Kia Motors Corp.'s Sedona minivan is the cheapest 2010 model-year vehicle to insure in the U.S., while luxury performance cars crowd the list of the most expensive, topped by Honda Motor Co.'s Acura's sporty ZDX, according to online insurance comparer InsWeb Corp..
After the ZDX at the top of the most-expensive list are Audi AG's TTS and A5 cars, followed by General Motors Co.'s Cadillac's luxury Escalade SUV and powerhouse Chevrolet Corvette. Audi is Volkswagen AG's premium brand.
The Sedona, a minivan whose 2011 model starts at $24,595 new, tops InsWeb's least-expensive list to insure, followed by Mazda Motor Corp.'s Madza5 Minivan and Ford Motor Co.'s Escape SUV. Most of the vehicles on the least- expensive list carry high passenger loads.
The value of the vehicle is one of the most important factors that determine a vehicle's cost to insure, so the fact that most of the vehicles on the most- expensive list cost more than $40,000 isn't surprising, InsWeb said. The firm said the other main factor in determining insurance cost is the particular model's loss history.
Those who drive the sportscars on the top of the most-expensive list are likely "more aggressive by nature, which could lead to a higher likelihood of claims," said Brad Cooper, InsWeb's senior vice president of operations. "On the other end of the spectrum, most of the vehicles on the least-expensive-to insure list are minivans, wagons and small SUVs. Those vehicle types are often preferred by individuals with families-perhaps the least likely people to engage in risky driving behavior."
-By Nathan Becker,
Dow Jones Newswires
Showing posts with label 2010. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010. Show all posts
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Fermi senior wins new car thanks to good grades, volunteer work -- and luck
ENFIELD -- Sharon Pothul, an 18-year-old senior at Fermi High School, got a new car on Friday -- for free.
Pothul won a red 2010 Kia Soul, whose manufacturer's suggested retail price is $17,295, donated by Gary Rome Kia in Enfield as part of a year-long contest members of the senior class participated in.
To qualify to win the Kia, students had to maintain a B average for their senior-year classes, be involved in two activities, have no more than six absences, have no detentions or suspensions, and complete 40 hours of community service.
Seniors, whose grades for the contest were based on the first three marking periods that ended on April 9, had until April 30 to complete their community service and submit an application to Principal Paul Newton.
Newton said approximately 100 students participated in the contest but only 10 students met all of the qualifications.
Around 6:30 a.m. Friday, following a pep rally in the gymnasium, a crowd of approximately 200 students and staff gathered around the car, which was parked in the lobby at the high school, to see who would win it.
Each of the 10 students was given a car key but only one would open the driver's side door, designating the winner.
As a television crew from WFSB-TV3 filmed -- the segment was broadcast live as part of the station's "Cool Schools" feature on the morning news -- several of the students tried unsuccessfully to open the car door, until Pothul tried her key and it opened.
"I'm just really excited," she said later about winning the Kia Soul, which topped Time magazine's list of "The Most Exciting Cars of 2010."
"I was so surprised," she said. Pothul, who will be attending Elms College in Chicopee, Mass. this fall to pursue a nursing career, said she appreciated Rome donating the car.
Although Pothul won the Kia Soul on Friday she won't actually take possession of it until she graduates. The car was scheduled to be on display at Friday night's senior prom at La Renaissance in East Windsor.
All nine remaining seniors who were finalists in the contest received a $100 gift certificate to Gary Rome Kia.
Teacher Rachael O'Rourke, who had Pothul in her Spanish class last year, said the car couldn't have gone to a nicer person. "She is such a sweet person," O'Rourke said. "She's going to be a nurse and that's the type of person you want caring for you."
O'Rourke also received a $100 gift certificate and was honored because Pothul selected her as her supportive teacher during her high school career, Newton said.
Gary Rome, whose dealership has been in town for two years, said he just wanted to help people. "We're new in town and we think it's important to give back to the community," he said.
Rome also thought it was important to recognize a faculty member, which is why the dealership also awarded a gift certificate to the teacher Pothul chose.
"They have a huge impact on these student's lives," he said. Newton said the 10 finalists did a combined 500 volunteer service hours. Altogether the other 90 students volunteered more than 1,000 hours.
The principal said Pothul volunteered up to 36 hours at Blair Manor nursing home. She also volunteered at the ticket booth during the recent home show at Asnuntuck Community College. Her total volunteer hours totaled nearly 50, he said.
Newton was also glad to see Pothul win the car.
"Sharon is a wonderful young lady. I'm really happy for her," he said.
Next year the same contest will be held at Enfield High School where another lucky senior will be awarded a new car.
The nine other seniors whose keys didn't open the Kia at Fermi but who received a $100 gift certificate from Rome were: Dan Army, Patricia Cotnoir, Kaitlyn Cyr, Katlyn Fleming, Felipe Gheiman, Krista Maloney, Kevin Menaker, Derek Wright, and Torii Zaine.
Pothul won a red 2010 Kia Soul, whose manufacturer's suggested retail price is $17,295, donated by Gary Rome Kia in Enfield as part of a year-long contest members of the senior class participated in.
To qualify to win the Kia, students had to maintain a B average for their senior-year classes, be involved in two activities, have no more than six absences, have no detentions or suspensions, and complete 40 hours of community service.
Seniors, whose grades for the contest were based on the first three marking periods that ended on April 9, had until April 30 to complete their community service and submit an application to Principal Paul Newton.
Newton said approximately 100 students participated in the contest but only 10 students met all of the qualifications.
Around 6:30 a.m. Friday, following a pep rally in the gymnasium, a crowd of approximately 200 students and staff gathered around the car, which was parked in the lobby at the high school, to see who would win it.
Each of the 10 students was given a car key but only one would open the driver's side door, designating the winner.
As a television crew from WFSB-TV3 filmed -- the segment was broadcast live as part of the station's "Cool Schools" feature on the morning news -- several of the students tried unsuccessfully to open the car door, until Pothul tried her key and it opened.
"I'm just really excited," she said later about winning the Kia Soul, which topped Time magazine's list of "The Most Exciting Cars of 2010."
"I was so surprised," she said. Pothul, who will be attending Elms College in Chicopee, Mass. this fall to pursue a nursing career, said she appreciated Rome donating the car.
Although Pothul won the Kia Soul on Friday she won't actually take possession of it until she graduates. The car was scheduled to be on display at Friday night's senior prom at La Renaissance in East Windsor.
All nine remaining seniors who were finalists in the contest received a $100 gift certificate to Gary Rome Kia.
Teacher Rachael O'Rourke, who had Pothul in her Spanish class last year, said the car couldn't have gone to a nicer person. "She is such a sweet person," O'Rourke said. "She's going to be a nurse and that's the type of person you want caring for you."
O'Rourke also received a $100 gift certificate and was honored because Pothul selected her as her supportive teacher during her high school career, Newton said.
Gary Rome, whose dealership has been in town for two years, said he just wanted to help people. "We're new in town and we think it's important to give back to the community," he said.
Rome also thought it was important to recognize a faculty member, which is why the dealership also awarded a gift certificate to the teacher Pothul chose.
"They have a huge impact on these student's lives," he said. Newton said the 10 finalists did a combined 500 volunteer service hours. Altogether the other 90 students volunteered more than 1,000 hours.
The principal said Pothul volunteered up to 36 hours at Blair Manor nursing home. She also volunteered at the ticket booth during the recent home show at Asnuntuck Community College. Her total volunteer hours totaled nearly 50, he said.
Newton was also glad to see Pothul win the car.
"Sharon is a wonderful young lady. I'm really happy for her," he said.
Next year the same contest will be held at Enfield High School where another lucky senior will be awarded a new car.
The nine other seniors whose keys didn't open the Kia at Fermi but who received a $100 gift certificate from Rome were: Dan Army, Patricia Cotnoir, Kaitlyn Cyr, Katlyn Fleming, Felipe Gheiman, Krista Maloney, Kevin Menaker, Derek Wright, and Torii Zaine.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Kia Motors' State-of-the-Art U.S. Manufacturing Facility is Featured in a Segment of the History™ Channel's Hit Series Modern Marvels
All-New 2011 Kia Sorento CUV Production Process Shown Start to Finish
# In-depth look at advanced automotive manufacturing
# Interactive plant tour features facts and images of automotive production
IRVINE, Calif., March 4, 2010 – Premiering tonight at 8 p.m., an episode of the hit series on HISTORY™ Modern Marvels, will feature a segment on Kia's first U.S. auto assembly plant, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), and the production of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV. As part of the segment, Modern Marvels will present an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at automotive manufacturing, advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology used in Kia's brand new manufacturing plant.
As with all episodes of Modern Marvels, viewers are able to visit www.history.com for a deeper dive and more information. In addition, at >History.com/tour, viewers will find information specific to this episode of Modern Marvels on how to build a car, as well as about other Modern Marvels' episodes, such as how to demolish a building, build a modular home and build a golf club. The History.com tour site also will provide an interactive virtual plant tour of KMMG's facilities that features video, imagery and facts about the various stages of production of Kia vehicles. Through the interactive plant tour, visitors can see selected views of the Kia plant and learn how Kia is revolutionizing the auto manufacturing business.
"There is an innate curiosity for viewers to see how a car is produced from raw materials to a finished product and the opportunity to be part of HISTORY's popular series, Modern Marvels, is a natural fit as our new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant utilizes the latest in automotive manufacturing technology to assemble the 2011 Sorento," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, Kia Motors America. "Introducing new audiences to the Kia brand is a priority and innovative and educational programs such as Modern Marvels enable us to increase brand familiarity in captivating ways."
All-New Kia Sorento CUV
Completely redesigned for the 2011 model year, the all-new Sorento is a modern CUV that is just the right size for today's consumer. Sorento now employs a unibody design with the ability to comfortably fit up to seven passengers, offering more space and ride comfort than the previous-generation model, as well as easy handling. In addition to offering a comfortable ride, impressive technology features also come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service1. Also standard on all models are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting personal MP3 players and Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for all compatible mobile phones. Available push button-start ignition with smart key, rear sonar back-up sensors, voice-activated navigation, rear view back-up cameras and air ionization purification technology complete the modern and high-tech driving experience.
With two new vehicle introductions and several other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and with new technology such as the recently announced UVO powered by Microsoft® infotainment system (to be available in select Kia models in the U.S. beginning in summer 2010). Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be assembled at Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup, and is now in dealerships.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
# In-depth look at advanced automotive manufacturing
# Interactive plant tour features facts and images of automotive production
IRVINE, Calif., March 4, 2010 – Premiering tonight at 8 p.m., an episode of the hit series on HISTORY™ Modern Marvels, will feature a segment on Kia's first U.S. auto assembly plant, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), and the production of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV. As part of the segment, Modern Marvels will present an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at automotive manufacturing, advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology used in Kia's brand new manufacturing plant.
As with all episodes of Modern Marvels, viewers are able to visit www.history.com for a deeper dive and more information. In addition, at >History.com/tour, viewers will find information specific to this episode of Modern Marvels on how to build a car, as well as about other Modern Marvels' episodes, such as how to demolish a building, build a modular home and build a golf club. The History.com tour site also will provide an interactive virtual plant tour of KMMG's facilities that features video, imagery and facts about the various stages of production of Kia vehicles. Through the interactive plant tour, visitors can see selected views of the Kia plant and learn how Kia is revolutionizing the auto manufacturing business.
"There is an innate curiosity for viewers to see how a car is produced from raw materials to a finished product and the opportunity to be part of HISTORY's popular series, Modern Marvels, is a natural fit as our new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant utilizes the latest in automotive manufacturing technology to assemble the 2011 Sorento," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, Kia Motors America. "Introducing new audiences to the Kia brand is a priority and innovative and educational programs such as Modern Marvels enable us to increase brand familiarity in captivating ways."
All-New Kia Sorento CUV
Completely redesigned for the 2011 model year, the all-new Sorento is a modern CUV that is just the right size for today's consumer. Sorento now employs a unibody design with the ability to comfortably fit up to seven passengers, offering more space and ride comfort than the previous-generation model, as well as easy handling. In addition to offering a comfortable ride, impressive technology features also come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service1. Also standard on all models are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting personal MP3 players and Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for all compatible mobile phones. Available push button-start ignition with smart key, rear sonar back-up sensors, voice-activated navigation, rear view back-up cameras and air ionization purification technology complete the modern and high-tech driving experience.
With two new vehicle introductions and several other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and with new technology such as the recently announced UVO powered by Microsoft® infotainment system (to be available in select Kia models in the U.S. beginning in summer 2010). Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be assembled at Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup, and is now in dealerships.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Kia Soul Named to "2010 Top Cars for Families" List by MotherProof.com
Urban Passenger Vehicle Named Best Overall Value
# Top parenting site recognizes Soul for family-focused features
# Kia hatchback offers versatility, safety features, styling and value
IRVINE, Calif., February 17, 2010 – Kia Motors America's (KMA) resident halo car, the 2010 Soul urban passenger vehicle, continues to accumulate accolades, having now been named to the "2010 Top Cars for Families" list by online parenting site MotherProof.com as "Best Overall Value." Also given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), named one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine and most recently the "Best Hatchback of 2010" by online automotive authority Cars.com, visited by more than 10 million car buyers each month, MotherProof.com selected the Soul for its appealing nature, functionality and overall value.
"Shopping for a family vehicle does not mean sacrificing style, affordability or fun and Soul lets parents maintain their individuality while keeping the family safe and stylish with a slew of personalization options and standard safety features," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "As the kick-off to Kia's largest brand transformation to date, which most recently included the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover, Soul's wide-ranging appeal continues to receive consumer and media acclaim and bring more and more buyers to Kia showrooms."
The MotherProof.com awards showcase cars, SUVs and minivans that "mom reviewers" consider to be top vehicles for families in a number of segments, including minivan, three-row SUV or crossover, two-row SUV or crossover, wagon, sedan, fun, overall value, hybrid and best LATCH connectors. Winners are then chosen based on family-friendly criteria set forth by the reviewers, including ease of entrance and exit for all passengers, LATCH connector usability and easy seatbelt usage, among other features.
Soul offers an immense amount of style and value on top of an extensive list of standard safety features sure to appeal to all families, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging.
Kia Product Line
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
# Top parenting site recognizes Soul for family-focused features
# Kia hatchback offers versatility, safety features, styling and value
IRVINE, Calif., February 17, 2010 – Kia Motors America's (KMA) resident halo car, the 2010 Soul urban passenger vehicle, continues to accumulate accolades, having now been named to the "2010 Top Cars for Families" list by online parenting site MotherProof.com as "Best Overall Value." Also given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), named one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine and most recently the "Best Hatchback of 2010" by online automotive authority Cars.com, visited by more than 10 million car buyers each month, MotherProof.com selected the Soul for its appealing nature, functionality and overall value.
"Shopping for a family vehicle does not mean sacrificing style, affordability or fun and Soul lets parents maintain their individuality while keeping the family safe and stylish with a slew of personalization options and standard safety features," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "As the kick-off to Kia's largest brand transformation to date, which most recently included the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover, Soul's wide-ranging appeal continues to receive consumer and media acclaim and bring more and more buyers to Kia showrooms."
The MotherProof.com awards showcase cars, SUVs and minivans that "mom reviewers" consider to be top vehicles for families in a number of segments, including minivan, three-row SUV or crossover, two-row SUV or crossover, wagon, sedan, fun, overall value, hybrid and best LATCH connectors. Winners are then chosen based on family-friendly criteria set forth by the reviewers, including ease of entrance and exit for all passengers, LATCH connector usability and easy seatbelt usage, among other features.
Soul offers an immense amount of style and value on top of an extensive list of standard safety features sure to appeal to all families, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging.
Kia Product Line
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
Monday, January 18, 2010
Kia Soul Named "Best Hatchback of 2010" by Cars.com
Award-Winning Kia Urban Passenger Vehicle Honored by Popular Online Automotive Site
# Kia Soul outpaces competition in increasingly competitive segment
# Soul offers unique styling and an abundance of personalization options, safety features and value
IRVINE, Calif., January 15, 2010 - Hot on the heels of being named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine, Kia Motors' popular five-door has been named "Best Hatchback of 2010" by online automotive authority Cars.com, visited by more than 10 million car buyers each month. Also recently given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), named one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com as well as the top ten "Consumers' Favorite Cars for College Students" list by Edmunds.com, Soul was honored by Cars.com for definitive styling, excellent safety features, agile handling and overall value.
"Designed for consumers looking for a new way to roll, Soul offers an unbeatable combination of style, personalization, safety features, and value," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Soul kicked off our largest brand transformation ever, followed closely by Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup and the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover, effectively raising our brand profile. The Cars.com honor shows Soul's perpetual appeal as it continues to receive consumer and media acclaim and attract new buyers to Kia showrooms."
Of nearly 70 all-new or redesigned cars for 2010, Cars.com reviewed and selected the top vehicles across six automotive categories, including Best New SUV of 2010, Best New Compact of 2010, Best New Hatchback of 2010, Best New Hybrid Hatchback of 2010, Best New Hybrid Sedan of 2010 and Best New Wagon of 2010. Each category winner presented outstanding value, safety features, interior comfort, handling and attractive styling.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging. In addition to presenting an immense amount of style and value, Soul also offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.
Kia Product Line
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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 outpaces competition in increasingly competitive segment
# Soul offers unique styling and an abundance of personalization options, safety features and value
IRVINE, Calif., January 15, 2010 - Hot on the heels of being named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine, Kia Motors' popular five-door has been named "Best Hatchback of 2010" by online automotive authority Cars.com, visited by more than 10 million car buyers each month. Also recently given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), named one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com as well as the top ten "Consumers' Favorite Cars for College Students" list by Edmunds.com, Soul was honored by Cars.com for definitive styling, excellent safety features, agile handling and overall value.
"Designed for consumers looking for a new way to roll, Soul offers an unbeatable combination of style, personalization, safety features, and value," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Soul kicked off our largest brand transformation ever, followed closely by Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup and the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover, effectively raising our brand profile. The Cars.com honor shows Soul's perpetual appeal as it continues to receive consumer and media acclaim and attract new buyers to Kia showrooms."
Of nearly 70 all-new or redesigned cars for 2010, Cars.com reviewed and selected the top vehicles across six automotive categories, including Best New SUV of 2010, Best New Compact of 2010, Best New Hatchback of 2010, Best New Hybrid Hatchback of 2010, Best New Hybrid Sedan of 2010 and Best New Wagon of 2010. Each category winner presented outstanding value, safety features, interior comfort, handling and attractive styling.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging. In addition to presenting an immense amount of style and value, Soul also offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.
Kia Product Line
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Kia Soul Named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine
Award-Winning Kia Urban Passenger Vehicle Honored by Top Hispanic Women's Publication
# Kia five-door selected for numerous consumer-friendly attributes
# Soul's value, safety features and styling enhance overall appeal
IRVINE, Calif., January 11, 2010 – Adding even more recognition to its growing list of accolades, the 2010 Kia Soul was named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine during an award presentation at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Also named one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine, one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, Soul was selected by FAMA for its extensive list of safety features, dynamic styling, impressive interior room and value
"Soul offers today's consumer a practical and attractive option with a more than impressive package of vibrant styling, extensive safety features and standard amenities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "In today's economy we feel it's important that buyer's don't have to sacrifice these necessities for overall value, and Soul delivers."
Editors from FAMA selected the top vehicles across six categories, including Editor's Choice Award, Green Car/Hybrid of the Year, Best Luxury Sport Utility, Sport Car of the Year, Small Car of the Year and Car of the Year for Women. Each vehicle considered possessed a long list of safety features, impressive styling, interior space and value.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging.
In addition to presenting an immense amount of style and value, Soul also offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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 five-door selected for numerous consumer-friendly attributes
# Soul's value, safety features and styling enhance overall appeal
IRVINE, Calif., January 11, 2010 – Adding even more recognition to its growing list of accolades, the 2010 Kia Soul was named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine during an award presentation at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Also named one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine, one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, Soul was selected by FAMA for its extensive list of safety features, dynamic styling, impressive interior room and value
"Soul offers today's consumer a practical and attractive option with a more than impressive package of vibrant styling, extensive safety features and standard amenities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "In today's economy we feel it's important that buyer's don't have to sacrifice these necessities for overall value, and Soul delivers."
Editors from FAMA selected the top vehicles across six categories, including Editor's Choice Award, Green Car/Hybrid of the Year, Best Luxury Sport Utility, Sport Car of the Year, Small Car of the Year and Car of the Year for Women. Each vehicle considered possessed a long list of safety features, impressive styling, interior space and value.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging.
In addition to presenting an immense amount of style and value, Soul also offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
Friday, January 8, 2010
Kia Motors Unveils Advanced Infotainment System Powered by Microsoft®
# Kia UVO, short for "Your Voice," features a breakthrough user interface that provides simple and quick access to your vehicle's multimedia and infotainment systems
# UVO is the first in-vehicle solution to integrate full Microsoft® intelligent speech engine technology
IRVINE, Calif., January 5, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today unveiled an innovative and intelligent in-car communications and entertainment system, "UVO powered by Microsoft®," to be available in select Kia vehicles starting this summer. UVO provides consumer friendly voice- and touch-activated experiences for simple management of music files and hands-free mobile phone operation. Co-developed with Microsoft and based on Windows Embedded Auto software, UVO is an easy-to-use, hands-free solution that allows drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from a variety of media sources and create custom music experiences.
Understanding drivers want and need intuitive controls, Kia Motors and Microsoft® designed UVO to enable a new level of voice recognition through Microsoft® speech technology. UVO users will be able to access media content and connect with people through simple, quick voice commands without having to navigate through menus. By supporting complex grammar, UVO needs only short voice commands to connect drivers and passengers with their desired functions. An interactive system, UVO responds to inquiries such as "What's playing?" and provides audible answers and related functions, helping to keep drivers' eyes safely focused on the road ahead of them.
UVO also brings advancements to in-car technology through an immersive user experience. The interface features a 4.3-inch, full-color display that provides detailed information on media content, phonebook data and vehicle information, and the screen also doubles as a rear-view camera when the shifter is put in reverse. UVO is an open platform that seamlessly integrates with a wide variety of mobile phones, music players and other devices, making it easy for drivers to quickly pair devices.
"UVO powered by Microsoft® is a breakthrough for in-vehicle infotainment that helps allow drivers and passengers to safely and easily use all of their personal technologies to create personalized in-vehicle communications and entertainment experiences," says Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. "Collaborating with Microsoft, Kia Motors is able to offer drivers an experience that will provide our cars with a clear competitive advantage."
"We are very excited with the customized approach Kia Motors is bringing to in-car infotainment," says Kevin Dallas, General Manager of Microsoft's Windows Embedded Business division. "Kia's UVO system demonstrates how the power of Windows Embedded technology can keep consumers connected to the devices, information and entertainment that matters to them most."
Based on the award-winning Windows Embedded Auto platform, UVO can be updated easily as new consumer devices continue to be introduced to the market.
UVO will debut this summer in the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento CUV and will be extended to additional Kia vehicles as part of the brand's technological evolution. Kia Sorento, Soul, Forte and Forte KOUP already come standard and at no extra cost with Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity, iPod®/MP3/USB connectivity, and a three-month SIRIUS® satellite radio subscription.
UVO will be shown for the first time at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, January 7-10, in both the Kia Motors and Microsoft booths and representatives from both companies will be on-hand for demonstrations.
Key Features of UVO, powered by Microsoft:
# Advanced Speech Recognition: Intelligent Microsoft® speech technology is trained to the system operator's voice, creating a personal profile and allowing for up to two different voice profiles in various languages. Support for large grammar commands and faster response time means the content is delivered when you ask for it. Kia Motors' UVO system is the first in-vehicle solution to integrate full Microsoft® speech engine technology.
# Natural Interface Advancements: A full-color, easy-to-use in-dash monitor allows occupants to quickly scroll through media and mobile device content through intuitive voice and touch-screen commands.
# Custom Media Experiences with MyMusic: UVO's "Jukebox" function features a 1GB hard drive for media storage, allowing users to rip music from CDs or an MP3 player into personal MyMusic folders and store up to 250 songs sorted by title and/or artist – all through voice commands. The system can shuffle through an MP3 player or AM/FM and SIRIUS® radio stations and instantly identify what's playing all through simple voice commands.
# Rear Backup Camera: When the vehicle is put in reverse, a built-in rear backup camera uses UVO's in-dash display to provide clearer images of the environment behind the car assisting the driver to identify certain objects that otherwise may be difficult to see.
# Ability to Continuously Update Features and Services: Based on a flexible Windows Embedded Auto platform, updates and services can be delivered in a number of ways (over-the-air, over-the-Web) for Kia to continue to provide a superior user experience after the system enters the market.
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors' first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, will further enhance the Kia lineup.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
# UVO is the first in-vehicle solution to integrate full Microsoft® intelligent speech engine technology
IRVINE, Calif., January 5, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today unveiled an innovative and intelligent in-car communications and entertainment system, "UVO powered by Microsoft®," to be available in select Kia vehicles starting this summer. UVO provides consumer friendly voice- and touch-activated experiences for simple management of music files and hands-free mobile phone operation. Co-developed with Microsoft and based on Windows Embedded Auto software, UVO is an easy-to-use, hands-free solution that allows drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from a variety of media sources and create custom music experiences.
Understanding drivers want and need intuitive controls, Kia Motors and Microsoft® designed UVO to enable a new level of voice recognition through Microsoft® speech technology. UVO users will be able to access media content and connect with people through simple, quick voice commands without having to navigate through menus. By supporting complex grammar, UVO needs only short voice commands to connect drivers and passengers with their desired functions. An interactive system, UVO responds to inquiries such as "What's playing?" and provides audible answers and related functions, helping to keep drivers' eyes safely focused on the road ahead of them.
UVO also brings advancements to in-car technology through an immersive user experience. The interface features a 4.3-inch, full-color display that provides detailed information on media content, phonebook data and vehicle information, and the screen also doubles as a rear-view camera when the shifter is put in reverse. UVO is an open platform that seamlessly integrates with a wide variety of mobile phones, music players and other devices, making it easy for drivers to quickly pair devices.
"UVO powered by Microsoft® is a breakthrough for in-vehicle infotainment that helps allow drivers and passengers to safely and easily use all of their personal technologies to create personalized in-vehicle communications and entertainment experiences," says Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. "Collaborating with Microsoft, Kia Motors is able to offer drivers an experience that will provide our cars with a clear competitive advantage."
"We are very excited with the customized approach Kia Motors is bringing to in-car infotainment," says Kevin Dallas, General Manager of Microsoft's Windows Embedded Business division. "Kia's UVO system demonstrates how the power of Windows Embedded technology can keep consumers connected to the devices, information and entertainment that matters to them most."
Based on the award-winning Windows Embedded Auto platform, UVO can be updated easily as new consumer devices continue to be introduced to the market.
UVO will debut this summer in the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento CUV and will be extended to additional Kia vehicles as part of the brand's technological evolution. Kia Sorento, Soul, Forte and Forte KOUP already come standard and at no extra cost with Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity, iPod®/MP3/USB connectivity, and a three-month SIRIUS® satellite radio subscription.
UVO will be shown for the first time at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, January 7-10, in both the Kia Motors and Microsoft booths and representatives from both companies will be on-hand for demonstrations.
Key Features of UVO, powered by Microsoft:
# Advanced Speech Recognition: Intelligent Microsoft® speech technology is trained to the system operator's voice, creating a personal profile and allowing for up to two different voice profiles in various languages. Support for large grammar commands and faster response time means the content is delivered when you ask for it. Kia Motors' UVO system is the first in-vehicle solution to integrate full Microsoft® speech engine technology.
# Natural Interface Advancements: A full-color, easy-to-use in-dash monitor allows occupants to quickly scroll through media and mobile device content through intuitive voice and touch-screen commands.
# Custom Media Experiences with MyMusic: UVO's "Jukebox" function features a 1GB hard drive for media storage, allowing users to rip music from CDs or an MP3 player into personal MyMusic folders and store up to 250 songs sorted by title and/or artist – all through voice commands. The system can shuffle through an MP3 player or AM/FM and SIRIUS® radio stations and instantly identify what's playing all through simple voice commands.
# Rear Backup Camera: When the vehicle is put in reverse, a built-in rear backup camera uses UVO's in-dash display to provide clearer images of the environment behind the car assisting the driver to identify certain objects that otherwise may be difficult to see.
# Ability to Continuously Update Features and Services: Based on a flexible Windows Embedded Auto platform, updates and services can be delivered in a number of ways (over-the-air, over-the-Web) for Kia to continue to provide a superior user experience after the system enters the market.
Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors' first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, will further enhance the Kia lineup.
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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. 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."
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Review: 2010 Kia Forte continues string of hits from South Korea
It's not that there was much wrong with the Forte's predecessor. In fact, the last time we drove a Kia Spectra, we walked away wondering if anything more might be overkill. The Spectra was good but tended to blend in with a crowd, and Kia's not into playing the role of wallflower anymore. In contrast, the Forte boldly saunters into the middle of the dance floor, comfortable in the hot glow of the pin spot, with the confidence of Tony Manero after a trip to the tailor.
Clearly, the Kia Forte looks remarkably better than the econobox it replaces and attracts the right kind of attention to the brand. Everywhere it goes, the Forte is a surprising conversation piece, though many aren't sure exactly what it is. With Kia's value pricing, you also get a lot for your dollar. So does it have the hat trick of style, value and performance? When the key to this black Forte SX tester was pressed into the palm of our hand, we were ready to find out.
Despite what some believe after only seeing photos, the Forte doesn't bear much resemblance to the Honda Civic. A thick swage along the top of the flanks gives the windows a chamfered, machined look. The Forte's face is bolder than its supposed Civic doppelganger with deeper shoulders formed by the fenders, and the rest of the sheetmetal is carefully creased to look pleasant and stylish, even a bit upscale. Since it doesn't aim to break new styling ground, the Forte has withstood accusations of being derivative, but its clean, precision-milled looks are more unique than that kind of critique might suggest. The lines will age well, and the bodywork grabs and bends light tastefully.
Our SX tester's dapper Ebony Black was set off by just the right amount of brightwork. Lesser trim levels get 15-inch steel wheels, but the SX gets 17s with creative fluting around the lugs, and, thankfully, no chrome. The Forte sits just right on its wheels, and the SX package dresses up the exterior with foglamps in the lower front fascia. This is not a body that carries extra strakes or adornments – there's not even rub strips along the doors. And while the looks are the better for it, we'd take to parking in the far spots, especially with a dark finish that will prominently display blemishes.
Interior styling is clean and simple, but not without flair. Just like the outside, tasteful is the order of the day, and the Forte's cabin isn't overly swooped-up. Dash-strokers will find that the Forte has its share of hard plastics, some may even find the sheen objectionable. But despite any nattering about materials quality, the Forte is right in there with its class contemporaries. The Focus is chintzier, the Civic is plain weird, and the Forte's interior is on par with the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla. The SX leather package fits perforated leather seats that look upscale and add an air of luxe inside, tacking on $1,000 to the $18,195 MSRP.
The seats could benefit from more support and adjustments, particularly with the lumbar. The seat bottom, too, was impossible to get positioned and tilted how we wanted. Although overall comfort and bolstering was good, without much adjustment, drivers might feel that the Forte was designed for some kind of mutant body type. Rear seat passengers don't have to duck and squeeze to enter and exit, with ample space for four full-sized humans, and the trunk is surprisingly large, too. If three people are comfortable with each other's company and personal grooming habits, they'll find the back seat pleasant enough for short jaunts around town, and if things get stuffy, the $600 power moonroof is worth the extra couple months of payments.
Functionally, the Forte's ergonomics are above complaint. Big, clear knobs operate the climate system, and the radio has genuine knobs for tuning and volume; two areas that can be troublesome for manufacturers to get right. Bluetooth is standard on the Forte, and the steering wheel carries controls for operating the telephone, as well as the audio system and cruise control. During its time with us, the Forte never annoyed us with hidden buttons or incongruous menus – it's a pleasantly simple car to operate – and the gauges follow the same pattern, providing clear, legible information for the driver.
Lesser Fortes get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out an energetic 156 horsepower, but SX models get an uprated 2.4-liter engine. The bigger mill is borrowed from the Optima, much as Toyota Corollas can be had with a Camry powertrain. The 2.4's 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque will slake the thirst of the power hungry, but it's overkill here, and the extra 400cc of displacement brings with it an increased appetite for fuel. However, the bigger engine comes mated to an unflappable five-speed automatic that delivers smooth shifts and jumps for higher gears quickly, making the most of the engine's torquey nature. It can be a little reluctant to come out of high gear and extinguish the green "eco" light in the gauge cluster that indicates earth-friendly driving, but the manual gate is helpful – even satisfyingly responsive – when called upon.
The biggest annoyance with the powertrain is its overly-aggressive throttle tip in. A very gentle foot is required to avoid blasting away from stops like a teenager with a newly laminated license. Manual transmission Fortes are even worse, with the wonky throttle programming leading to the binary options of peel out or stall that take time to adjust to. The four-speed auto that's paired with the 2.0-liter engine has come under some fire, but either auto trans is acceptable. The five-speed's extra ratio, however, adds more refinement and relaxes the demeanor.
With the big four's beefy torque, the Forte is happy to loaf along, and variable valve timing provides a noticeable dollop of extra urge as RPMs rise. We put the Forte through commuter hell and it coughed up 28 MPG after plenty of traffic-sitting and on ramp pedal flattening, which lands in the middle of its 22 city/32 highway EPA numbers. While the fuel economy is acceptable, regular commuters could make an argument for the smaller engine, which can be had with a special fuel economy package and five-speed auto 'box to deliver 27/36 city/highway.
Enter the freeway aggressively for the first time and you'll be looking to do it again, just to make sure you're not crazy. There are signs of life from underneath. Where other vehicles in this class are merely drone pods, the Forte SX has a sport tuned suspension, and it delivers. The chassis is simple stuff with struts up front, a torsion beam rear axle, some swaybars and gas dampers – nothing fancy. Those specifications may fail to impress in modern times, but there's a long list of impressive performers sporting the same details. Nobody would accuse a first generation Volksagen GTI of being a sloppy-handling little knockwurst. When this type of chassis is sorted, it's very good, and the Forte SX is well fettled.
The steering could use a smidge more feedback and less aggressive boost; it's fast off-center. The Forte feels light on its feet, though, like a boxer that dances around his opponents. This is a spirited, fun car to drive, which bodes well for the upcoming Koup model and its more overt suggestion of sportiness. The downside is a busy ride on the taut side of comfortable. Some might find it objectionably stiff, and there are occasions where the Forte feels like it's ricocheting off expansion gaps instead of just smothering them with a more pliant suspension. But It's a tradeoff we'd make, because it's an entertaining steer that doesn't dive, squat and slobber all over the road.
The drivetrain is well polished, the uprated engine doesn't leave you wanting for acceleration, and the four-wheel disc brakes felt firm, easily modulated and effective. We would've liked a little less cabin noise at speed, but that's akin to dinging Kia because the Forte's interior doesn't have Zebrano wood trim. For its place in the vehicular hierarchy, it delivers an experience that's among the top contenders in its class.
Just like the Spectra we tried back in 2007, the Kia Forte leaves us impressed. It really only has to compete with the Honda Civic and Mazda3 in its peer group as it betters everything else in SX trim. The $20,000 price is certainly attractive, as is the list of features and one of the industry's best warranties. Redact the brand and model names from the window sticker, and this could have easily passed as an Acura or Infiniti not too long ago. While it's not likely to keep pace with any of those brands' current offerings, the Forte is a heck of a value. The fuel economy of the SX could be better and a stiffer body shell might be the key to supple-izing the suspension. Until that happens, the Sport-averse would be advised to try the normal suspension first. But overall, the Forte is a stylish, comfortable, frisky automotive companion for surprisingly short dollars – the automotive equivalent of two buck Chuck.
Clearly, the Kia Forte looks remarkably better than the econobox it replaces and attracts the right kind of attention to the brand. Everywhere it goes, the Forte is a surprising conversation piece, though many aren't sure exactly what it is. With Kia's value pricing, you also get a lot for your dollar. So does it have the hat trick of style, value and performance? When the key to this black Forte SX tester was pressed into the palm of our hand, we were ready to find out.
Despite what some believe after only seeing photos, the Forte doesn't bear much resemblance to the Honda Civic. A thick swage along the top of the flanks gives the windows a chamfered, machined look. The Forte's face is bolder than its supposed Civic doppelganger with deeper shoulders formed by the fenders, and the rest of the sheetmetal is carefully creased to look pleasant and stylish, even a bit upscale. Since it doesn't aim to break new styling ground, the Forte has withstood accusations of being derivative, but its clean, precision-milled looks are more unique than that kind of critique might suggest. The lines will age well, and the bodywork grabs and bends light tastefully.
Our SX tester's dapper Ebony Black was set off by just the right amount of brightwork. Lesser trim levels get 15-inch steel wheels, but the SX gets 17s with creative fluting around the lugs, and, thankfully, no chrome. The Forte sits just right on its wheels, and the SX package dresses up the exterior with foglamps in the lower front fascia. This is not a body that carries extra strakes or adornments – there's not even rub strips along the doors. And while the looks are the better for it, we'd take to parking in the far spots, especially with a dark finish that will prominently display blemishes.
Interior styling is clean and simple, but not without flair. Just like the outside, tasteful is the order of the day, and the Forte's cabin isn't overly swooped-up. Dash-strokers will find that the Forte has its share of hard plastics, some may even find the sheen objectionable. But despite any nattering about materials quality, the Forte is right in there with its class contemporaries. The Focus is chintzier, the Civic is plain weird, and the Forte's interior is on par with the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla. The SX leather package fits perforated leather seats that look upscale and add an air of luxe inside, tacking on $1,000 to the $18,195 MSRP.
The seats could benefit from more support and adjustments, particularly with the lumbar. The seat bottom, too, was impossible to get positioned and tilted how we wanted. Although overall comfort and bolstering was good, without much adjustment, drivers might feel that the Forte was designed for some kind of mutant body type. Rear seat passengers don't have to duck and squeeze to enter and exit, with ample space for four full-sized humans, and the trunk is surprisingly large, too. If three people are comfortable with each other's company and personal grooming habits, they'll find the back seat pleasant enough for short jaunts around town, and if things get stuffy, the $600 power moonroof is worth the extra couple months of payments.
Functionally, the Forte's ergonomics are above complaint. Big, clear knobs operate the climate system, and the radio has genuine knobs for tuning and volume; two areas that can be troublesome for manufacturers to get right. Bluetooth is standard on the Forte, and the steering wheel carries controls for operating the telephone, as well as the audio system and cruise control. During its time with us, the Forte never annoyed us with hidden buttons or incongruous menus – it's a pleasantly simple car to operate – and the gauges follow the same pattern, providing clear, legible information for the driver.
Lesser Fortes get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out an energetic 156 horsepower, but SX models get an uprated 2.4-liter engine. The bigger mill is borrowed from the Optima, much as Toyota Corollas can be had with a Camry powertrain. The 2.4's 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque will slake the thirst of the power hungry, but it's overkill here, and the extra 400cc of displacement brings with it an increased appetite for fuel. However, the bigger engine comes mated to an unflappable five-speed automatic that delivers smooth shifts and jumps for higher gears quickly, making the most of the engine's torquey nature. It can be a little reluctant to come out of high gear and extinguish the green "eco" light in the gauge cluster that indicates earth-friendly driving, but the manual gate is helpful – even satisfyingly responsive – when called upon.
The biggest annoyance with the powertrain is its overly-aggressive throttle tip in. A very gentle foot is required to avoid blasting away from stops like a teenager with a newly laminated license. Manual transmission Fortes are even worse, with the wonky throttle programming leading to the binary options of peel out or stall that take time to adjust to. The four-speed auto that's paired with the 2.0-liter engine has come under some fire, but either auto trans is acceptable. The five-speed's extra ratio, however, adds more refinement and relaxes the demeanor.
With the big four's beefy torque, the Forte is happy to loaf along, and variable valve timing provides a noticeable dollop of extra urge as RPMs rise. We put the Forte through commuter hell and it coughed up 28 MPG after plenty of traffic-sitting and on ramp pedal flattening, which lands in the middle of its 22 city/32 highway EPA numbers. While the fuel economy is acceptable, regular commuters could make an argument for the smaller engine, which can be had with a special fuel economy package and five-speed auto 'box to deliver 27/36 city/highway.
Enter the freeway aggressively for the first time and you'll be looking to do it again, just to make sure you're not crazy. There are signs of life from underneath. Where other vehicles in this class are merely drone pods, the Forte SX has a sport tuned suspension, and it delivers. The chassis is simple stuff with struts up front, a torsion beam rear axle, some swaybars and gas dampers – nothing fancy. Those specifications may fail to impress in modern times, but there's a long list of impressive performers sporting the same details. Nobody would accuse a first generation Volksagen GTI of being a sloppy-handling little knockwurst. When this type of chassis is sorted, it's very good, and the Forte SX is well fettled.
The steering could use a smidge more feedback and less aggressive boost; it's fast off-center. The Forte feels light on its feet, though, like a boxer that dances around his opponents. This is a spirited, fun car to drive, which bodes well for the upcoming Koup model and its more overt suggestion of sportiness. The downside is a busy ride on the taut side of comfortable. Some might find it objectionably stiff, and there are occasions where the Forte feels like it's ricocheting off expansion gaps instead of just smothering them with a more pliant suspension. But It's a tradeoff we'd make, because it's an entertaining steer that doesn't dive, squat and slobber all over the road.
The drivetrain is well polished, the uprated engine doesn't leave you wanting for acceleration, and the four-wheel disc brakes felt firm, easily modulated and effective. We would've liked a little less cabin noise at speed, but that's akin to dinging Kia because the Forte's interior doesn't have Zebrano wood trim. For its place in the vehicular hierarchy, it delivers an experience that's among the top contenders in its class.
Just like the Spectra we tried back in 2007, the Kia Forte leaves us impressed. It really only has to compete with the Honda Civic and Mazda3 in its peer group as it betters everything else in SX trim. The $20,000 price is certainly attractive, as is the list of features and one of the industry's best warranties. Redact the brand and model names from the window sticker, and this could have easily passed as an Acura or Infiniti not too long ago. While it's not likely to keep pace with any of those brands' current offerings, the Forte is a heck of a value. The fuel economy of the SX could be better and a stiffer body shell might be the key to supple-izing the suspension. Until that happens, the Sport-averse would be advised to try the normal suspension first. But overall, the Forte is a stylish, comfortable, frisky automotive companion for surprisingly short dollars – the automotive equivalent of two buck Chuck.
Friday, December 4, 2009
KIA FORTE NAMED 'CAR OF THE YEAR' BY NADAGUIDES.COM
All-New 2010 Kia Compact Given Esteemed Honor by Online Consumer Automotive Resource
# Forte recognized above competition for offering new-edge styling, value and fuel efficiency
# Kia Forte sedan and Koup give consumers entire package and class-leading combination of standard safety features
IRVINE, Calif., December 3, 2009 - On the heels of being named "Car of the Month" for August by NADAguides.com, the respected online automotive source has named the all-new 2010 Kia Forte "Car of the Year." Selected from the nine vehicles chosen as a "Car of the Month" throughout the year, Forte was honored for its attractive styling, value and an extensive list of class-leading features.
"Consumers as well as dealers have come to recognize the Kia Motors brand for attractively designed and priced vehicles with impressive fuel efficiency and a long list of standard safety features all backed by an industry-leading warranty, and the all-new Forte and Forte Koup are no exceptions," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Forte is a very strong contender in the popular compact segment and it has definitely helped us continue to raise our brand awareness."
The NADAguides.com "Car of the Month" program aims to provide consumers with useful commentary, information and reviews on available new cars, trucks and SUVs, and showcases vehicles that offer impressive fuel economy, safety features and amenities. The editors at NADAguides.com carefully review the vehicles previously chosen as a "Car of the Month" to select the most deserving "Car of the Year." To be eligible, vehicles must be new for the model year and have a combination of impressive styling, fuel efficiency, low price point and cost of ownership. For the complete review, go to NADAguides.com.
"Not many cars can boast a full package when it comes to design features, price, performance and fuel economy, but the Forte leaves a lasting impression with all that and more," said Michael Caudill, automotive expert for NADAguides.com.
Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new Forte sedan starts at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the EX begins at $15,995 and the SX starts at $17,495. Pricing for the stylish Koup, available in EX and SX trims, starts at $16,595 (EX), while the SX trim begins at $17,695. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, starting with a standard 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 mobile phones.
In addition to emotion-evoking performance and great design, Forte and Forte Koup also showcase a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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 650 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and more recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever in 2009. 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."
# Forte recognized above competition for offering new-edge styling, value and fuel efficiency
# Kia Forte sedan and Koup give consumers entire package and class-leading combination of standard safety features
IRVINE, Calif., December 3, 2009 - On the heels of being named "Car of the Month" for August by NADAguides.com, the respected online automotive source has named the all-new 2010 Kia Forte "Car of the Year." Selected from the nine vehicles chosen as a "Car of the Month" throughout the year, Forte was honored for its attractive styling, value and an extensive list of class-leading features.
"Consumers as well as dealers have come to recognize the Kia Motors brand for attractively designed and priced vehicles with impressive fuel efficiency and a long list of standard safety features all backed by an industry-leading warranty, and the all-new Forte and Forte Koup are no exceptions," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Forte is a very strong contender in the popular compact segment and it has definitely helped us continue to raise our brand awareness."
The NADAguides.com "Car of the Month" program aims to provide consumers with useful commentary, information and reviews on available new cars, trucks and SUVs, and showcases vehicles that offer impressive fuel economy, safety features and amenities. The editors at NADAguides.com carefully review the vehicles previously chosen as a "Car of the Month" to select the most deserving "Car of the Year." To be eligible, vehicles must be new for the model year and have a combination of impressive styling, fuel efficiency, low price point and cost of ownership. For the complete review, go to NADAguides.com.
"Not many cars can boast a full package when it comes to design features, price, performance and fuel economy, but the Forte leaves a lasting impression with all that and more," said Michael Caudill, automotive expert for NADAguides.com.
Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new Forte sedan starts at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the EX begins at $15,995 and the SX starts at $17,495. Pricing for the stylish Koup, available in EX and SX trims, starts at $16,595 (EX), while the SX trim begins at $17,695. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, starting with a standard 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 mobile phones.
In addition to emotion-evoking performance and great design, Forte and Forte Koup also showcase a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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 650 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and more recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever in 2009. 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."
Monday, October 19, 2009
Kia Soul: A little Asian flair
It was clear that something different was happening when the video opened with a trio of hamsters bouncing to hip hop music as the scrawl stated "This is how we roll." What's up with the hip-hop hamsters?
To begin with, they were bouncing in a set of wheels dubbed the Kia Soul, the latest and, perhaps, liveliest edition to the box-shaped compact SUV class pioneered by the Toyota Scion and popularized by the Honda Fit and Nissan Cube.
But where those three Japanese vehicles are variations on a theme the Koreans - who have added blacks, Hispanics, and blond-haired California surfers to their design teams - have thrown away the base, box style book and come up with something different.
Stylistically, the Soul isn't so much a car that was drawn outside the box - they just opened up the box.
The front of the roof was raised, as if pried by a can opener, giving the impression of a cap arrogantly pushed back on the head.
The front has a thin, stretched grill and flat hood flanked by wrap-around head lights.
The overall impression is somewhere between a smirk and a smile as the Soul rolls by.
Under that flat hood is a 2.0-liter, four cylinders, fuel injected engine cranking out just 142 horsepower and 137 pound/feet of torque. But that is more than enough to provide a lot of power to such a lightweight vehicle.
The Soul, with its five-speed manual transmission, is surprisingly peppy for a compact box, and, if you feel like flirting with serious traffic tickets, can easily bounce into triple digits and traffic court.
Inside, the Soul offers a lot for an $18,000 car.
The decor is two toned and brash. The test car was charcoal and red, the bright red dash broken by the gray instrument clusters.
That red theme extends to the huge sub woofers on the doors, which bounce with bright red lights timed to the beat of the music pouring out of the car's eight large speakers.
There is a choice of noise-makers for the 300-watt sound system, which is strong enough to serve as the sound system for a block party. The Soul has a single, in-dash CD player, as well as iPod, MP3, and USB-port connections.
There also is AM/FM and Sirius satellite radio. The entertainment network is accessible via fingertip controls on the steering wheel, along with a Bluetooth system that is easy to set up and use.
All that is missing is a navigation system, though that would be unusual in this price category.
As a small SUV, the Soul has more room than one could ever get in a typical sub-compact car.
And the powered sunroof adds to the Soul's feel of ambiance.
When the rear seats are folded flat, the Soul can easily haul a washer or dryer, and its sport-tuned suspension will get the machine to its destination in one working piece. The seats are cloth and manually operated - which is to be expected in this price range - but they are easily adjusted, wide, thickly padded and would not cast a pall over a cross-country trip.
All things considered, the hip-hop hamsters are likely to make an impact rolling through the small SUV market.
By ROGER WITHERSPOON
Gainsville.com
To begin with, they were bouncing in a set of wheels dubbed the Kia Soul, the latest and, perhaps, liveliest edition to the box-shaped compact SUV class pioneered by the Toyota Scion and popularized by the Honda Fit and Nissan Cube.
But where those three Japanese vehicles are variations on a theme the Koreans - who have added blacks, Hispanics, and blond-haired California surfers to their design teams - have thrown away the base, box style book and come up with something different.
Stylistically, the Soul isn't so much a car that was drawn outside the box - they just opened up the box.
The front of the roof was raised, as if pried by a can opener, giving the impression of a cap arrogantly pushed back on the head.
The front has a thin, stretched grill and flat hood flanked by wrap-around head lights.
The overall impression is somewhere between a smirk and a smile as the Soul rolls by.
Under that flat hood is a 2.0-liter, four cylinders, fuel injected engine cranking out just 142 horsepower and 137 pound/feet of torque. But that is more than enough to provide a lot of power to such a lightweight vehicle.
The Soul, with its five-speed manual transmission, is surprisingly peppy for a compact box, and, if you feel like flirting with serious traffic tickets, can easily bounce into triple digits and traffic court.
Inside, the Soul offers a lot for an $18,000 car.
The decor is two toned and brash. The test car was charcoal and red, the bright red dash broken by the gray instrument clusters.
That red theme extends to the huge sub woofers on the doors, which bounce with bright red lights timed to the beat of the music pouring out of the car's eight large speakers.
There is a choice of noise-makers for the 300-watt sound system, which is strong enough to serve as the sound system for a block party. The Soul has a single, in-dash CD player, as well as iPod, MP3, and USB-port connections.
There also is AM/FM and Sirius satellite radio. The entertainment network is accessible via fingertip controls on the steering wheel, along with a Bluetooth system that is easy to set up and use.
All that is missing is a navigation system, though that would be unusual in this price category.
As a small SUV, the Soul has more room than one could ever get in a typical sub-compact car.
And the powered sunroof adds to the Soul's feel of ambiance.
When the rear seats are folded flat, the Soul can easily haul a washer or dryer, and its sport-tuned suspension will get the machine to its destination in one working piece. The seats are cloth and manually operated - which is to be expected in this price range - but they are easily adjusted, wide, thickly padded and would not cast a pall over a cross-country trip.
All things considered, the hip-hop hamsters are likely to make an impact rolling through the small SUV market.
By ROGER WITHERSPOON
Gainsville.com
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Kia is on a roll with 2010 Soul
An all-new Soul debuts for Kia for the 2010 model year. Call it a wagon, a mini-ute, a compact crossover or whatever you like, but its somewhat edgy styling, angled window line and wide stance give it a look that brings folks in for a closer look.
Soul's marketing campaign is also intriguing. Have you seen the television commercial (with the hamsters)? My kids love it. Kia also has a catchy tagline for the Soul, "A new way to roll."
I like it.
Clearly the boxy new Soul has the Scion xB in its sights, but the Soul features more rounded lines and a unique rear sloping roof line.
Soul's fun exterior styling, pleasant ride, outstanding warranty, long list of standard safety features and entry price of just $13,300 make it worth a serious look.
Soul comes in four trim levels: the base model Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport. The base model features an economical 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (making 122 horsepower) mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
All other trim levels feature a peppier 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 142 horsepower. The 2.0 can be teamed to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Soul's power goes to the front wheels. I'd like to see an available all-wheel drive model. Soul is fairly fuel efficient with the base model being rated at 26/31 and the other trims rated at 24/30.
The 2.0-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission in my Soul+ tester was a nice combination. Power is adequate for this segment and the shifts are smooth. Noise level is low at boulevard speeds; however, road noise easily permeates the cabin while cruising on the highway. Overall, though, the ride is OK and the noise level is not bad enough to scare buyers off.
Soul's exterior styling will obviously bring traffic into Kia's showroom. Soul comes in eight colors including hues like Alien, Molten, Shadow, Java and Dune. Slip inside the new Soul and you'll be greeted by a surprisingly spacious interior.
I found plenty of leg and headroom up front. Room for rear seat passengers is good. And Soul is quite versatile.
To wit: My 20-year old son called me and said, "Dad, I need your help. I'm over at Wal-Mart. I bought a new refrigerator for my room and it's too big for my ['97 Nissan Maxima] trunk. Could you bring the minivan?"
"I'll be right over," I said. But he had no idea I'd be rolling up in the new 2010 Kia Soul that I was testing.
When I tooted the horn to catch his attention he looked surprised and said, "You've got to be kidding. There's no way the fridge will fit in that." Boy was he wrong. I folded the rear seatbacks down and my Soul tester's tall cargo area easily gobbled up the fridge.
I said, "Look, there's still plenty of room for more stuff. Do you need anything else while I'm here?"
After unloading the fridge, my son asked if I could take him for a ride in the Soul. He usually only asks for rides when I've got a sports car or an ultra-luxurious model. But he was quite enamored with the Soul.
He wanted to check out the lighted speakers. They're part of the upgraded audio package and you can turn them off if you find them distracting. He thought they were awesome.
The 315-watt audio system with lighted speakers and nifty Bluetooth connection might help you forget about things like the rest of the cabin being plain or the seats being a bit firm and uncomfortable.
I do like the large bilevel glove box, but it needs a light more than the speakers do.
When it comes to safety features, the Soul comes standard with antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control and full-length side-curtain airbags.
Take a close look; you might be Soul(d).
2010 KIA SOUL+
ENGINE: 142-horsepower 2.0-liter I-4
TRANSMISSION: four-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: front-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 24 city/30 highway
BASE PRICE: $15,900
AS TESTED: $17,890 (includes $695 for destination)
WEB SITE: Kia.com
BY IRA SIEGEL
Chicago Sun-Times
Soul's marketing campaign is also intriguing. Have you seen the television commercial (with the hamsters)? My kids love it. Kia also has a catchy tagline for the Soul, "A new way to roll."
I like it.
Clearly the boxy new Soul has the Scion xB in its sights, but the Soul features more rounded lines and a unique rear sloping roof line.
Soul's fun exterior styling, pleasant ride, outstanding warranty, long list of standard safety features and entry price of just $13,300 make it worth a serious look.
Soul comes in four trim levels: the base model Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport. The base model features an economical 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (making 122 horsepower) mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
All other trim levels feature a peppier 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 142 horsepower. The 2.0 can be teamed to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Soul's power goes to the front wheels. I'd like to see an available all-wheel drive model. Soul is fairly fuel efficient with the base model being rated at 26/31 and the other trims rated at 24/30.
The 2.0-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission in my Soul+ tester was a nice combination. Power is adequate for this segment and the shifts are smooth. Noise level is low at boulevard speeds; however, road noise easily permeates the cabin while cruising on the highway. Overall, though, the ride is OK and the noise level is not bad enough to scare buyers off.
Soul's exterior styling will obviously bring traffic into Kia's showroom. Soul comes in eight colors including hues like Alien, Molten, Shadow, Java and Dune. Slip inside the new Soul and you'll be greeted by a surprisingly spacious interior.
I found plenty of leg and headroom up front. Room for rear seat passengers is good. And Soul is quite versatile.
To wit: My 20-year old son called me and said, "Dad, I need your help. I'm over at Wal-Mart. I bought a new refrigerator for my room and it's too big for my ['97 Nissan Maxima] trunk. Could you bring the minivan?"
"I'll be right over," I said. But he had no idea I'd be rolling up in the new 2010 Kia Soul that I was testing.
When I tooted the horn to catch his attention he looked surprised and said, "You've got to be kidding. There's no way the fridge will fit in that." Boy was he wrong. I folded the rear seatbacks down and my Soul tester's tall cargo area easily gobbled up the fridge.
I said, "Look, there's still plenty of room for more stuff. Do you need anything else while I'm here?"
After unloading the fridge, my son asked if I could take him for a ride in the Soul. He usually only asks for rides when I've got a sports car or an ultra-luxurious model. But he was quite enamored with the Soul.
He wanted to check out the lighted speakers. They're part of the upgraded audio package and you can turn them off if you find them distracting. He thought they were awesome.
The 315-watt audio system with lighted speakers and nifty Bluetooth connection might help you forget about things like the rest of the cabin being plain or the seats being a bit firm and uncomfortable.
I do like the large bilevel glove box, but it needs a light more than the speakers do.
When it comes to safety features, the Soul comes standard with antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control and full-length side-curtain airbags.
Take a close look; you might be Soul(d).
2010 KIA SOUL+
ENGINE: 142-horsepower 2.0-liter I-4
TRANSMISSION: four-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: front-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 24 city/30 highway
BASE PRICE: $15,900
AS TESTED: $17,890 (includes $695 for destination)
WEB SITE: Kia.com
BY IRA SIEGEL
Chicago Sun-Times
Monday, October 12, 2009
'10 Kia Soul rated groovy and cool
It is a great confidence booster when a small, affordable car starts getting awards, especially when it's a new entry to the marketplace. The 2010 Kia Soul has been named by two prestigious automotive authorities for outstanding product characteristics.
This news is not only good for Kia -- which has needed desperately to hit a homerun in the U.S. marketplace -- but it's also good news for small-car buyers, who more than anything else want to feel confident in the small product they're buying.
Ward's AutoWorld named the Kia Soul to its "Interior of the Year" list as having the "Grooviest Interior." That alone speaks volumes. Small cars notoriously get overlooked in the finishings department in manufacturers' efforts to keep costs down. But Kia pays attention to the small-car interior of the Soul, the living space of the car.
Personalization is key to the Soul. There are more than 50 ways to personalize color and interior choices and lighting -- as well as the exterior parts, too, with body kits and roof racks.
One of the big standout interior elements on my Soul tester was the audio package, which included a ring of lights on the door-mounted speaker system. The light settings could be set to pulse to the beat of the music or just create a mood. The Soul's center console floats from the dashboard, giving the driver quick access to climate and sound controls.
Kelley Blue Book named the new Kia Soul to its "Coolest New Cars" under $18,000, citing all the techie gadgets that are offered such as Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration, as well as its fuel economy and safety factors.
The front-wheel-drive Kia Soul starts well below $18,000, with an entry price of $13,300. This base model employs a 16-valve, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that will generate 122 horsepower and 115 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. It rides on 15-inch tires. The EPA rates the fuel economy at 31 miles per gallon highway and 26 mpg city.
All other versions -- the Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport -- are equipped with the 2.0-liter inline-four with 142 horsepower and 137 lb.-ft. of torque coupled to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed manual transmission. Prices for these trims range from $14,950 to $17,900. The Soul+ is shod with 16-inch tires while the Soul! and Soul Sport get 18-inchers. Fuel mileage estimates on the 2.0-liter are 24/30 mpg for both transmission types.
The Soul zips around town breezily with its 34-foot curb-to-curb turning circle. In fact, Kia labels this five-door compact an "urban" vehicle. Others might call it a hatchback because of its easy lift access to a tidy cargo area, but I gotta agree with the automaker on this -- the Soul is a decent city car. It parks easily in tight spaces, maneuvers well and has a successful look going for it, just as many of its aspirational young buyers would want.
The compact Kia Soul comes with a good list of safety equipment. Models include full-length side curtain airbags, seat-mounted (front only) side-impact airbags, dual front airbags and active head restraints. Buyer confidence is further inspired by other important safety features, including Electronic Stability Control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.
We all know the rational side of the small-car buyer chooses affordability, safety and fuel economy as primary reasons for the purchase. Kia understands the emotional side of buying a car, which involves design and passion. The Soul has it.
By Connie Keane
MOTOR MATTERS
This news is not only good for Kia -- which has needed desperately to hit a homerun in the U.S. marketplace -- but it's also good news for small-car buyers, who more than anything else want to feel confident in the small product they're buying.
Ward's AutoWorld named the Kia Soul to its "Interior of the Year" list as having the "Grooviest Interior." That alone speaks volumes. Small cars notoriously get overlooked in the finishings department in manufacturers' efforts to keep costs down. But Kia pays attention to the small-car interior of the Soul, the living space of the car.
Personalization is key to the Soul. There are more than 50 ways to personalize color and interior choices and lighting -- as well as the exterior parts, too, with body kits and roof racks.
One of the big standout interior elements on my Soul tester was the audio package, which included a ring of lights on the door-mounted speaker system. The light settings could be set to pulse to the beat of the music or just create a mood. The Soul's center console floats from the dashboard, giving the driver quick access to climate and sound controls.
Kelley Blue Book named the new Kia Soul to its "Coolest New Cars" under $18,000, citing all the techie gadgets that are offered such as Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration, as well as its fuel economy and safety factors.
The front-wheel-drive Kia Soul starts well below $18,000, with an entry price of $13,300. This base model employs a 16-valve, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that will generate 122 horsepower and 115 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. It rides on 15-inch tires. The EPA rates the fuel economy at 31 miles per gallon highway and 26 mpg city.
All other versions -- the Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport -- are equipped with the 2.0-liter inline-four with 142 horsepower and 137 lb.-ft. of torque coupled to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed manual transmission. Prices for these trims range from $14,950 to $17,900. The Soul+ is shod with 16-inch tires while the Soul! and Soul Sport get 18-inchers. Fuel mileage estimates on the 2.0-liter are 24/30 mpg for both transmission types.
The Soul zips around town breezily with its 34-foot curb-to-curb turning circle. In fact, Kia labels this five-door compact an "urban" vehicle. Others might call it a hatchback because of its easy lift access to a tidy cargo area, but I gotta agree with the automaker on this -- the Soul is a decent city car. It parks easily in tight spaces, maneuvers well and has a successful look going for it, just as many of its aspirational young buyers would want.
The compact Kia Soul comes with a good list of safety equipment. Models include full-length side curtain airbags, seat-mounted (front only) side-impact airbags, dual front airbags and active head restraints. Buyer confidence is further inspired by other important safety features, including Electronic Stability Control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.
We all know the rational side of the small-car buyer chooses affordability, safety and fuel economy as primary reasons for the purchase. Kia understands the emotional side of buying a car, which involves design and passion. The Soul has it.
By Connie Keane
MOTOR MATTERS
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Kia Soul Named to TIME.com's 'Most Exciting Cars of 2010' List
Kia's Affordable Halo Vehicle Honored by Prestigious Web Site
# Soul recognized for eye-catching style, spacious interior and low price point
# Kia's newest five-door offers consumers entire package with safety features, value, style and options
IRVINE, Calif., August 31, 2009 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Kia Soul was named to the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" list by TIME.com, the online edition of TIME magazine. A recent addition to the expanding Kia lineup, Soul's head-turning style was modeled under the brand's current design evolution and offers consumers an attractive vehicle with myriad personalization options as well as numerous standard comfort and safety features. Also a recent recipient of a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, Soul was recognized by TIME.com for its roomy interior, large cargo volume, standard convenience features and impressive value
"Being recognized by TIME.com is further proof that the Kia Motors brand hit a home run with the Soul and we are confident we are on the right track with vehicles including the Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup two-door and upcoming Sorento CUV,'" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Consumers are looking for vehicles that offer an unbeatable combination of style, fuel efficiency, technology, convenience and safety features, and Soul offers the complete package in addition to the ability to personalize and emotionally connect with your vehicle."
With a starting price below $14,000, Soul is available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. Kia Motors' newest five-door offers consumers an immense amount of style and value, equipped with such driver-friendly standard convenience features as an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service, and USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls (achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable). Soul also offers an optional Audio Upgrade Package that includes a center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music to truly enhance the personal lounge atmosphere.
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 630 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."
# Soul recognized for eye-catching style, spacious interior and low price point
# Kia's newest five-door offers consumers entire package with safety features, value, style and options
IRVINE, Calif., August 31, 2009 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Kia Soul was named to the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" list by TIME.com, the online edition of TIME magazine. A recent addition to the expanding Kia lineup, Soul's head-turning style was modeled under the brand's current design evolution and offers consumers an attractive vehicle with myriad personalization options as well as numerous standard comfort and safety features. Also a recent recipient of a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, Soul was recognized by TIME.com for its roomy interior, large cargo volume, standard convenience features and impressive value
"Being recognized by TIME.com is further proof that the Kia Motors brand hit a home run with the Soul and we are confident we are on the right track with vehicles including the Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup two-door and upcoming Sorento CUV,'" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Consumers are looking for vehicles that offer an unbeatable combination of style, fuel efficiency, technology, convenience and safety features, and Soul offers the complete package in addition to the ability to personalize and emotionally connect with your vehicle."
With a starting price below $14,000, Soul is available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. Kia Motors' newest five-door offers consumers an immense amount of style and value, equipped with such driver-friendly standard convenience features as an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service, and USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls (achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable). Soul also offers an optional Audio Upgrade Package that includes a center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music to truly enhance the personal lounge atmosphere.
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 630 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."
Monday, August 31, 2009
KIA Soul combines cool with fuel economy
The 2010 Kia Soul hatchback mainlines fun and funk into a bland brand heretofore defined by the logical appeal of low prices and long warranties.
Leave your left brain at home, clap your hands and say yeah as the eye-catching Soul rolls into sight, lights in its speakers flashing in time to the tunes pouring out of your iPod.
The Soul is the latest player in the offbeat-cool class of small cars inspired by the Honda Element. Exactly the same length as a Honda Fit subcompact, the 161.6-inch-long Soul combines a low price with high fuel economy, arena-like interior room, spunky performance and unique looks in a winning package.
Prices for the 2010 Soul start at $13,300 for a base model with a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission.
Kia offers four equipment levels: base, the cutesy-named + and ! and the less-cloying Sport. Stepping up to the + gets you a satisfying 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and manual transmission for $14,950, and the automatic version of the + will cost another $950. Top-of-the-line ! and Sport models get the 2.0-liter engine and go for $16,950 with the manual and $17,900 with the four-speed automatic transmission.
I tested a very well-equipped manual transmission Soul Sport that stickered at $17,650. All prices exclude destination charges.
While it's the same size as the sleek and aerodynamic Fit, the Soul's offbeat looks and roomy interior make it a more direct competitor for cars like the Chevrolet HHR retro wagon, the bigger and boxier Honda Element and the cool-to-be-square Nissan Cube and Scion xB.
The four-cylinder engine in the Sport provides plenty of zip for dicing in traffic. The Kia's long wheelbase and wide track provide a stable, road-gripping ride that encourages sporty driving. The Soul is considerably more entertaining to drive than the bigger xB or underpowered Cube.
Strong fuel economy
The transmission lineup is a bit archaic in a world of six-speed manuals and five-speed automatics, however. The Soul Sport I tested accelerated ably, but a sixth gear would be welcome to boost performance and fuel economy while reducing engine noise.
Despite the dated transmissions, the Soul has excellent EPA fuel economy ratings. The 2.0-liter engine returns 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the 1.6-liter achieved 26 city/31 highway.
An innovative exterior design complements those mechanical virtues with a cheeky long-nosed body that features an aft-sloping roof, big doors for easy passenger access and a large and convenient tailgate. From its high roof and big wraparound headlights to a long wheelbase that pushes the wheels to the corners, there's nothing quite like the Soul on the road.
Outward visibility is excellent, thanks to large sideview mirrors and expansive windows all around. And the Soul offers a cavernous 102.3 cubic feet of passenger space.
Lansing State Journal
Leave your left brain at home, clap your hands and say yeah as the eye-catching Soul rolls into sight, lights in its speakers flashing in time to the tunes pouring out of your iPod.
The Soul is the latest player in the offbeat-cool class of small cars inspired by the Honda Element. Exactly the same length as a Honda Fit subcompact, the 161.6-inch-long Soul combines a low price with high fuel economy, arena-like interior room, spunky performance and unique looks in a winning package.
Prices for the 2010 Soul start at $13,300 for a base model with a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission.
Kia offers four equipment levels: base, the cutesy-named + and ! and the less-cloying Sport. Stepping up to the + gets you a satisfying 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and manual transmission for $14,950, and the automatic version of the + will cost another $950. Top-of-the-line ! and Sport models get the 2.0-liter engine and go for $16,950 with the manual and $17,900 with the four-speed automatic transmission.
I tested a very well-equipped manual transmission Soul Sport that stickered at $17,650. All prices exclude destination charges.
While it's the same size as the sleek and aerodynamic Fit, the Soul's offbeat looks and roomy interior make it a more direct competitor for cars like the Chevrolet HHR retro wagon, the bigger and boxier Honda Element and the cool-to-be-square Nissan Cube and Scion xB.
The four-cylinder engine in the Sport provides plenty of zip for dicing in traffic. The Kia's long wheelbase and wide track provide a stable, road-gripping ride that encourages sporty driving. The Soul is considerably more entertaining to drive than the bigger xB or underpowered Cube.
Strong fuel economy
The transmission lineup is a bit archaic in a world of six-speed manuals and five-speed automatics, however. The Soul Sport I tested accelerated ably, but a sixth gear would be welcome to boost performance and fuel economy while reducing engine noise.
Despite the dated transmissions, the Soul has excellent EPA fuel economy ratings. The 2.0-liter engine returns 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the 1.6-liter achieved 26 city/31 highway.
An innovative exterior design complements those mechanical virtues with a cheeky long-nosed body that features an aft-sloping roof, big doors for easy passenger access and a large and convenient tailgate. From its high roof and big wraparound headlights to a long wheelbase that pushes the wheels to the corners, there's nothing quite like the Soul on the road.
Outward visibility is excellent, thanks to large sideview mirrors and expansive windows all around. And the Soul offers a cavernous 102.3 cubic feet of passenger space.
Lansing State Journal
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Kia's Pitch: No Curves Ahead
The Kia Soul parked in my driveway earlier this morning didn't stay very long. In just a few hours it could be seen over at the local high school, where I left it after dropping off my daughter.
I headed off on foot to do some local errands. When I next saw it, the Soul was surrounded by teenagers.
"It's like it had honey smeared all over it," I told a friend after returning home with this latest entry in a thriving class of resolutely angular automobiles.
The Soul seems to score off the meter with the young-driver demographic, one of the most desirable groups for auto marketers. Win a young customer, the strategy goes, and there's a chance you will have a customer for life.
Much of the time the Soul was with us, my 16-year-old daughter, Shannon, was sitting inside, stress-testing the stereo. From inside the house I could hear its radio, even when it was parked across the street. With all the windows shut.
I had the radio cranked up as high as its 12 setting once, and I thought my ears were going to start bleeding. Shannon had it up to 35.
The Soul has a mood-lighting system inside that can be synched to the audio system. Among other tricks, the door-mounted speakers can be set to produce a pulsing red glow in cadence with your music, an effect that made me think of the furnace grates at a crematorium. Seeing the Soul come down the street at night with that glow emanating from inside, it looked as if Satan was on his way home with another load of sinners.
The Soul's appeal sneaked up on me. Kia unveiled a design study named Soul at the 2006 Detroit auto show; I made fun of it. Responding to a question about when the Soul might go into production, my answer was, "The 12th of never."
Now that it is here -- excuse me while I eat my words -- I have to say, it's kind of cool.
Sure, there are those odd television advertisements with rodents in treadmill cages. Officially, they are supposed to be hamsters; I thought they were rats. But they are hip, whatever species the little animatronic creatures represent, and they get down with some of the best music in car commercials since Mitsubishi's award-winning spots several years ago.
Did you know there is a series of the rodent commercials? Teenagers know. It's actually a single commercial visually (in either 30-second or one-minute versions), but there are several variations, each with the rodents grooving to a different music track.
You can find them all on YouTube, where the commercials had been viewed around 600,000 times the last time I checked. The full-length music videos (sans hamsters) of each song have been viewed hundreds of thousands of times more. Listen for yourself: "Do What You Do" by Marz, featuring Pack and Mumiez; "Fort Knox" by GoldFish; "Junkyard" by the Potbelleez; and "Colours" by Calvin Harris.
Yes, it seems to be working. Owners are blogging about the Soul. Web site hits are adding up. The car itself almost seems beside the point, but Souls are selling.
The Soul is little more than a box on wheels, but there is something oddly compelling these days about motorized boxes. The more boxlike they are, the more stylish they seem to be. The Scion xB -- which was outsold by the Soul in the United States last month -- Honda Element and Nissan Cube are all evidence of box lust among shoppers.
In its transition to production form, the Soul lost some of the visceral appeal seen in a series of concept vehicles that Kia has displayed at auto shows in recent years. I particularly liked the sinister look of the Burner, which I saw at the Geneva show in 2008, with its Goth color scheme of black in various finishes set off by details painted blood-red.
But the production Soul still has a soul.
"It's the color of root beer," my daughter observed of our metallic brown test car. Actually, that paint treatment is called Java. Other choices like Molten, Alien and Shadow resonate better than red, pea green and black, don't you think? Inside, there is only a sand-and-black combination, but it includes hound's-tooth accents on the headrests and seat fabric that can glow in the dark (along with the word Soul).
Two 4-cylinder engines are offered: a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter and a 2-liter with 142 horsepower. The smaller engine comes only with a 5-speed manual transmission; the larger can be ordered with an optional 4-speed automatic. I tested only the bigger engine and found it plenty peppy. Its E.P.A. fuel economy rating is 30 m.p.g. on the highway and 24 in town.
The 2,800-pound front-wheel-drive Soul is built on a modified version of the platform that Kia uses for its Rio subcompact. Driving dynamics were not intended to be a big selling point for the Soul, yet the handling is more than adequate.
Last week, the Soul received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The Soul's 100.4-inch wheelbase helps with leg room for back seat passengers. Seating for five, with four doors and a large rear hatch, means the Soul easily packs a party. Even with the optional sunroof, there's plenty of headroom for 6-footers.
Prices starts at a friendly $13,995, and rise through the range with quirky model names differentiated by punctuation: the Soul + and the Soul ! lead up to the fanciest Soul, the Sport, which starts at $18,595. And then there are must-have options like an eardrum-melting stereo and crematorium disco lighting.
Jerry Garrett
I headed off on foot to do some local errands. When I next saw it, the Soul was surrounded by teenagers.
"It's like it had honey smeared all over it," I told a friend after returning home with this latest entry in a thriving class of resolutely angular automobiles.
The Soul seems to score off the meter with the young-driver demographic, one of the most desirable groups for auto marketers. Win a young customer, the strategy goes, and there's a chance you will have a customer for life.
Much of the time the Soul was with us, my 16-year-old daughter, Shannon, was sitting inside, stress-testing the stereo. From inside the house I could hear its radio, even when it was parked across the street. With all the windows shut.
I had the radio cranked up as high as its 12 setting once, and I thought my ears were going to start bleeding. Shannon had it up to 35.
The Soul has a mood-lighting system inside that can be synched to the audio system. Among other tricks, the door-mounted speakers can be set to produce a pulsing red glow in cadence with your music, an effect that made me think of the furnace grates at a crematorium. Seeing the Soul come down the street at night with that glow emanating from inside, it looked as if Satan was on his way home with another load of sinners.
The Soul's appeal sneaked up on me. Kia unveiled a design study named Soul at the 2006 Detroit auto show; I made fun of it. Responding to a question about when the Soul might go into production, my answer was, "The 12th of never."
Now that it is here -- excuse me while I eat my words -- I have to say, it's kind of cool.
Sure, there are those odd television advertisements with rodents in treadmill cages. Officially, they are supposed to be hamsters; I thought they were rats. But they are hip, whatever species the little animatronic creatures represent, and they get down with some of the best music in car commercials since Mitsubishi's award-winning spots several years ago.
Did you know there is a series of the rodent commercials? Teenagers know. It's actually a single commercial visually (in either 30-second or one-minute versions), but there are several variations, each with the rodents grooving to a different music track.
You can find them all on YouTube, where the commercials had been viewed around 600,000 times the last time I checked. The full-length music videos (sans hamsters) of each song have been viewed hundreds of thousands of times more. Listen for yourself: "Do What You Do" by Marz, featuring Pack and Mumiez; "Fort Knox" by GoldFish; "Junkyard" by the Potbelleez; and "Colours" by Calvin Harris.
Yes, it seems to be working. Owners are blogging about the Soul. Web site hits are adding up. The car itself almost seems beside the point, but Souls are selling.
The Soul is little more than a box on wheels, but there is something oddly compelling these days about motorized boxes. The more boxlike they are, the more stylish they seem to be. The Scion xB -- which was outsold by the Soul in the United States last month -- Honda Element and Nissan Cube are all evidence of box lust among shoppers.
In its transition to production form, the Soul lost some of the visceral appeal seen in a series of concept vehicles that Kia has displayed at auto shows in recent years. I particularly liked the sinister look of the Burner, which I saw at the Geneva show in 2008, with its Goth color scheme of black in various finishes set off by details painted blood-red.
But the production Soul still has a soul.
"It's the color of root beer," my daughter observed of our metallic brown test car. Actually, that paint treatment is called Java. Other choices like Molten, Alien and Shadow resonate better than red, pea green and black, don't you think? Inside, there is only a sand-and-black combination, but it includes hound's-tooth accents on the headrests and seat fabric that can glow in the dark (along with the word Soul).
Two 4-cylinder engines are offered: a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter and a 2-liter with 142 horsepower. The smaller engine comes only with a 5-speed manual transmission; the larger can be ordered with an optional 4-speed automatic. I tested only the bigger engine and found it plenty peppy. Its E.P.A. fuel economy rating is 30 m.p.g. on the highway and 24 in town.
The 2,800-pound front-wheel-drive Soul is built on a modified version of the platform that Kia uses for its Rio subcompact. Driving dynamics were not intended to be a big selling point for the Soul, yet the handling is more than adequate.
Last week, the Soul received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The Soul's 100.4-inch wheelbase helps with leg room for back seat passengers. Seating for five, with four doors and a large rear hatch, means the Soul easily packs a party. Even with the optional sunroof, there's plenty of headroom for 6-footers.
Prices starts at a friendly $13,995, and rise through the range with quirky model names differentiated by punctuation: the Soul + and the Soul ! lead up to the fanciest Soul, the Sport, which starts at $18,595. And then there are must-have options like an eardrum-melting stereo and crematorium disco lighting.
Jerry Garrett
Monday, August 24, 2009
2010 All-New Kia Soul Named to "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" List by Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com
Kia Urban Passenger Vehicle Honored by Prestigious Automotive Resource Site
# Soul recognized for style, value, fuel economy, warranty and reliability
# All-new Kia five door is an appealing option for students headed back to school
IRVINE, Calif., August 17, 2009 – Directly on the heels of earning a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the all-new 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle has been named to the 2009 "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Soul was recognized by the well-known automotive resource site for its fun and quirky styling, impressive interior space, extensive warranty, notable fuel economy and enjoyable creature comforts.
"Soul is the perfect back-to-school vehicle, providing style and options that will appeal to students, as well as safety features, fuel economy and reliability that will give any parent piece of mind,'" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Soul, along with the all-new dynamically styled Forte compact sedan and the company's first-ever two-door, the Forte Koup, is a perfect representation of the exciting new direction of Kia Motors as the brand continues its most aggressive design-led product transformation to date."
The list, compiled by editors at kbb.com, represents vehicles that offer reliability, safety features, affordability, practicality, good handling and attractive styling, effectively appealing to both parents and students. Also taken into consideration is value, with all new vehicles posting starting prices below $18,000, with Soul easily complying with a base starting MSRP of $13,3002.
Soul, which also has been included on kbb.com's "Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list, offers consumers "a new way to roll" with an extensive list of personalization options and unique exterior styling. Kia Motors' affordable halo car stands out in a sea of sameness with funky and fun features, including speaker lights, part of an available Audio Upgrade Package, that can pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting to the interior cabin, enhancing the overall personal lounge feeling. Standard features, including SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service1 , USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel-mounted controls, and Bluetooth® phone connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, only add to the overall appeal of this spirited vehicle.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,3002 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950. Moving up to the Soul! offers a price beginning at $16,950 and the Soul sport, designed for those with active lifestyles, starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600.
For more information about the 2009 Top 10 Back-to-School Cars from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/schoolrides09.
Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc.
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 630 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."
# Soul recognized for style, value, fuel economy, warranty and reliability
# All-new Kia five door is an appealing option for students headed back to school
IRVINE, Calif., August 17, 2009 – Directly on the heels of earning a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the all-new 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle has been named to the 2009 "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Soul was recognized by the well-known automotive resource site for its fun and quirky styling, impressive interior space, extensive warranty, notable fuel economy and enjoyable creature comforts.
"Soul is the perfect back-to-school vehicle, providing style and options that will appeal to students, as well as safety features, fuel economy and reliability that will give any parent piece of mind,'" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Soul, along with the all-new dynamically styled Forte compact sedan and the company's first-ever two-door, the Forte Koup, is a perfect representation of the exciting new direction of Kia Motors as the brand continues its most aggressive design-led product transformation to date."
The list, compiled by editors at kbb.com, represents vehicles that offer reliability, safety features, affordability, practicality, good handling and attractive styling, effectively appealing to both parents and students. Also taken into consideration is value, with all new vehicles posting starting prices below $18,000, with Soul easily complying with a base starting MSRP of $13,3002.
Soul, which also has been included on kbb.com's "Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list, offers consumers "a new way to roll" with an extensive list of personalization options and unique exterior styling. Kia Motors' affordable halo car stands out in a sea of sameness with funky and fun features, including speaker lights, part of an available Audio Upgrade Package, that can pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting to the interior cabin, enhancing the overall personal lounge feeling. Standard features, including SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service1 , USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel-mounted controls, and Bluetooth® phone connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, only add to the overall appeal of this spirited vehicle.
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,3002 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950. Moving up to the Soul! offers a price beginning at $16,950 and the Soul sport, designed for those with active lifestyles, starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600.
For more information about the 2009 Top 10 Back-to-School Cars from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/schoolrides09.
Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc.
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 630 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."
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Kia Forte Named 'Car of the Month' by NADAguides.com
All-new 2010 Kia Compact Sedan Lauded by Online Automotive Resource
# Forte recognized for offering sophisticated styling, value and numerous class-leading features
# All-new compact sedan tops segment by offering consumers the entire package
IRVINE, Calif., August 18, 2009 - The most recent addition to the Kia Motors America (KMA) ever-expanding line-up, the recently launched all-new 2010 Forte compact sedan has been named "Car of the Month" for August by NADAguides.com. Acclaimed for attractive styling, value and an extensive list of class-leading features, Forte is the latest installment to be launched under the brand’s design-led transformation.
"Forte boasts a number of very appealing qualities, including comfort, dynamic styling, fuel economy and overall great value for the compact segment" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "We are pleased to be able to offer consumers the complete new car package at a low price point with the confidence of a 10/100 warranty."
The NADAguides.com "Car of the Month" program aims to provide consumers with useful commentary, information and reviews on available cars, trucks and SUVs, and features vehicles that offer impressive fuel economy, safety features and amenities.
"With a stylish and comfortable cabin, excellent fuel economy, great safety features and a 'Best in Class' engine, the Kia Forte is everything you need in a car," said a spokesperson for NADAguides.com. "Add in the low price point and a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and the Forte provides an exceptional value."
Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new Forte compact sedan starts 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. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, 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.
Along with appealing standard convenience elements, Forte showcases numerous class-leading features, including class-leading passenger volume of 96.8 cubic feet, class-leading horsepower of 156 with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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 630 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."
# Forte recognized for offering sophisticated styling, value and numerous class-leading features
# All-new compact sedan tops segment by offering consumers the entire package
IRVINE, Calif., August 18, 2009 - The most recent addition to the Kia Motors America (KMA) ever-expanding line-up, the recently launched all-new 2010 Forte compact sedan has been named "Car of the Month" for August by NADAguides.com. Acclaimed for attractive styling, value and an extensive list of class-leading features, Forte is the latest installment to be launched under the brand’s design-led transformation.
"Forte boasts a number of very appealing qualities, including comfort, dynamic styling, fuel economy and overall great value for the compact segment" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "We are pleased to be able to offer consumers the complete new car package at a low price point with the confidence of a 10/100 warranty."
The NADAguides.com "Car of the Month" program aims to provide consumers with useful commentary, information and reviews on available cars, trucks and SUVs, and features vehicles that offer impressive fuel economy, safety features and amenities.
"With a stylish and comfortable cabin, excellent fuel economy, great safety features and a 'Best in Class' engine, the Kia Forte is everything you need in a car," said a spokesperson for NADAguides.com. "Add in the low price point and a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and the Forte provides an exceptional value."
Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new Forte compact sedan starts 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. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, 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.
Along with appealing standard convenience elements, Forte showcases numerous class-leading features, including class-leading passenger volume of 96.8 cubic feet, class-leading horsepower of 156 with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
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 630 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."
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Kia's Soul makes it hip to be square
What was first introduced as a concept vehicle in January 2006 at the Detroit International Auto Show, has become a production reality for the 2010 model year. The Soul is a compact five-passenger, five-door (four doors with a rear hatch) that is poised to compete with the Scion xB and Nissan's Cube.
The Soul will come in four variations: the base Soul starts at $13,300; the Soul Plus at $14,950, The Soul Sport has a window tag of $16,950; and the Soul Exclaim starts at $17,900. A fully-loaded, top-of-the-line Soul still manages to come in under the $19,000 mark.
There are two inline four-cylinder engines available - a 1.6-liter that puts out 122 horsepower along with 115 pound-feet of torque or a 2-liter that delivers 142 horses at 6,000 rpm, while generating 137 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm.
Both engines incorporate Continuously Variable Valve Timing and both mate to a five-speed manual gearbox as standard. Souls with the 2-liter engine may also be coupled to an available four-speed automatic transmission. All Soul models are front-wheel driven. The Soul is based on a version of the subcompact Kia Rio platform with bolder cues than the somewhat conservative Kia Rondo.
The Soul sports a reverse wedge greenhouse with blacked-out "A" and "B" pillars, giving the roof a floating effect. Wheel-well arches are highly pronounced in the form of fenders. Front air inlets housed below the grille take on the look and form served up by Audi, drawing its influence from former Audi designer Ian Schreyer. The interior features a floating center stack, driver-oriented gauges and a comfortable cabin ambience. There's also a dual-level glovebox and an under-floor cargo tray.
Soul offers 11 exterior colors and three interior two-tone combinations, along with more than 50 ways to personalize one's vehicle, characterizing it to suit individual tastes and requirements.
My test Soul came in Exclaim trim with the 2-liter engine and four-speed automatic, finished outside in Dune, a creamy off-white color. The interior was Sand and black. The base price was set at $17,900, with the final sticker totaling $18,995. I also was able to test the Soul Sport model with the five-speed manual gearbox. It was finished outside in Titanium metallic with a red-an-black interior, and base priced at $16,950. Adding the power sunroof and destination charge increased the sticker to $18,345.
Standard equipment and features include: ABS, ESC, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, 60/40 split folding rear seats and lots more than one would normally expect in the Soul's price range.
Summary
The 2010 Kia Soul Exclaim is a practical transportation option that is fun to drive within stylish packaging. Acceleration is not blistering but is adequate to get the job done with a little spirit thrown in. The steering isn't sports-car crisp, but seems agile enough to provide a few giggles in the twisties. The ride quality is comfortably compliant, but the boxy form offers a substantial target for 45 to 50 mph cross winds when crossing a bridge such as San Francisco's Golden Gate. The automatic transmission shifts nicely though I prefer the five-speed manual gearbox that I tested in the Sport version.
There are lots of thoughtful storage nooks and crannies, along with cool, quirky features such as the audio speakers that flash mood lighting to match the bass notes. Rear seat passengers will find sufficient space behind even tall front seat occupants.
Add the squarely good looks to the 10-year/100,000 mile limited power train warranty and five-year/60,000 mile 24-hour roadside assistance program, and the Soul provides a hip, value-packed compact ride.
ARV VOSS
SFGate.com
The Soul will come in four variations: the base Soul starts at $13,300; the Soul Plus at $14,950, The Soul Sport has a window tag of $16,950; and the Soul Exclaim starts at $17,900. A fully-loaded, top-of-the-line Soul still manages to come in under the $19,000 mark.
There are two inline four-cylinder engines available - a 1.6-liter that puts out 122 horsepower along with 115 pound-feet of torque or a 2-liter that delivers 142 horses at 6,000 rpm, while generating 137 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm.
Both engines incorporate Continuously Variable Valve Timing and both mate to a five-speed manual gearbox as standard. Souls with the 2-liter engine may also be coupled to an available four-speed automatic transmission. All Soul models are front-wheel driven. The Soul is based on a version of the subcompact Kia Rio platform with bolder cues than the somewhat conservative Kia Rondo.
The Soul sports a reverse wedge greenhouse with blacked-out "A" and "B" pillars, giving the roof a floating effect. Wheel-well arches are highly pronounced in the form of fenders. Front air inlets housed below the grille take on the look and form served up by Audi, drawing its influence from former Audi designer Ian Schreyer. The interior features a floating center stack, driver-oriented gauges and a comfortable cabin ambience. There's also a dual-level glovebox and an under-floor cargo tray.
Soul offers 11 exterior colors and three interior two-tone combinations, along with more than 50 ways to personalize one's vehicle, characterizing it to suit individual tastes and requirements.
My test Soul came in Exclaim trim with the 2-liter engine and four-speed automatic, finished outside in Dune, a creamy off-white color. The interior was Sand and black. The base price was set at $17,900, with the final sticker totaling $18,995. I also was able to test the Soul Sport model with the five-speed manual gearbox. It was finished outside in Titanium metallic with a red-an-black interior, and base priced at $16,950. Adding the power sunroof and destination charge increased the sticker to $18,345.
Standard equipment and features include: ABS, ESC, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, 60/40 split folding rear seats and lots more than one would normally expect in the Soul's price range.
Summary
The 2010 Kia Soul Exclaim is a practical transportation option that is fun to drive within stylish packaging. Acceleration is not blistering but is adequate to get the job done with a little spirit thrown in. The steering isn't sports-car crisp, but seems agile enough to provide a few giggles in the twisties. The ride quality is comfortably compliant, but the boxy form offers a substantial target for 45 to 50 mph cross winds when crossing a bridge such as San Francisco's Golden Gate. The automatic transmission shifts nicely though I prefer the five-speed manual gearbox that I tested in the Sport version.
There are lots of thoughtful storage nooks and crannies, along with cool, quirky features such as the audio speakers that flash mood lighting to match the bass notes. Rear seat passengers will find sufficient space behind even tall front seat occupants.
Add the squarely good looks to the 10-year/100,000 mile limited power train warranty and five-year/60,000 mile 24-hour roadside assistance program, and the Soul provides a hip, value-packed compact ride.
ARV VOSS
SFGate.com
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
All-new 2010 Kia Forte meets high standards of performance, design at a low price
"It's the economy, stupid" was the unspoken theme of the 1992 presidential campaign. Then Gov. Bill Clinton got it and won. The first president Bush was retired to Texas because he didn't get it.
Well, in the automotive world, "it's the design, stupid." The cars and SUVs that are thriving in the U.S., for the most part, have great designs. GM for the past five years have mostly been designed by committee. Hello, bankruptcy. Chrysler has had one winning design in that same time frame, the Chrysler 300 (not counting a couple of retro designs).
On the other hand, we have distinctive designs and good sales from companies like Audi, Mazda, Ford, Hyundai and now, believe it or not, Kia. The Korean carmaker has heard the word and ditched its bland drawings. I present as proof the 2010 Kia Forte sedan.
Kia gathered media from all over the country (including me for some reason) in Seattle to introduce the sedan. I've been around large packs of automotive journalists before and after a couple of drinks you usually hear some muttering about a car's faults. It just wasn't happening with the Forte.
Executives touted the Forte's fun-to-drive factor. That may be pushing things just a bit. In the compact market, probably 90 percent of the cars are bought for practical reasons like fuel economy or cost. The Forte does well on both counts but practically nobody is going to buy this car because it's fun to drive. A real estate agent in a down market may trade in his Porsche Boxster for a Forte, but it's not because it's fun to drive.
However, the Forte will never make you regret the decision to buy one. During the test drive in Seattle, I spent time behind the wheel of the LX trim model with the 2.0-liter, 156 horsepower engine with 144 lb. ft. of torque and the SX trim model with the 2.4-liter, 174 horsepower engine that puts out 168 lb. ft. of torque. The 2.0-liter with two adults on board (one husky, one not) did emit some minor complaints under hard acceleration. The 2.4-liter handled everything thrown at it with nary a peep.
Let's not kid ourselves. Handling was not spirited by any means, but the Forte in the SX trim had nothing to be ashamed of on some moderately twisting roads. Every now and then my co-pilot and I would throw the Forte hard around a corner and while not maintaining a flat horizon, it didn't tip on two wheels either.
Kia made the claim that the Forte's noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) qualities have been improved. It's almost impossible for a writer to verify that claim without sophisticated testing equipment and comparable models. However, it did seem to be a quieter car, especially as I remember other Kias that I have driven.
There is one point worth quibbling about. The Forte's trunk is larger than its predecessor, the Spectra, but it still has an opening that is small for its size. By the way, funniest question heard at the press conference: "Why didn't Kia continue with the Spectra name?" The questioner said a lot of money had been invested in it, after all. Kudos to the Kia executive who admitted there was no brand loyalty to the Spectra name and very few people would miss it. Next time I hear a query like that I'm going to call it the Studebaker question.
What's going to make the Forte a huge winner, though, is its standard safety equipment, even on the most inexpensive models. It comes with anti-lock braking, electronic brake force distribution, stability control, traction control, active front headrests and six airbags. Stability control alone is worth the price of admission, especially because this is a car that is likely going to be driven by less experienced drivers.
When it comes to 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 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.
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. While these are affordable prices, the highest praise I can give the Forte is it doesn't feel cheap at all. The interior materials are of a good quality for the price point. It's a good looking car by my subjective standards. Plus, as mentioned above, you'll never regret buying the Forte when weighed against its competitors like the Toyota Corolla or the Honda Civic.
For more information, go to the Kia website.
Keith Griffin
Examiner.com
Well, in the automotive world, "it's the design, stupid." The cars and SUVs that are thriving in the U.S., for the most part, have great designs. GM for the past five years have mostly been designed by committee. Hello, bankruptcy. Chrysler has had one winning design in that same time frame, the Chrysler 300 (not counting a couple of retro designs).
On the other hand, we have distinctive designs and good sales from companies like Audi, Mazda, Ford, Hyundai and now, believe it or not, Kia. The Korean carmaker has heard the word and ditched its bland drawings. I present as proof the 2010 Kia Forte sedan.
Kia gathered media from all over the country (including me for some reason) in Seattle to introduce the sedan. I've been around large packs of automotive journalists before and after a couple of drinks you usually hear some muttering about a car's faults. It just wasn't happening with the Forte.
Executives touted the Forte's fun-to-drive factor. That may be pushing things just a bit. In the compact market, probably 90 percent of the cars are bought for practical reasons like fuel economy or cost. The Forte does well on both counts but practically nobody is going to buy this car because it's fun to drive. A real estate agent in a down market may trade in his Porsche Boxster for a Forte, but it's not because it's fun to drive.
However, the Forte will never make you regret the decision to buy one. During the test drive in Seattle, I spent time behind the wheel of the LX trim model with the 2.0-liter, 156 horsepower engine with 144 lb. ft. of torque and the SX trim model with the 2.4-liter, 174 horsepower engine that puts out 168 lb. ft. of torque. The 2.0-liter with two adults on board (one husky, one not) did emit some minor complaints under hard acceleration. The 2.4-liter handled everything thrown at it with nary a peep.
Let's not kid ourselves. Handling was not spirited by any means, but the Forte in the SX trim had nothing to be ashamed of on some moderately twisting roads. Every now and then my co-pilot and I would throw the Forte hard around a corner and while not maintaining a flat horizon, it didn't tip on two wheels either.
Kia made the claim that the Forte's noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) qualities have been improved. It's almost impossible for a writer to verify that claim without sophisticated testing equipment and comparable models. However, it did seem to be a quieter car, especially as I remember other Kias that I have driven.
There is one point worth quibbling about. The Forte's trunk is larger than its predecessor, the Spectra, but it still has an opening that is small for its size. By the way, funniest question heard at the press conference: "Why didn't Kia continue with the Spectra name?" The questioner said a lot of money had been invested in it, after all. Kudos to the Kia executive who admitted there was no brand loyalty to the Spectra name and very few people would miss it. Next time I hear a query like that I'm going to call it the Studebaker question.
What's going to make the Forte a huge winner, though, is its standard safety equipment, even on the most inexpensive models. It comes with anti-lock braking, electronic brake force distribution, stability control, traction control, active front headrests and six airbags. Stability control alone is worth the price of admission, especially because this is a car that is likely going to be driven by less experienced drivers.
When it comes to 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 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.
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. While these are affordable prices, the highest praise I can give the Forte is it doesn't feel cheap at all. The interior materials are of a good quality for the price point. It's a good looking car by my subjective standards. Plus, as mentioned above, you'll never regret buying the Forte when weighed against its competitors like the Toyota Corolla or the Honda Civic.
For more information, go to the Kia website.
Keith Griffin
Examiner.com
Monday, July 20, 2009
Kia Forte near top of compact class
Finally a car advertising slogan with more than a grain of truth to it.
I'm talking about Kia's "The Power to Surprise."
A test drive in the new 2010 Kia Forte four-door sedan -- a smart looking, quick driving compact with a wealth of value and features -- suggests the Korean company may be on to something.
I was so impressed with the performance of this car that I can think of only one compact that even comes close to it: the Mazda3.
Sure, the Honda Civic is considered the class leader, and for good reason. But it's more expensive and not as attractive as the Forte.
The Toyota Corolla? High quality, yes, but too mild-mannered and predictable, with styling that's pleasant, but nothing to write home about.
Don't take my word for it. There was a marketing study in which a Forte, Corolla, Mazda3 and Civic were shown to consumers with all identifying features concealed. The consumers ranked Forte first -- even after the brands were revealed.
"That's the first time that's ever happened to us. Usually people would say, 'Oh, it's a Kia. Not interested.' So it's the first time our numbers held up after the revealing of all the brands in the clinic," said Michael Sprague, the company's vice president of marketing.
Why does the Kia stand out from the pack? Usually, when I drive a compact, I get annoyed with steering that is overassisted, meaning a driver has to adjust the steering wheel to correct course often or the car feels as if it's going all over the place.
Not with Forte. It has just about the most perfectly balanced steering I've experienced in a compact sedan -- and for a compact, there was plenty of legroom in the front and back.
And the Forte's styling is terrific. There's a hint of a spoiler on the rear deck helping to create a nice side profile in which the lines seem to come together at the front for an arrow-like profile.
The acceleration was so strong I thought I had the optional engine under the hood. My EX, which starts at $15,795, was equipped with a 156-horsepower four-cylinder, backed by a four-speed automatic transmission.
Standard equipment on the EX included air conditioning; cruise control; power windows and door locks and mirrors. The SX, which starts at $17,195, features a 2.4-liter, 173-horsepower four cylinder, with a sport tuned suspension, fog lights, telescoping steering wheel, leather steering wheel and metal trim. There also is the entry level Forte LX, which starts at $13,695 and comes with the same engine as the EX with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control, disc brakes, Bluetooth and steering-wheel mounted controls.
Like all Kias, the Forte comes with a 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
I have heard some complaints about the manual transmission, although I did not experience them myself.
By Don Hammonds
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
I'm talking about Kia's "The Power to Surprise."
A test drive in the new 2010 Kia Forte four-door sedan -- a smart looking, quick driving compact with a wealth of value and features -- suggests the Korean company may be on to something.
I was so impressed with the performance of this car that I can think of only one compact that even comes close to it: the Mazda3.
Sure, the Honda Civic is considered the class leader, and for good reason. But it's more expensive and not as attractive as the Forte.
The Toyota Corolla? High quality, yes, but too mild-mannered and predictable, with styling that's pleasant, but nothing to write home about.
Don't take my word for it. There was a marketing study in which a Forte, Corolla, Mazda3 and Civic were shown to consumers with all identifying features concealed. The consumers ranked Forte first -- even after the brands were revealed.
"That's the first time that's ever happened to us. Usually people would say, 'Oh, it's a Kia. Not interested.' So it's the first time our numbers held up after the revealing of all the brands in the clinic," said Michael Sprague, the company's vice president of marketing.
Why does the Kia stand out from the pack? Usually, when I drive a compact, I get annoyed with steering that is overassisted, meaning a driver has to adjust the steering wheel to correct course often or the car feels as if it's going all over the place.
Not with Forte. It has just about the most perfectly balanced steering I've experienced in a compact sedan -- and for a compact, there was plenty of legroom in the front and back.
And the Forte's styling is terrific. There's a hint of a spoiler on the rear deck helping to create a nice side profile in which the lines seem to come together at the front for an arrow-like profile.
The acceleration was so strong I thought I had the optional engine under the hood. My EX, which starts at $15,795, was equipped with a 156-horsepower four-cylinder, backed by a four-speed automatic transmission.
Standard equipment on the EX included air conditioning; cruise control; power windows and door locks and mirrors. The SX, which starts at $17,195, features a 2.4-liter, 173-horsepower four cylinder, with a sport tuned suspension, fog lights, telescoping steering wheel, leather steering wheel and metal trim. There also is the entry level Forte LX, which starts at $13,695 and comes with the same engine as the EX with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control, disc brakes, Bluetooth and steering-wheel mounted controls.
Like all Kias, the Forte comes with a 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
I have heard some complaints about the manual transmission, although I did not experience them myself.
By Don Hammonds
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
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