All-New 2010 Kia Forte Compact Sedan

Kia Motors' New Compact Sedan Hits the Streets of Seattle

# Kia Motors introduces sleek, muscular and fuel-efficient compact sedan
# New Forte effortlessly blends style with comfort and safety features

SEATTLE, June. 12, 2009 -- Following the successful launch of the all-new, widely acclaimed 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle in Miami earlier this year, Kia Motors America (KMA) today launched the all-new 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan in Seattle. The Emerald City, known for its innovation and creativity, provides the perfect backdrop for Forte, a true pioneering player in its segment. On sale in North America early this summer, Forte is the first of its kind to offer consumers an impressive combination of standard safety, comfort and convenience features.

"On the heels of several successful vehicle debuts and introductions, Forte finds itself in good company and follows in the stylish steps of Borrego and Soul," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. "With a heavy emphasis on design, Forte sedan is poised to help consumers make that emotional connection with their vehicle by offering the entire package of style, safety features and value."

Dynamic Exterior Styling

With aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. Sporting a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a wide, stable stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new compact sedan will start at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the Forte EX begins at $15,795. Moving up to the SX trim, pricing begins at $17,195.

Smooth and Seamless Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte taut, responsive handling, a smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned, Kia-developed suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on S-turn laden roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Forte's front-wheel-drive unibody structure employs an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the energetic essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Modern and High-Tech Interior

With one of the roomiest interiors in the segment, Forte boasts a spacious 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte's trunk also offers a best-in-class 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, perfect for luggage and weekend getaways or around-town grocery shopping.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte makes every effort to incorporate style and function, starting with a crisp, high-visibility center stack and a driver-oriented three-gauge instrument cluster exuding a stylish red glow. Forte continues to pamper its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; tweeter speakers; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX models also offer an optional Premium Package that includes a power moonroof and 16-inch alloy wheels, or a Leather Package that includes leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmers, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim.

The SX model brings even more standard features, including a unique black interior with sport cloth fabric adorned with red stitching, a telescoping steering column, Supervision™ gauge cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim and pedals. The SX model also offers the optional power moonroof and leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmers.

Lively Performance and Power

Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing a class-leading 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173³ horsepower -- more powerful and with better fuel economy than the Mazda3s and Corolla XRS.

Four transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

Offering impressive fuel economy, the 2.0-liter engine offers a competitive 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated to either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, while the 2.4-liter engine turns out a notable 22/32 mpg when paired with the six-speed manual and 23/31 with the five-speed automatic.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available on the EX model with the 2.0-liter powerplant, includes the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering (MPDS), "smart" alternator, silica tires and aero enhancements. These improvements result in 27/36 mpg and a class-leading combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.

Jamming Sound System

Forte comes with a ground-breaking combination of standard convenience features, starting with a standard four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service†. Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages add a standard six-speaker surround-sound audio system.

Forte's advanced audio system also includes Speed Dependent Volume Control (SDVC), which automatically increases the volume at higher speeds for better listening enjoyment, and Power Bass, which automatically enhances the bass response and tone.

Standard Kia Motors Safety Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as front active headrests, dual advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, side impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, four-wheel disc brakes with an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Industry-Leading Warranty Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

Kia Motors Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 13 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul and Forte further complement the lineup as they arrive in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte Koup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors America Introduces Forte Koup at 2009 New York International Auto Show

Kia Adds Design-Focused Two-Door Coupe to Forte Lineup

# Newest vehicle offers distinctive Kia style, value and safety features
# Sporty features and capabilities make Kia's first-ever two-door a true driver's car

NEW YORK, April 9, 2009 -- With performance-inspired, aggressive and sleek styling, Kia Motors America (KMA) today globally debuted the 2010 Forte Koup production vehicle during a press conference at the 2009 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). Joining the Forte family in the KMA lineup, the company's first-ever two-door coupe embodies the brand's current bold design direction first seen on the concept version of the Soul urban passenger vehicle in 2006.

"On the heel of the introductions of the Soul and Forte sedan, Forte Koup represents the next exciting step in the transformation of Kia design and offers a blend of sporty and emotional appeal," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. "We believe our new design evolution coupled with standard Kia value and safety features will continue to attract customers to the Kia brand."

Curb Appeal

Based on the design styling of the KOUP concept vehicle shown during last year's show, Forte Koup's fluid lines and balanced proportions, meant to evoke an emotional driving experience, closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile. Available in two trim levels (EX and SX), Forte Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design. Even from behind, Forte Koup exudes attitude with slim, wrapped tail lights, duel exhaust outlets and a rear diffuser.

Athleticism and convenience are standard for the Forte Koup EX with body-color bumpers, power heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and 16-inch alloy wheels outfitted with P205/55R16 tires. The SX trim offers an even sportier profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires.

Smooth and Sporty Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 176.4 inches, an overall width of 69.5 inches and overall height of 55.1 inches, Forte Koup is slightly shorter in length and height than the Forte sedan, but still boasts comfortable seating for up to five passengers. Koup's lowered stance provides better aerodynamics for those looking for a more exciting ride.

The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte Koup better handling, smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned suspension developed to optimize responsive handling on curvy roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, Forte Koup utilizes the same platform as the sedan, with an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling to help provide the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. The SX trim also comes with a sport-tuned suspension providing for a firmer ride with reduced body roll and improved handling.

Lively Performance

More powerful than the Honda Civic Coupe, Ford Focus Coupe or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe, Forte Koup EX is driven by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, more than the Scion tC. Expanding upon the dynamic look and feel, Forte Koup's engine hums powerfully courtesy of the dual exhaust outlets outfitted on both EX and SX trims.

Like the Forte sedan, two transmission options are available for both 2010 Forte Koup models: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

Forte Koup fuel economy is not sacrificed for sportiness, as both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway). The 2.0-liter engine offers 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated with either the five-speed manual transmission or the optional four-speed automatic. Those opting for the more powerful 2.4-liter engine also can expect an economical 22/32 mpg with the six-speed manual and 23/31 when paired with the five-speed automatic transmission.

Striking Interior

With a surprisingly spacious interior for a two-door coupe, Forte Koup provides a comfortable 90.7 cubic feet of interior volume, larger than the 2009 Honda Civic Coupe, Scion tC or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe. Driver and passengers have an impressive 38.7 inches of headroom and 43.6 inches of legroom in the front seats and 35.3 inches of headroom and 33.9 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Trips to the beach and weekend getaways will be a breeze with ample cargo space of 12.6 cubic feet, enough to accommodate luggage and belongings of all passengers.

Forte Koup continues the luxury treatment with a host of standard interior features, beginning with supportive, nicely appointed sport seats outfitted with more aggressive bolsters on the seat cushion and seat back for optimal comfort. Air conditioning, a driver's seat height adjuster, adjustable rear seat headrests, tilt steering column, rear defroster, center console with dual cup holders, map lamps and variable intermittent wipers are also just some of the myriad amenities standard on every vehicle. Also standard on all models are power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls for added convenience.

Progressing to the SX trim offers additional standard touches such as: unique sport cloth seats with vibrant red stitching, a tilt and telescoping steering column, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, metal pedals and metal finish trim and a Supervision™ gauge cluster with trip computer further enhancing its energetic personality. Both EX and SX trims also offer an optional power moonroof.

An optional Leather Package is available for both EX and SX trims. When combined with the EX trim the Leather Package adds leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and heated seats. When paired with the SX trim it includes leather and heated seats in addition to the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

Superior Sound

For inside entertainment while cruising down the road, Forte Koup comes with a standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service¹. For added listening convenience steering wheel-mounted audio controls also come standard on all models, as well as USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte Koup offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte Koup is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte and Forte Koup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Soul Finds 'New Way to Roll'

Kia Motors America is ready for its close-up, prepping an expansive ad campaign for its new crossover vehicle, Soul, that begins Friday.

Tagged "Soul. A new way to roll," the 60-second spot will play in movie theaters served by National Cinemedia and Screenvision, with the latter buy targeting cinemas located on or near 50 college campuses.

Created by David & Goliath, Los Angeles, the ad depicts a computer-generated Levittown populated by giant hamsters. As the rodents spin in place on their hamster wheels, waiting for the traffic light to change, the drudgery of their gridlocked exercise is suddenly interrupted by the arrival of a red Kia Soul. When the car pulls up to the intersection, the passenger-side window rolls down to reveal a posse of three hipster hamsters who are clearly enjoying their ride.

The theater ad will run through April 1, whereupon the print and television campaign will kick off, said Tim Chaney, director, marketing communications, KMA.

"We're doing a buy across the major networks and cable, and it's a nice balance of prime time and some late night," Chaney said. "Because we're going after the younger demo, we're doing quite a bit of cable." Kia's cable buy includes Adult Swim, Discovery Channel, MTV and Comedy Central.

The carmaker has also lined up a major integrated sponsorship, buying time on the 2009 MTV Movie Awards. In addition to 30-second spots, the Soul will also play a part in the night's festivities, Chaney said.

With details still being ironed out, Kia did not offer particulars about the print campaign. Chaney said print ads would run through the end of 2009, across a range of youth-oriented lifestyle, entertainment and music titles, as well as in a selection of niche publications.

On the digital side, Kia is covering a vast expanse of the online waterfront, buying into search and social media.

While some automakers are taking a more somber approach to marketing their 2009 lines, Kia will present a playful, upbeat note throughout the Soul campaign. "There's a lot of heavy stuff going on in the world right now and it's starting to seep into advertising," Chaney said. "We just didn't want to get caught up in that. We think the people who are going to be drawn to Soul are more likely to respond to a lighthearted message."

In addition to showcasing the Soul's fuel efficiency (31 MPG) and low price (MSRP starting under $14,000), the theater spot also emphasizes the car's sound system, which features pulsating lights that twitter and flash to the beat.

"We don't want to do a traditional car ad, particularly because of how marketing savvy this target audience is," Chaney said. "We don't think we'd get anywhere with them if we were to just hit them with a lot of car specs."

While Kia did not disclose the media budget for Soul, Chaney characterized the overall buy as "pretty significant ... right up there with the most we've ever spent on a launch." One major difference between the Soul offensive and those that came before it is that broadcast will play a much smaller role this time around.

Kia spent $302 million on measured media last year, up 36 percent from $222 million in 2007, per Nielsen Monitor-Plus.

"A new way to roll" heralds the first of a number of launches Kia has planned between now and 2011. "The new face of Kia is all about style and personalization," Chaney said. "The Soul launch symbolizes the first wave of design-oriented products we have in store in the next few years."

-By Anthony Crupi, Mediaweek

First Look: 2010 Kia Forte

New Name, Familiar Package

There's a new Kia and town, and its name is Forte -- finally putting an end to months of Internet speculation surrounding the official moniker of the long-awaited Spectra successor. Now that the name game's out of the way, upon initial examination, the Forte badge is affixed to a familiar Kia package, but with lots of welcome additions.

The first thing you'll likely notice about the new 2010 Kia Forte (pronounced FOR - TAY) is its styling, which appears to crib several cues from competitors Honda and Toyota. While a clear departure from the outgoing Spectra, the new look is relatively conservative from a design standpoint and likely won't prove controversial. The new car's grown an inch in wheelbase, length, and width, but the Spectra's MacPherson-strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension are still there and the interior volume has changed less than a cubic inch. Cargo volume is up though to 14.7 cu ft from 12.2 cu ft.

The lack of dramatic change to the new Kia sedan's underpinnings is not necessarily a bad thing, though. While we found the top-model Spectra SX a bit unfriendly to ragged-edge driving as part of a sub-compact competition back in 2005, we lauded its comfort and smooth operation around town and on the highway. Its 2.0L four-cylinder was a bit underpowered, though, and Kia has rectified that in the Forte. It now makes 156 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque, up 18 hp and 8 lb-ft over the Spectra. Mated to a four-speed auto or five-speed manual, the power bump should make the Forte a bit livelier than the Spectra.

Of course, smooth rides and good power aren't always enough for some people. They want more, and for them, the Forte keeps the SX trim level. The SX receives a more-potent 2.4L DOHC inline four-cylinder engine that makes 173 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque, which is more powerful than the Toyota Corolla XRS and nips at the heels of the Honda Civic Si. A standard six-speed manual transmission or option five-speed automatic with Sportmatic should make this car a strong performer in its class, and we hope the performance-tuned suspension will iron out some of the Spectra SX's foibles. One place the SX didn't need much help was in the braking department, but nevertheless, Kia has upped the Forte's game with 11.8-in. disc brakes up front, nearly a full inch larger than on other models.

Heavy praise was also heaped upon the Spectra's interior, and the Forte looks to pick up where that car left off. All models keep the Spectra's six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column and dual 12-volt outlets in the center console. You'll also be treated to an updated four-speaker stereo with a USB input added next to the auxiliary input, standard Bluetooth connectivity and Sirius Satellite Radio with a free three-month subscription.

Step up from the base LX to the mid-range EX, though, and you'll be treated to a slew of amenities like power doors and windows, A/C, cruise control, keyless entry, dual front and rear cupholders, 16-in. wheels (up from 15-in. on the LX), steering wheel controls for the cruise and stereo, and a more-powerful six-speaker sounds system. Leather seats and a sunroof are optional. Opt for the sporty SX model and you'll also pick up a telescoping steering, 17-in. wheels and cloth sport seats with red stitching.

If you're more interested in saving gas than carving corners, the Forte has you covered there as well. LX and EX models will get an estimated 23 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the four-speed auto box and 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway with the five-speed manual. Helping the Forte achieve 36 mpg on the highway is a special Fuel Economy Package that mates the 2.0L engine to the five-speed automatic, replaces the standard power steering with a Motor Drive system, adds low rolling-resistance tires and special aerodynamic bodywork. Even without the Fuel Economy Package, the Forte's fuel economy numbers are up as much as two mpg city and six mpg highway over the Spectra.

Along with the updated suspension and passenger amenities, Kia has also carried over the Spectra's long list of safety features. Every Forte will come with four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, active headrests, driver and passenger front air bags, front side airbags, side-curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. New for the Forte are an electronic stability control system and a traction control system.

When the Forte hits the road in late spring, it will also come with Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty, a 5-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty, and a 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but expect at least a small premium over the Spectra's $13,700 starting price.

By Scott Evans
MotorTrend.com

Kia Motors America Introduces All-New Kia Forte

Kia's New Compact Sedan Makes its Debut at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show

# Kia Motors debuts sporty and fuel-efficient compact sedan
# New Forte blends impressive new style with Kia Motors quality and value

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 -- On the heels of announcing the widely acclaimed, all-new Kia Soul, Kia Motors America (KMA) today introduced the all-new 2010 Kia Forte (pronounced for-tay) compact sedan at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. Forte blends Kia's exciting new design direction under the tutelage of Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors' chief design officer, with a multitude of standard features. The 2010 Kia Forte will go on sale in North America in late spring or early summer of 2009.

"Kia Motors' product line is rapidly evolving and the Forte compact sedan is another head turner," said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, KMA and KMMG. "The Forte is an aggressively stylish blend of comfort and practicality -- and with a host of standard features it provides the great quality and value that consumers have come to expect from Kia vehicles."

Style in Motion

Sporting stylish and aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. With a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a confident stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The sportier SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires and a rear spoiler.

Smooth and Comfortable Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers one of the roomiest interiors in its class with seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte better handling, smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on curvy roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, Forte utilizes an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the sporty essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Attractive and Practical Interior

Forte boasts a class-leading 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte's trunk also offers an impressive 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, one of the largest in its class, perfect for luggage for weekend getaways.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte pampers its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX and SX models also include standard cruise control with an optional sunroof and leather-trimmed seats. Also standard on SX models is a telescoping steering column as well as sport cloth seats adorned with red stitching, further enhancing its energetic persona.

Peppy Performance

Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower -- more than the most powerful versions of the Toyota Corolla¹ or even the 2010 Mazda3.

Two transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available with the 2.0-liter powerplant, will include the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering and low-rolling resistance tires with aero enhancements. These improvements result in class-leading combined fuel economy of 36 mpg (highway).

Music that Moves

Forte comes with a standard four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service. Standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages also add a standard six speaker surround audio system and steering wheel controls.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control (TCS), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

2009 Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors America Showcases The Soul'ster Concept at 2009 North American International Auto Show

Open-Air Concept Heats Up the Show

# Distinctive design portrays style, practicality and efficiency
# Kia Motors America design team delivers another high-style concept

DETROIT, Mich., January 11, 2009 -- Bringing a sunny beach feeling into Cobo Center on a cold day in January, Kia Motors America (KMA) arrives at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit with the Soul'ster open-air concept, a variation of the highly anticipated Soul, arriving at Kia Motors retailers this spring. With young buyers' budgets in mind, the Soul'ster is an efficient front-drive car based on the production model Soul, recently introduced at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

"Soul'ster delivers something new, intriguing and relevant to today's buyers -- a fun, affordable convertible for active people who like to share good times with friends," said Tom Kearns, chief designer, KMA. "Defying categorization and providing utility and practicality, the Soul'ster exhibits distinctive design cues and satisfies multiple consumer needs."

Stylin' Soul'r Yellow Design

A two-door concept with roadster roots, the brightly colored Soul'r yellow Soul'ster projects a hip industrial look with screw borders, reminiscent of a rivet design found on a fighter jet. The windshield is shortened for a sportier and hunkered down appearance. A two-piece top enables passengers to expose the front and back seating areas independently, using elbow-grease technology. The roll bar serves a dual purpose and includes a place for the slider tracks, while providing protection not found in traditional convertibles.

With a unique face, Soul'ster has a tough but refined character. The toughness is expressed through details like the anodized skid-pad insert, which matches the fender vents, roll bar header and wheels.

Soul'ster's attitude incorporates lighting that shines through with an amber glow under the headlamps. The side vents, side-mirror turn signals, unique LED headlamps, fog and tail lamps incorporate blue shades.

The energetic, distinctive look carries from front to rear with dual chrome exhaust and polished aluminum exhaust tips featuring carbon-fiber interior sleeves. The large 19-inch, five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels perfect the Soul'ster's appearance. Regardless of Soul'ster being viewed from front, back or side, it offers innovative perspectives derived from the original Soul.

Inside Out

Once inside, Soul'ster takes even more progressive variations from Soul beginning with the new four-passenger seating design, a diversion from Soul's five-passenger arrangement, lending spacious versatility for long summer weekends. The surprisingly flexible Soul'ster provides real seating for two in the front with comfortable seating for two more adults in the back. Fold-flat passenger and rear seats combined with ample headroom make this the perfect car for social outings outdoors and on the beach with friends. Making basic features hot, its crank-up windows are a purposefully key interior design element as are the dashboard-integrated audio speakers.

Adding to the edgy design scheme, the non-floor-mounted cantilevered seats project the illusion of being suspended in space when viewed from the side allowing for increased rear legroom. Storage compartments below each of the fold-flat rear seats, offer room for myriad cargo needs. In addition to the spacious cargo area, dual storage compartments also can be found in the rear and underneath the cargo hold area.

All Revved Up

With young buyers in mind, Soul'ster offers an agile, smooth and spirited ride. As with its Soul cousin, Soul'ster's can be made available with a myriad of engine choices depending upon each market's needs. A 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which produces approximately 120 horsepower. For those looking for a little more power, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available with either the five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, producing approximately 140 horsepower. Fuel economy for both engines is estimated at 30 or more miles per gallon. Other markets might choose the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 124 horsepower or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel.

2009 Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full size sedan, purposeful Optima mid size sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the all-new and affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. marketshare. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Automobile.com: 2010 Kia Soul Preview

So what do you think of Kia's new Soul? Great name, no? I saw the production version in São Paulo, Brazil, at the largest auto show in the South American region last month, and the Soul was a major hit there, as the concept was when I watched it roll onto the Kia stage in Frankfurt the year before, and Detroit's North American International Auto Show in 2006, where I took in its official debut.

Hardly changed from concept form, it's really the ideal car for the current market situation. Compact, yet extremely roomy inside for five in comfort, with a little luggage to boot, thrifty on fuel yet apparently sporty enough to be enjoyable on the open road, and extremely stylish in its cubic configuration. Still, it's unfair to dub it a "cube" as it's more gracefully penned than the Nissan that goes by that boxy name, and much more alluring than the Scion XBOX... er... xB, or Honda's rather odd Element. No, while totally cool in its own right, I think that the Soul will attract a wide range of buyers from all over the spectrum, and not just among the young and hip crowd. It makes sense, really. The same attributes that make a vehicle attractive to ski and surf minded young adults make it ideal for empty nesters hitting the nursery (horticultural nursery... of course) on weekends or picking up the grandkids for a day at the cottage.

"The Soul is for those who love individuality but don't like to be categorized by finding the next best thing," offered Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "Indicative of the new design direction of KMA, Soul is an attractive and customizable vehicle for those looking for something with a little more personality than other vehicles on the market today."

I've taken the opportunity to sit inside and look around at the various auto shows the Soul has shown up at, and it offers stylish seating fabrics complementing its bright, fun exterior colors, while a clean, uncluttered dash ensconces attractive three-dial instrumentation and LCD illumination. A stylish floating centre stack design shows off a straight-forward, simple to operate HVAC system and high-grade stereo interface.

That audio system gets an AM/FM/CD/MP3 head unit enhanced with satellite radio, plus USB input jacks can be found in the centre stack with full iPod controllability through the stereo or via the steering wheel controls. Now, that's what I like. Even better, an Audio Upgrade Package can be had on top-trim levels that adds a centre speaker, a subwoofer and a 315-watt external amplifier. Ooh, I like this even more. Good audio is the way to my heart, and pocketbook, unfortunately.

The more powerful stereo can only be had in the two nicest trim levels, Soul! and Soul sport (lower case intentional). The little compact people mover is available in two other trims too, mind you, the base model simply designated Soul and the second-rung version Soul+. Even in base guise it gets plenty of standard features, including black door handles and side mirrors, body-colored bumpers, a rear wiper/washer and 15-inch steel wheels wrapped in P195/65R15 tires. Not a bad start. A little more money will get you a Soul+, which adds keyless remote entry, solar glass, privacy glass on the rear side and rear windows, body-color handles and power side mirrors along with 16-inch alloy rims covered in P205/55R16 rubber. The Soul+ also boasts standard air conditioning, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and tweeter speakers to enhance the stereo's sound. Soul+ buyers can opt for an audio upgrade package, a power moonroof and floor mats that are standard on the Soul! Additionally, that third-rung Soul! gets fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels riding on P225/45R18 tires, plus it benefits from a special beige and black interior with cloth seats and metal-finish accents. The abovementioned audio option can be added on, and is also extra with the Soul sport which additionally ups the ante with a sport-tuned suspension, metal foot pedals, red and black interior trim with sport cloth seats and metal-finish accents throughout, extended side sills, a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels and unique front and rear fascias. It's the ultimate in Korean Soul.

I mentioned that it seats five, which is hardly unusual, but Kia's put together a truly flexible seating and storage system that should intrigue buyers. The seats fold in a variety of ways for optimizing people and cargo carrying duties, the rearmost split 60/40, while the car features fourteen "storage zones" for stowing all of your knickknacks.

Kia introduced the Soul to North America at the Los Angeles auto show, not far from where it was initially designed, and again it stole the hearts of show goers. The metallic green color chosen for the photo release that preceded its LA intro is more subdued than Kia has shown other markets, although it is expected a full palette will be available wherever it is sold.

While it was previously reported that the North American Soul would deliver more power than the base models of other markets with only the 140+horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder being offered, fuel efficiency has been given top priority and a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four will be the standard engine in the base five-speed manual-equipped model. Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport models will get the peppier powerplant, which should also deliver thrifty mileage in the neighborhood of 30 mpg. Additionally, a five-speed manual will be standard equipment, with a four-speed automatic optional. I've tried similar powertrain combinations in other Kia models, and the 2.0-liter makes for sporty performance and thrifty fuel economy, while the latter should be more than adequate for those more price sensitive.

Rather than build the Soul on an existing platform, Kia has developed an all-new front-drive architecture with an especially long wheelbase for optimizing interior room. It measures 100.4 inches wheel to wheel, while the entire car stretches 161.6 inches in length. It's also 70.3 inches wide and 63.4 inches tall.

With a long wheelbase, the concern would always be torsional rigidity, or the lack thereof. Kia offset this problem with more than seventy-percent high-tensile steel, for maintaining overall structural strength without adding weight, so the handling, ride quality and overall refinement is good, as is crash worthiness.

Such safety concerns can be left curbside as over and above its rigid body structure the Soul will be well prepared for any potential accident. Each model, regardless of trim level gets front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). What's more, ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), and rear discs are standard on Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport models. The base Soul gets drums.

A car's handling, making it capable of avoiding an accident in the first place, can often be its most important safety consideration. On that note, the Soul mounts a fully independent suspension setup on a front sub-frame, with MacPherson struts and coil springs that should deliver good response to steering input. In the rear, a sub-frame is the basis for a transverse torsion beam axle with trailing arms, optimizing ride quality and maximizing the cargo area.

Hauling things in mind, Kia will offer a number of OEM-backed add-ons available at the dealer level so that Soul customers can personalize their vehicles. Items include the usual stuff that a Scion dealer would offer its xB customers, such as aerodynamic body kits and exterior garnishes that Kia calls Soul Essentials, plus roof rails, an exterior cargo box, two different bike carriers, a ski rack, various floor mats, a cargo mat, car net, trailer hitch, sunroof visor, and many more typical accessory items. But then there are a few oddities like an SUV-like roof-top basket, like something off of Land Rover Defender, a stylish red and silver engine shroud, a B-pillar applique, and body decals. Performance accessories can be had from the dealer level too, such as anti-sway bars, lowering springs, a cold air intake system, chromed cat back exhaust system, billet aluminum oil cap, aluminum fuel door, a set of aluminum foot pedals, and wheels of course, in silver and black plus red and black designs. The accessories shown are exclusive to Canada, although the US should get similar options.

The Soul is expected to arrive in Kia dealerships across the country in the spring of 2009, with the South Korean brand hoping to attract an entirely new type of customer, in similar fashion to how Toyota widened its reach with Scion. Expect to see a lot of Souls on the streets next year, as it's the right kind of car for the times, combining great styling, endless personalization options, excellent fuel economy and no shortage of interior room for all your gear, all for a price that is bound to lure in would-be buyers.

Automobile.com

Check out the Kia Soul

Is Kia cool?

Maybe not, but it's got Soul, a funky new funmobile designed to establish some street cred among the young.

The Soul train starts next year when the South Korean carmaker sends the wagon out to compete with the boxy Nissan Cube, a co-star at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show. Already circling the block are Toyota Scion's Xb, Honda's Element, a couple of counter-intuitive crates that seem to have captured the fancy of fashion-resistant trend setters.

"The Soul is for those who love individuality but don't like to be categorized by finding the next best thing," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing for Kia Motors America. "Indicative of the new design direction of KMA, Soul is an attractive and customizable vehicle for those looking for something with a little more personality than other vehicles on the market today."

Cars like the Soul are sometimes called "multi-purpose vehicles" because they're not quite sport utilities and typically taller than the compact or subcompact wagons. They've also been called "urban crossovers." Members of the segment fit somewhere between the Chrysler PT Cruiser and the Honda CRV.

Unveiled as a concept vehicle at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in 2006, Soul features an angled window line, rounded nose, large flared back headlamps and chrome grille. The large windshield and the tapered roofline seem to emphasize the forward view. The beltline from the front wheel arch creates a subtle wedge shape and continues under and around the rear side window.

The production version of the car, designed in Southern California and manufactured in South Korea, is expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms in April.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport, the five-door model will be priced "in the teens," according to Kia, so expect prices to be somewhere in the mid-teens so that teens will be able to afford it.

Two engines will be offered, both 4-cylinder versions. The base 1.6-liter engine produces a meager 122 horsepower, while the 2-liter version measures up to 142-horsepower. That can't be too overwhelming, but matches the Nissan Cube's power output at the base level.

The base transmission in the Soul is a five-speed stick, but you can upgrade to a four-speed automatic.

While the Soul won't blow anyone's doors off, fuel economy - not yet announced - should be much more encouraging. The comparable Nissan Cube is expected to get more than 30 miles per gallon with the stick shift.

The base model has black door handles and side mirrors, body-colored bumpers, rear wiper/washer and 15-inch steel wheels fitted with P195/65R15 tires.

The Soul+ adds keyless remote entry, solar glass, privacy glass on the rear side and rear windows body-color handles and power side mirrors along with 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55R16 tires.

The Soul! adds power moonroof, fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels furnished with P225/45R18 tires. Soul sport features side sills, rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels, unique front and rear fascias, wholly personifying the sporty, urban look Soul embodies.

Soul's functional features include 14 storage zones, tall doors for easy access and a high seating position. Buyers can select interiors with different colors, fabrics and audio system packages.

Interior decoration is minimized by an uncluttered dashboard with a three-dial instrument cluster, LCD illumination and a floating center stack design.

The top audio system comes with Sirius Satellite Radio and three months complimentary service . Standard auxiliary and USB input jacks also can be found in the center console with full iPod controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls.

Additional standard interior features include a tilt steering column, power door locks, power windows with driver's side auto-down, map lamps and a rear wiper and washer. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat offers multiple seating and cargo arrangements depending on driver and passenger needs.

Soul+ offers additional standard features including air conditioning, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, privacy glass and tweeter speakers. Available upgrades for the Soul+ trim include an audio upgrade package power moonroof and floor mats, which become standard on the Soul!. Advancing to the Soul! adds beige-black interior trim and cloth seats and metal-finish trim.

Safety features include front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. An antilock brake system with electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, and rear disc brakes are standard on Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport models.

Soul's warranty covers the power train for 10-years or 100,000 miles, while providing five-years or 60,000-mile coverage for the other parts.

Richard Williamson
Scripps Howard News Service

Next-Generation 2010 Kia Sorento Bound for Geneva, then Showrooms

Kia's latest crossover offering will continue moving ahead with production despite a global auto sales climate where midsize and large crossovers and SUVs aren't exactly selling like hotcakes. The next-generation Kia Sorento, redesigned for 2010, will move away from the traditional body-on-frame chassis on which the current Sorento rides in favor of unibody architecture.

Thanks to the unibody chassis, the Sorento will get better handling, ride quality, and fuel economy due to the lighter chassis. The move to a unibody chassis has been part of an industry trend with increased focus on a more responsive ride and better fuel economy. The downside to the unibody chassis includes losing towing and off-road capabilities due to a slightly less durable chassis.

A wide range of diesel and regular gas powerplants is being planned for placement into the new Sorento due to its future global availability. Final engine decisions will depend on the market. The Sorento's current gasoline engine choices include a 3.0L V-6 making 240 hp and a 3.8L V-6 with 260 hp. Still up in the air is Kia's decision on continuing to offer the European-spec gasoline 2.4L inline-four engine that is available on the current model.

Diesel choices benefit from Hyundai's newly developed "R" series turbodiesel engines, with the availability of three different diesel engines. Two four-cylinder variations will be available in either a 2.0L making 184 hp or a 2.2L making 200 hp. Both four-cylinder variations can be mated to either a six-speed automatic or a manual transmission. The third choice will be a new 3.0L V-6 CRDi making 240 hp. There have also been rumors that Kia might offer a 2WD variation on the Sorento on top of the standard 4WD layout.

Other changes to the Sorento include an expansion in size, giving it an option for seven seats. The interior is influenced by the Hyundai Forte sedan, and the exterior has been slightly modeled after Hyundai's "boxy" KND-4 concept.

The 2010 Kia Sorento will make its global debut at the 2009 Geneva motor show in March 2009. It is then expected to go on sale immediately in Korea, with releases in Europe, North America, and other international markets following in mid-to-late 2009.

By Benson Kong
Source: Carscoop

2010 Kia Soul - First Drive Review

Scion faces competition from... Kia?

The new Kia Soul begs one big question: Is this thing cool?

The Soul is a five-door hatch about a half-foot shorter than a Scion xB, one of the youth-market vehicles that likely inspired Kia to enter this little niche (the Honda Element is another, ditto the Nissan Cube; the all-new version of the latter will arrive here next spring as a 2009 model). The Soul began life as a very cool concept car in 2006, but the powerful, big-haunch look and a lot of the trick, appealing aspects have been finessed out in the obligatory production compromise.

Looks are the whole ballgame here, because beneath the radically angled window line and the buff fender bulges and the seat fabric that glows in the dark with the word "soul" is basically a good-sized but unspectacular economy box.

Two Hearts for the Soul

The five-place "urban crossover vehicle" goes on sale here in March. Two engines will be offered: a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine making 122 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter four putting out 142 horses and 137 lb-ft. The smaller engine comes only with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the larger has an optional four-speed automatic. A four-wheel-drive option would have been cool, but no go: it's front-drive only.

The 2825-pound Soul is built on a modified Kia Rio subcompact platform. Its 100.4-inch wheelbase pays real roominess dividends in the back seat, with six-footers having enough headroom to place a fist between their scalps and the headliner. From a comfort standpoint, this little vehicle is a winner.

Kia hopes to price its li'l spunkster in the "low teens," which we interpret subjectively to be start-at-14 and quit-about-17 grand, so kids, it's not gonna look like an Audi inside. Our test car's red dashboard was hard to the touch, but the fabric seats pass muster, the cluster gauges are marvelously sharp and easy to read, and nobody started whining about the center stack before the ignition got a key poked into it.

BY STEVE SPENCE

Economy Car Wrapped in a Candy Shell

Those who were disappointed with the upsized and redesigned second-generation Scion xB may have a new vehicle to consider. The 2010 Kia Soul, introduced as a concept at the 2006 Detroit auto show and teased for the last nearly three years, contains the fuel efficiency and smart interior packaging of the first xB, wrapped in a likeable, edgy body unlike anything Kia has ever sold here before.

North American buyers will have a choice of engines: a 2.0L four at launch and a 122-hp, 1.6L later on. The larger I-4 comes with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, the smaller is only offered with a manual. The front-drive Soul will be available with four trim levels: Soul, Soul +, Soul ! (exclaim), and Soul sport, and though pricing hasn't been announced (expect that at the Los Angeles auto show later this month), Kia hinted the MSRP will be highly competitive. When the Soul goes on sale in North America in March 2009 as a 2010 model, we expect it to start around $15,000-$16,000 and top out at $20,000.

At first glance, the Soul looks much like the concept, except that the Peter Schreyer-designed production version is now much more car and much less crossover. Based on a reinforced, stretched version of the Rio platform, the car is cute and instantly likeable and comes in eleven colors (eight at launch) with names like Alien and Dune (Euro-spec cars have much more charming paint colors like Tomato Red and Vanilla Shake). Like the Scion, a strong emphasis is being put on the potential for customization and accessorizing this car. Several options are offered, including a red and black interior, beige and black hound's tooth seats and similar accents on the tailgate and hood, several wheel choices, different bumpers, stereos, and body mods; what we don't know yet is which of these features will be available in the United States.

We spent some time behind the wheel of a Soul + (2.0L, 142-hp four), with the five-speed manual transmission and 16-in. wheel and tire package. The engine provides plenty of power for a vehicle this size, feels significantly quicker than the first-gen xB, and will probably outrun the Fit in a straight line. But it's somewhat unrefined and noisy (which, considering the price point, isn't a serious problem). The five-speed helps eke out all of the power the Soul has to offer -- which is good, because peak hp is at 6000 rpm), but we'd expect the automatic transmission to be perfectly acceptable (more on that once we get to try it). What we don't understand is why the company didn't use a five-speed automatic instead of a four. The five would be more competitive with its rivals, would provide even better fuel economy than the estimated 31 mpg for the 2.0L, and fifth gear would almost definitely be welcome at higher speed.

The Soul is about six inches shorter overall than the new xB and about six inches longer than the first-gen Scion -- and just as long as the Fit, with a 12-in.-longer wheelbase. It isn't a performance car, but does feel sportier than basic cars in this size and price category. Suspension was tuned to provide a firmer ride, which it achieves, but some may not like the amount of bumps and road irregularities transmitted into the cabin. What didn't come through, even in our preproduction model, were any squeaks or rattles. We did notice that in turns, the Soul exhibited a bit more body roll than expected.

The interior is a lot more appealing than a traditional economy car's and less out-there than the xB's. With basic black cloth like our tester's, most of the cabin was black with red LED lighting on the stereo and red accents on the gauges. The red and black cloth interior gives the Soul a much more youthful attitude. Aux and USB jacks are standard, and options include Sirius, Bluetooth, power sunroof, redundant steering-wheel controls, and an eight-speaker system. Front and rear rows are surprisingly roomy, but long-legged passengers should try to get the front seat -- the front seats are backed by hard plastic. There's plenty of headroom, and the car is surprisingly spacious overall.

On the sensible side, the Soul comes standard with dual front, front-seat-mounted, and full-length side-curtain airbags; TPMS; and front-seat active headrests. ABS with EBD, stability control, and rear disc brakes are standard on all but the base model.

The Soul could change the perception of the company as that of a maker of boring, cheap cars, and could bring in a lot of first-time Kia buyers. Kia's hope is that it can sell 50,000 units a year in North America.

The Soul's style, attitude, and charm come with the economy and value Kia is known for, but for young buyers, this has to be the most appealing car Kia has ever made. We'll soon see if Kia can pull Gen Y away from the Scion and the Fit, as well as the upcoming Cube.

2010 KIA SOUL
Base Price $15,000-$19,000 (est)
Vehicle Layout Front engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatch
Engines 1.6L/122-hp/115-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4; 2.0L/142-hp/137-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4
Transmissions 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic
Curb Weight 3000 lb (est)
Wheelbase 100.4 in
Length x Width x Height 161.6 x 70.3 x 63.4 in
0-60 mph 8.5-9.5 sec (MT est)
EPA City/Hwy Econ 28-31/31-36 mpg (MT est)
CO2 Emissions 0.59-0.66 lb/mile
On Sale In U.S. March 2009

By Allyson Harwood
Motor Trend

2010 Kia Spectra gets more power, sedan and coupe versions

The 2010 Kia Spectra is new from the ground up. The five-door model will be discontinued and a coupe will be introduced about two months after the sedan. The sedan will be powered by a 2.4L, DOHC four with an estimated 162 hp and 164 lb-ft of torque (estimates are based on the previous-gen Optima engine, which is said to power the upcoming Spectra).

The car itself benefits from a dramatic redesign and is an inch longer, 1.6 in. wider, and nearly a half inch lower than the current Spectra. Its structure uses 63% more high-strength steel than the current model. Kia also moved the wheels closer to the corners -- track width increased by 2.4 in. in front and 3.1 in the rear.

The engine upgrade adds 24 hp and 28 lb-ft of torque, a difference noticeable even in our extremely brief time behind the wheel. Kia is putting more of an emphasis on sportiness with this car than ever before, and the coupe is likely to be the sportier of the two, with the strong possibility of a larger engine than the sedan's inline-four. (The coupe will strongly resemble the Koup concept revealed at the New York auto show.)

Kia says the new vehicle is such a dramatic departure from the previous-gen Spectra that it may make more sense to rename it. They're considering three names -- Forte (current Spectra name in Korea), Cerato (Spectra's name outside of Korea and North America), and Spectra. As of right now, Forte appears to be the frontrunner (which, of course, could change).

Source: Motor Trend

Kia introduces Soul compact in Seoul

Kia plans to sell 18,000 units of the new model, called Soul, by the end of the year, and will boost annual sales to 136,000 units from next year, the Seoul-based automaker said in a statement. Exports to Europe and the U.S. will begin in the first half of 2009, it said.

Chairman Chung Mong Koo is betting on new small autos to improve profitability at Kia after operating losses in the past two years. Kia this year began selling a revamped Morning minicar and Forte small car as consumers demand more fuel-efficient vehicles to cope with a 5.2 percent increase in South Korea's gasoline prices since December.

The Soul is fitted with a 1.6-liter or 2-liter engine, both on petrol and diesel variants. It will sell for between 14 million won ($12,300) and 20.8 million won, the statement said.

Kia spent 190 billion won in the past two-and-a-half years to develop the model, it said. The automaker hired former Volkswagen's head designer Peter Schreyer as Chief Design Officer in 2006 to overhaul its lineup.

"Kia's strength in small cars would help it weather a setback in global auto demand,'' said Cho Soo Hong, a Seoul- based analyst at Hyundai Securities Co., which isn't related to Hyundai Motor Co., Kia's parent company.

With the introduction of four new or revamped models this year, Kia's local market share rose to 25.4 percent in the first eight months of this year, compared with 22 percent a year earlier, according to Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association.

Kia's domestic sales rose 16 percent from a year earlier in that period, the most among South Korea's five carmakers. Overall sales including exports gained 6.6 percent.

By Seonjin Cha
Bloomberg News

Out of the Studio, Into the Street

More Images of 2010 Kia Soul Break Loose

We still haven't witnessed the official launch of the 2010 Kia Soul at the 2008 Paris motor show, but it appears the folks at Kia just can't wait. Another two images of the five-door hatchback made their way onto the official PR site this morning.

Outside of yet another hue (a metallic pale green), there's little revealed in these shots that we haven't already seen. It's in the attached numbers that we find some interesting facets - the Soul is over 63.4 inches tall, four inches more than a Volkswagen New Beetle. Part of that height comes from its stance - 1.7 inches taller than, according to Kia, a "typical compact car."



Although we're lacking interior photos of the production car, Kia claims the Soul has plenty of room inside. Headroom is rated at 40.1 inches for front-seat passengers and 39.5 inches for those in back. Front and rear legroom measures 42.1 and 38.9 inches, respectively.

Perhaps most interesting to those eying the car as a possible future purchase is the confirmation of a 2.0-liter I-4 engine in Souls destined for the U.S. The engine, similar to that in the Spectra, produces 142 hp.

Expect more details on the Soul to leak out before and during its Parisian debut, so stay tuned to Automobile Magazine for all the latest news.

by Evan McCausland

Revealed! 2010 Kia Forte Sedan images hit the Web

Well, it's official: Kia's replacement for the aging Spectra model will be called the Forte when it hits U.S. showrooms next summer as a sedan and coupe.

Incorporating much of its edgier design language was critical to Kia Forte lead designer Peter Schreyer, who is best known for his penning of the first generation Audi TT and Volkswagen Beetle. The car's styling evokes many of the same "corporate" elements implemented on the Kia Koup and Kee Concepts such as the distinct front grille and sweeping headlight configuration.

During the automaker's opening of an all-new design center in Southern California, Kia officials stated its new model was specifically targeted to attract younger, hipper buyers attuned to sharper auto designs. Head of Hyundai-Kia R&D Lee Hyun-soon also mentioned that the hatchback version of the car will not be sold stateside, anticipating "the coupe will sell better than the hatchback." European customers will have the opportunity to buy a three-door hatchback version of the Forte under the cee'd moniker.

Powering both two and four-door versions will initially be a 1.6-liter four-cylinder, with a bigger 2.0-liter unit coming later during its debut year. Korean customers will get first dibs on the new sedan August 22, followed a few months later by the coupe. The Forte is slated to hit North America by mid-2009.

Source: TheCarBlogger via Kia

G. Chambers Williams III: Kia puts heart into Soul

It's looking like South Korean automaker Kia's answer to the Scion xB or xD, the production version of the all-new Soul, will be unveiled at the Paris auto show in October.

Production of the vehicle begins in South Korea in September, and the car is expected to go on sale in the fourth quarter.

It's definitely a car whose time has come. With a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, relatively small exterior and a surprisingly roomy interior, the Soul will offer an alternative to the SUV to consumers battered by the high gasoline prices.

Nissan is planning to introduce its own version of a small, fuel-efficient vehicle with a similar boxy body style, the Cube, sometime next year. The Soul, though, will arrive first.

Kia announced recently that the car would retain the "Soul" name from the original concept vehicle, which was introduced at the Detroit auto show in January 2006, and the three Soul concepts that were shown at the Geneva auto show in Switzerland a few months ago.

In announcing the name, Kia also released the first official photo of the production version of the Soul, whose name is a play on the name of the city that is headquarters to Kia Motors Corp. in South Korea -- Seoul.

"Reaction from the media and public to the three Soul concept cars first unveiled at the Geneva Show in March and shown subsequently at other international events, has been overwhelmingly positive," said Hyoung-Keun Lee, senior executive vice president and chief operating officer of Kia's International Business Division.

"This reaction, plus the fact that both physically and emotionally the Soul concept cars are so closely related to the new Kia Soul production car, made it a natural choice to retain this evocative name," he said.

Lee said the Soul concepts revealed "a whole new fun side to Kia."

"They signal that our new Kia Soul production model is poised to defy convention and offer buyers a ‘world of possibilities' for expressing their personality," he said. "This new model will reach out to a new group of consumers, appealing especially to the young and the young-at-heart."

The Soul looks like it might be somewhere in between the original Scion models, the less boxy xA hatchback and the cube-styled, slightly larger xB. The xA was replaced last year by the xD, and the xB got a restyling that made it longer and roomier, but somewhat less boxy than the original.

Similarly, the xA and xB were the first models in Toyota's 2004 launch of its youth-oriented Scion brand, whose role was to lower the median age of the buyers of Toyota automobiles.

The xB, while appealing to the target under-35 male demographic as Toyota had planned, also has turned out to have a much broader reach -- the people Kia describes as the "young at heart." It has been a favorite of the empty-nester baby boomers just as much as the under-35 crowd.

The xA and xD have a different audience and generally appeal more to women than men.

Kia's European design team created the three Geneva concepts -- the Soul Burner, Soul Diva and Soul Searcher -- the company said. That team was led by Gregory Guillaume, under the guidance of Peter Schreyer, Kia's design chief.

All three, though, were based on the original Soul concept, which was designed jointly by the company's California and South Korea design studios for the 2006 Detroit show.

Kia says that Schreyer "strongly endorsed" using Soul as the name for the production vehicle.

"The name Soul accurately reflects how people will be able to express their spirit, their psyche with this new product."

The Soul "defies classification, but its design will encourage customers to build an emotional bond with this rebellious new car," the automaker said, adding that the Soul "provides a creative platform for buyers to individualize and match their car to their own personalities."

That ability for owners to express themselves will come from a variety of options, accessories and colors offered for the vehicle, Kia said. Toyota offers the same kind of personalization with its Scion vehicles, something that is quite popular with young consumers.

No further details of the production car have been released yet, but we can expect it to come with a four-cylinder engine and a choice of manual or automatic transmission, with fuel economy probably ranging from the mid-20s in the city to the mid-30s on the highway.

The boxy shape will allow for five passengers and some limited cargo, but the interior will be reconfigurable to carry more cargo (and fewer people) when necessary.

Standard features probably will include front seat-mounted side and two-row side-curtain air bags, air conditioning, electronic stability control, tire-pressure monitoring, antilock brakes and more. Options will include power windows/mirrors/door locks, a variety of audio systems and other amenities.

No prices have been announced yet, either, but the Scion xD begins around $15,000 and the xB around $16,000. The Soul will have to be competitive.

By G. Chambers Williams III
San Antonio Express-News

Kia to Bring Small Car to U.S.

The Kia Soul concept car, shown, has a new grille. The production version comes to the U.S. in 2009.

Kia Motors Corp. plans to export its new Soul small car to the United States and China in March, says a Kia source.

The five-seater will be produced for the Chinese market at a Kia plant in China in December 2009. The source declined to be identified because he is not authorized to talk about the matter.

Suh Sung-moon, an analyst at Korea Investment & Securities, also said the Soul is coming to the United States in early 2009.

The car, code-named AM, is the next step, after the Borrego SUV, in Kia's strategy to reshape the brand's exterior design. The Soul concept was shown first in Detroit in January 2006. It was displayed in Geneva in March with a new "tiger nose" grille by Peter Schreyer, Kia's head of design.

Schreyer has said he wants to give Kias a more distinct look. In his corner is Tom Kearns, who came from Cadillac and did the main design work on the Soul.

The Soul was developed with buyers of the Toyota Scion and Honda Fit in mind. The car is expected to get a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive.

Source: AutoWeek