says that it will announce on-sale dates outside Korea at a later time. Also, Kia says the car will be renamed when it is sold elsewhere around the world.
With Europe off the map and Kia working to improve its image in our market, we’d say chances are strong that the new Kia K9 flagship will be sold in the U.S. It remains to be seen, however, whether the car can stand out from both its mechanical sibling the Hyundai Genesis, and the array of similar luxury cars already on sale here.
Courtesy of motortrend.com
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Monday, February 27, 2012
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Kia Signs on to Support World Environment Day 2012
Kia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations Environment Programme(UNEP) on February 22 to confirm its support for the organization’s hallmark World Environment Day (WED). The official signing ceremony took place at the United Nations compound in Nairobi, Kenya and marked Kia’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability.
Commemorated on every 5 June since 1972, WED has grown to become the most widely celebrated global day for positive environmental action. WED activities take place year round as a worldwide call to action for individuals and organizations to mobilize environmental activities. This year Kia will award an eco-friendly vehicle to five participating organizations whose WED activity mobilization scores high on criteria as evaluated by UNEP.
The five vehicles to be awarded include four 2012 all-new Kia Rios and one 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid, which were chosen for their high fuel efficiency and to highlight 2012’s WED theme ‘Green Economy: Does it include you?’
The signing ceremony was attended by Achim Steiner, UN Under-Secretary General and Executive Director of UNEP; Izabella Teixeira, Brazilian Environment Minister and MK Kim, President of Kia’s Middle East and Africa Regional Headquarters.
Courtesy of kiabuzz.com
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Become a Kia Fan Reporter & Win a Trip to the Geneva Motor Show
All automotive enthusiasts can agree that the Geneva Motor Show is one of the top must-see auto events of the year. And with the 82nd show right around the corner, Kia is on the lookout for fan reporters we can send to Geneva to share news and updates with global Kia fans. We’re seeking people with personality and a talent for storytelling, filming and/or photography. If that sounds like you or a friend, then keep reading!
Fan Reporter Teams
Kia will assemble three teams of two fan reporters each, so make sure you choose the right partner when applying. If chosen, you and your co-reporter will get access to cover all news and events related to Kia and all three teams will receive the following:
1) Passes to Geneva Motor Show
2) Round-trip air transportation
3) Hotel accommodation.
To apply, simply go to the following Facebook link and learn how to participate:
http://www.facebook.com/Kiamotorsworldwide?sk=app_212253232206083
The application submission period will be from February 15 to 26 and the three winning teams will be announced on February 27.
We encourage everyone to participate, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!
Courtesy of kiabuzz.com
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Kia Cee’d Hatchback Revealed Ahead Of 2012 Geneva Motor Show
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A new Kia Cee’d (essentially the equivalent of the Kia Forte in the United States) is set to debut at next month’s 2012 Geneva Motor Show and now we have all the official images and details of the five-door hatchback version following last month’s leak.
The Cee’d is aimed at European markets and borrows styling cues from the new Kia Optima and even the redesigned Kia Rio. The wing-shaped grille is more rounded than in the Optima, but the sculpted hood and upswept lower front valence are common traits. The wraparound headlamps also sport new LED daytime running lights. The vehicle is longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor, but features the same wheelbase. This results in a very sporty profile as well as a wide track and solid stance. Inside, designers have gone for a premium look and feel by using better quality materials than used in the previous Cee’d, as well as improved switchgear, touch-screen technology and enhanced driving position ergonomics. Kia is keeping quiet on the car’s engine details but expect a range of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel units and the choice of manual and automatic transmissions. We should know more once press days for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show commence on March 6, but in the meantime stay glued to our dedicated show page for all the latest updates. First sales of the new Kia Cee’d are scheduled to start in Europe in the second quarter of the year.
Courtesy of motorauthority.com
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Kia Motors America Announces its Seventh Special Edition Soul is Inspired by the Red Rocks of the American Southwest
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IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 10, 2012 - Kia Motors America (KMA) announces the seventh version in a series of unique Soul special editions. Inspired by the beautiful rock formations found in the Southwest United States, the Red Rock Special Edition Soul!1 adds style, class and unique features inside and out with a starting price of just $20,6002.
"The wildly popular Soul has been a game-changer for Kia since it arrived in 2009, and our series of special editions over the past three years have added individualism and exclusivity to an already fun and youthful vehicle," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. "Style and flair are key to Soul's success, and the Red Rock Special Edition, which has plenty of both, will help drive sales into 2012."
Unveiled at last year's New York auto show, the Red Rock Special Edition concept toured the U.S., allowing KMA to gauge consumer reaction. Due to popular demand, the concept has become a reality and is now available at Kia dealerships. The production model includes a number of unique features designed to set it apart from other Soul variants. Most evident is the lustrous Canyon exterior color. Other Red Rock Special Edition exterior features include high-gloss black front fascia and mirror housings. The interior is adorned with exclusive black leather trim and brown cloth seats. Standard amenities include automatic climate control and heated front seats, all combining to make the Red Rock Special Edition a truly special Soul!
About the 2012 Soul
Refreshed for the 2012 model year, the Kia Soul has been fine-tuned with a significant number of technological, powertrain and style enhancements. The 2012 Soul delivers class-leading horsepower3 and significantly improved fuel efficiency of up to 35 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway4. Kia Motors' hatchback remains a class-leading value with the lowest starting price of its competitive set at $13,900 MSRP5. Later this model year, Soul also will be the first among its competitors to offer the fuel-saving ISG technology, which turns off the engine when the vehicle is not in motion, such as at a stop light or in traffic.
Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality6 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking7. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan8. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.
Courtesy of kiamedia.com
Monday, February 13, 2012
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Kia Motors America Announces Production Schedule for New Optima SX Limited at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show
CHICAGO, February 8, 2012 - The ultra-popular midsize Kia Optima sedan again turned heads today at the Chicago Auto Show when Kia Motors America (KMA) revealed production plans for a new range-topping Limited. The Limited, which will begin production at Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia1 later this month, builds on the Optima SX's strong foundation of class-leading horsepower2 and fuel efficiency3 and adds a number of design and amenity enhancements to further stand apart from traditional competitors in the segment.
"The Optima SX Limited was introduced to the world in our 'Drive the Dream' Super Bowl commercial and now visitors to the Chicago Auto Show will experience it firsthand," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "The Limited delivers upscale features and premium materials that discerning midsize sedan customers are not able to find in many of our competitors. The Optima has been earning design, performance and value awards since arriving in showrooms in early 2011, and the Limited is the latest example of the brand's compelling package of style, fuel economy, technology – and now opulence – to appeal to an even wider consumer base."
Expected to arrive in showrooms in March, the Optima Limited is based on the fully loaded turbocharged Optima SX, which Edmunds' Inside Line hailed as an "Editors' Most Wanted℠" mid-sized sedan. Offered exclusively in Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Metallic exterior colors, the Optima Limited features many details that are mainly found on luxury vehicles, including LED daytime running lights, chrome-accented rear spoiler, lower door sills and wood interior trim. Standout red front-brake calipers can be seen through the Optima Limited's uniquely designed chrome 18-inch wheels while the 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine delivers class-leading 274 horsepower4 and achieves 22/34 mpg5 (city/hwy).
Inside the cabin, high-grade black or white Nappa leather adorns the seats, door panels, center console armrest and center fascia trim for a premium feel. Wood accents can be found on the steering wheel, interior door trim and shift knob, and a black tricot fabric lends a premium feel to the headliner, sun visor, and A, B and C pillars. The Optima Limited also boasts a first-aid kit and cloth door weather strip.
Like every Optima, the Limited projects a refined, performance-oriented aesthetic with a sleek silhouette, aggressive stance and sculpted elements that embodies the styling language chief design officer Peter Schreyer has created for the brand. Every 2012 Optima comes well equipped with a generous roster of standard features, and the Optima Limited builds on the technology, performance and convenience features found on the Optima SX, including: unique front and rear lower bumper design, sport-tuned suspension, HID headlamps, Supervision™ meter cluster with LCD display, steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals, illuminated door scuff plates, panoramic sunroof, four-way power front passenger's seat, driver's seat memory, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, navigation system with back-up camera and SiriusXM Traffic™6 and Infinity®7 audio system and speakers.
Standard Kia Safety Features
The 2012 Optima is equipped with a high level of standard safety features. All trims come outfitted with driver and passenger advanced front airbags8, front seat-mounted side airbags, first and second row side curtain airbags, front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). A four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.
Industry-Leading Warranty
The 2012 Optima is covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program9, which offers consumer protection at an exceptional value. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.
Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality10 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking11. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan12. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.
courtesy of kiamedia.com
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
2012 Kia Soul Special Lease Offer
Have you had your eye on the 2012 Kia Soul? Who could blame you! Right now, enjoy $169 a month for a 39 month lease with $1,999 due at lease signing. Visit Wilson Kia for more details!
Monday, February 6, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
2012 Kia Optima Dream Machine
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Test-drive a 2012 Kia Optima by March 31, 2012, to receive a $25 Kia Visa Prepaid Card. Start by entering your information here. When you’re done, click “Print My Personalized Certificate”.
When you’re all set, bring your printed certificate to Wilson Kia and take the wheel!
The Kia Sportage Cross-over Turn Heads into 2012
When we transition directly into 2012, just one car to check out once again is the 2012 Kia Sportage. It absolutely was entirely refurbished, and so the 2012 Kia Sportage design provides just a few modifications. For that matter, the only real new components for that forthcoming year are definitely the suspensions and some additional audio insulation. In any other case, there are several new additions in some of the trims. The Competition involves the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV, both providing a little more cargo space. Other competitors are the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Chevrolet Equinox, and that is generally companies to companies within this comparability.
Features of the Kia Sportage incorporate snazzy cabin and outlook appearance which will make heads turn. Additionally, there are top quality found inside the Kia Sportage that could improve the value in some other manufacturers.
The Kia Sportage has 5 seats and is presented in the basic foundation, EX and LX trim levels, along with the modified turbocompresseur SX trim.
The base provides specifications like 16inch cast aluminum wheels, all-power accessories, air-conditioning, pull back on steering wheel together with audio and phone features. It arrives with material furniture, but there’s a premium package deal you may get with all the top grade EX for a leather alternative.
The Kia Sportage LX provides you with convert signals on the outlook mirrors, keyless entry and also tinted rear windows. Together with the Kia Sportage EX you will have LED daytime running lights, chrome exterior features, 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler, dual-zone automatic hvac, a leather-wrapped controls, roof rails and also telescopes, a power driver seats, and, fully grasp this, a chilled glove-box.
Obviously, you can also find deals such as the EX Premium-package that not only present leather-based covers, but additionally heated up front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a ventilated driver seat, rear parking sensors, and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. With the EX and LX models you can also find the choices of a modified sound system and a voice-controlled navigation system with a backup camera.
Underneath the hoods, the EX and LX are all 2.4 liter inline 4 engines applying 168 pound-feet of torque and 176 Hp. You will get the base using a 6-speed of manual transmissions. The EX and also LX features a 6-speed automated, as well, however, you can easily select front or perhaps all wheel drive or even the turbo-charged with 2.0 liter engine SX trim, which with front-wheel-drive has been examination automobile for this car reviews.
The Kia Sportage precautionary features incorporate front side and also full-length side window curtain safety bags, active front head rests, anti lock disc brakes with brake support, traction’s control, balance control, and mountain lineage and also mountain start control.
Inside the Kia Sportage, the actual top-of-the-line cabin turns on the EX trim with many different shapes and user-friendly controls which are well-placed and simple to locate and use.
The seats inside all the trims are stand apart, with more comfortable shaping to the entire body, there are lots of leg-room and head-room for adults. Even just in the rear seat, 2 adults can fit in effortlessly. A third passenger in the rear seat will make this a bit of a confined, except if the 3 passengers are rather little.
To get an effortless to drive and a pleasurable “around town” car, evaluate the SX if you would like more power when driving. However, the ability from the four-cylinder engine is sufficient and the automatic transmitting can make it a simple drive throughout. Without requiring the maximum amount of cargo space as some of the competition cross-overs, there is 26.1 cubic feet at the rear of the back seats and 54.6 cubes using the 60/40-split-folding seats laid toned.
Coutresy of managedspeed.net
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
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