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Get the Flash Player to see this player. AutoGuide.com picked five cars that represent the best of what’s new for the 2018 model year to duke it out for our coveted 2018 Car of the Year Award. Each vehicle here moves the needle forward when it comes to their brand or their segment and have been extensively evaluated by our team of automotive experts both in real-world driving and on the track. This year, AutoGuide.com shortlisted the Subaru Impreza, Toyota Camry, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Honda Accord, and Kia Stinger as the most significant new cars that came out this year. We always put a price cap on vehicles eligible for our award to make sure they’re accessible, which explains the absence of such great cars as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, Porsche Panamera, and Lexus LC500, among others. ALSO SEE: 2018 AutoGuide.com Car of the Year: Meet the Contenders It’s important to note that this isn’t a comparison test: Each car here will be evaluated on its own merit and our scoresheet will determine the winner. Points were awarded by our editors across 20 different metrics (including powertrain, market significance, interior quality, etc). Watch the video above to see which vehicle will be awarded as AutoGuide.com‘s 2018 Car of the Year. The post AutoGuide.com 2018 Car of the Year Award: Watch to Find Out Which Car Wins appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

It’s been a big year for the automotive industry. More new and redesigned vehicles were introduced than we could shake a proverbial stick at. From luxury models to family-friendly four-doors, full-size utilities to car-based crossovers (and boy, there A LOT of these), manufacturers were running at redline to roll out all this fresh product. Highlighting the best of what’s new, we narrowed this field – which is broader than the Midwestern prairie – down to a much more manageable group for our 2018 AutoGuide.com Car of the Year showdown. From dozens upon dozens of models, we selected the five most significant or transformative cars that were introduced for the new model year. Are you ready to meet our contenders? 2018 Subaru Impreza Starting with smallest and most affordable vehicle in this year’s evaluations, the Impreza sedan offers more refinement and style than ever before, along with customary Subaru virtues like standard all-wheel drive. It also comes with a huge trunk that clocks in at more than 12 cubic feet (349 liters), though for drivers that want even more utility, a five-door hatchback version is available as well. New in North America for 2018, this popular compact car features a brand new – and very rigid – architecture, one that helps provide top safety ratings and impressive over-the-road refinement. Further increasing the Impreza’s appeal is an elegant interior that sets a new standard for the Subaru brand. SEE ALSO: 2018 Subaru Impreza Review Making things easier for drivers is standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. The company’s optional EyeSight suite of advanced driver-assistance technology is available as well, though for extra cost. If there’s a weakness to this impressive little package, it’s found under hood. Power is provided by a 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder engine. Despite featuring direct fuel injection, it delivers a rather meager 152 horsepower with 145 pound-feet of torque. It can be paired with either a five-speed manual gearbox in lower-trim models, but a continuously variable automatic will undoubtedly be the volume transmission; it’s the one our test model featured. 2018 Kia Stinger Kia’s slogan, “The Power to Surprise,” has been proven true time and again as the South Korean automaker introduces one impressive product after another. But taking the cake, AutoGuide.com’s cadre of editors were over the moon with the brand’s all-new Stinger. A sporty and stylish liftback four-door, this car is all kinds of awesome. It looks great, drives even better, and offers more practicality than you might expect. Throw in an Audi-esque interior as well as muscular drivetrains and you have all the right ingredients for a transformative product. SEE ALSO: 2018 Kia Stinger Review Between the Stinger’s front fenders one of two different engines can be installed. Serving base duty is a 2.0-liter turbo that’s rated at a stout 255 horses and 260 pound-feet. With a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox, this is more than enough to move this car with remarkable vigor. Want more? No problem, because Kia is happy to indulge your desires with a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, one that’s good for 110 additional ponies. Further broadening this car’s appeal, rear- or all-wheel drive is offered, meaning the Stinger can be owned by customers living across vast swaths of North America. Downsides here are few. This car could offer more space in the back seat and its front buckets are a touch too firm and flat. But hey, in the grand scheme of things, these are pretty minor gripes. 2018 Honda Accord Next up, the venerable Accord, a bread-and-butter sedan that’s historically been one of the midsize segment’s strongest contenders. And fortunately for Honda fanatics, engineers have once again nailed it, delivering not just a good family car but an all-around excellent vehicle that, in higher trims, can legitimately be described as a luxury sports sedan. With a high-quality interior, standard driver-assistance technology, handsome styling, daresay fun dynamics, a huge trunk and back seat as well as a range of powerful and refined drivetrains, this all-new 2018 Accord is the real deal, and a force to be reckoned with. SEE ALSO: 2018 Honda Accord Review Our top-of-the-line Touring tester was equipped with a silky-smooth 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. With 252 horsepower on tap and more gears than there are days in a week, this drivetrain made the Accord legitimately fast. Bury the accelerator and it screamed ahead with shocking verve, even on mountain roads. For drivers that don’t need so much oomph, a smaller 1.5-liter engine is also offered. It delivers a more-than-adequate 192 horsepower and an equal helping of torque. Honda also builds a hybrid version of the Accord, for maximum fuel economy. This sedan does it all and then some. ACCORDingly, our complaints are shockingly minor, centering mostly on refinement. Ride quality could stand to be less gritty and it’d be nice if the gearbox were a touch smoother, but really, that’s about it. 2018 Toyota Camry Has there ever been a time when both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry were totally redesigned for the same model year? We can’t remember this ever happening before, yet for 2018 both are all new. Underpinning this latest-and-greatest Camry is the firm’s TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform, which provides a rigid, refined and safe foundation for an all-around solid family sedan. Underscoring their newfound passion, this family hauler features a bold new design, one dominated by an imposing grille. We’re not convinced every potential buyer will appreciate this new look, but at least they will have an opinion on it, which is arguably a first for Camry. Matching its exciting exterior is an equally fresh cabin. With a flowing design, there’s plenty of space to stretch out and ample creature comforts. Like the Accord, Toyota Safety Sense P is standard, the brand’s suite of driver-assistance technology, though curiously, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are NOT offered at any price. SEE ALSO: 2018 Toyota Camry Review As in years past, two engines are available including a base four-cylinder and a more muscular V6. Our test car featured the former, which is more than adequate and sure to power 90-plus percent of Camrys sold in America. Displacing 2.5-liters, this naturally aspirated unit is rated at 206 horsepower in sporty XSE models, while torque clocks in at up to 186 pound-feet. Fewer and fewer manufactures offer a six-cylinder option in the midsize-sedans segment but we applaud Toyota for continuing to do so. Smooth and muscular, the Camry’s up-scale engine 3.5-liter offering is good for 301 ponies. No matter which engine you opt for, they’re both paired with an incredibly refined eight-speed automatic gearbox. More stylish, refined and better equipped than ever, the new Camry is nonetheless still a cautious move. Toyota could have pushed even farther with this car. It feels like they still played it safe in a bid to continue appeasing longtime buyers. Preaching to the choir isn’t necessarily a strategy that will net them extra sales. 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia The most powerful and expensive model in the 2018 AutoGuide.com Car of the Year field hails from Italy. Alfa Romeo’s Giulia is a sultry-looking sports sedan with incredible on-road dynamics and a driver-focused cabin. And in top-dog Quadrifoglio form, this machine is a giant-slayer. And why shouldn’t it be? There’s a Ferrari-developed 2.9-liter V6 under the hood, one that delivers 505 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. If that’s too over the top for you, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder is also offered. It delivers a more-than-adequate stable of 280 equines. SEE ALSO: 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Review For customers in North America, a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board, though drivers in other global markets can get a six-speed manual for an even more engaging experience. On road, this car is absolutely dynamite. Its steering is as close to perfection as you’ll ever experience, the acceleration is stupid fast, the exhaust makes unholy sounds and even the stock brakes will peel your face off, never mind what the $8,000 optional Brembo carbon-ceramic setup can do. This Alfa Romeo’s interior is mostly a pleasant place, with high-quality materials and a flowing, almost organic design. Still, almost all our complaints about this vehicle are found in here. The car is hampered by an obtuse infotainment system, awkwardly placed shifter paddles, annoying self-centering control stalks and sporty bucket seats that may be too confining for a lot of customers. In short, this is a car that nails the most important fundamentals but fails in a lot of little ways. The Winner? These five machines represent the best cars introduced for model year 2018. Each one raises the bar for its manufacturer, but only one can be the AutoGuide.com Car of the Year. Which one will drive away with our coveted trophy? We will announce the winner tomorrow. Check out the AutoGuide.com Car of the Year Winner from Last Year The post 2018 AutoGuide.com Car of the Year: Meet the Contenders appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

Our social media platforms allow us to stay in touch with our fans and consumers worldwide. There is nothing more motivating than receiving messages, personal stories, and artwork from fans reminding us to keep striving to be the best. Today, we’d like to share with you the top 7 fan photos of 2017 to say thank you for yet another wonderful year. @ali_optik5: White KIA experience In most parts of the world, each year begins and ends with the winter season. This pristine white Optima leaving tracks in the snow beneath its tires while keeping the driver and passenger toasty inside ushered in the festive season this year. @packline_korea: A summer dream Imagine summer days when long stretches in the Kia Carnival (Kia Sedona) are greeted by the smiling sun. The Carnival is the perfect vehicle for camping – plenty of space, comfort and, most importantly, an abundance of fun guaranteed. This could be the vehicle to put on your wish list for next year! @mikhail_ardashkin: Drive off the page Throughout the year, our fans continued to surprise us with their never-ending talent. A lot of love was put into this colorful sketch of the Kia Rio. Doesn’t it look like it’s about to drive off the page? @rocksjogja: All about the fun One thing is for sure – our fans know how to have a good time. Kia fans in Indonesia embraced the fun spirit of the Rio and got down to business! Now imagine a bigger field for next year… @kdm_hoon: Delicacy & power The contrast between the delicate cherry blossoms and the powerful Quoris (K900) is dazzling. Can you smell the petals with each turn of the wheel? @travellerdiary: Cruising, admiring and breathing A trip in the Kia Niro allows you to step away and enjoy the now. Beauty is everywhere, just go out and enjoy it. @sweetpea_ue: Don’t be afraid of adventure Hop in, jump in and just go. This adventurous Sportage is not afraid of anything as it cruises through the beauty of nature. Whenever adventure beckons, it tells you to just go. Each year, we thrive on customer support and look forward to our fans’ fascinating stories from all around the globe. Didn’t have a chance to share your epic Kia moment yet? Share it with us in the comments below or on your social media page, and make sure to include the #MyKia hashtag so we don’t miss a thing! ▶ Tune in on more #MyKia stories here! Lees volledige artikel

“By the numbers, the Stinger deserves its gran turismo designation, and it stands poised to open that market to many more drivers. The attainability of a car that can hold its own among established luxury sports sedans while also offering practicality as a daily driver is surely a reason for excitement.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

WardsAuto has revealed its picks for the top 10 best engines of 2018. Now in its 24th year, the 2018 Wards 10 Best Engines list saw a couple newcomers and no German automakers. The winners were chosen after WardsAuto editors spent October and November evaluating 32 engines and electric propulsion systems during routine commutes in metro Detroit. Jaguar and Kia make their debut on the list, while four electrified powertrains are honored for the first time in a single year. SEE ALSO: Confirmed: the Honda Civic Type R has One of the Best New Engines See the full list of 2018’s top 10 best engines according to WardsAuto below. Chevrolet Bolt EV: 150-kW electric propulsion system Last year, WardsAuto wasn’t able to test the all-electric Chevrolet Bolt but that changed this year. WardsAuto found the Bolt “quick and smartly designed,” while torque is more than abundant resulting in thrilling acceleration. Its 238-mile (383-kilometer) range makes the Bolt attractive to a wider audience compared to other electric vehicles in today’s market that fall shy of the 200-mile figure. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 PHEV The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is one of only two returning winners this year, offering a 33-mile (53-kilometer) all-electric range from its plug-in hybrid powertrain. WardsAuto was able to see nearly 35 mpg on the odometer in mixed daily driving that usually exceeded battery range, adding that it finds “the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid to be a stroke of genius.” Ford F-150: 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 Each year, cars have the upper hand in WardsAuto‘s competition for best engines, since they’re lighter, quicker off the line, and more fuel efficient. That explains why it has been five years since a gasoline engine from a pickup truck has been named to the list. This year, the Ford F-150’s 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 makes the list with WardsAuto‘s staff “blown away by its vibration-free idle, its nearly imperceptible stop/start system and especially its tomb-like silence.” Ford Mustang GT: 5.0-liter V8 Joining the F-150 on this year’s list is the Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter V8 engine. The redesigned V8 shares some of its technology with the 5.2-liter V8 found in the Shelby GT350 that made it onto the list two years ago. With 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, the engine is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission that helps the Mustang be surprisingly efficient returning 24 mpg. Honda Clarity: 130-kW fuel cell/electric propulsion system Honda‘s hydrogen fuel cell Clarity gets a nod, which a 366-mile (589-km) range of driving without stopping. That gives the Clarity the longest range of any zero-emissions vehicle available, while sporting a top speed of 103 mph. WardsAuto also noted the Clarity’s “Acura-level driving dynamics and delightfully silent operation,” and added that it managed to chirp the tires in sport mode. Who says emissions-free driving had to be boring? Honda Civic Type R: 2.0-liter VTEC turbo four-cylinder Honda’s second Wards 10 Best Engines winner couldn’t be more different than its first. Instead of an emissions-free powertrain, the second winner goes to the 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the Civic Type R. With 306 hp, the Civic Type R is the most powerful Honda to ever reach the U.S. and its engine represents the Japanese automaker’s 18th trophy for 10 Best Engines. It is however, the first with forced induction. WardsAuto went on to say a close derivative of the same engine is used in the new Honda Accord and that powerplant “damn near made the list this year as well.” Infiniti Q50: 3.0-liter turbo V6 Another returning winner this year is the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 found in the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 models. Sporting 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, its responsive throttle and lack of turbo lag attributed to its trophy, along with electrically variable-valve timing and a weight-saving exhaust manifold design within the cylinder heads. Oh yeah, it probably helps that the engine allows the Q50 and Q60 to go zero-to-60 in less than five seconds. Jaguar XF: 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder The first of the two newcomers on the list is Jaguar with its Ingenium 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. There are two versions of the engine, with WardsAuto testing the low-output variant with 247 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. And although its performance figures are similar to other luxury turbocharged four-cylinder engines, the publication said the powerplant’s unique electrohydraulic valvetrain ranks with the best of them. Next year, WardsAuto will be testing the 296-hp version that is found in several Jaguar vehicles. Kia Stinger GT: 3.3-liter turbo V6 Kia earns its first Wards 10 Best Engines trophy thanks to the 3.3-liter turbo V6 engine found in the new Kia Stinger GT. Generating 365 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque, the engine is quiet and smooth at idle, which is misleading since as one WardsAuto judge said, “Illegal speeds arrive s quickly.” The Korean automaker likes to compare the 3.3-liter mill to BMW’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine, which may be a bit unfair considering BMW’s engine is less displacement and only has one turbo. But BMW’s engine was a winner last year and this year it isn’t – instead, Kia is taking home the hardware. Toyota Camry Hybrid: 2.5-liter Atkinson four-cylinder hybrid Toyota earns its 13th Wards 10 Best Engines trophy this year, thanks to the hybrid powertrain found in the Camry Hybrid. The Prius has earned four trophies since 2001, but this time around it isn’t Toyota’s signature hybrid taking home the win. The Camry returned no less than 40 mpg despite aggressive driving in a vehicle that’s considerably larger than the Prius. WardsAuto says Toyota has managed to choreograph the interaction between the 2.5-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine and electric motor “into an elegant, seamless, high-tech ballet.” The post Top 10 Best Engines of 2018: WardsAuto appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

A few years back, the box-on-wheels car concept ushered several boxy cars into the market, including the iconic Kia Soul. These cars gained enormous attention for their never-before-seen rectangular looks and appealed to customers with their practicality. Amongst the current market offerings, the Kia Soul is beloved in many regions of the world and is in especially high demand in the United States where over 100,000 units have been sold every year since 2011. What makes the Kia Soul the best of the box cars? Design, performance and affordability just to name a few. Family Friendly The Kia Soul is an urban compact crossover that drives like a car but has the ground clearance of an SUV. The exterior is squared-off yet features flowing lines and exciting color options that make it stand out on the road. Its height has been especially praised for enabling easy ingress and egress by elderly people with limited mobility. Despite being in the “compact” class, the Soul offers generously ample head and legroom as well as plenty of storage space, accommodating the needs of daily drivers. Such features are deemed crucial for families – and as a result, the Soul has been named one of the 10 Best Family Cars of 2017 by Parents magazine & Edmunds as well as one of the 2017 Best Cars for Families by U.S. News & World Report. Powerful & Safe Under its hood, the Soul packs an enormous amount of power for a box car. The drive is incredibly smooth, with the car filtering out the imperfections of the road, and its noise insulation levels are highly praised. The Soul is also one of the safest cars on the market having aced its crash tests in both the United States and Europe, with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety of the U.S. bestowing its highest possible Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) rating. Your Soul The Soul has been internationally awarded and recognized for its incredible package of features while being widely praised for its affordability, which can’t help but lead to greater satisfaction. As confirmed by the J.D. Power Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) award, the Soul is a real crowd pleaser. The Kia Soul continues to improve and pique the interest of its loyal fans. And with global concern for the environment at an all-time high, the Kia Soul EV (electric vehicle) is gaining more popularity every day. ▶ Read more about the Kia Soul EV here! Lees volledige artikel

Buckle up and venture out on a winter drive this season wrapped in the warmth of Kia. Traveling during the winter is especially a challenge due to tough weather and driving conditions. Whether you are traveling alone or with family, you’ll be needing a suitable vehicle like the Kia Sportage – a compact CUV boasting the best possible rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This car speaks for itself. With the temperature difference inside and outside the car, your windows are sure to fog up and obstruct your view. But there’s no need to worry with the Sportage, as it is equipped with an auto-defogger that detects fogging on the front windshield and clears it automatically to ensure that the driver is free from all visual handicaps. Winter is also a season for big coats and generally more luggage, while travelling on extended journeys calls for even more luggage. Luckily, the design of the Sportage accounts for this happenstance as well, featuring a dual-level luggage board and a cargo screen storage compartment. Both features maximize storage space within its compact while and people sitting in the second row can now further relax and recline with the easy-to-use levers placed on the side of each seat cushion, allowing them to adjust the seats to their personal liking. Meanwhile, passengers along for the ride can enjoy clearer, crisper music that fills the interior of the Sportage thanks to a state-of-the-art sound system featuring the innovative Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology. Winter also means shorter days and longer nights, so the stars will be out for your pleasure much earlier than before. This year, enjoy stargazing in the Sportage through its huge panoramic sunroof. This experience is even more fantastic if you are lying on the flat surface created by the fully folding rear seats. Meanwhile, you can adjust your front seat as necessary for comfort without worrying about having to find your regular driving position. The Sportage is equipped with an Integrated memory system (IMS), which remembers the stored seat, steering wheel and side mirror positions for two drivers. So all you have to do is sit back and relax for a pleasant drive. Don’t let the weather and tough driving conditions keep you inside this winter – no matter your choice of adventure, Kia will make sure that your experience is always a pleasant and comfortable one. So without further hesitation, grab your keys and hit the road with your Kia! Lees volledige artikel

“The new Stinger delivers entertaining driving dynamics, premium features and advanced technologies, all wrapped in a stunning shell and offered at a value-packed price.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

The hope was that Kia sales in the US would improve after a few sluggish months. After all, November has traditionally been a strong sales month for the Korean automaker. Unfortunately, things did not go as planned for Kia U.S., … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

Kia Rio packs safety, space, style, and athleticism all within its compact design. It is the ultimate everyday car, tailored to fit your daily routine. With ample cargo room, extra space for your portable devices in the front, and even more headroom and legroom, the all-new Rio is free-spirited, vibrant and – dare we say – downright groovy. The Rio’s colorful characteristics also represent a new lifestyle that is admired but not always easy to pursue without a bit of encouragement. And so, the all-new Rio hit the road in ten different countries, seeking to prompt groovy individuals to share messages of their own on how to #FindYourGroove. “Feel free to express yourself.” – Estefania from Lima, Peru For painter and musician Estefania, her groove is simply ‘existing’. “Being me and relishing all the experiences in life helps me comprehend the meaning of love, wisdom, respect, acceptance and freedom.” She also encourages sharing that love with others, accepting them for who they are. With this philosophy, Estefania enjoys interacting with people through her art – a true expressive medium of one’s existence – especially through the “Estefania Social Support Program” and art education program supporting other artists and neglected children. “Find what you love.” – Simon from Dubai, UAE Simon defines “Find Your Groove” as “finding what you love” and making it your “thing”. For him, personally, “finding my groove is all about finding a work-life balance that combines everything I love. The aim is to live a life you enjoy so you never need to take a holiday from it”. Simon found his groove about 10 years ago when he traveled to Dubai, expecting to find a big sandboarding community. When he didn’t, he took it upon himself to build a few sandboards. From then on, he started receiving orders from outdoor stores wanting to stock his boards. How does Simon express his groove? “The speed, the excitement, the fresh air, the landscape, the views – all make me feel alive”. “Don’t give up, keep trying and get your groove.” – Dennis & Seven from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia “Soul searching” is how both Dennis and Seven translate “Find Your Groove”. They believe that groove is something natural that already exists within you. Dance allows Dennis to express his groove without saying a word. For Seven, dance pushes her out of the box, enabling her to conjure up her groove from within. Everyone has their own unique groove, amplified by the youthful, vibrant Kia Rio. What is your definition of finding your true groove? For more inspiration, see more of what our many influencers have to say by searching #FindYourGroove and #MyGroove on Instagram! Lees volledige artikel

[See image gallery at www.autoguide.com] The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has made it tougher to earn a Top Safety Pick+ award for 2018. Announced earlier this year, IIHS has added a new passenger-side small overlap crash test that is now part of the criteria for the Top Safety Pick+ award. For 2018, vehicles must also have good-rated headlights and good or acceptable passenger-side protection in small overlap front crashes in order to be eligible for the top award from the safety agency. In addition, those vehicles must also have good ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, along with an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention. SEE ALSO: IIHS Adds New Passenger-Side Crash Test To start things off heading into 2018, here are the first 15 vehicles to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. Expect the list to grow in the coming months as IIHS continues to evaluate new vehicles. BMW 5 Series asdf Genesis G80 asdf Genesis G90 asdf Hyundai Santa Fe asdf Hyundai Santa Fe Sport asdf Kia Forte (sedan only) asdf Kia Soul asdf Lincoln Continental asdf Mercedes-Benz E-Class (sedan only) asdf Mercedes-Benz GLC asdf Subaru Impreza asdf Subaru Legacy asdf Subaru Outback asdf Subaru WRX asdf Toyota Camry asdf The post Top 15 Safest Cars of 2018 According to IIHS appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

[See image gallery at www.autoguide.com] Kia is opening interactive “Stinger Salons” in the U.S. so people can get a closeup look at its sports sedan without going to the dealership. Designed to offer a modern and inviting atmosphere to learn about the new Kia Stinger, the Stinger Salons are opening just in time for holiday shopping season. Three locations are currently open in Bethesda, Maryland; Skokie, Illinois; and White Plains, New York; and additional locations are scheduled to debut soon in California, Georgia, and Texas. Those locations are expected to open within the first quarter of next year. SEE ALSO: 2018 Kia Stinger Review | Kia Stinger GT Review The Stinger Salon is a bit similar to a Tesla store, but Kia and Tesla aren’t the only automakers that have presences inside shopping malls. Luxury brands such as BMW offer a similar experience around the nation. But unlike Tesla, Kia isn’t allowed to sell a vehicle at the Stinger Salon, instead on-site specialists can refer those interested in the Stinger to one of Kia’s nearby dealerships. “Stinger is a dream car and as we usher in a new era for the Kia brand we are doing something different to show people just how far Kia has come with a true gran turismo that has a faster top speed and zero to 60 time than a Porsche Panamera,” said Saad Chehab, vice president, marketing communications, KMA. “Whether you are a diehard enthusiast or a curious onlooker who has heard the buzz about the Stinger and Kia’s industry-leading quality, our salons are designed to take visitors on a journey and explore what makes the Stinger such a unique and special offering.” Discuss this story on our Kia Stinger Forum The post Kia is Trying Really Hard to Sell You a Stinger appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

Kia Motors is passionate about the power of sports and the positive momentum it creates for people from all walks of life. Kia proudly participates in many sponsorship activities for prominent athletes and major sporting events around the world in the spirit of teamwork, devotion and sportsmanship. Kia has been heavily involved in long-term sponsorships such as the Australian Open, FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Football Championship in an effort to spread the joy of sports to the masses and promote grassroots development of up-and-coming athletes. Continue reading to learn more about our sports marketing activities in 2017! Australian Open 2017 In January, Kia continued to serve as the major sponsor of the Australian Open grand slam tennis championship for the 16th consecutive year. In order to guarantee smooth and safe transportation throughout the event, Kia continued with its tradition of providing a courtesy fleet of 110 Kia vehicles, including Carnivals, Sorentos and Optimas. Our global brand ambassador Rafael Nadal himself handed the vehicles over to Tennis Australia and also showcased the Kia Stinger during the official handover ceremony. Fan participation was also encouraged. Enthusiastic fans were invited to sign a giant tennis racquet that was on display at the Kia experiential booth during the tournament and 70 lucky customers from around the world selected to experience the Australian Open in person through the ‘Kia Lucky Drive to Australia’ promotion. Players also got to join in on the fun with the ‘Open Drive’, where they participated in on-camera interviews while cruising around in a Kia Sportage. Kia also gave back to the community through the AusOpen Ball Drive Funds for future generations of tennis stars. Kia Classic 2017 In addition to being the official automotive partner for the LPGA, Kia also sponsored the 8th annual Kia Classic championship at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in California last spring. People from around the world, both on and off-site, witnessed the 72-hole tournament featuring talented LPGA golfers, and South Korean golfer Mirim Lee triumphantly drove off with the orange champion’s vase in this year’s prize car, the Kia Cadenza. FIFA Confederations Cup Kia, an official automotive partner of FIFA, supported the FIFA Confederations Cup held in June through July in Russia, where Germany defeated Chile by a score of 1-0 to win the championship. Prior to kick-off of the opening match, a handover ceremony of 83 Kia vehicles took place, while Kia reintroduced the ‘Kia Champ into the Arena’, a five-a-side amateur football tournament. Team Russia won the title and as champions were invited to attend the semi-final Confederations Cup match. Kia went even further to involve fans and football enthusiasts. Sixteen children from all over the world were selected as Official Match Ball Carriers (OMBCs), granting them the honor of walking onto the pitch to deliver the match ball to the referee for the official kick-off. In addition, 37 winners of the ‘Lucky Drive to Russia’ competition were invited to attend the tournament’s opening match in Saint Petersburg. UEFA Women’s EURO Maintaining its position as a major UEFA sponsor since 2006, Kia supported the Women’s EURO 2017 last summer where the world saw the Netherland’s Orange become the first host country to win the championship title since Germany accomplished the feat in 2001. FIFA Interactive World Cup This year, Kia also jumped into the world of eSports in partnership with FIFA, serving as one of the main sponsors of the FIFA Interactive World Cup (FIWC) Grand Final held in London, United Kingdom, last August. For smooth operation of the event, Kia handed over 8 Kia Sorento vehicles to safely transport FIFA staff, competitors, guests, and media. Thanks to Kia’s support, the event concluded successfully with English gamer Spencer ‘Gorilla’ Ealing taking the title of new world champion. As the year comes to a close, we look forward to getting everyone excited about next year’s sporting events which Kia will be supporting. Stay tuned as Kia will be a major sponsor of the 2018 Australian Open and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. We will never cease creating more enjoyable and convenient opportunities for everyone to enjoy the game! Lees volledige artikel

“Design is one of the important brand-shaping tools… For instance, the ‘tiger nose’ was a very important aspect designed to make sure that it’s identifiable as a Kia.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

Since its launch, the Kia Stinger has swept several awards for its styling and has been constantly praised for its exhilarating handling characteristics, pristine refinement, and extraordinary gran turismo capabilities. Recently, the Stinger added two more achievements to its already impressive resume. The Stinger has been named among seven shortlisted cars for the 2018 European Car of the Year award. The European Car of the Year award was established in 1964 by automobile magazines from several different European countries. Since then, a panel of judges comprised of motoring journalists selects one single, decisive winner each year. This year, 37 vehicles were eligible and only seven were shortlisted after being judged on a series of stringent criteria. The Stinger easily slid into the final seven with impressive scores. Judges will conduct a final test drive of the shortlisted cars in February 2018 in Mortefontaine, France. Soon after, only one of the seven will be crowned the 2018 European Car of the Year on the eve of the Geneva Motor Show scheduled to open on March 5, 2018. The Stinger has also been announced as one of the three finalists for the 2018 North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year awards in the “cars” category at an official announcement during the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show. Since its inception in 1994, they are currently the longest-running ‘Car of the Year’ awards that are not associated with a specific publication. Such structure ensures unbiased judging by a panel of about 60 professional automotive journalists from the United States and Canada. After rigorous reviews, the North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year awards honor excellence in innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, and value. Winners are to be announced at the North American International Auto Show to be held in Detroit in January 2018. So make sure you check out the Geneva Motor Show and North American International Auto Show next year to cheer on the Stinger as a ‘Car of the Year’ winner. Meanwhile, stay tuned for more good news as Kia continues to be recognized by influential automotive media around the world. Lees volledige artikel

Officially unveiled at the 2017 L.A. Auto Show, the 2019 Kia Sorento has received a number of visual and feature enhancements. The refreshed SUV’s new front and rear fascias give the Sorento an overall more sophisticated appearance, while the interior is more upscale with newly-added tech. The model also now pairs its available 3.3-liter V6 with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a smoother and more seamless driving experience. On the exterior, the Sorento’s revised front end gets an updated radiator grille flanked by a new headlights that offer full-LED lighting on the SX and SXL upper trim levels. The foglamps have also been redesigned with projection bulbs for EX and SX models, while the SXL gets more distinctive LEDs. In the rear, there’s a new bumper design and sleeker tail lights, with LED bulbs offered on the EX trim and higher. The liftgate has also been revised, along with a sportier exhaust tip. There are three newly-designed wheels, ranging from 17 to 19 inches, depending on trim level. Inside the cabin, the Sorento gets a new, more tactile steering wheel, new shifter knob, and a revised instrument cluster with improved graphics. The air vents and center console have also been tweaked. 2017 LA Auto Show Full Coverage The three-row crossover continues to provide plenty of versatility, with standard 40/20/40 second-row folding seats and 50/50 third-row folding seats, which are now standard on all trims. Additional luxury can be had with available heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, 14-way power driver and eight-way power passenger seats, driver’s seat thigh extension, and a four-way headrest with one-button adjustment. For the 2019 model, the Sorento now offers two-way powered lumbar support for the front passenger on SX and SXL trims. In terms of technology, there’s an upgraded AVN 5.0 navigation system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay available on higher trim levels. The standard L trim features a seven-inch user interface, also equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There is now an available wireless charging tray for compatible Android devices, as well as the Apple iPhone 8 and iPhone X. Two powerplants will be available, including a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 3.3-liter V6. Gone from the lineup however is the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, although a new diesel engine will be introduced at a later date. The carryover 2.4-liter engine has 185 horsepower, while the V6 provides 290 hp. The model will be available with front- or all-wheel drive. Pricing for the 2019 Kia Sorento will be announced at a later date. “In the highly-competitive crossover category, the Sorento is a clear example of how world-class design and craftsmanship are executed,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA. “Our popular utility now ups its game even further with enhancements in styling, packaging and content, making it even more attractive to shoppers seeking a premium level 3-row SUV.” Discuss this story on our Kia Forum The post Kia Sorento Gets a Pretty New Face for its Hollywood Debut appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

The Kia Niro lineup is gaining a new family member before the end of the year. Making its debut at the 2017 L.A. Auto Show, the Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid is the Korean automaker’s third plug-in model and has an estimated 26 miles of all-electric range. Total driving range is rated up to an estimated 560 miles, offering plenty of versatility in a crossover package. The model falls under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics sub-brand, as the company focuses on nearly tripling its global lineup of alternative fuel vehicles by 2020. The Niro Plug-in Hybrid joins the existing Niro, Optima Hybrid, Optima PHEV, and Soul EV models. The plug-in hybrid variant does have a few different features compared to the standard Niro Hybrid. There’s a subtly-modified front grille insert and surround, hybrid blue exterior accents, available LED headlamps, a charge port door, available seven-inch color meter cluster with digital tachometer, and “ECO/Plug-In” badges. 2017 LA Auto Show Full Coverage Powering the Niro PHEV is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a 60-horsepower electric motor and an 8.9-kWh lithium-polymer battery pack. The powertrain’s combined system output is 139 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, while returning an MPGe rating of 105. Its EPA-estimated 48-mpg city, 44-mpg highway and 46-mpg combined ratings are similar to the Niro Hybrid. According to Kia, a full charge can be had in approximately 2.5 hours with a 240-volt Level 2 charger, while a standard 120-volt Level 1 charger will take under nine hours. When it arrives dealerships later this year, the Niro PHEV will be available in three trim levels: LX, EX, and EX Premium. It will be offered with a suite of advanced driver assistance and convenience technologies such as Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, and front and rear parking sensors. Smart Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Keep Assist System are all standard. “The Niro Plug-in is the exciting next step in Kia’s progression toward offering more alternative fuel vehicles by 2020,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, Kia Motors America (KMA). “Consumers who are intrigued by the Niro hybrid’s fantastic versatility and design, but want even more EcoDynamics technology and the ability to drive only using electric power, will find more to love in the Niro Plug-in Hybrid.” Discuss this story on our Kia Niro Forum The post Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid Variant Arriving Dealerships Before 2018 appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

The Kia Stinger might arguably be the biggest surprise of the automotive world this year. The Korean automaker rang in the New Year at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show by unveiling the sports sedan, promising to deliver 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque on its range-topping GT model. The standard Kia Stinger is no slouch either, sporting a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. But appearance and specs on a sheet of paper only goes so far when it comes to vehicles, especially when so many have been overhyped in recent years. But the Kia Stinger doesn’t disappoint, as Editor-in-Chief Jodi Lai walked away impressed by almost everything the Kia Stinger has to offer. And AutoGuide.com‘s readers agree, voting the Stinger to this year’s coveted Reader’s Choice Car of the Year Award. SEE ALSO: 2018 Kia Stinger Review | Kia Stinger GT Review Best of all, the sports sedan is priced competitively at $32,800 including destination for the four-cylinder model. If you’re looking for the extra performance from the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, the starting price is $39,250. With six different vehicle categories voted for in this year’s 2018 Reader’s Choice Awards, Kia took home the coveted title of Reader’s Choice Car of the Year with the all-new Stinger. The Ford GT earned itself Reader’s Choice Exotic Car of the Year, while the Porsche 911 GT2 RS was named Reader’s Choice Sports Car of the Year. The Mazda CX-5 grabbed top honors for Reader’s Choice Utility Vehicle of the Year, joined by the Volvo XC60 with the win in the Reader’s Choice Luxury Utility Vehicle of the Year category. Lastly, the AutoGuide.com 2018 Reader’s Choice Luxury Car of the Year goes to the Lexus LC500. AutoGuide.com’s annual Reader’s Choice awards are chosen by visitors to the over 700 automotive websites under the AutoGuide.com Group umbrella. Discuss this story on our Kia Stinger Forum The post Kia Stinger Wins 2018 AutoGuide.com Reader’s Choice Car of the Year Award appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

[See image gallery at www.autoguide.com] Set to make its debut at the 2017 L.A. Auto Show, the Kia Sorento is getting a refresh with updated styling. Full details on the updated SUV won’t be revealed until November 30, but the Korean automaker is already flaunting the three-row SUV’s off-road capability. As part of the unveiling later this week, Kia will show off the updated Sorento taking on Moab’s treacherous Hell’s Revenge, considered one of the most challenging and obstacle-laden off-road trails in the world. 2017 LA Auto Show Full Coverage Even Kia acknowledges that most of Sorento owners will never take their SUVs to the extreme limit, but added that “It’s nice to know that a weekend adventure off the beaten path is possible.” Look for more information on the refreshed 2019 Kia Sorento later this week, as well as a video of the SUV taking on the six-and-a-half mile rock-crawling trek, including the ultimate obstacle known as Hell’s Gate. Discuss this story on our Kia Forum The post 2019 Kia Sorento Shows Off its Off-Road Prowess appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

Kia Motors returned to the Special Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in early November to celebrate creativity and innovation while stunning show-goers with modified versions of its first ever high performance vehicle – the Kia Stinger and the Cadenza premium sedan. This year’s show cars were equipped with a host of parts from leading aftermarket suppliers and featured two highly customized works of art by world-renowned West Coast Customs. Stinger Drifting Experience Kia also used the SEMA show to showcase the impressive performance of the Stinger by giving visitors a change to experience its thrilling drifting capabilities first-hand. Kia transformed a surrounding parking area into a drifting course and high-performance test track, and attendees had the opportunity to ride alongside professional Formula Drift drivers as they effortlessly grazed around corners at speeds of nearly 80 km/h. They also had the chance to launch the car from 0 to 96 km/h then bring it to a full stop using its high-performance Brembo brakes before pushing through a series of challenging corners. Stinger GT Federation Kia put an exclamation mark on this year’s SEMA Show with the unveiling of the Stinger GT Federation, a uniquely modified Stinger outfitted with parts and accessories from leading aftermarket suppliers. The performance-inspired exterior body accent kits by Air Design USA included a rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and redesigned hood vents providing a stunning contrast to the custom creamy-orange paint scheme in harmony with the Stinger’s sporting intentions. A K&N cold-air intake and a low-restriction quad-tipped Borla exhaust help the Stinger breathe more freely and are designed to pump an additional 15 horsepower through the twin-turbo 3.3 liter engine. While Eibach springs, thicker anti-roll bars, and a reduced ride height serve the purpose of providing a more spirited driving experience, the aggressive staggered wheels shod with Falken tires put a stamp on the overall visual and technical achievements of the Stinger GT Federation. Special Kia Stinger GT Wide Body Taking inspiration from the racing GT cars of the 1970s, West Coast Customs spiced up the Stinger GT Wide Body with the glory of pearl blue metallic paint. Bringing a whole new level of visual excitement, the modified Stinger cruises on a lowered suspension and Keen forged wheels wrapped with high-performance tires. All the while, the quad-port exhaust tips make sure that this is no typical performance machine. Inside, the Stinger GT Wide Body is adorned with blue leather seat piping, a distinct hand-stitched gray leather dash panel, alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and gloss black center console trim. Special Kia Cadenza Obsidian West Coast Customs’ second modification, the special Cadenza Obsidian, is an artful masterpiece bejeweled with copper accents inside and out. It has been dipped in custom metallic black paint and its windows are treated with ultra-dark ceramic window tint. The Cadenza Obsidian rides on a lowered suspension, stiffened sport springs, and custom gloss-black wheels with Cosmic Copper trim. The 2017 SEMA Show was a one-of-a-kind occasion for Kia to demonstrate its ambitions for seeking the perfect combination of performance and style, while also offering visitors a unique chance to indulge in a fully immersive experience with our highly-anticipated Kia Stinger. Lees volledige artikel

“It’s a ‘real car’ – small enough for urban parking and crowded streets, but capable enough to make a long commute or weekend road trip a pleasant experience.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

Stay safe and connected with your hands remaining on the wheel through Kia’s UVO eServices system. UVO, a play on “Your Voice”, eServices is a telematics and infotainment system offered in select Kia vehicles marketed in the U.S. The system can be physically accessed by the touchscreen or control buttons that are conveniently located on the dash and steering wheel. A USB connection for mobile devices is also provided for charging or uploading/downloading content from/to the UVO system. True to its name, the system is ultimately designed to be accessed verbally so that you can keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the steering wheel. To get the most out of UVO, users should download two crucial apps to their mobile devices in addition to the UVO eServices app: Apple CarPlay for iPhones and Android Auto for Android devices. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps enable you to integrate your phone (and contents) with Kia’s infotainment system. You can make hands-free calls, send and receive messages, have access to iMaps or Google Maps, music, as well as third party apps while driving. Support is provided by the familiar voices of Siri and Google Assistance. The UVO eServices app enables users to integrate their immediate needs with their vehicles, anywhere and anytime. Point of Interest (POI): Save map addresses either on your phone or through the web at myuvo.com and pull them up on your vehicle’s UVO system whenever needed. Parking Reminder: If you are parking in a parking structure where you should, ideally, remember the floor level and section number, just snap a photo and make a note with the app for tracking. Perhaps you forget altogether – no problem, easily locate your car with the UVO app by having the vehicle send its exact GPS location. The app also features a parking meter reminder that alerts you to add more money when necessary. There are also several features to keep an eye on your vehicle when someone else is driving your Kia. Geo Fence: Immediately be notified when your vehicle leaves a set perimeter. Curfew Limit: Be notified if the vehicle is out past a set curfew. Speed Alert: Let the app alert you if and when the vehicle is travelling above a set speed limit. In addition to entertainment and convenience features, UVO eServices also provides carefully designed maintenance and emergency assistance. If you feel that something is not right with the car, you can run a critical diagnostics check without having to go to a repair shop. If something comes up, UVO will give you the option of scheduling a repair appointment immediately or attending to it later via the app or website. Should it be an issue that requires immediate care, you have access to 24/7 roadside assistance. Most importantly, when airbags deploy in the event of an accident, the emergency service dispatch feature automatically contacts the emergency operator. If the call is not manually canceled by the driver, the operator will be provided with the location of your vehicle through its GPS system for help to be sent your way. Kia Motors continues to further improve and create smart device integration like UVO eServices, in pace with the rapidly developing smartphone technologies. So stay safe, stay connected with our smart devices and apps incorporated in our latest models. Keep tuning in for more smart device and connectivity innovations from Kia! Lees volledige artikel

Kia are diving head first into the performance car market with the release of the new Stinger sports sedan. A stunningly fast, great looking model, the Stinger is still all Kia, as it comes with a host of features at … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

“Ideally, we should be one…the car and me” In October, Kia Motors Europe anonymously invited 10 ‘driving guys’ from Italy, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain and France to an exhilarating driving experience with Kia Stinger. This diverse group of influencers and car enthusiasts were brought together for their love of driving and journeying. Driving a good car is not just an activity but more of a way of life for the driving guys. Behind the wheel of a car, they enter a state of euphoria. The hum and the growl of the engine release adrenaline and the vibrations of the car charge the driver with insane energy. As they press on the gas pedal throughout their journey, an incredible feeling of freedom embraces them. For a more fun and honest experience, the driving guys were not informed of the brand, model, or the destination of the event until the very day we took them to the Mallorca racetrack. In groups of two, by nationality, the drivers were guided to through the three-part test: interview, “feeling the car” blindfolded, and driving. Blindfolded, the driving guys focused their senses on the tips of their fingers as they caressed the car. They traced the Stinger’s handsome face featuring Kia’s signature tiger-nose grille housed between the complex LED headlamps and admired its shoulder line and fastback silhouette which is enhanced by the ‘Coke bottle’ shape of the car’s flanks. After previewing the exterior of the car, the driving guys got to sit in and feel the interior. “It’s super comfortable,” noted one participant, the result of carefully designed proportions and use of high quality materials. Measuring 4,830 mm in length and 1,870 mm in width, the Stinger is longer and wider than many sport sedans, offering more space in the cabin and cargo area, meaning there is sufficient space for everything. After “feeling the car”, the Stinger’s muscular confidence, from its sleek frontal section to its svelte flanks all the way down to its powerful haunches, certainly piqued the blindfolded driving guys’ curiosity. “More than enough power” All ten of the driving guys then had a chance to test drive the car, which was void of any visible branding, and were immediately satisfied with the pure gran turismo cruising comfort and instant acceleration delivered by the longitudinally-mounted turbocharged engine under its long bonnet. The car’s enormous power and torque supplied by Kia’s in-house designed second-generation electronic eight-speed automatic transmission filled one of the driver’s stomachs with a “warm fuzzy feeling”. Overflowing with unrestrained energy behind the wheel, the driving guys kept pushing – faster and with more power, enjoying the eight-speed transmission that enables immediate shifts while ensuring optimum fuel efficiency. This blind test also gave the driving guys a chance to check out Kia’s first use of its Centrifugal Pendulum Absorber (CPA) torque converter, frequently found in aviation and racing applications, which was applied to assist the reduction of torsional vibration through the drivetrain. Finish line vs. Make it a journey At the end of the test drive, the driving guys were given a last second detour decision between continuing on to the finish line or extending the drive and making it a journey. The drivers’ instincts coupled with the thrilling ride led them to continue the drive into the real world. “It’s a Kia” At the circuit’s exit before hitting real roads, the Stinger’s brand and model were revealed to the drivers. Everyone’s eyes widened, jaws hit the ground, and they proved that, yes, we do indeed have the power to surprise. So wherever your journey may take you, make it an unforgettable one with the Stinger. With market launch already having begun in many countries, we are now looking forward to our customers testing out the Stinger and experiencing the joy of the journey! ▶ Learn more about Kia’s history of GT car ▶ Check out 3 top driving destinations for a heart-pounding adventure behind the wheel of the Stinger! Lees volledige artikel

“What makes the Stinger GT especially satisfying to drive is its deep well of accessible torque. The twin-turbo V6 offers up its maximum 376 lb.-ft. of torque from just 1,350 rpm up to 4,200 rpm, so throttle response is immediate and lively around town, on the highway for merging or passing, and for taking a fast line through entertaining corners on your favorite stretch of twisty road.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel