Kiaclub Nieuwsrobot

With Honda recently announcing plans to enter the sub-compact crossover segment with a new model based on the Fit, Kia will toss its hat in the ring as well, debuting the Provo concept today at the Geneva Motor Show. Competitors to the segment-creating Nissan Juke, the Provo is a two-door coupe, though a four-door is likely in production form. Apart from the aggressive good looks the Provo boasts some solid performance too, and more than a few technological treats. Looking wide and sitting on big 19-inch wheels its powered by a turbocharged direct injection 1.6-liter 4-cylinder making 205 hp. Conventionally front-wheel drive, the Provo also boasts an active Smart 4WD Hybrid system that can deliver as much as 45 hp to the rear wheels when added power is required. As a hybrid it’s also capable of a low speed (and limited) electric-only range, creeping along using electric power to the rear wheels. Add to this a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and it’s obvious that Kia has an impressive package, not to mention some impressive new powertain features, coming in the next few years. GALLERY: Kia Provo Concept Discuss this story at Kia-Forums.com Lees het hele artikel

You might have seen our sneak peek sketches of our provo concept in our previous posting, but here it is in all its glory – and just in time for International Geneva Motor Show. Looking every centimetre a road-legal racer, Kia’s new provo concept, unveiled at the 83rd Salon International De l’Auto in Geneva, mixes ultra-modern technology with a self-confident and agile look to deliver an exciting new B-segment car for enthusiasts. The sleek, low, yet muscular coupe-style hatchback mixes a petrol-fueled turbo-charged engine with clever regenerative-electric motors to bring a smart-hybrid solution to this fun-focused concept that points to Kia Motors’ future B-segment expansion plans. This is a car designed for fun – pure and simple. Every curve, crease and line combines to bring provo to life with a single purpose – to delight and entrance its owner and to bring a smile to the driver’s face. The car is meant to be cheeky and cheerful in its compactness and to hint at the fun awaiting on the open road. Created to deliver a new interpretation of the DNA from sporting coupes of the past with all the advantages of up-to-the-minute technology and materials, provo blends a clean, simple yet muscular exterior with a stunning interior treatment mixing high-tech and luxury materials that will set pulses racing whether on busy city streets or at the race-track. From its steep leading edge featuring an aero-style splitter, carbon-fiber panels and tiny LED cluster front lights, over the long bonnet and sculpted flanks, visor-look windscreen to the sharply cut-off rear treatment (also featuring an aerodynamic splitter with an adjustable vent system to direct airflow), the provo looks every inch a purposeful performer. Clearly a car from Kia, the compact provo which is 3.88-metres long, 1.77-metres wide and 1.35-metres tall, introduces itself with a steep front nose and carbon fiber lower valance that immediately convey a sense of purpose. Hidden behind a single piece of glass is the latest take on the Kia’s ‘tiger nose’ grille treatment linking straight into the Schreyer-inspired headlamp units that are made up of more than 850 tiny LEDs. The programmable LEDs can be used to provide daytime running lights, full beam or even race-style configurations – as well as more humorous and decorative displays to add to provo’s sense of fun! This thin, sharp glass panel is echoed at the rear of provo’s body and separates a purposeful splitter-style lower valance from the long, flat bonnet panel sculpted with twin creases to hint at but not slavishly copy the muscle cars of old. A wrap-around front screen hides the A pillars and frameless doors, giving a visor-style appearance to the cabin glass with the clam shell-like roof floating above. This is divided at the rear by different color sections rising up from the C-Pillars in an almost roll-over bar appearance. Color is used on the provo to enhance the almost-masculine stance with sharp points echoed throughout the design. High-intensity blood-orange accents contrast with the grey-green ‘Storm Metal’ body color to draw the eye to particular aspects of the structure and equipment, while carbon fiber surfaces interplay with traditional materials and high-gloss or anodized aluminum to strengthen the connection to the track cars that inspired provo. Planting provo firmly in touch with the road are distinctive 225/40 19-inch milled-alloy wheels with a traditional ‘cast’ look fixed by single center nuts finished in anodized blood-orange. And with just a 2.53-metre wheelbase, exciting handling and road-holding is guaranteed. Backing up those performance credentials, provo utilizes an ingenious Smart 4WD Hybrid power train. The four cylinder turbocharged 1.6-litre GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine is tuned to deliver is 204 ps rapidly and progressively allowing provo to deliver an injection of speed and performance often absent from the more functional B-segment mainstream. But, this potent internal combustion engine also benefits from a regenerative-powered electric motor driving the rear wheels either automatically when required during cornering and in strong acceleration – giving a power boost of as much as 45 ps – or in a button-activated creep-mode at low speeds to avoid emissions in city traffic or when ‘stealth’ is required. The regenerative system captures its power during braking when in normal use. Moving inside, the Kia Europe Design team was able to let imaginations run free although in typical Kia fashion it delivers clear functionality with exuberant style – essential if provo is to go into production at some point in the future. Opening the two side doors – via flush-fitting push-up electronic handles that operate with a satisfying electric click – reveals that the polished aluminum panels featured in the external sculpted flanks extend to create a relatively high-level two-step sill into the car – cut-away at the leading edge to allow easier ingress and exit. The next surprise is the door construction itself – the doors are made from three individual panels – the outer panel, a carbon-fiber inner panel and a neoprene-covered inner section that also features the Storm Metal body color. The inner door releases are reassuringly solid polished aluminum. The dashboard is made from a single expanse of carbon fiber, but does not extend down to the floor – deliberately – in order to keep the footwells clear and uncluttered except for polished aluminum footrests and pedals. Echoing the sculpted flanks of the provo, the dashboard has a business-like main binnacle containing large analogue dials on a digital display and a smaller central display of other minor gauges, but because the display is digital it can be programmed to offer a selection of functions. Set on the center tunnel are two control hubs – the engine stop-start button and drive selector for the seven-speed DCT transmission and a Multi-Media Interface control. This latter control allows the driver to select a variety of screen displays – as well as controlling infotainment functions. In ‘normal’ mode the driver sees a speedometer, rev counter and sat-nav route instructions. In ‘cruise’ the display is centered on a large scale map, route instructions and a speedometer, while in ‘track’ mode the display features just a large rev counter, a track-map and a lap-timer. There is also a full ‘entertainment’ mode allowing visuals of music, radio and other information. The center-mounted display provides appropriate gauges to the mode with a series of aluminum toggle switches set underneath – including an anodized blood-orange toggle for the hazard warning lights. Modern materials allow the front seat construction to be made from a single wave-like panel running from one door sill to the other – covered in quilted leather. The seat backrests are cleverly mounted on a rotating aluminum track so that instead of folding forward, they spin into the center of the vehicle allowing easy access to the admittedly occasional-use rear seats. Completing the moody cockpit feel are tiny red LEDs set in the multi-layered doors, in the air vents and also in roof to give a low-glow ambient illumination. The roof panel also incorporates aluminum window toggle controls. Whilst no specific production schedule for provo is on the calendar, the arrival later this summer of the new Kia pro_cee’d GT makes it clear that the company remains committed to delivering desirable, dynamic and stunningly attractive vehicles that will deliver affordable enjoyment to real, everyday motorists. The provo could be just such a car. What do you think? What do you think about our new concept car provo? Tell us what you think! Lees hele artikel

A track-inspired, three-door hatchback concept from Kia called the Provo will be heading to the 2013 Geneva Motor Show with images leaked ahead of its official debut. Though it’s just a concept, it’s one of the sportiest and most aggressive vehicles Kia has ever shown. It’s sleek, stylish, and its center-locking wheels give it a race-inspired look. The two-tone paint job works also, with the orange contrasting the pewter-like paint. The subtle chrome accent underneath the door surprisingly blends in, while the concept overall exudes a futuristic yet realistic design. SEE ALSO: 2013 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW PREVIEW The interior packs plenty of chrome trim and touchscreen technology, though details are light at the moment of the leak. Rumors have the Provo concept to be a production-bound, Nissan Juke competitor; though the Provo could be a European-only hatchback offering where that style vehicle remains quite popular. Check back next week when the 2013 Geneva Motor Show kicks off and AutoGuide takes a look at the Provo Concept live. GALLERY: Kia Provo Concept Discuss this story at Kia-Forums.com Lees het hele artikel

Mercedes-Benz topped the list of car brands as rated by women on both purchasing experiences and browsing experiences at dealerships according to a new report. In the survey by Women-Drivers.com, women now account for over half of all car purchases while influencing and initiating an estimated 80 percent of them. The website tracks thousands of consumer reviews with regards to women’s purchasing and browsing experiences and scores are compiled from those reviews as written in 2012. Dealership scores range from 1.0 to 5.0 and those that score 3.8 or higher are recognized as Certified Women-Drivers Friendly. In the purchasing experience at dealerships category, Mercedes topped the list with an almost perfect score of 4.90 while Lexus was not far behind with 4.83. Rounding off the top five was Dodge (4.78), Chrysler (4.76), and Jeep (4.75). Lincoln (4.72), Acura (4.55), Chevrolet (4.51), Buick (4.48), and Honda (4.39) completes the list of the top 10 brands for purchasing experiences at dealerships. As for the browsing experience, Mercedes was top again with a score of 4.59 while Jeep was in second with 4.53. Third place went to Mazda with a 4.38, while fourth was Chevrolet with a 4.24. The fifth spot belonged to Lexus (4.10) while Chrysler (4.07), GMC (4.02), Hyundai (3.99), Acura and Ford (3.97, tied for ninth), and Dodge (3.92) finish off the top ten. Discuss this story at BenzForum.com Lees het hele artikel

State-of-the dealership serves as a flagship example for sustainability and eco-friendly operation Kia Motors South Africa opened its first eco-friendly solar powered 3,620m² dealership in Weltevreden Park on 19 February 2013, which is a first in the local automotive industry, and for Kia dealerships worldwide. Official construction for this new dealership started in January 2012, and was completed one year later on January 2013. The two major areas that contribute to this dealership’s eco-friendly philosophy include power saving in the form of renewable energy and water recycling. The dealership is powered by 288 roof-mounted solar panels, creating a daily maximum of 69kW of power, which is enough to power an average of 22 households per day. The energy generated by these panels is split between three converters, providing three-phase electricity at a capacity of 50 Hertz and 240 Volts. This electricity then goes directly into the load as required. If the supply of electricity exceeds the demand, the remaining electricity is stored in three state-of-the-art battery banks. In line with the dealership’s environmental policy, low wattage luminaires (fluorescent and compact fluorescent lamps) are used in the major areas of the dealership. Standard high base 400-Watt lamps are replaced with 4 x 54-Watt lamps, providing the same light, but using less energy. Occupancy sensors have been installed in most areas of the building which will switch off automatically after a few minutes if no movement is detected, further contributing to the dealerships’ overall energy saving. The second main contributor to the eco-friendliness of Kia Weltevreden is its ability to recycle water through its state-of-the-art filtration system. Rainwater is collected from the facility’s roof and is then distributed into six containers, each with a holding capacity of 10000 litres. This water is then pumped into the car wash where it is used, where after it gets pumped back into the water filtration system which purifies the water from oil, soap or any other dirt. This water is then filtered and pumped back into the containers, to be re-used in the car wash bay. “The Kia brand has shifted to the next level. Not only do we offer consumers a competitive value proposition with our re-designed and re-engineered products, but ventures like our brand new solar powered dealership have given us the platform to become leaders in the industry”, comments David Sieff, National Marketing Manager of Kia Motors South Africa. Lees hele artikel

In the market and shopping for a used car? Consumer Reports has released a list of 20 used vehicles to stay away from as they have a reputation for causing trouble. Listed is a top 20 list of used cars from 2003 to 2012 model year to avoid in alphabetical order. These vehicles had multiple years of much-worse-than-average overall reliability, according to Consumer Reports’ Annual Auto Survey. The BMW 7-Series may be the German automaker’s luxury flagship, but used models aren’t without their issues. From 2001-2008, the 7-Series featured the good ‘ol “Bangle Butt” and sported some highly controversial styling. Early production of that generation was overwhelmed with issues even causing BMW to purchase back some of the vehicles back in 2002-2003. BMW of North America even extended its warranty on all 2002-2003 model year 7-Series vehicles to six years/100,000 miles from the original four years/50,000 miles. Lees het hele artikel

Owners of Hyundai and Kia vehicles with overstated fuel economy ratings will now be given the option for a lump sum settlement payment, or continue with the Korean automaker’s debit card reimbursement plan. Hyundai has agreed to settle on the consumer lawsuits on its overstated fuel economy figures that has affected around 600,000 vehicles sold in America. Unfortunately, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed in the filing, so it’s unclear as to how much the automaker will be paying out. In total, 38 class action lawsuits have been consolidated into a single case, with one of those suits claiming that affected consumers should be paid $775 million. SEE ALSO: Hyundai, Kia Admit to Overstating Gas Mileage on Most Models Last month, Hyundai stated that it had set aside around $225 million to pay for its owner compensation plans while Kia announced that it had around $187 million set aside. Hyundai dealers will notify eligible owners that they can opt for a single lump-sum payment and will inform them of their settlement options. In addition, owners opting for the lump sum can also choose instead a dealer service credit worth 150 percent of their payment, or a new car rebate voucher worth 200 percent of the lump sum. [source: Automotive News] Discuss this story at Hyundai-Forums.com Lees het hele artikel

Ja die brand. Uitlezen heb ik volgende week afspraak voor. Lees het hele artikel

Henk, brand er ook een storingslampje op je dashboard? Lees het hele artikel

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata was updated this year with a larger battery pack that boosted the combined fuel economy by 2 mpg, a change that will also be introduced to the Kia Optima Hybrid. “The Optima Hybrid will receive updates as well (increased electric motor power, enhanced battery and increase in cargo capacity) in its own rights,” a source within Kia told AutoGuide.com. The timeline for when the updates will be coming was not revealed by the representative, but the 2014 model year is likely. If the changes carry over unchanged from the updated Hyundai Sonata, the Kia Optima Hybrid will be rated at 38 mpg combined, 40 mpg highway and 36 mpg city. SEE ALSO: 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Gets More MPG, Costs $200 Less To achieve the increased fuel economy, the Sonata Hybrid gains a larger 10.5 kW hybrid starter generator, a higher output electric motor, and a new 47 kW lithium polymer batter pack. New driving pattern detection and engine on/off logic has been introduced to the Sonata as well, to help optimize power usage. Discuss this story at optimaforums.com Lees het hele artikel

Dan ga ik van het weekend het de bougie's en bougiekabels vervangen.De bobine kan altijd nog, als dat nodig mocht zijn.Ik laat als het gedaan is nog weten of het euvel verholpen is. Lees het hele artikel

Oke henk. Maar ik denk eerlijk gezegd niet dat het aan de bobine ligt (tenzij hij ook uitgelezen is en hierop een storing aangaf) aangezien deze vrijwel nooit kapot gaan.Probleem kan ook in de bougie(kabels) zitten natuurlijk... Lees het hele artikel

Bedankt voor de reactie,Sinds een paar weken problemen met koude start.Hij valt uit als je start of net niet, als je dan meteen wegrijdt dan kan je het gaspedaal induwen maar geen reactie.Hij is erg traag, nu met 70km invoegen op de snelweg is nog snel.In lage toeren stottert hij af en toe wat. Lees het hele artikel

Best zelf te doen. Gewoon een nieuwe erbij houden en de kabels 1 voor 1 loshalen en monteren op de nieuwe. Of even een foto maken van hoe ze nou zitten.Mag ik vragen waarom je ze gaat vervangen? Lees het hele artikel

Hallo,Ik heb een vraag.Ik wil graag de bobine van mijn auto vervangen.Is dit zelf te doen? En klopt het dat er dan een bepaalde aansluit volgorde is?Bvd Lees het hele artikel

Kia is preparing a redesigned Soul for 2014 and AutoGuide’s spy photographers just caught the car testing. The overall shape of the Soul looks like it will remain intact, but the roofline will be lowered and the stance will be made wider. Changes to the front fascia include a higher grille, a larger air intake and new square headlights with an LED strip on top. The dashboard has also been given a redesign, with a new touchscreen and a new layout for the center stack. SEE ALSO: Next Generation Kia Soul Coming in 2014 A 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder is likely to be under the hood in the base model, producing 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0-liter four pot is also a likely option for higher trim models, which will produce 164 hp and 147 lb-ft of torque. The dual-clutch transmission found in the Veloster will probably find its way into the new Soul, while a manual transmission option is also rumored to be in the cards. GALLERY: 2014 Kia Soul Lees het hele artikel

Kia Motors being mentioned in the fashion world isn’t something very common, and it’s always exciting to see when that happens. Because hey – who doesn’t like to be in style? So today we’d like to introduce you to a ferociously stylish Kia Picanto with a help of a leading Argentinean fashion blogger – Titi. Titi drove this Kia Picanto around Punta del Este in Uruguay designed by artist Cynthia Cohen, and she said she couldn’t go anywhere unnoticed with this leopard print compact on the road. After seeing the Picanto she stylishly coordinated a pair of leopard print Adidas with this ride. Let’s take a look. Leopard on leopard? We approve. Photo courtesy of Titi, http://pinkstylelook.blogspot.com.ar/2013/01/un-look-junto-kia-picanto-y-su-verano.html and special thanks to Kia Motors Argentina What do you think? Titi and the leopard Picanto sure make a great match. Do you have a Kia of your own that matches your style? Tell us about it in the comment section below. Learn More See the design story behind this leopard Picanto by artist Cynthia Cohen, along with her other stylish animal-themed Kia rides. See this entry on fashionable Kia Souls designed by South Korea’s first female designer, Nora Noh. Kia Souls Dressed with Iconic Designer’s Signature Fashion Patterns Lees hele artikel

Kia Motors launched its second installment of the “Green Light Project” on January 31st in Salima, Malawi with Salima Governor Ali Phiri, Kia officials, Korea Food for the Hungry International (KFHI) and 500 local residents in attendance. Kia donated three trucks, which will be used for regional support and quality of life improvement such as education, medical services and building a social contribution center. Ali Phiri expressed gratitude for choosing Salima as Kia Motors’ global social responsibility project, and indicated that this initiative will improve Salima’s residential environment and local residents’ ability to stand on their own feet. The Green Light Project is a Kia Motors’ social responsibility program to give hopes and dreams to marginalized people, in hopes of turning their ‘red lights’ in life into ‘green lights’. It started with the first installment of the project in the Madala area of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (East Africa) by building a middle school and donating four Kia K2700 trucks last August. Salima, Malawi is an impoverished area in southeast Africa with just one hospital room available per 1,000 people. Having no transportation makes it even more difficult and most local residents also do not have access to other necessities such as education. The donated three vehicles will be used as: ‘mobile library’ for children after school ‘mobile clinic’ for children’s health checkups and providing nourishment ‘mobile theater’ where they will show educational videos on prevention of diseases and raise health awareness. Also Kia Motors will build and operate a social contribution center by May 2013 to provide local residents and community leader education, medical services for childbirth, and equipment for vehicles. Through this, Kia Motors hopes to provide an environment for sustainable education and give hope to residents for a higher quality of life. Kia plans to continue efforts for people from all over the world through the ‘Green Light Project’, and will utilize Kia Motor’s global network to the fullest in expanding to areas where help is needed. Meanwhile, this Malawi Project will continue forward under the guidance of KFHI, a non government organization that will manage the day-to-day operation. Learn More Read more about our first installment and kickoff of the Green Light Project. Lees hele artikel

Yep. Riem kan van tijd schieten. Waardoor deze storing kan optreden Lees het hele artikel

na foutcode p0340 nokkenas sensor vervangen,probleem was verholpen.na 15.000 km zelfde storing,wederom nokkenas sensor vervangen.Inmiddels weer 15000 km verder en weer dezelfde storing.lijkt toch geen toeval.Distributie is nog niet vervangen,kan het mogelijk hieraan liggen? Lees het hele artikel

Welcome back to the all-you-can-eat Top-10 buffet! You know you want more, and AutoGuide’s happy to serve up another heaping helping of facts, neatly garnished with a sprig of fun. Grab a plate, load it up and tuck in to another generous portion of automotive infotainment. Last week C-Segment sedans battled it out for back-seat supremacy, and the Volkswagen Jetta drove away with top honors. But that was then, this is now. Movin’ on up the vehicular scale, mass-market, three-row crossovers are today’s target. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Compact Sedans with the Largest Back Seats These SUV replacements generally offer fashion-forward families more style and capability than traditional minivans, though not necessarily more interior space. We’ve rounded up 10 popular models, each equipped with a six-cylinder engine and all-wheel-drive. Which one offers the most space to unfortunate passengers forced to ride in the back of the bus? You know what to do… Lees het hele artikel

Blurring the line between Kia’s gorgeous GT concept and a luxury CUV, Kia Motors slipped the silk off the beautiful Cross GT concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. Amid the popping strobes of cameras, the Cross GT stunned onlookers with its elegant yet powerful stance, confirming once again Kia’s now-well-established reputation for world-class design. The Cross GT seamlessly melds high technology with nature, creating a harmonious partnership between driver and vehicle that also respects our global environment. Purely conceptual, the Cross GT reveals Kia’s intentions to potentially offer a larger premium CUV than the current Sorento. While the GT’s lines were penned in Frankfurt, Germany, the Cross GT hails from Kia Design Center America (KDCA) in Irvine, Calif., the house that breathed life into the Track’ster, KV7 and Soul’ster concepts, and most recently the all-new production 2014 Forte sedan. Based on the GT chassis, the Cross GT’s proportions are similar to its rear-drive stablemate with short overhangs, a long wheelbase and an aggressively wide posture. But the Cross GT offers even greater visibility thanks to its taller stature and features all-wheel drive for improved performance and all-weather capability. Drawing inspiration from nature, driven by technology and bathed in gorgeous Fusion Copper, the Cross GT is powered by an efficient hybrid powertrain that looks to reduce the vehicle’s carbon footprint while providing the uncompromising performance that’s expected of a large, luxury crossover. Utilizing a state-of-the-art 3.8-liter V6 hybrid, 8-speed automatic and torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive, the Cross-GT’s powertrain matches the sophistication of the exterior and interior designs. Backing the V6 is an evolution of Kia’s parallel hybrid system, a pancake-shaped electric motor sandwiched between the V6 and transmission. The electric motor is neatly packaged under the rear floor. Combined, the V6 and electric motor produce 500 lb.-ft. of torque and 400 horsepower, with an all-electric range of 20-miles – sufficient to enable exhilarating performance, while delivering superior fuel economy and fuel efficiency. While strictly a concept powertrain, Kia’s proven hybrid technology, combined with all-wheel drive are thought-provoking ideas that may one day find their way into a production vehicle. While clearly a member of the same bloodline as the award-winning Sorento, the Cross GT cuts an even more imposing figure. At 122.0 inches, the Cross GT’s wheelbase is longer than Sorento’s by 15.7 inches, and its overall length of 192.8 inches is 8.4 inches greater than Sorento. The 79.1-inch width is 4.9 inches wider than Sorento, but the Cross GT’s overall height of 65.3 inches is actually 1.6 inches shorter, giving the concept a lower roofline than most large CUVs. The Cross GT is designed to easily accommodate four passengers and their cargo in luxurious surroundings, but the large greenhouse, airy cabin and gently sloping hood give the Cross GT a nimble feel that’s at home in crowded urban environments. What do you think? Like what you see? Tell us what you think about the Cross GT design below. Lees hele artikel

Unveiled today at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, this Optima Hybrid signals the continuation of a 10-month, eight vehicle partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg. An eighth and final vehicle will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one. Influenced by the artistry of comic book visionary, Jim Lee, the Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve as a force for good in the world by raising awareness of DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign, a relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa (www.WeCanBeHeroes.org). “As the most recognized Super Hero in the world, Superman is a symbol of strength and integrity, making him the perfect character to join forces with Kia’s first-ever hybrid to create a customized ride powered by a robust and efficient powertrain,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing and communications, Kia Motors America. “Each of our Justice League-inspired vehicles are remarkable collaborations between the automotive and comic book worlds, and all for a worthy cause. To that, Kia is very proud to be partnering with DC Entertainment to raise awareness for the ‘We Can Be Heroes’ campaign.” Working together, Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine designed and built the Superman-themed Optima Hybrid, a one-of-a-kind Kia that represents the strength and fortitude of the world’s most iconic Super Hero. The Optima has been widened with custom fenders, giving the vehicle a muscular appearance, and it features an adjustable suspension system that can raise and lower the vehicle with the push of a button. The stylized color scheme on the hood spotlights Superman’s unmistakable chest emblem while an eye-catching red paint design extends to the trunk, evoking the look of his crimson cape. The beveled front grille resembles Superman’s belt, and the red headlights glow with the same intensity of his heat vision. The interior of the Optima Hybrid is upholstered with custom materials chosen for their unique appearance and texture to reflect Superman’s impenetrable battle armor. And Superman’s iconic “S” shield is integrated into the seats and steering wheel to give it the right heroic touch. “This joint effort to raise awareness for the ‘We Can Be Heroes’ giving campaign through Justice League-inspired cars has proven to be a huge hit with both comic fans and car aficionados,” stated Amit Desai, senior vice president of franchise management, DC Entertainment. “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Kia to bring the latest addition, the Superman-inspired Optima Hybrid, to fans in Chicago and beyond.” As Kia’s sales have grown, so has the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, and the Superman-themed Optima furthers those efforts with two video screens in the front-seat headrests that will raise awareness about the worst hunger crisis in 60 years by featuring a custom “We Can Be Heroes” video that demonstrates how one small act can make anyone a hero. Learn More Another force to be dealt with, Kia’s Batman inspired Optima: Become a Superhero in this Batman-Inspired Optima Meet rest of the Justice League gang: Four More Justice League Members Join Kia’s Superhero Lineup What do you think? Are we missing any superhero car we should be customizing right this minute? Tell us your ideas below. Lees hele artikel

A couple weeks ago our Top 10 target was the large-sedan segment. We looked at a diverse lineup of full-figured four doors, comparing them based on their theoretical maximum range. We multiplied the number of gallons in their respective fuel tanks by each of their highway economy ratings. SEE ALSO: Top 10 Large Sedans With the Longest Range Against all expectations the Volkswagen Passat TDI drove away with top honors, and it did so by a wide margin. It wasn’t just the comparison’s valedictorian; it skipped two grades took all AP classes and still wound up with a GPA of 4.2. This diesel-powered “People’s Car” can devour nearly 800 miles on a single tank! On the other hand, today’s big idea is small. We’re examining cars at the opposite end of the spectrum, specifically C-Segment sedans. We’re comparing a crowd of popular compacts based on, wait for it… rear-seat legroom! Which popularly priced car offers the most-spacious back bench? Which one will give an agoraphobic night terrors? Click ahead for all the details you can stomach. Lees het hele artikel

Kia showed off the shocking Cross GT concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show yesterday, previewing a potential luxury crossover from the Korean automaker. Under the hood of the Cross GT is a hybrid powertrain that pairs a V6 engine with an electric motor for a total of 400 hp and 500 lbs-ft of torque. That’s paired with a 8-speed transmission to keep fuel economy in check. Inside the Cross GT has an earth-tone color theme, inspired by equestrian saddles. VIEW COMPLETE 2013 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW COVERAGE This funky Kia concept was made by the same group of designers in California who made the Track’ster, KV7 and Soul’ster concepts. Get a closer look at the Kia Cross GT Concept by watching the video below. Get the Flash Player to see this player. GALLERY: Kia Cross GT Concept Lees het hele artikel