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Kia has decided to cut the Forte Koup from its lineup as demand drops for small coupes. “To better align with our customers’ purchasing trends, KMA will discontinue the two-door Koup following the sell-down of remaining 2016 model year inventory,” Kia spokesperson James Hope told CarsDirect. When Kia redesigned the Forte for the 2017 model year, the Koup model was left behind, signalling then that it would likely be discontinued. Leaving the Koup model behind also created trouble for dealers as selling old Forte Koups is tougher when sitting next to the new 2017 model. The Honda Civic Coupe also offers more features and better fuel economy for about the same price, making the Koup an even tougher sell. SEE ALSO: 2017 Kia Cadenza Aces IIHS Crash Tests Overall, the Forte had its best sales year ever in 2016, moving 103,292 units. In 2017, Forte sales are already up by five percent in the first quarter. Forte Koup EX models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 173 horsepower while a 1.6-liter turbo with 201 hp is also available. Pricing for the Forte Koup starts at around $20,700, but CarsDirect says that a $2,500 rebate along with a dealer discount could see the rest of the 2016 Forte Koups selling for as little as $17,000. [Source: Cars Direct] Discuss this story at our Kia Forum The post Kia Forte Koup Axed appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

“The Soul with the turbocharged engine has been tuned to deliver a sportier feel, meaning its ride is slightly harsher, but the trade-off is excellent driving dynamics — it’s a joy to zip around town yet still comfortable for a long highway haul.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

There isn’t too much you can do to the design of an SUV or crossover to make it as sexy as a supercar. While many automakers have been experimenting with design to make SUVs and crossovers look more interesting, a few are typically either too boring or too extreme. In the past, it was hard to believe a crossover or SUV could be considered attractive with their boxy shapes and boring bodylines, but that’s not the case in today’s market. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Looking Crossovers and SUVs of 2017 And while there are plenty of good-looking crossovers and SUVs, there are also plenty of bad ones. We’re well aware that style is completely subjective, so it’s OK if you don’t agree with our picks. In fact, we want you to nominate your own picks for ugliest SUVs in the comment section below. Here are 10 SUVs and crossovers that we believe are style failures. 10. Bentley Bentayga Bentley first previewed its SUV with the EXP 9 F concept car, and the initial reception wasn’t pretty. Although the production Bentayga is an improvement over the concept’s design, we can’t help but wonder if this is the best Bentley could do. The signature Bentley grille actually looks pretty good on the SUV, but the rest of Bentayga’s design is far too generic considering how expensive it is. Your parents have always told you that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, however, and the Bentayga does have a gorgeous interior. 9. Volkswagen Atlas For the most part, Volkswagen’s lineup is quite unadventurous. The German automaker has never been known for super stylish cars, preferring to play it safe with non-divisive designs that appeal to the masses. Simply put, VWs are not excitingly pretty or horrendously ugly. That’s the biggest problem with the new Volkswagen Atlas — it’s not ugly, it just looks incredibly generic. A Volkswagen employee responsible for part of the company’s design process spoke to The Truth About Cars at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show (where the Atlas debuted) and said “It looks like a 2012 Ford whatever. It could be anything.” 8. Tesla Model X The Tesla Model X is a good example of how you can’t just take a sedan, give it a higher roof and ride height, and call it an attractive SUV. For the most part, the Tesla Model X is not a bad looking car — it’s fairly sleek and stylish. It’s just that the Model X looks bulbous from all angles and the proportions are all wrong. We will say it’s quite photogenic, however, as it looks much better in photos than it does in person. 7. Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Part of us wishes that automakers would stop with the “coupe SUV” styling, but we know that won’t happen. What started with the BMW X6 has become an entirely new niche segment for luxury automakers and Mercedes-Benz is trying to get a piece of the pie with its GLE Coupe. But like the Tesla Model X, its proportions are off and it looks like a clumsy, in-your-face SUV rather than something sporty and stylish. Nothing about this design is elegant and it will definitely not age well. 6. BMW X4 The BMW X6 certainly deserves a (dis)honorable mention on the list, but we simply couldn’t excuse how much worse the BMW X4 looks. BMW tried to create a new segment with the introduction of the X6, which it called a Sports Activity Coupe. The X4 and X6 suffer from the same problems as other “coupe SUVs” with their chunky front ends and sharply sloping rooflines that look wonky on SUVs. But hey, they’re selling so who are we to judge? 5. Lexus LX570 The Lexus LX has existed in the Japanese automaker’s lineup since 1996, and more than 20 years later, its bodylines haven’t changed much. Lexus has kept the straight edges and boxy shape for decades and the latest model simply incorporates the company’s massive spindle grille up front. While the spindle grille on its own is pretty controversial, it looks even weirder on this giant SUV. 4. Jeep Cherokee Jeep enthusiasts were shocked when the new Cherokee debuted in 2013. The SUV’s controversial styling had everyone questioning if Jeep has lost its marbles, with some people thinking the front end was just a joke. Years later, however, Jeep is sticking with the design and the Cherokee is still a popular seller. We commend Jeep for trying something new, but we still can’t get used to those squinty headlights. 3. Fiat 500L The Fiat 500 has its own appeal, being a bubbly, fun compact car, but none of that cuteness translates onto the Fiat 500L. The five-door Fiat has awkward proportions, looks strangely tall and almost wagon-esque. Combined, it’s all things no one asked for in a compact crossover. 2. Kia Sportage We have to hand it to Kia. The Korean automaker has really revamped its image over recent years with attractive models and appealing offerings. That makes the Kia Sportage’s pug-nosed design even more confusing. The front end simply looks off and it doesn’t fit in with any other existing Kia models. To make things even stranger, the Korean automaker’s new Niro crossover is stylish and the larger Sorento isn’t a bad-looking SUV either. Maybe the Sportage just suffers from being the middle child. 1. Infiniti QX80 It was very easy to crown the Infiniti QX80 as the ugliest SUV on the market right now. Between the ugly chrome side air vents, super awkward proportions, and sad whale face, there isn’t much to redeem the SUV in terms of design. Luckily the Japanese automaker is working on a replacement, which was previewed by the pretty QX80 Monograph at the 2017 New York Auto Show. For the most part, Infiniti has polished its lineup with attractive models from the ground up, but the QX80 is one of the last to receive the makeover it so desperately needs. Hopefully, we’ll only have to stare at this ungainly machine for a couple more years. The post Top 10 Ugliest Crossovers and SUVs of 2017 appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

The new generation Picanto city car, now in its third generation, has just been released by Kia Motors UK. This car may be small, but it sure packs a punch. The 2018 Picanto is stylish, refined, sporty, and technologically advanced, … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

The all-new Kia Picanto is emerging as a force to be reckoned with. Revealed for the first time at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the all-new Picanto displayed an aesthetic and style that captured the eyes of young-at-heart city dwellers all over the world. Now in its third generation, this charming city slicker has blossomed into a class champion, surpassing its competitors with its vibrant style and unparalleled sophistication. Find out more about what the all-new 2017 Picanto has in store for you! Dramatically Bold Even at first glance, the all-new Picanto bears a bolder and more dynamic face that conveys confidence. With a redesigned grille and wrap-around headlamps, the fresh new appearance of the Picanto comes across as more modern, sporty and mature than its predecessors. Kia has also extended the wheelbase of the Picanto by 15 mm, giving the new model a wider stance. This upgrade combined with long sculpted body lines visually stretches the vehicle for an assertive and stable look. Second generation Picanto (left) vs Third generation Picanto (right) Customers will have more opportunities for customization with the new model. The third-generation Picanto will be available in eleven vibrant colors with optional color accents for the grille and air curtains. Alloy wheels will also be offered in four different designs. A Premium Subcompact The Picanto also checks all of the boxes in terms of performance and functionality. In fact, the new model is a downright pioneer of its segment. With numerous segment firsts, the 2017 Picanto comes equipped with features typically only found on vehicles of a higher segment class. The cabin of the Picanto boasts a luxurious ambiance with quality upholstery and satin chrome accents. The center console is available with the segment’s first high-tech ‘floating’ touchscreen HMI. Our newest city car also showcases a roomy and comfortable interior cabin with impressive storage space that is best in its class. The model also surpasses segment competitors in terms of NVH, producing only 39 dB of noise at idle and 68 dB at a steady cruise. Picanto is the only vehicle in its category to offer torque vectoring control among its many safety features. The Picanto goes above and beyond to offer a ride that is delightfully enticing and well-suited for urban life. Showcasing unique style and high-tech features, the third generation Picanto is sure to maintain its position in the market as one of the segment leaders and continuous crowd pleaser. So take a closer look! With the all-new Picanto, your life and your surroundings are full of potential. Tell us what you think about the all-new Picanto in the comments section below! Lees volledige artikel

Have you ever wondered what is the fastest Kia car currently on sale in the United States? The answer’s simple… For the past couple of years, it was the range topping Kia K900 that was a top of 0-60 chart … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

The 2017 Kia Cadenza has received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The redesigned model earned a good rating in the small overlap front test, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests. It’s the first Cadenza to be tested by IIHS for small overlap front protection, which replicates what happens when the front driver-side corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object. According to IIHS, the 2017 Kia Cadenza’s driver space was maintained well, with maximum intrusion of four inches at the parking brake pedal. The airbags and safety belt did their jobs to control the dummy’s movement and measures taken from the dummy showed a low risk of significant injuries. SEE ALSO: 2017 Kia Cadenza Review In addition, the Cadenza’s optional front crash prevention system avoided collisions in IIHS track tests of 25 mph and 12 mph. There is also a forward collision warning component that meets National Highway Traffic Safety Administration criteria. Earning an acceptable headlight rating are the LED lights that come with the Limited and Technology trims, offering fair to good visibility in all scenarios. The halogen lights that come with the Premium trim earned a poor rating. In order for a vehicle to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, it must have good ratings in all five crashworthiness tests, an available front crash prevention system with an advanced or superior rating and headlights that earn an acceptable or good rating. Discuss this story on our Kia Cadenza Forum The post 2017 Kia Cadenza Aces IIHS Crash Tests appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

In the current automobile market where car names are composed of seemingly arbitrary numbers and letters, the distinct and recognizable names of Kia models definitely stand out. Ever wonder how Kia cars get their unique and original names? Read on to find out about the stories and meanings behind the special names of our vehicles! Stinger When the Kia Stinger first debuted at the 2017 NAIAS, the model was praised for its enticing and striking name. While the model itself takes after the designs of the 2011 GT concept, the car name pays homage to the GT4 Stinger concept. The ‘Stinger’ name perfectly captures our high performance sedan’s ambition as a bold and aggressive new challenger in the market. The Stinger GT carries the appearance and aura of explosive confidence and edginess, living up to its name and the hype. ▶ Can you keep up with the Kia Stinger? Optima As a prize-winning best-seller, Kia really hit the mark with the name for the Kia Optima. The popular midsize sedan derives its name from the Latin word ‘Optimus’ meaning ‘the best.’ The release of the first generation Optima in 2000 was a turning point for Kia’s fortunes in the midsize sedan category as the car’s sleek and stylish design became a benchmark for future models to come. Carens Kia Carens was labeled a game-changing pioneer in its segment when it made its world debut in 1999. The name Carens, derived from the word ‘car’ and ‘renaissance’, perfectly illustrates the innovative and stylish characteristics of the well-loved compact MPV. The third generation Carens is sleeker and more attractive than ever, making the name all the more suitable for the model. ▶ Why the Kia Carens is an outstanding family car Cadenza Kia Cadenza bears a name that aptly describes the elegance and lavish qualities of the premium sedan. ‘Cadenza’ is an Italian term meaning a beautiful and complex artistic solo, typically in a musical movement. True to its name, Kia’s Cadenza sedan boasts sophisticated style and robust performance that make for a pleasant, harmonious ride. As you can see, Kia puts a lot of thought into naming our vehicles so that their spirit and strengths are effectively captured. Take a look at rest of the cars in our line-up – can you guess the meaning behind their names? Tell us in the comments section below. Lees volledige artikel

Happy Earth Day! To celebrate this day of environmental awareness, Kia BUZZ brings you a story on Kia’s efforts in conservation and sustainability. Q: What notable event took place in April 2008? In April 2008, the Kia cee’d officially became the first Korean car to receive international environmental validation. The globally renowned German-based certification organization Tüv Nord awarded the cee’d with two environmental certifications – the Design for Environment (DFE) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). DFE certified that every aspect of development, from conception to manufacturing of the Kia cee’d, was environmentally friendly and had a high level of recyclability at the end of the car’s lifespan. LCA examined fuel consumption and emission rates to ensure that the model had minimal lifetime environmental impact. The second generation Kia cee’d also received DFE validation from Tüv Nord. Since the first two certifications in 2008, Kia has continued to make conscientious environmental efforts and the brand has received more than 10 sustainability-related certifications from Tüv Nord. But our work to make our vehicles and vehicle production methods environmentally sound doesn’t stop there. In 2014, Kia placed among the top 50 in the Best Global Green Brands list by Interbrand. Meanwhile, according to our 2020 Eco Roadmap, we plan to expand our eco-friendly vehicle range to a total of 14 models by the end of the decade as a way of reducing our environmental footprint. Kia’s sustainability and environmental innovations continue as we speak. With more green cars rolling off out environmentally savvy production facilities than ever before, Kia is taking big strides toward becoming a leading eco-friendly brand. Have a wonderful and environmentally conscious Earth Day – Kia too, will remain vigilant in our efforts aimed at conservation and sustainability! ▶ Read more Kia Anniversary stories and learn interesting tidbits about Kia’s brand history! Lees volledige artikel

Kia is known to reveal new China-exclusive models annually and this year is no exception. The 2017 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition opened this week and Kia has unveiled not one but two new vehicles in tune with the show’s theme, “Committed to a Better Life.” Kia’s 2,500 square meter booth at Auto Shanghai has been decked out with 20 of Kia’s latest and greatest models, with the newest models – the Kia Pegas and the K2 Cross – taking center stage. Kia Pegas, the brand’s newest compact sedan, boasts a sporty, stable look and versatile functionality that make it a perfect ride for young customers. The design of the Pegas puts emphasis on comfort; with the spacious and open interior cabin paired with ergonomic technology features offering great practicality and ease while traveling. Mounted with the latest version of Kia’s 1.4-liter multi-point injection engine, the new Pegas will go on sale in China later this year. The new K2 Cross is an SUV take on Kia’s popular K2 model that debuted at the 2016 Auto Guangzhou. The K2 Cross is significantly larger than the original hatchback model and exudes a more muscular and commanding presence. The SUV also features new details such as metallic chin guard in the front and valance in the rear. The K2 Cross will enter the Chinese market in the coming months. Kia’s booth will be open to Auto Shanghai audiences until the 27th of this month. Along with our two new Chinese-exclusive models, the Cerato (Forte), Optima and many previously revealed China-only vehicles will be on display. To show that Kia is “Committed to a Better Life”, Kia’s exhibit will also offer an interactive display showcasing DRIVE WiSE driving assistance technologies and Kia’s latest eco-friendly models. Kia’s prized CTCC K3 racecar will also be available for viewing. Lees volledige artikel

The auto show season is in full swing and Kia is returning to the New York International Auto Show with the all-new fourth generation Kia Rio. Following the first appearance of the 5-door last fall at the Paris Auto Show, the all-new 2018 Rio sedan makes its world debut while the 5-door hatchback is having its U.S. premiere. The all-new 2018 Rio boasts new features and technologies that are dedicated to fun driving. Both the sedan and hatchback have been slightly upgraded in size, offering plenty of interior space. Looking for an ample cargo room? The all-new Rio will not disappoint. Extra space for your portable devices at the front row? Check. Need some more head and leg room? It’s got that too! The Rio features best-in-class interior amenities with lower and wider exterior dimensions that give it a dynamic appearance. What’s more is that the Rio sedan and hatchback duo presents greater versatility for enjoyable driving. Available in the U.S. market in three trims – LX, S and EX – with the enhanced Gamma 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, the Rio targets improved fuel efficiency and more responsive driving dynamics. To celebrate the debut of the subcompact duo in the United States, Kia hosted a media lounge event for members of the press to experience the new ‘World of Rio.’ Kia’s booth at the NYIAS show floor also featured an impressive and eye-catching installation for the Rio. Along with our spotlighted subcompact, the Kia Stinger and the Niro Plug-in Hybrid were among many other Kia models that drew crowds to the brand’s exhibition booth. With impressive upgrades, the all-new Rio sedan and hatchback are expected to bring an exciting and energetic combination of safety, innovation and driving performance. Our popular subcompact duo will hit the market later this year. Get ready to conquer everyday adventures and relish in the fun-to-drive Kia Rio! Lees volledige artikel

There’s no getting around it: The market has gone absolutely crazy for crossovers. From big to small — and everything in between — crossovers are flooding the market faster than a carbureted engine on a cold day. And that mania had the New York Auto Show square in its sights this year, with plenty of concept and production CUVs being unveiled in the Big Apple. Here’s a selection of some of the most notable reveals. Genesis GV80 Concept Hyundai’s Genesis spinoff brand has been off to a slow start since it launched last year with the G90 sedan, and it’s hoping this GV80 Concept will help drum up some hype. Conceived with a fuel cell powertrain, the GV80 previews what a crossover from Hyundai’s luxury brand could look like. Subaru Ascent Concept Subaru’s ready to get back into the three-row crossover game, and it brought along a concept to prove it. The Ascent Concept is about the size of the Ford Explorer, and best of all, it’s just about production-ready. Subaru says it will be powered by a new turbocharged boxer four-cylinder. 2018 Lincoln Navigator Moving from concept to reality, the new Lincoln Navigator made its debut in New York, with Continental-like looks molded from an all-aluminum body. The first new version of the Navigator in 11 years is decked out in next-level luxury both inside and out and offers up massaging seats and interior ambient lighting, as well as a massive panoramic sunroof. 2018 Buick Enclave Not quite as big as the Navigator is the new Buick Enclave, which gets a sculpted new look that is far less frumpy this time around. It gets its design language from the Buick Avenir Concept, with muscular, flowing lines outside and a handsome interior to match. 2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Hot on the heels of the launch of the Kia Niro Hybrid, the automaker has unveiled a plug-in version that gets a bigger battery and 25 miles of all-electric range. Otherwise, there’s little distinguishing the two gas-electric crossovers, with the plug-in version getting some subtle accents outside. 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Mitsubishi is also looking to make a splash in the small crossover segment with an updated version of the Outlander Sport for 2018. Updates include exterior and interior styling, as well as a new infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk The good folks at Jeep have finally delivered the family hauler we’ve all been waiting for, with the 707-horsepower Grand Cherokee Trackhawk debuting at the show. With power coming from the same supercharged 6.2-liter V8 found in Dodge’s duo of Hellcats, the Trackhawk can get to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Not to be outdone by the Trackhawk, AMG has continued to stuff its twin-turbocharged V8 in everything it will fit in. The latest to receive the twin-turbo treatment is the GLC, which will sprint to 60 mph in less than four seconds. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 will also be available in coupe form. The post Top 8 Crossover Debuts from the 2017 New York Auto Show appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

“The Kia Cadenza is a luxurious package with ride quality to match. It’s Kia’s best ever.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

Spring is here and it’s time to take your car out for a nice drive in the welcoming spring weather. Before you set off, it is wise to assess any impact or damage to your car from the winter months and give your car a ‘spa treatment’ to get it up and running. It is always a good idea to give your car an inspection on a regular basis as a preventative measure. Since winter months are especially harsh on your roadside companion, getting your car checked out towards the start of spring is always recommended. When it comes to self-inspection, it seems that the car’s chassis is one of the most overlooked parts of the vehicle. The chassis or undercarriage is the skeletal frame on which parts like the engine, tires, wheel axles, and brakes are bolted. As the backbone of the vehicle, the chassis carries the vehicle’s weight and is instrumental in providing strength and stability as the vehicle moves and operates. As it is considered to be one of the most important components of a motor vehicle, the chassis can cause serious problems if neglected for a long period of time. Let’s learn about chassis upkeep and ways to maintain under-vehicle parts in tip top shape! Look for Rust Road salt and the snow and sleet from winter months causes rust to build up on the underside of your vehicle. Rust and other corrosion fundamentally weaken and erode the platform of a car. In order to prevent this, it is important to wash your vehicle regularly and wax it prior to any wet season. Rust preventing treatments and coating are also available for added protection. Lubricate While Kia cars roll off the assembly line well-greased and lubricated, automobile lubricants can dry up over time. This not only results in unpleasant NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) while driving but also causes mechanical parts of your vehicle to eventually wear out and fail. Chassis lubricant is inexpensive and lubrication is simple enough to be easily performed at home. Some chassis grease or a couple cans of aerosol lubricant will keep your car running safe and smooth. Check Suspension and Alignment Rough road conditions during the winter can often knock wheel alignment out of place. Realigning the wheels and suspension before a long drive or a road trip will improve fuel economy and vehicle control on the road. It also prevents tire wear and noise and vibration issues, making your car safer and more enjoyable to drive. The only way to know if your chassis alignment is correct is to have it checked at a service center. Because spring is a recommended time to have you vehicle looked at to assess the wear and tear from the winter months, it is a good idea to get thorough examination of the chassis as well. With these few tips on chassis maintenance, your car will be read to go for spring. Always keep in mind that the first fundamental requirement for driving and road trips is safety. After all, safety never goes out of season! Lees volledige artikel

The Korean automaker has filed a trademark in Europe for “XCeed.” The trademark application was for the actual graphic representation of XCeed, meaning its logo. Since it’s a figurative trademark, it’s not for the word itself but rather how it looks. Not much is known about what XCeed could be used for, but Kia does sell the Cee’d in Europe, a compact model available with several variants including a three-door hatchback, five-door hatchback and five-door wagon. SEE ALSO: Kia Execs Want People to Stop Being Ashamed of Driving Kias A possibility for the trademark is a crossover model based on the Cee’d. Interestingly, the font is different than the existing Cee’d logo and it’s missing the apostrophe. So for now, it’s pure speculation on what XCeed will be used for, but it’s something to keep an eye on as Kia could be looking to strengthen its presence in the crossover segment. Discuss this story on our Kia Forum The post New Kia Trademark Hints at Possible Crossover appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

Have you ever seen a car on the road that looks kind of like a Kia, but wasn’t wearing a Kia badge? This is because a lot of Kia drivers swap out the factory badge on their cars for another one that looks very similar to a Lexus emblem to hide the fact that they’re driving a Kia. Kia started its life in North America as a budget brand, so it’s understandable that some people might want to hide their Kia’s true identity. This is a trend that Kia hopes will stop with the launch of its upcoming grand tourer, the Stinger GT, a car that brings the brand upmarket and can also cater to the enthusiast. This car will help break many barriers for the Korean automaker and show the world what it’s capable of. “We think we’re going to surprise many people with this car,” said Orth Hedrick, vice-president of product planning at Kia. Hedrick said that the brand has noticed people swapping badges and used this as motivation to build cars that drivers can be proud of. ALSO SEE: All-New 2018 Kia Rio Makes US Debut “People buy a car to express themselves in some way,” he said, suggesting that people can’t go out and tell everyone their net worth, so cars become a representation of one’s place or social standing in the world. The Kia Stinger GT wants to make sure that message is loud and clear: it’s luxurious and sporty and built to the same standards as expensive German vehicles. With former Audi and BMW execs at the helm of Kia, it’s very possible they can pull off this change in public perception. For example, Global Chief of Design Peter Schryer came from Audi and has been leading the Korean automaker through a high point in car design, while former BMW M Brand VP Albert Biermann is now in charge of Vehicle Dynamics at Kia. 2017 New York Auto Show Coverage With the new rear-wheel-drive Kia Stinger GT, the automaker wants to change people’s perception of the brand, hopefully leaving buyers satisfied and proud enough to keep the proper Kia badges on the hood and trunklid of their vehicles. Discuss this story on our Kia Rio Forum The post Kia Execs Want People to Stop Being Ashamed of Driving Kias appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

When the Kia Soul was first brought to the marketplace in 2009, it was just one of several boxy cars on the market. No-one really expected anything special from this vehicle, but with a savvy marketing campaign and an urban … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

Americans finally get a chance to see the fourth-generation Kia Rio at the 2017 New York Auto Show. The model was actually introduced in September, 2016 at the Paris Motor Show, but makes its U.S. debut in the Big Apple. Both the sedan and five-door hatchback models are present, sporting larger bodies than their predecessors. The Rio sedan has been lengthened to 172.6 inches from 172.0 inches, while the five-door hatch grows slightly from 159.4 inches to 160.0 inches. Both models ride on a longer 101.6-inch wheelbase (up from 101.2 inches) and feature more upright A-pillars. To give them both a more balanced and athletic stance, the 2018 Kia Rio sits lower and wider than before. In the U.S., the 2018 Kia Rio will be available in three trim levels: LX, S and EX. All three models are powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. The powerplant is a carryover unit, but has been enhanced for better fuel efficiency, better responsiveness and low-speed driving dynamics. Power is sent to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. 2017 New York Auto Show Coverage The Korean automaker says the all-new Rio is targeting the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick designation and a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features on the model include six airbags, side-impact door beams, Electronic Stability Control, a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM). “Value has always been a core tenet for the Kia brand and the all-new Rio sedan and 5-door continue to underscore our commitment to those buyers looking for an entry-level vehicle but desire more than what the subcompact segment currently offers,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning, KMA. “This fourth-generation Rio makes significant improvements over its predecessor in design, technology and passenger comfort, resulting in an even better value proposition for our customers, while raising the bar in the small-car segment.” Discuss this story on our Kia Rio Forum The post All-New 2018 Kia Rio Makes US Debut appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

Kia Motors has been capturing the attention of the automotive industry and performance car enthusiasts since the world premiere of the Kia Stinger sports sedan at the Detroit auto show in January. Just last week, the Stinger made its Asia debut at the Seoul Motor Show where a 4.9 second 0-100 km/h acceleration time was confirmed for the rear-wheel drive 3.3 turbo powered model. This impressive acceleration performance puts the Stinger near the head of the pack among competing models and is proof-positive that Kia is now challenging the standard for vehicle performance among mainstream brands. Find out more about the remarkable acceleration and power of the Stinger! GT Defined First things first – What is a “GT”? GT, short for Grand Tourer or Gran Turismo in Italian, refers to performance and luxury vehicles capable of both fast and long-distance driving. GT vehicles boast both unparalleled speed and driving comfort. The acceleration performance of GT models is evaluated by measuring the time that a vehicle takes to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (or 0-62 mph). There are various factors that can improve a vehicle’s 0-100 km/h time. Improving vehicle acceleration is dependent upon the engine and transmission system, and car makers are constantly working to generate more power by upgrading the exhaust system and turbocharger performance. Reducing vehicle mass and tweaking the exterior design to optimize aerodynamics are also proven methods to shave seconds off of acceleration times. True Gran Turismo: The Kia Stinger GT Seizing the global spotlight upon its world debut, the Stinger GT stunned the world not only with its sensational exterior design, but also its high-performance capabilities. Introduced to Asian audiences with striking new colors and details in Seoul, the Stinger dropped another massive surprise for the global audience. With the powerful 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 (rear-wheel drive version), the Stinger will deliver a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 4.9 seconds, surpassing Kia’s original estimate of 5.1 seconds as communicated in Detroit. This makes the sports sedan the fastest accelerating car Kia has ever produced. Hitting 100 km/h in under five seconds with a maximum speed of 270 km/h, the Stinger is reaching another level of power and performance and revamping the Kia brand. Feel the speed and the velocity of the Stinger in the video below! Stinger’s 4.9 second acceleration performance is an incredible feat for Kia and will serve as a starting point for future improvements in vehicle performance. We don’t’ know what the future holds but for now, but in the meantime, can you keep up with the Kia Stinger? Lees volledige artikel

“From the Soul, a 10Best Trucks and SUVs winner, to the Optima hybrid tested here, Kias are rich with quality—a word that was appropriate only for sarcastic punchlines about Kia two decades ago. Similarly, the automaker produced its first hybrid only six years ago but now ranks among the industry leaders in the vehicle type.” Click to Read More Lees volledige artikel

Hyundai is calling back vehicles that have engines that may seize unexpectedly. A total of 1,190,160 vehicles are being recalled because errors during the machining process can cause a bearing in the engine to prematurely wear. As a result, it could cause the part to fail and the engine to seize, increasing the risk of a crash. The issue was discovered after a high number of warranty repairs were done for a recurring issue. The affected vehicles include the 2013-2014 Hyundai Sonata and Santa Fe Sport, 2011-2014 Kia Optima, 2012-2014 Kia Sorento and 2011-2013 Kia Sportage. SEE ALSO: Hyundai Patents an Engine with Different Size Cylinders Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block as necessary, free of charge. Hyundai is expected to start its recall on May 19, 2017 while Kia will begin on May 25, 2017. Discuss this story on our Hyundai Sonata Forum The post Nearly 1.2M Hyundai and Kia Vehicles Recalled for Engine Problems appeared first on AutoGuide.com News. Lees volledige artikel

Kia continues a long standing legacy for design excellence with multiple Red Dot design awards! Scoring a triple victory, three of the models– the Optima Sportswagon, Niro and Rio – are taking home prestigious design distinctions. Judged among 5,500 competing products by 39 international design experts, our Europe-exclusive Optima Sportswagon tourer was distinguished with the highest title of ‘Best of the Best’ in the vehicle design category. The brand’s best-selling Rio was named ‘Winner’ of said category for its bold and mature upgrades. The market-leading Niro HUV received ‘Honorable mention in said category receiving praise for its intricate design and attention to detail. The latest three awards now bring our Red Dot design award count to an impressive record of 18 since the first in 2009. This trio of awards is not the first design-related recognition that Kia has received this year. The brand also managed to score three prestigious iF design awrds earlier in February for the same three models. Having received iF design recognition for eight years running, the brand now boasts a total number 12 iF awards. Our global design team has every right to be proud of this new triple triumph as it underlines Kia’s high design quality, which is unanimously recognized by experts. – Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Designer of Kia Motors Corporation With the number of prestigious design awards in 2017 already up to six, we are already excited to see what the rest of the year brings. Adding these achievements under our belts, Kia will continue to drive forward in our design success. Lees volledige artikel

When people go looking for a new car, the idea is generally to strike a balance between good looks and affordability. This is often easier said than done, as you are often forced to give up one element in favor … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

March was a good month for Kia Canada, with a total of 6,346 units sold, which was a 6.1% year on year increase. Leading the pack was the Kia Forte, which sold 1,623 units, a 55% increase over last March. … Continue reading → Lees volledige artikel

The Kia Stinger is making a splash on its home turf! Our prized sports sedan made its Asia debut at South Korea’s biggest automobile event, the Seoul Motor Show. Following its appearances in Detroit and Geneva, Kia’s true gran turismo was unveiled with big surprises in store. Greeting audiences for first time in the domestic market, Kia Stinger is being shown in a new color with new specifications. Painted in a rich golden yellow hue, the model also features a revised grille, air intake and bonnet louvres made with elegant carbon fiber material. The Stinger is also showing off a new independent emblem exclusive to Korea. The never-before-seen ‘E’ badge stands for ‘Exclusive’, ‘Exquisite,’ and ‘Evolutionary’- qualities that are inherent in our newest sports sedan. Perhaps the biggest surprise is the Stinger’s acceleration performance. Upon its global debut, Kia targeted a 0-100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds. However at the Seoul show, Kia revealed that the 3.3-liter twin turbo rear-wheel drive Stinger will actually achieve the feat in just 4.9 seconds. This impressive accomplishment will position the fastback as the brand’s fastest accelerating car to date. Also for the first time, the Stinger is being displayed alongside the 2011 GT concept – the inspiration behind the conception of the fastback’s final design. This dramatic and eye-catching display will serve as a testament to the Stinger’s journey of development and fine-tuning. Along with the colorful range of Stinger models on display, Kia’s show booth is offering engaging interactive displays. Show-goers are invited to get hands on with the brand’s newest autonomous driving and car connectivity technologies while other areas of the show floor are showcasing Kia’s deep involvement in sports sponsorships. Kia’s stand also features a traffic and road safety experiential zone for young kids, making the exhibition a great place for both car loving adults and children alike. Exhibit for Kia’s professional baseball team, the Kia Tigers Kia Motors Korea Women’s Open golf championship display Interactive exhibit for Kia’s child road safety program, the SLOW campaign ▶ Read more about Kia’s ongoing partnership with the LPGA! ▶ Find out how Kia looks out for children’s safety on the road Kia’s exciting and jam-packed exhibition will be open to the public until April 9th. With the Stinger and our newest innovations, Kia is looking to cause a stir among global audiences and fans. Lees volledige artikel