Kia Models are a Great Option for Your New Car

Kia Motors is growing quickly in America. The Korean-based company has sold millions of cars and was named amongst the "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012" by Total Car Score. So, why are these cars so popular?

Fuel Efficiency

Kia cars are known for the fuel efficiency. Obviously, fuel efficiency is influenced by several different factors including your personal driving style, the terrain through which you're driving, the temperature of the outdoor air, the local weather you're driving through, the loads you're carrying or towing behind you in a trailer, the length of your trips, how long the engine is left running if you're sitting, and whether you have a manual or automatic transmission. Various tests are performed on each new car that's developed to determine its fuel efficiency, and the results are used to determine the car's overall performance.

Low Cost Quality Cars

Though in the past Kia models had a reputation as cheap but unreliable cars, the company has made strides in their manufacturing process. Many dealerships offer flexible payment plans, further underlining their affordability. Even those with bad credit may be able to purchase a car and utilize the payments to bring up their credit score.

One of the Most Popular Models: The 2012 Sorento

The Sorento has been listed as one of the most popular models this year. This crossover SUV has four different trim levels. The base version features a 6 speed manual transmission and seventeen inch wheels. You'll also find cruise control, air conditioning, a high-tech steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, a trip computer, and many amenities for the sound system.

If you upgrade this vehicle, you'll get an automatic transmission instead of a manual. The outside mirrors are colored to match the car's exterior. Additional features include turn signals feature LED lights and an armrest for passengers in the second row. Add-on options include fog lamps, roof rails, heated seats, a rearview camera, and rear parking sensors. You may also add a third seat to the back, which is functional for adults as well as children.

The EX model increases the value by adding eighteen inch wheels, dual climate control, keyless entry and ignition, and many other options included in only the most modern vehicles. Rear parking sensors come standard with this model, and it also features an Uvo electronic interface that is voice-activated. Potential buyers may also select outside mirrors that can fold automatically, leather seats, a navigation system, an luxurious sound systems.

Drivers could also choose to upgrade to an even higher model, which comes with more advanced performance options. If you love the sunshine, you can choose a panoramic sunroof.

Courtesy of American Chronicle

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2012 Kia Soul Ranked Highest in Initial Quality Study by J.D. Power and Associates

RVINE, Calif., June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- From breakthrough advertising to runaway sales success, the Kia Soul has made quite a splash since entering the marketplace in 2009, and today the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Initial Quality Study (IQS) ranked the popular urban passenger vehicle highest in initial quality in the compact multi-purpose vehicle segment. The study captures feedback from owners after 90 days of purchase in two distinct categories: quality of design and quality of production. Refreshed for the 2012 model year, the Kia Soul was fine-tuned with a significant number of technological, powertrain and style enhancements, and consumers have responded with sales up more than 22 percent through the first five months of the year.

"Kia Motors is dedicated to building world-class, high quality vehicles, and the Soul's recognition in the automotive industry's authoritative study on quality is the latest example of Kia's maturity and momentum in the U.S. market," said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, Kia Motors America (KMA) and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). "The Soul signaled the beginning of Kia's design-led transformation when it launched in 2009, and it continues to be one of our most popular vehicles, attracting new consumers to the Kia brand with its eye-catching design and outstanding record of quality, dependability and reliability and playing a vital role in Kia becoming the fastest-growing automotive brand in the U.S."

In the study, the Kia Soul was honored as the highest-ranking model in the compact multi-purpose vehicle segment, while the Kia brand made significant advancements with gains that outpaced the industry average. The annual report includes 233 vehicle models and measures attributes across eight categories, including the driving experience, engine and transmission, and a broad range of quality problem symptoms reported by vehicle owners.

About the 2012 SoulRefreshed 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 horsepower[2] and significantly improved fuel efficiency of up to 35 miles per gallon (mpg)[3] on the highway. Kia Motors' hatchback remains a class-leading value[4] with the lowest starting price of its competitive set at $13,900 MSRP[5].

Kia's Unprecedented GrowthKia Motors is 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 quality[6] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[7]. 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 two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. - the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*. Kia's value and technology-laden 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, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors AmericaKia 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 and LPGA. 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 marketwatch.com

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Kia Sorento facelift – first images released

As you can see from the official image provided by Kia and posted below, the 2013 Sorento model is coming with a major facelift, a revised aesthetics and an updated platform. Besides all of these changes, the 2013 Kia Sorento also has a recalibrated suspension system and an optimized interior design. The facelifted Kia Sorento is getting a new front bumper, a fresh set of LED headlamps, a new rear bumper and the option of ordering 19-inch alloy wheels.

Kia says that the 2013 Sorento facelift is being offered only with seven seats and its cabin has been fitted with a seven-inch multimedia interface which has been mounted in a redesigned central console. Moving on to the engine lineup where we find out that the facelifted Sorento is still keeping the 2.2 liter CRDi unit, but it might receive a turbocharged petrol engine, from the Hyundai Santa Fe. The 2013 Kia Sorento has lost 100 kg from its total weight and its maneuverability has been improved. More details on the 2013 Kia Sorento will be announced in September, during the 2012 Paris Motor Show, where the Asian crossover will make its debut.

Courtesy of inautonews.com

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2012 Kia Sorento: The value leader

The new Sorento doesn't stand out for any cutting-edge technology or unique features, unless you count the new direct-injection engine. Rather, it comes along with very usable cabin electronics at a reasonable price.

What most impressed me about it was the cohesive and attractive cabin tech interface, an area where other automakers struggle. The screens for controlling navigation, the stereo, and the phone feature a consistent look, and Kia obviously has a graphic designer or two on staff, not something all automakers can claim.

 

The navigation system shows traffic data on easy-to-read maps, the stereo includes all the latest audio sources, and the phone system lets you dial by name using voice command. Sure, it would be nice to have advanced features, such as app integration or Google search, built into the navigation system, but all the in-dash tech works well, doing its job without fuss.

The standard Sorento is only a five-seater, but one big option package, the same one that brings in navigation, also includes a third-row seat. The Sorento is not huge, so you will have to make a choice between two extra passengers or cargo, but maybe that is an excuse to make the in-laws take their own car.

Kia offers a 2-liter direct-injection engine as an option in this Sorento, which gives better fuel economy and more power than the base four-cylinder engine. It pulls the Sorento along quite handily, although the available V-6 would make more sense for towing boats or trailers.

Courtesy of CNET

Maintenance Tip: Night Driving

The most dangerous time to drive on any roadway is between the hours of midnight and 6am, especially on the weekends. Luckily, there are some things you can do to improve your safety when driving at night.But by following a few basic guidelines, you can minimize your risk.

You must obey this rule for night driving: To See and Be Seen.

Keep your car in good condition

• Ensure all lights work. Lights on your car are the most vital night-driving tool.Without them, you will can’t see or not be seen by other drivers, it can cause accident easily.
• Clean and clear may increase your visibility, inside and out
  Windows, instrument panels, headlights, tail lights—all of these are components that increase visibility inside and outside your car. Consider regularly cleaning your dashboard and instrument panels, mirrors, windows, and windshields (inside and out) to gain greater visibility.
• Adjust your headlights for maximum effectiveness
  Check your headlights for proper alignment and ask your mechanic to adjust them properly. Adjusting your headlights may help you see more of the road while also protecting other drivers from wayward beams.

Keep your body in good condition

• Never drink and drive
  Not only does alcohol radically impair motor skills and driving ability, but even one social drink can trigger fatigue. This can lead to an exceptionally lethal combination.
• Avoid smoking when driving at night
  The carbon monoxide and nicotine in cigarettes has a measurable, physical effect on your eyes. These chemicals can actually make it difficult to see well and clearly, especially at night.
• Stay sharp
  Try chewing bubble gum to keep your mind humming. Also, drinking water and staying well hydrated may do wonders for mental alertness.
• Rest early, rest often
  If you’re planning a longer night-driving expedition, make sure you bank a couple nights’ worth of good sleep before hitting the road. Also, plan on making frequent stops to stretch, walk, or have a small snack or moderate meal.  Some experts recommend stopping every two hours for a body/mind break.

Other Tips for night driving

• Turn on your headlights in time.
  When it’s getting dark, turn on your lights in time to make sure that your car is seen by other drivers,even if you can see the road clear.

·         Don’t exceed your reach
When driving at night, remember that your sight—and safety—are only as good as the reach of your headlights. Don’t assume that the road is clear. What lies beyond the pavement you can see may be sudden and unexpected hazards you can’t see. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and expect the unexpected, especially on darker country roads.

·         Keep it dark inside the car
Turn off all interior lights. Any source of light inside the car will seem extremely bright and will make it more difficult to see.

·         Minimize glare
Look to the bottom right of the road to avoid approaching headlights. (Some headlights are blindingly bright.) Also use the night setting on your rearview mirror to deflect the glare from vehicles behind you. Older drivers find it more difficult to see at night because it takes longer for them to recover from glare.

·         Use high beam carefully
Be careful to lower the head light beam when necessary otherwise it might blind the oncoming driver. It is also necessary to switch on the headlights when you are uncertain of what you are seeing. And try not to overdrive your headlights which will make it impossible for you to stop inside the illuminated area.

Courtesy of Car-Use.net

The 2012 Kia Optima SX: 34mpg and pure turbocharged fun

There was a point in time where the suggestion of a great looking Korean sport sedan that had the brass to back up the title would have been little more than a joke but Kia is one of the American auto industry's most improved brands over the past few years - a fact clearly illustrated by the 2012 Kia Optima SX.

The 2012 Kia Optima SX is the top of the line offering for the model while the Optima itself currently serves as the company's premium vehicle. This sporty sedan sports the aggressive design that was introduced for the 2011 model year and while some might not care for the distinctive style - I love it. The previous generation of the Kia Optima was much like the rest of their lineup, with styling that allowed them to blend in with the Camrys and Accords of the world but with the introduction of the new Optima - Kia has a sport sedan that stands out against the competition.

The Exterior

The 2012 Kia Optima SX has a long form for a midsized sedan with high fender lines and a low roofline that creates a sleek, slippery form. Up front, the Optima wears a familiar "grin" with the headlights pouring down into the grille while the lower fascia area gives the car a menacing smile. With the large projection headlight units and the large foglights mounted towards the outer edge of front fascia - the Optima provides gobs of light at night while also presenting a very distinct look that we see across the majority of the current Kia lineup. This is one area where some critics of the car might raise an eyebrow but it took balls for Kia to go so aggressive with their exterior design and in my opinion, it paid off 100%.

The long hood and windshield flow seamlessly through the shortish roof and into the fastback style rear glass and trunklid. Along the sides, the Optima has a very high body line that runs from the headlights to the taillights with black b-pillars adding to that "big coupe" feel. The greenhouse has thin pillars in the front and side while the larger, sweeping rear pillar that rolls smoothly into the short trunklid that is punctuated by the subtle rear spoiler. The design of the rear end isn't as radical as the front end but with large LED taillights that wrap around into the side of the vehicle and the flat black lower fascia with integrated dual exhaust; this rear end has a great sporty feel. The accentuated wheel openings are filled out nicely by the 18" alloy wheels and these help give the Optima a wide, low stance.

Love it or hate it, there is no denying that the 2012 Kia Optima SX has a sleek, sporty design that stands out in the uber crowded midsized sedan segment. There is just enough chrome to add a little "bling" while the black trim on the grille, along the side and across the bottom end emphasize the sporty attitude of the Optima sedan.

The Interior
The 2012 Kia Optima SX is a midsized sedan but when seated inside, it feels much larger than the class designation would leave you to believe. My Optima test car was fitted with both the Technology Package (adding a high end navigation/touch screen setup) and the SX Premium Touring Package (adding things like heated/cooled seats, a rear camera display, power mirrors, an Infinity Audio system with HD radio, the gorgeous panoramic sunroof that stretches over the front and rear passengers and much more. In short, this car was as loaded as a Kia sedan can get and it shows. The two tone leather seats and comfortable and look great while the heating and cooling features add comfort in all sorts of climates. Even with the driver's seat adjusted for a 6 foot tall driver and a 6 foot tall passenger, there is enough room for the average adult to sit comfortably in the back seat, while offering lots of room for kids. There is a pull-down armrest in the back seat with cup holders when there are only two riders in the back with leather everywhere - from the door panels to the dash to all seating areas.

The leather trimmed dash of the 2012 Kia Optima SX has a cockpit design that is centered around the driver with a large touch screen mounted high on the dash offering stereo and navigation control while, with the push of a button, you can control the climate controls. More importantly, if touch screen controls aren't your thing, the Optima SX has more traditional knobs and buttons below the touch screen. The Optima SX also offered steering wheel mounted controls for the stereo, the cruise control, the Bluetooth phone system and the in-dash trip information. This central screen in the dash is flanked by two large easy to read gauges displaying the speed and engine RPM. Best of all, the Optima has a paddle shift system that lets the driver select gears with the push of a button - with a great, sporting design.

The 2012 Kia Optima SX interior offers comfort and technology that you find in far more expensive models - leaving you asking for very little in terms of amenities.

The Drive
The 2012 Kia Optima SX is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that packs 274 horsepower and 269lb-ft of torque that is funneled to the front tires via an electronic 6-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain offers 22mpg around town, 34mpg on the highway and a combined figure of 26mpg overall - and in my time spent behind the wheel I found these numbers to be completely reasonable and you don't have to drive like a little old lady to hit those figures. I am far from a lightfoot and I frequently used all 274 horsepower and I still averaged right around 26mpg - some tanks slightly higher and some tanks slightly lower depending on how much traffic I was forced to fight. More importantly, this drivetrain makes the Optima SX lots of fun to drive and honestly, the car feels as strong as some competition that offers more power.

Acceleration of the 2012 Kia Optima SX is very impressive when launching hard, with the 6-speed transmission popping quickly through the gears with a nice, strong shift. However, when driving under "gentle" conditions as in typical Friday night traffic, the transmission shifts are smooth and easy not to notice. When you shift into manual shift mode, you can use the paddles to upshift and downshift but unlike some systems, the Kia manual shift system is quick to override the driver when trying to "stretch" a gear. This is one feature that I did not like but this self-shifting preference is popular on many cars with a manual shift mode for an automatic transmission. However, once you get the hang of when you can shift, the automatic transmission adds some fun to drive factor. The Optima SX packs more than enough power to allow you to rip out into faster moving traffic and while you might not be knocking off any muscle cars - the Optima provides plenty of fun to drive factor.

The ride quality of the 2012 Kia Optima SX is very impressive with very little of the road roughness transferred through the chassis or steering but at the same time - you don't lose a feel for the road. Some vehicles mute the feel of the road so much that it becomes too synthetic feeling but the Optima SX preserves the feel of the road through the steering wheel for the driver. On the open road, there is no noticeable body roll even on longer banks at higher speeds which translates nicely into sharp handling in tighter areas. When cutting along winding back roads, the Optima sticks to the road very nicely and the four wheel disc braking system allows you to bring the roomy Kia sedan to a stop in a hurry.

The Final Word

The 2012 Kia Optima SX is aggressive and distinct in its exterior design with a loaded up interior and a drive train that caters to those who want some driving excitement. When driving conservatively, the Optima will surely exceed the 34 mile per gallon highway expectations but the car is enough fun to drive that I had a hard time not enjoying the spool of the turbocharger and all 274 horsepower. With a great amount of seating for two adults and two children, a high tech sound system and a gorgeous panoramic sunroof - the interior is inviting for everyone who enters and while it is clearly a sport-minded interior - it is not without some luxury feel.

I am a sports car guy but I enjoyed my time spent driving the 2012 Kia Optima SX. The turbocharged drivetrain offers great fuel economy and plenty of power so for someone in the market for a new midsized (yet especially roomy) sedan - the Optima is one that deserves the title of a "sport sedan" - with a price of $31,745 in fully loaded form. The Optima isn't just another bland entry in the midsized sedan segment and it deserves a good look before making your next new car purchase.

Courtesy of Torque News

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Kia Motors America Sells Four Millionth Vehicle During Record-Setting Month of May

IRVINE, Calif., June 1, 2012 - With a diverse line-up of fuel-efficient, stylish and fun-to-drive vehicles that is attracting more new customers to its showrooms, Kia Motors America's (KMA) momentum continued with best-ever May salesof 51,771 units, a 7.4-percent increase over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales are up 18.7 percent, and May also saw the sale of Kia's four millionth vehicle in the U.S. (since entering the market in 1994) and extended the brand's run of consecutive monthly sales records to 21.

Vehicles that achieve more than 30 mpg on the highway² accounted for78 percent of sales in May, while sales of the fuel-efficient 2012 Rio subcompacts, which can deliver up to 40 miles per gallon³ on the highway, increased 59.5 percent over the same period in 2011. The record-setting May performance was driven by strong demand for the brand's two U.S.-built* products – the Optima midsize sedan and Sorento CUV built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) – as well as the ongoing popularity of the Soul urban passenger vehicle.

"Kia has experienced dramatic growth over the past few years, and our record-breaking momentum continues as we gather industry-wide recognition for reliability, low cost of ownership, increased residual values and outstanding brand loyalty," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "Our line of fuel-efficient vehicles combines cutting-edge technologies with world class design to create a standout value formula, and we'll have more new products and technologies arriving in showrooms within the next year."

Courtesy of kiamedia.com

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