New Kias Could Track Where You Go, Send Alerts When You Get There

ENFIELD, Conn. (WGGB) – For many across the country, driving is a rite of passage that comes with being a teenager.

 

That parent you thought you left at home might actually be able to control how you drive if Kia “Your Voice” or “UVO” technology has anything to do with it.

“If you’re able to keep your hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, bottom line you might be able to avoid that accident which you might not be able to do if you’re reaching for the radio,” said John Bruso, Sales Manager at the Gary Rome Kia Dealership in Enfield, Conn.

 

He says the next generation of Kia’s UVO models could do as much as text using your voice, allow parents to regulate the speed. Similar to Facebook’s Geotagging, Geo fencing could draw zones on a map and send them messages when their teens drive off into certain neighborhoods.

 

“With the push of a button, you’ll voice your text; the system will recognize it and translate it to text. That’s what we’re hoping. Anytime a parent can know if somebody, whoever’s operating the vehicle is driving recklessly, and that’s a good thing,” Bruso added.

 

It’s similar to Ford’s SYNC and GM’s OnStar in that the vehicle responds to voice commands.

 

You would press a button on the steering wheel, wait for the car’s response, reply, and it would follow the command that you give it.

 

Some parents say that’s something they would really look forward to in a new car for their teens.

 

“If they told me that they’re going somewhere, then went somewhere else, that would be really good,” chimed Michael Harris.

 

Before you start panicking about your car literally tracking your every move, Bruso says you would be able to turn those features off.

 

Although nothing is set in stone yet, those ideas are still in development for Kia’s 2014 UVO models.

 

source: http://www.wggb.com/2012/12/11/new-kia-vehicles-could-track-where-you-go-and-send-alerts-when-you-get-there/

Kia’s new design identity leads to record sales

LOS ANGELES — At an event like the Los Angeles Auto Show, it’s obvious that automakers spend millions (possibly billions) of dollars competing to get a new car buyer’s attention. From the elaborate auto show stands to the full-on multimedia presentations to the post-show new vehicle media drive events, everyone is spending big bucks to differentiate themselves in a market where the bandwidth between reliability, features and pricing is paper-thin.

In a vast field of new vehicles that, objectively, all perform at a very similar level, the subjective nature of how a car looks can make or break a new car in the showroom. This is why, outside of marketing, automakers are also investing heavily in new car design. And one of the automakers that have whole-heartedly bought into this “car design as added value” theory is South Korea’s Kia.

The overall shape of the car and proportions, can give an impression of value. And with the new Forte, I think we’ve done a good job with that.

Kia’s global head pen, chief design officer Peter Schreyer, deserves much of the credit for the brand’s design renaissance. However, the automaker’s most recent and critically acclaimed (and best-selling) vehicles have come from Kia’s Design Center America, located just south of Los Angeles in Irvine, Calif., and headed by American Tom Kearns.

“The studio does mostly production work, probably 85% is actually making proposals for production programs. But we also do a show car maybe once a year. So there’s some advance work being done as well,” Mr. Kearns explained during an interview shortly after the debut of the new 2014 Forte Sedan and refreshed 2014 Sorento crossover here at the show.

Before joining Kia in 2004, Mr. Kearns was a General Motors man, his most notable work being the “art and science”-themed 2002 Cadillac CTS sedan. In the eight years he’s been running the Kia’s West Coast design studio, Mr. Kearns has overseen the debut of some of the brand’s most groundbreaking designs; vehicles that have driven the Korean automaker from an also-ran to a design leader, such as the original, 2006 Soul concept, 2007 KUE crossover concept (that previewed the current Sportage) and the 2008 Kia Koup concept, that led directly to the current Forte Koup two-door.

He explained that his team’s goal is to create a look that offers a lot of “design content” or “design value,” which supports Kia’s fundamental brand values.

As chief designer, Mr. Kearns puts it this way: “If we can create a design that looks more expensive — or you feel you’re getting more for your money — then I think we’ve done our job. You can see that in the Optima. You can get every option on that car, and it’s hard to break $35,000. But the design — for the average person, anyway — looks like a BMW or a Euro-something that maybe should cost $55,000.”

 

Mr. Kearns’ “design value” ethos shows up on the sales charts as well. The majority of Kia’s biggest sellers in North America originated from his studio.

“The original Forte sedan and five-door hatchback, the current-generation Sorento and the new Sorento facelift, the Sportage, the new Rio sedan and five-door all came from our studio,” Mr. Kearns says. This all means that good design is helping sell more Kias.

For example, owning the industry-leading sales growth record for 47 consecutive months, Kia Canada just had its best November ever with a total of 5,719 new vehicles sold — a 17.8% gain over the same period a year ago. The automaker’s year-to-date total of 73,840 vehicles reflects a 19.7% gain, and puts Kia on track for another record year in Canada.

After the reveal of the new 2014 Forte Sedan, it’s hard to see Kia straying too far from this current path of success. Arguably, the front-wheel-drive, five-passenger four-door is suddenly the most sophisticated-looking car in its class. And Mr. Kearns says that’s no accident.

“The overall shape of the car and proportions, can give an impression of value. And with the new Forte, I think we’ve done a good job with that,” Mr. Kearns explains proudly.

The Kia designer also explains that much of the new Forte’s design value can be found in the details.

“The LED daytime running lamps, the beltline, the chrome door handles — some of those are things that normally you might not see on a comparable Honda, Nissan or Toyota,” Mr. Kearns says.

While the 2014 North American Forte shares its platform with the foreign-market Kia Cerato, the two cars are separate designs. Mr. Kearns’ studio handled the North American car’s exterior and interior design, then followed the car as it made its way from his designer’s sketches to the factory floor.

“We work the design up to a certain point. Then it gets finished for production in Korea, where we oversee the engineering refinements, powertrain evaluations, aero tweaks, and any manufacturing issues,” Mr. Kearns says.

 

Source: http://life.nationalpost.com/2012/12/17/kias-new-design-identity-leads-to-record-sales/

KIA Motors Corporation : 12/07/12 - NEW CAR BUYERS RANK THE KIA SORENTO AND SPORTAGE AS THE BEST VALUE IN THEIR SEGMENTS IN NEWLY RELEASED CONSUMER SURVEY

IRVINE, Calif., December 7, 2012 - Kia Motors America (KMA) is one of the fastest-growing car companies in the U.S., and its two popular crossover utility vehicles have acquired an impressive collection of awards and accolades from industry observers.  This week, the brand's two CUVs received a different type of recognition when Strategic Vision revealed that new car buyers identified the 2013 Sorento and 2013 Sportage as the number one ranked vehicles in Total Value in the Medium and Small SUV segments, respectively, in the research firm's latest Total Value Index® (TVI) study.

More than 350 new vehicles were vetted and over 77,000 buyers who purchased models from September 2011 to June 2012 were surveyed to compile Strategic Vision's 16th annual TVI study, which revealed that quality and innovation shaped buyers' opinion of overall values.  "The result shows that innovation is the strongest single predictor of which cars, brands and corporations are seen as the best value, or 'Total Value' in our study," stated Alexander Edwards, president of Strategic Vision.

"Kia takes great pride in advancing value to new levels of sophistication, and Strategic Vision's 'Total Value' recognition is gratifying because it is based on feedback from Sorento and Sportage customers," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.  "This honor speaks to Kia's goal of producing cars that are not only affordable but also dynamic in terms of their design, performance and cutting-edge technology attributes."

The Sorento combines fun and functionality in a refined and value-minded CUV with impressive power.  Kia's longest running nameplate, the Sportage, offers design and performance in a compact CUV with modern amenities and a fun-to-drive personality.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

 Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling.  Kia Motors America's full line of fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand.  In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality[2] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[3].  Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia - KMMG - is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. - the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*.  Kia's value and technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About the 2013 Sorento

 The 2013 Sorento incorporates all of the comforts of Kia's signature crossover utility vehicle with the functionality consumers have come to expect.  Built at Kia Motors' U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, the Sorento can be powered by any one of three capable engines including a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine with sportmatic shifting.  The Sorento also offers optional All-Wheel Drive, third-row seven-passenger seating, Bluetooth®[4], SiriusXM radio[5], Infinity®[6] surround sound and Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft® voice- activated infotainment and communication system[7].  The refined and value-minded 2013 Sorento is offered at a starting MSRP of $23,150[8].

About the 2013 Sportage

 The 2013 Kia Sportage offers value-, image- and safety-conscious consumers a striking design and a standout combination of fun-to-drive performance, the latest in-vehicle technologies, and an abundance of comfort, convenience and safety features all at a tremendous value.  The sleek and modern Sportage is available with either a 2.4-liter, 176 horsepower engine or a 2.0-liter, 260 horsepower Turbo GDI engine.  Inside the cabin, the Sportage offers a host of available technology features, including Kia's all new UVO Powered by Microsoft® hands-free, voice-activated infotainment system.  The 2013 Sportage features a starting MSRP of $19,000[9].

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea.  KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA.  In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. [10]  Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website - www.kia.com.  For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

About Strategic Vision

 Strategic Vision is a research-based consultancy with over thirty-five years of experience in understanding the consumers' and constituents' decision-making systems for a variety of Fortune 100 clients, including most automotive manufacturers.  Its unique expertise is in identifying consumers' comprehensive motivational hierarchies, including the product attributes, personal benefits, value/emotions and images that drive perceptions and behaviors.

 

source: 4-Traders.com

Falcons Announce Details of Gary Rome Auto Group Night

November 20, 2012 - American Hockey League (AHL) Springfield Falcons

Springfield, Mass. - The Springfield Falcons, AHL affiliate of the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets, announced details of Gary Rome Auto Group Night, which will take place when the club hosts the Manchester Monarchs on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the MassMutual Center.

The game will begin with a ceremonial puck drop by Gary Rome, owner of Gary Rome Auto Group and one of the Falcons' valued corporate partners, along with his dog Jack. The first 3,000 fans into the building that night will receive a postcard with details about a Gary Rome Auto Group Facebook promotion, which includes a grand prize of dinner for two at Picks Restaurant, an overnight stay at the Sheraton Monarch Place, and tickets to a Falcons game. Visit GoToGary.com for details on Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke, Mass. and Gary Rome Kia in Enfield, Conn.

As part of the evening, fans are encouraged to bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots, a program run by the United States Marine Corps which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas. The Toys for Tots bins will be located next to the Pride table in the concourse under section 29 and will be manned by on-site Marines. As an incentive to support this program, any fan who brings a toy for donation will receive a free ticket voucher for the Falcons' home game on Saturday, Dec. 15 when Springfield welcomes St. John's to the MassMutual Center at 7:30 p.m. (one voucher per person).

Fans will be invited to participate in a holiday sing-a-long during the intermissions. Santa Claus will also be venturing down from the North Pole to meet and greet Falcons fans and hang out with his friend Screech.

Single-game tickets to see the Falcons in 2012-2013 can be purchased at the MassMutual Center Box Office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. through game time on Saturday home dates, and starting four hours prior to Sunday home contests. Fans can also purchase tickets by logging onto Ticketmaster.com. For information about discounted group packages to Falcons home games, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625).

 

GARY ROME AUTO GROUP’S SCHOOL FUNDRAISER CHALLENGE

Holyoke, Monday, November 12, 2012: Gary Rome Auto Group has embarked on an exciting new project. Gary Rome will assist teachers in earning supplies needed for their classrooms, but are unable to fund the project. He will use his many media outlets to help spread the word about each project in order to bring in more donations.

“Children are the future generation of leaders, so we want to invest in them; says Gary Rome, owner of Gary Rome Hyundai and Kia. We are excited to be contributing to the children within our community. I hope we can all come together and help students and teachers acquire supplies for their projects”.

The program will allow teachers to post their classroom project on reputable website such as donorschoose.org and receive donations for it. Teachers can post their chosen project on any of the three websites (http://www.donorschoose.org; http://www.adoptaclassroom.org/: or http://www.gofundme.com/). In addition, teachers may choose to post projects on any other legitimate websites. The superintendent for each city will choose the top 30 projects. Gary Rome will then use his many media outlets to get the word out and match up to $200 worth of donations.

For more information about the program, please contact Telesha Williams at (413)530-3286 or telesha_williams@yahoo.com. Also, you may contact Tim Ferreira at parts@garyromehyundai.com.

 

2012 Kia Rio & Rio5

Photos by -Autonet.ca

MARIE-EVE CÔTÉ

Published: 12 05 2011

The smallest of the family

Korean automobile builders are gaining popularity points at an impressive rate! Their new models are exquisite, and the competitors never expected so much elegance and refinement at such a competitive price! Kia is the undisputed leader in this domain, and proved it once again at the New York Auto Show by unveiling the car that we patiently waiting for a revamping; the Kia Rio sedan and hatchback along with the softly remodeled Soul 2012.

Search available trim options for the 2011 Kia Rio.

Kia can be proud of its new line up! After the Sorento, the Sportage, the Optima, the Forte, the Forte 5, the Forte Koup, the Rondo and the Sedona, the Rio completes the 2011 family. And it deserves a moment under the spotlight! The sub-compact market is an increasingly popular one in Quebec and the Rio, both the sedan and the hatchback models, is a huge hit, offering a wide range of characteristics that should satisfy its customers. Primarily so thanks to the spatial improvements the model underwent and its rejuvenated look with more sculpted lines, a thinner radiator-like grill (a new characteristic already noticed in the other models) and its more dynamic looking headlights. But also thanks to its wide range of accessories and to its fuel efficiency.

Designed with a longer, wider and lower platform than the previous generation, the car is also lighter, therefore increasing its handling.

The model will be made available in three versions: the LX, the EX and the SX (Rio and Rio5) offered with a GDI engine equipped with four cylinders of 1.6 liters reaching 138 hp, 28 more than the 2011 model.

Both a standard and a 6-speed automatic transmission are offered. An interesting new component that should eventually be made available on all cars is the system that commands both for the engine to be turned off when in traffic and for it to start up again on its own once the break pedal is released, allowing for a considerable fuel economy. The car also features Hill control start and electronic stability control.

The basic LX model is very lightly equipped but the EX version offers a fairly acceptable range of accessories for a car of its category. Electric-command windows, Bluetooth connectivity and leatherette door trimmings are part of the standard equipment. The SX offers even more with metal pedals and trimmings, leather decorations, a speed regulator, Microsoft’s UVO entertainment system equipped with a rear-view camera and chrome-plated accents. Obviously, for 2012, music can be fed through any USB or MP3 support or via the satellite radio. Additional options such as the convenience-groups Eco and Premium are available for an even more personalized touch.

It is therefore a brand new Rio ready to face competition that will be introduced in Canada towards the end of 2011!

Kia is One of Only Two Brands to have the Top Vehicle in More Than One Category

IRVINE, Calif., May 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of back-to-back all-time record monthly sales for Kia Motors America (KMA), the 2011 Sorento CUV and 2011 Sedona minivan earned the top scores in the SUV and Van categories in NADAguides' annual "Best Car Buys for 2011."  The U.S.-built* 2011 Sorento has been Kia Motors' best-selling vehicle for 16 consecutive months and received high marks for its five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), outstanding fuel economy, low depreciation and competitive price.  The Sedona was praised for its long list of standard equipment, low starting price, and improved horsepower, and with the popular and fuel-sipping 2011 Soul urban passenger vehicle finishing in the top three in the Wagons category, Kia Motors was one of only four automakers to place three or more models on the report across multiple categories.

"Our design-led transformation has fundamentally changed consumer perception of the Kia brand, and the inclusion of three of our vehicles in NADAguides' Annual 'Best Car Buys' report is further validation that Kia's commitment to bringing a comprehensive lineup to consumers that feature a compelling combination of design, performance, safety, fuel economy and value is resonating with more and more new car shoppers," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.  "With year-to-date sales up more than 40 percent over 2010, interest in the Kia brand has never been higher as consumers turn to our fresh new products like the Sorento CUV and Soul that not only offer class-leading features but are backed, like the entire Kia lineup, by our industry leading 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty(2)."

The NADAguides Best Car Buys Report is based upon specific criteria important to automotive consumers including price, first year depreciation value, fuel efficiency, warranty coverage and NHTSA safety ratings. NADAguides' analysts developed a calculated study in which all current model year vehicles are analyzed and the top three vehicles within each vehicle segment are then named to the NADAguides Best Car Buys.

About the 2011 Kia Sorento

The 2011 Sorento, the first vehicle to roll off the line at Kia's new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, encompasses both the brand's signature design cues as well as its distinct combination of value, safety and style.  The 2011 Sorento, which has been Kia's best-selling vehicle each month since going on sale in January 2010, offers consumers a well-equipped, well-appointed CUV, suited perfectly for the fun, dynamic and discerning driver.  Available in LX, EX and SX trim levels, the 2011 Sorento features a starting MSRP of $22,395(3).

About the 2011 Kia Sedona

The 2011 Sedona is available in LX and EX trims, with pricing for the LX starting at $24,595(3) and the EX trim starting at $29,195(3). A segment leader in value and safety features, Sedona offers consumers invaluable protection provided by a wide range of standard safety features, including six standard airbags(4) (dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side air bags, and full-length side curtain air bags for all three seating rows), active front headrests, and a four-channel, four-sensor, Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which takes into account vehicle load and weight distribution in order to apply the appropriate-level of stopping force.

About the 2011 Soul

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the dynamic compact CUV begins at $13,300(5) for the base trim, offering standard convenience features, including air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service(6) and MP3 connectivity.

Soul has earned a trophy case full of prestigious awards and accolades since its launch, including earning a "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS, being a recipient of the "Best Family Cars for 2010" designation by Edmunds.com and Parents Magazine, recognized as "Best Hatchback of 2010" by Cars.com, and "Best New Car for Your Teen" by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia's model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

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 730 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA."  In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com.  For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

About NADAguides

NADAguides (www.nadaguides.com) is the largest publisher of vehicle pricing and information for new and used cars, classic cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and manufactured homes. NADAguides offers in-depth shopping and research tools in addition to the most market-reflective pricing available. The company also produces software, mobile applications, raw data, web services, web-syndicated products and print guidebooks.

*  Assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

(1) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $795 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(2) See retailer for warranty details or go to kia.com.

(3) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $795 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(4) For maximum protection, always wear your seat belt.

(5) Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $795 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

(6) SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries. SIRIUS Radio requires a subscription, sold separately after 3-month trial subscription included with vehicle purchase. Prices and programming are provided by SIRIUS and are subject to change. Subscriptions governed by SIRIUS Terms & Conditions available at sirius.com. SIRIUS Radio U.S. service available only to those at least 18 years of age in the 48 contiguous United States, D.C. and Puerto Rico (with coverage limitations).

SOURCE Kia Motors America

Kia Sorrento (2013)

The Kia Sorento (2013)Published: 28th September 2012

The face lifted seven-seater

2013 Kia Sorrento will go on sale in December 2012, with a new 2.4 litre direct-injection petrol engine being amongst the enhancements.

The revised Kia Sorrento is available with one petrol engine and two turbo diesel units – the petrol unit is a 2.4 litre Theta II GDI engine which produces 192 PS and 242 Nm of torque. On the combined cycle the fuel consumption is recorded as 32 mpg.

Our choice would be the 2.2 litre diesel engine which produces 197 PS and 436 Nm of torque, so not only is it more powerful than the petrol unit, it is quicker and fuel consumption is more respectable. The CO2 emissions are lower at 153 g/km compared to 202 g/km of the petrol unit.

There is a smaller 150 PS 2.0 litre diesel that produces 382 Nm of torque with CO2 emissions of 159 g/km, there seems to be little benefit in it over the 2.2 engine with fuel consumption being higher at 46 mpg to the 2.2’s 49 mpg.

The 2.4 GDI and 2.TCI are available with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, where the 2.0 TCI is only available with a 6-speed manual transmission. All engines are available with either 2WD or 4WD depending on the model.

The 4WD drivetrain is an 'on demand' system that delivers 100 per cent of engine torque to the front wheels during routine city and highway driving. Whenever a front wheel loses grip up to 50 per cent of the torque is automatically transferred to the rear wheels. In severely slippery conditions the driver can select Lock Mode, which delivers 50 per cent of torque to each axle.

Access to the cabin has been improved by the 10 mm lower ride height. The cabin floor has also been lowered, increasing legroom by 30 mm (second row) and 9 mm (third row).

There have been a number of enhancements to both the interior and exterior - New front and rear bumpers now feature unconventional upright fog lights. There is a new front grille and headlamps with LED positioning lights, and a new tailgate with reshaped LED combination lamps. Depending on model, the Sorento's updated styling is completed with 17-, 18- or new 19-inch alloy wheels.

On the inside there are more soft-touch surfaces - with a satin chrome finish for the door handles, air-vent surrounds and switches - plus a new LCD instrument cluster, new centre stack with seven-inch LCD display screen and a new centre console featuring (on automatic transmission models), a straight-gate selector with a leather-booted lever.

Kia have spent a lot of time with revisions to the bodyshell ensure it meets the latest official crash test standards, the existing Sorento was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating – the new model promises to improve on this, especially as the tests are now more stringent – a key feature being that the bodyshell’s rigidity has been increased by 18 per cent.

The revised Kia Sorento will be equipped with up to six front, side and curtain airbags. All Sorentos will be fitted with an active bonnet which raises the rear edge during a collision to reduce the severity of pedestrian injury.

Active safety technologies available will include ESC (electronic stability control), VSM (vehicle stability management), a reversing safety camera mounted on the tailgate with a 130-degree wide-angle lens, HID Xenon headlamps and HAC (hill-start assist control), which prevents slip-back when pulling away on inclines.

Kia Motors America And DonorsChoose.org Form Partnership To Benefit More Than 125,000 Public School Students Nationwide In 2012

Fast-Growing Automaker's Donation and Double Your Impact Campaign will Generate more than Two Million Dollars for School Supplies and Educational Resources this Year

Press Release: Kia Motors America – Tue, Aug 28, 2012 4:03 PM EDT

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- DonorsChoose.org, the online charity that makes it easy for anyone to help students in need, announced today that Kia Motors America (KMA) has made a $1 million commitment to public schools as part of the citizen philanthropy organization's first-ever national partnership with an automotive brand. Kia's donation launches a Double Your Impact campaign with DonorsChoose.org, designed to fund 50 percent of classroom projects near Kia's network of more than 755 retail showrooms across the country as well as the company's U.S. headquarters in southern California and assembly plant in southwest Georgia. By matching community donations, KMA will bring more than $2 million of classroom projects to life and the offer is available until all funding is applied to classroom projects.

To view the multimedia content associated with this release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/57176-kia-corporate-social-responsibility
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120828/MM61697)
"Kia Motors is the fastest growing car company in the U.S. over the last five years[1], and one of our company's core values – 'Globality' – teaches us to strive to become a respected global corporate citizen, which drives our company to contribute to a better future," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. "Kia is committed to making a difference and is proud to be the first automotive brand to establish a national philanthropic partnership with DonorsChoose.org to help provide school supplies for children most in need, while supporting all of the communities across the country that we call home."

Public schools in these areas nationwide are encouraged to post projects in need of funding with a total value of $600 on www.donorschoose.org. The goal is to fulfill needs and foster innovation in public schools. Kia will match all donations made to these public and charter school classrooms by citizen philanthropists until funds have been exhausted.

"DonorsChoose.org engages the community in public schools by giving people a simple, accountable and personal way to address educational inequity," said Charles Best, founder of DonorsChoose.org. "Our new partnership with Kia Motors will deliver badly needed resources to more than 125,000 public school students across America."

Classroom projects that will be funded include requests for books, microscopes, field trips, and musical instruments among others. Anyone can visit DonorsChoose.org to find a classroom project that inspires them. Once the project reaches its funding goal, donors receive photos of the project taking place, a thank you letter from the teacher and a cost report showing how each dollar was spent.

About DonorsChoose.org
Founded in 2000, more than 238,000 public school teachers have used DonorsChoose.org (www.donorschoose.org) to secure funding for $120 million in books, art supplies, technology, and other resources that their students need to learn. Through DonorsChoose.org, individuals from all walks of life have helped 6.8 million students.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the in the U.S.[1] Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.
Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

[1] Based on 5-year cumulative growth between 12-month retail sales for periods ending July 2007 and July 2012 of all U.S. automotive brands.

source: http://finance.yahoo.com/

Kia Motors America Partners With HerHighway In A Nationwide Drive To Raise Awareness Of Breast Cancer

Kia Provides Vehicles for Drive Breast Cancer Awareness Event
By Kia Motors America

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 18, 2012 --

• 10 city, across-the-nation drive event will conclude in New York City to kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October
• Kia's vehicle fleet plays host to breast cancer survivors, influential women journalists/bloggers and female motorsports drivers

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) announced today that it has partnered with HerHighway.com, an online site empowering women with bumper-to-bumper automobile knowledge, to supply Kia vehicles for "Drive Breast Cancer Awareness," an across-the-nation drive event, which aims to raise public awareness around breast cancer.  The eight-day cross-country road trip will start in Los Angeles on September 25 and finish in New York City on October 2, which marks the start of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

More than 100 women will participate, including breast cancer survivors, journalists, bloggers and race car drivers Shea Holbrook, Ashley Van Dyke and Melanie Troxel.  The vehicles that KMA is providing for the drive include the 2013 Kia Sportage EX, 2013 Kia Soul! (Exclaim) and 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid.  Along the way, the drivers will make pit stops at various locations to talk about the event and to raise awareness about breast cancer.  The public can also follow the drivers via Twitter with the #HerHighway and #Kia hashtags.

"Kia is deeply committed to supporting HerHighway and the 'Drive Breast Cancer Awareness' event which delivers much-needed awareness towards a disease that affects approximately one in eight women in the United States," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.  "Kia vehicles such as the Sportage, Optima and Soul are perfect vehicles for a cross-country road trip, and it is our privilege to provide these vehicles that will help HerHighway get the word out about breast cancer."

The "Drive Breast Cancer Awareness" campaign started in 2011 when its founder Christina Selter, HerHighway's Editor-in-Chief, was diagnosed with possible ALCL, a rare form of liquid breast cancer.  Since her diagnosis, Selter's goal has been to bring potentially life-saving information about breast cancer to women across the country through this drive.  A few weeks after the conclusion of the event, Selter will undergo a full Capsulectomy.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth  Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling.  Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand.  In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality1 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking2.  Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*.  Kia's value and technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S3. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.
Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.
About HerHighway HerHighway is a team of female automotive and lifestyle experts on a mission to empower women with bumper-to-bumper automobile knowledge and everything along the way.   HerHighway's bumper-to-bumper automotive reviews, tips and feature articles created expressly for women…by women.  That's what makes us such a refreshing detour in a male-dominated world.  HerHighway's Editor in Chief Christina Selter, is a nationally-recognized automotive and safety expert, she has been featured in more than 2,000 national and local newscasts, international press conferences and automobile trade shows around the country. She created the Drive Breast Cancer Awareness not only to create awareness of this terrible disease, but to pay homage to those that have fought and lost.

* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are built in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.
[1]  Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study.
[2] Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis.
[3]  Based on 5-year cumulative growth between 12-month retail sales for periods ending July 2007 and August 2012 of all U.S. automotive brands.

SOURCE Kia Motors America

Kia Procee'd fully shown ahead of Paris

The new Kia Procee'd is shown in full ahead of its Paris motror show debut

The new Kia Procee'd will reach the UK in the spring PrevNext

by Mark Tisshaw. 17 September 2012.

Kia has fully revealed its new Kia Procee'd ahead of the Paris motor show.

The new three-door line-up will spawn a performance version with around 200bhp; this will reach the UK in June next year. This model is the next stage in Kia's desire to become a brand with the performance credentials to back up its design flair.

Cee'd product manager, Vladislav Alexiev told Autocar the firm was "ready for the next step" should the warm Procee'd be well received by markets. More performance and niche, style-led models such as a production version of the acclaimed Kia GT concept are on the cards.

Standard versions of the new Procee'd, revealed ahead of the Paris motor show, will launch in the UK in the spring. Initial engine options will include 1.6 petrol and diesel units taken from the Cee'd five-door line-up.

The warm hatch will be powered by a turbocharged 1.6 petrol, which is predicted to have strong low-end torque as well as headline power of around 200bhp.

The performance model will have bespoke chassis settings, and a unique look inside and out, which will include 18in alloy wheels. Testing on UK roads has taken place.

The Procee'd sits 10mm lower than the standard Cee'd five-door and is the same width and length, and shares the same wheelbase. The rear suspension is a multi-link design.

The stylish design of the Procee'd features a slimmer grille to the five-door, and a revised design for the fog lights and lower bumper at the front. It is rakish in profile, and a distinctive kink kicks up from the bottom of the slim glasshouse. The roofline and tailgate are sloping and, combined with the wide rear haunches, give the Procee'd a low, muscular stance.

On the subject of further expansion after the warm hatch, Alexiev said: "We're ready for the next step but are careful and listen to the markets and what is expected from the brand. Our designers are always pushing, but we must keep establishing the brand with cars like the Procee'd to give it the credentials to do different things. We are very interested to hear the feedback."

The Procee'd is tipped to take between 12 and 14 per cent of all Cee'd sales. In the UK, it is likely to be comparatively priced to the five door but with different levels of equipment for even greater differentiation.

Source: Autocar.com

2013 Kia Rio SX Hatchback to Offer Manual Transmission

It’s long been true that only the base, stripped-out trim levels of many cars offer a manual transmission. That was certainly true of the Kia Rio, which offered a six-speed manual solely on LX models. Now, however, Kia has responded to customer interest and launched a limited run of 2013 Rio SX hatchbacks equipped with manual transmissions.

By offering its six-speed manual transmission alongside a six-speed automatic on the Rio SX hatchback, Kia says it’s catering to driving enthusiasts who want the fun of changing gear themselves, but still want a long list of standard equipment. The car was also inspired by the fact that Kia has been promoting the Rio LX hatchback as the basis for its B-Spec race car. Customers who buy a Rio LX can then purchase a $14,000 kit to transform the hatchback into a race car.

“Our customers and the automotive press have been asking for the Rio 5-door SX with a manual transmission, and we’ve listened,” Kia Motors America director of product planning Orth Hedrick said in a statement. “We’ll continue to evaluate consumer demand and consider bringing other high-spec manuals to market.”

Standard equipment for the 2013 Kia Rio SX manual hatchback includes push-button start, touch-screen navigation, a backup camera, 17-inch allow wheels, LED running lights, sport suspension, satellite radio, and special “sporty” black cloth upholstery. Compare that to the only other Kia Rio available with a manual transmission: the LX trim has 16-inch steel wheels and a four-speaker audio system, but lacks things like cruise control, a telescopic steering wheel, power windows, and power door locks. Under the hood is the same 138-hp, 1.6-liter inline-four engine as any other version of the Kia Rio, which returns 30/40 mpg (city/highway).

Kia will build fewer than 500 examples of the 2013 Rio SX manual. The car starts at $18,650 (after a $750 destination charge).

Kia isn’t the only company to make manual transmissions available on higher trim levels of its small cars. Ford recently decided to add a stick-shift option to the top-spec Titanium versions of its Focus, in response to strong customer demand. We say: long live the manual transmission!

Source: Kia

Kia introduces all-new Quoris luxury sedan

Sun, 09 September 2012

Middle East and Africa preview event organised in Muscat — By A Staff Reporter — MUSCAT — A special event was held in Muscat recently to mark the Middle East and Africa preview of the all-new Kia Quoris luxury flagship sedan. The top management team from Kia Motor Corporation, Seoul consisting of Jae Yong Chung, Director - Middle East and Africa/Asia Pacific Operations, Peter Schreyer, Kia's renowned Chief Design Officer, Soon-Nam Lee, Director - Overseas Marketing Group, and Moon-Yong Chung, President of Kia’s Middle East and Africa regional headquarters were in Muscat for this exclusive launch event that was hosted for the Middle East and Africa market.

More than 70 delegates from over ten countries across the region participated in this event. During this event, a detailed presentation regarding the new model was shared by the KMC team and the all new Kia Quoris was unveiled with special effects. The participants in this event also had an opportunity to test drive the all new Kia Quoris. The all-new Kia Quoris luxury flagship will power the Kia brand into an entirely new segment of the global automotive market. The first modern rear-wheel drive Kia tops the global model range and is a true landmark vehicle for the company, combining stylish design with luxurious comfort, engaging driving dynamics and advanced high-tech features. This model would be available in Oman from November 2012.

“Quoris is our first rear-wheel drive large sedan for more than a decade and sets new standards for advanced design, new technologies and driving performance”, comments Thomas Oh, Kia Executive Vice-President and COO of the International Business Division. The name ‘Quoris’ conveys solidity, luxury and high technology, all resonating together as a chorus. The name is derived from the English words ‘core’ and ‘quality’ and hints at the attributes within the very heart the new flagship.

“Quoris is all about elegant simplicity, balanced proportions and simple surfaces.” says Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer. “The class-leading long wheelbase, the prestige distance, large wheels, sharply upright short overhangs and a long sweeping shoulder line all work together in harmony to give Quoris a sporty, athletic proportion and a confident stance quintessential to a premium large rear-wheel drive vehicle.” V6 power and eight-speed transmission: Quoris is available in Middle East markets powered by an upgraded 290 ps Lambda V6 3.8-litre MPI engine.

Every Quoris comes with Kia’s all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The wide spread of gear ratios guarantees brisk acceleration and high-speed refinement, while shift-by-wire (SBW) technology with a joystick control delivers fast, smooth gear changes. Rear-wheel drive characteristics: Together with the ultra-stiff bodyshell, Quoris’s electronically controlled air suspension with five-link front and rear suspension geometry gives the new flagship first-class ride and handling characteristics.

Three driving modes (Eco, Normal and Sport) enable the driver to choose a preferred set-up of suspension, steering, engine and transmission that is ideal for various road conditions or driving styles. Advanced smart cruise control (ASCC): Quoris is fitted with Kia’s first radar-based advanced smart cruise control (ASCC). This system continuously monitors traffic conditions and speed in order to maintain a pre-determined safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

Advanced vehicle safety management (AVSM): Integrating the control of various vehicle monitoring systems, including the electronic stability control (ESC) and multiple warning systems and can alert the driver, depending on the anticipated level of a collision risk. Detecting a risk of a collision, AVSM warns the driver via a loud audible alarm, and a visual warning on both the head up display (HUD) and TFT LCD cluster.

Class-leading blind spot detection with lane change assistance: The blind spot detection (BSD) gives the driver a warning when a vehicle comes into the blind spot zone along each side of the Quoris. The lane change assistance (LCA) system alerts the driver to vehicles approaching from the rear at high speeds. Around view monitor system: This system, offers a true 360-degree all-around view in eight different viewing modes, displayed on the audio video navigation (AVN) monitor. It provides a virtual ‘top’ view in motion, so the driver can easily have a full grasp of all his or her surroundings, maximizing safety for the car occupants as well as pedestrians.

New standards in comfort and convenience: Every Quoris driver will appreciate the remarkable clarity of the all-new 12.3-inch wide thin film transistor (TFT) LCD cluster. The high-definition cluster features Kia’s ‘two cylinder’ instrument design with precise graphics and delivers a wide range of information with immense clarity. Quoris is also equipped with a HUD (head-up display) which presents a variety of information discretely in the driver’s sight line, enabling it to be assimilated without distracting from the road ahead.

To assist Quoris drivers the new sedan is equipped with PGS (parking guide system). The system features automatic steering control by an on-board computer to safely perform parallel parking. Exceptionally spacious interior beneath large glass sunroof: As well as providing high-tech protection for its occupants, every Quoris enables them to enjoy a sophisticated, refined and luxurious interior. Both the front seats are powered, heated and ventilated. The driver’s seat features 16-way adjustment and memory settings, while the passenger seat has 10-way adjustment. The regular rear seat has three-stage heating of the cushion and backrest, with manually adjustable lumbar support and a folding center armrest.

A special ‘VIP’ option will offer twin heated and ventilated rear seats with a reclining backrest, sliding cushion and lower leg support for the ‘nearside’ seat, together with a front passenger seat that slides forwards when unoccupied. Premium Lexicon audio system and multi-media rear seat entertainment: The in-vehicle infotainment system available for Quoris is remarkable. The touchscreen on the dashboard allows the driver to take advantage of state-of-the-art functions and services, while the backseat display supports a variety of video formats to entertain passengers. A rich multi-media with premium sound and high-definition displays on dual 9.2-inch monitors mounted in the back of each front seat is provided. The folding center armrest for the rear seats incorporates a complete set of controls for the multi-media system.

Quoris features a premium audio system from Lexicon by Harman, the renowned creator of truly concert-hall standards of sound reproduction. A 12-channel digital amplifier is mounted in the trunk, two speakers are fitted in each front door, three are fitted in each rear door, four are located in the dashboard center, with two surround-sound speakers and an inverted sub-woofer. Kia Motors

Corporation — a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart — was founded in 1944 and is Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Over 2.5 million Kia vehicles a year are produced in 15 manufacturing and assembly operations in ten countries which are then sold and serviced through a network of distributors and dealers covering 149 countries. Kia today has over 47,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of US$39 billion. It is the major sponsor of the Australian Open and an official automotive partner of FIFA – the governing body of the FIFA World Cup™. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan – "The Power to Surprise" – represents the company's global commitment to surprise the world by providing exciting and inspiring experiences that go beyond expectations.

2014 Kia Forte gets an injection of style

July 31, 2012 By Stephen Edelstein

The Kia Forte was never an ugly car, but it needed a redesign to match the company's stylish new lineup, and the competition.

The Kia Forte was never a bad looking car; it just had a lot to live up to. The Forte was launched in 2008, while the Korean brand was making the transition from knockoff to fashion item. Since then, Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer has worked his magic on the Optima, Rio, and others, giving Kia one of the best-looking lineups around. Luckily, the Forte will get a new look for 2014.

The old Forte could easily be confused for a Honda Civic, but the new car has much more sophisticate styling. A large version of Kia’s trademark grille makes it easy to identify the brand. The slash of LEDs across the headlights give the Forte a high-tech, premium feel. The headlights themselves resemble the ones on Kia’s K9/Quoris luxury sedan.

The curvy roofline and cut lines in the doors help make the car seem longer and lower than it actually is. Kia says the 2014 Forte will be longer, lower, and wider than the current car, so the 2014 model should look pretty good in the flesh.

However, the new Forte may have the same problem as its predecessor. If the current Forte looks like a Civic, the 2014 Forte looks like a Ford Fiesta sedan. In profile view, with that Kia grille obscured, resemblance is especially close. The high-mounted ovoid taillights don’t help matters, although they do look good on the Kia.

Since the 2014 Forte won’t go on sale until next year, Kia did not release any powertrain details. The current Forte sedan is sold with two engines: a 2.0-liter inline-four with 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque in top trim, and a 2.4-liter four with a maximum 173 hp and 168 lb-ft. Transmission choices include five- or six-speed manuals and a six-speed automatic.

Kia sells the Forte as a sedan, two-door “Koup,” or five-door hatchback. The company did not say whether the 2014 Forte will be available as a coupe or hatchback.

The 2014 Forte will be sold as the Cerato in international markets, going on sale sometime during the first quarter of 2013. Since only the nameplates will change, expect the U.S.-spec Forte to go on sale around the same time.

Kia has worked hard to shed its bargain-basement image with some very stylish cars. The subcompact Rio and midsize Optima look great, so the company needs is a compact to complete the sedan set. The 2014 Forte will compete against established players like the Civic and Ford Focus, not to mention parent company Hyundai’s rakish Elantra. A dose of extra style is exactly what this Kia needs to stand out in that crowd.