Kia – Page 16 – Automobiles Review

Kia CUB Concept Offers Innovations and Style

Kia CUB Concept is going to be unveiled at the 9th Seoul International Motor Show today in Korea. The model was designed at company’s headquarters studio in Seoul and is less than four metres long, has rearward-opening rear doors and an ‘access-all-areas’ interior.

First of all, the exterior styling of the CUB shows sleek and small design, but at the same time exudes the cheerful face and a daring character of the concept. The CUB’s nose has a broad wrap-around ‘mouth’ and there is a ‘dip’ in the top of the windshield – a motif that can be also seen on Optima, Sportage and cee’d models.

In addition, the grille incorporates a turbocharger air intake, which is highlighted in body colour. Furthermore, the headlamps include two-point LED lights. The concept runs on 19-inch alloy wheels and the front doors have aerodynamic ‘turning-vanes’. LED tail-lights are to be seen at the rear of the car as well.

Some interesting innovations featured here are for instance the minimum-drag wing mirrors and the automatic touch-type door handles. A two-colour paint finish with sporty stripe hints at the CUB’s high-performance potential, while the car’s broad track gives it an imposing stance.

In terms of interior, the model offers comfortability and warm ambience. Through the extended utilization of black leather, Kia managed to offer luxurious feel to the occupants. In addition, the sporty character of the model is further emphasized by the yellow colour accents around the seats, door armrests and steering wheel.

At the instrument cluster, the centre-stack design is minimalist with an air vent controlled by touch sensor. For extra safety, the steering wheel rim is capable of monitoring the driver’s biorhythms.

Here is also featured DIS (Driving Information System) controller connected to a gesture camera. With well-defined motions, drivers can set up each menu on the centre display.

More importantly the concepts engine is Kia’s 1.6-litre GDi (Gasoline Direct injection). The same unit is used in the Kia pro_cee’d GT and cee’d GT. Fitted with a twin-scroll turbocharger and strengthened internal components, the new engine generates 204 hp (150 kW) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft). The unit is mated to a a six-speed manual transmission. This enables the CUB to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 143mph.

Source: Kia

March 28, 2013

Wonder Woman Kia Sportage Adds To The We Can Be Heroes Campaign

The collaboration between Kia Motors America and DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine is further taking strength through the reveal of the unique Kia Sportage Wonder Woman. The model is by the superhero’s Wonder Woman, her power and the big sense of equality.

The model was unveiled today at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. The vehicle is a continuation of a ten-month, eight vehicle partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg.

The Batmobile has already been revealed and we are expecting the other six vehicles with great anticipation. The final car will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one. The Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve means to raise the awareness for DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign. The latter is an effort to bring help and hope to people affected by the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa.

The Wonder Woman-inspired Kia Sportage includes sleek and stylish visual attributes thanks to an aero kit. The red and blue exterior color scheme, accented with stars resembles Wonder Woman’s outfit. On the other hand the gold trim wrapped around the vehicle represents her weapon of choice – “The Lasso of Truth”.

Heroine’s eagle chest-plate emblem can be seen onto the production grille and is flanked by blue headlight beams. The windshield of Sportage features a banner that portrays Wonder Woman’s tiara, and the chrome side panels on the vehicle are graphical interpretations of her invisible jet. The exclusive car runs on five-spoke wheel design which perfectly links the stars on the exterior of the vehicle.

In terms of interior, one can see red upholstery and dash pieces combined with blue LED lighting. The custom seats were embroidered with heroine’s logo, while the cargo area of the vehicle is adorned with stars and an eagle and features a see-through panel, which displays Wonder Woman’s tiara, bracelets and glowing Lasso of Truth.

Source: Kia

March 28, 2013

2014 Kia Forte Sedan – US Price $15,900

Kia has announced the price list for the 2014 Forte Sedan. The lower, longer and wider Forte will offer a sportier and more upscale design, better performance, greater interior space and a wider array of premium amenities than its predecessor when it goes on sale within the next 30 days. The starting price is just $15,900 excluding $800 destination charge.

The entry-level LX is powered by a 1.8 liter MPI with 150HP (110 kW) and 177Nm (131 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic available as an option for additional $1,500.

The EX trim is coming with a 2.0 liter GDI with 175HP (129 kW) and 208Nm (154 lb-ft) of torque. It is available only with automatic gearbox.

The base LX model comes standard with steering wheel-mounted audio controls, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth wireless technology, power windows, air conditioning and heated power-folding mirrors among the many features that make the Forte stand out from its competition. The optional Popular Package (LX A/T only) adds 16” alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry with remote trunk release and a sliding front armrest.

The EX adds Kia’s next-generation UVO in-vehicle infotainment and telematics system with eServices is standard and can now be integrated with an optional navigation system. Additional standard EX features include remote keyless entry with trunk opener, Rear Camera Display, a sliding center armrest and a cooling glove box. The new optional FlexSteer system allows the driver to choose between three distinct steering profiles: Comfort, Normal and Sport. Features found on the optional Premium Package include heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with class-exclusive air-cooled ventilation, leather seat trim, power sunroof, 17” alloy wheels and push button start with Smart Key and a heated steering wheel. Opting for the Technology Package, adds HID headlights, LED tail lights, a 4.2-inch color LCD cluster screen and dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear center ventilation.

Source: Kia

March 20, 2013

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Delivers Enhanced Efficiency

2013 Kia Optima Hybrid is the updated version of the popular vehicle and includes a more performance-driven and fuel-efficient powertrain as well as more cargo space and premium features.

To be more precise, the powertrain refinements are made to enhance smoothness and drivability, featuring a more robust 47 hp (35 kW) electric traction motor, stronger Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) and more powerful 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery.

The car delivers 199 horsepower (147 kW) and has combined 318 Nm (235 lb-ft) of torque. The Optima Hybrid is now being offered in two trim levels – base and EX. The firs one achieves an EPA estimated 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined, while the second trim model delivers an EPA estimated 35/39/371.

What also has been enhanced here is that the new Kia model has greater trunk space. Moreover, the EX model comes with additional equipment: navigation with back-up camera, an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats and 17-inch wheels to the already long list of amenities.

Furthermore, the model is lighter and aerodynamically enhanced. It runs on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, for the base and the EX respectively, and has reduced weight and drag. To be more precise, the enhanced aerodynamics is gained via the Optima Hybrid’s lowered ride height, full belly pan and rear spoiler.

In addition, what also differentiates the model are the satin finished front grille surround and trim on the lower front fascia and side sills, and unique front and rear lighting. In addition, the revised Kia name badge is applied to the hood, trunk lid, and steering wheel.

2013 Optima Hybrid includes an impressive array of standard safety equipment: driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, four-wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Traction Control System (TCS) and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also come standard on all models.

Source: Kia

March 8, 2013

2013 Kia pro Cee’d GT – Full Details

Kia has officially announced Cee’d GT and pro Ceed GT, which will make official debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, tomorrow.

The engine is a powerful 1.6 liter GDi turbo with 204HP (150 kW) and 265Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and the combined fuel consumption is just 7.4 liters / 100 km (38.1 mpg UK).

The exterior of GT models include an aggressive body kit with new bumpers, new front grille, lamp clusters, LED DRLs, dual sports exhaust system, red brake calipers and a set of 18 alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior boasts a new Recaro sports seats, alloy pedals and a a 7” racing car-inspired TFT instrument cluster to create an engaging, performance-oriented ambience for the driver and passengers.

“The world premiere of Kia’s new pro_cee’d GT and cee’d GT highlights the diversity of our current product line-up and underpins the natural expansion of the brand into the performance car market, an important step forward for Kia,” commented Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe.

“The new Kia pro_cee’d GT will have great appeal for motorists looking for style, performance and dynamism in their next car – and the cee’d GT adds an extra level of practicality for buyers who prefer five doors.”, he added.

Source: Kia

March 4, 2013

2013 Kia Pro Cee’d – UK Price £17,495

Kia has announced the full technical specifications as well as price list for the 2013 Pro Cee’d. The hatchback starts from just £17,495 for the S trim level with 1.6 liter GDi engine.

Standard equipment includes a set of 16” alloy wheels, automatic lights with follow-me-home, electric windows, cruise control, electrically-operated, heated and folding door mirrors, trip computer and rear parking sensors.

The second trim level is the SE – adds 17” wheels, stainless steel door sill plates and pedals, automatic dual-zone climate control, 7” touchscreen sat-nav system, automatic rain-sensing wipers and driver/passenger power lumbar seat support. The pricing starts from £19,495.

Two engines are offered in the new pro_cee’d line-up – a 1.6-litre GDi petrol and a 1.6-litre CRDi turbodiesel with Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) – and both are available in each trim grade. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard across the range and Kia’s 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox is also available in 1.6 GDi SE.

The 1.6 liter GDi has 133HP (98 kW) at 6,300RPM and 221Nm (164 lb-ft) of torque at 4,850RPM. 0-100 km/h in 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). It returns 62.8mpg on the official combined cycle with CO₂ emissions of 124g/km.

The 1.6 liter CRDi has 126HP (93 kW) at 4,000RPM and 259Nm (192 lb-ft) at 1,900RPM. 0-100 km/h in 11.5 seconds and a top speed of 197 km/h (122 mph). It returns 78.5 mpg on the official combined cycle and CO₂ emissions of 100g/km.

Check out the tech specs and pricing below!

$2013 Kia pro_cee\'d$

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Performance & Economy	1.6 GDi ‘S’	1.6 GDi ‘SE’	1.6 GDi DCT ‘SE’	1.6 CRDi S’	1.6 CRDi ‘SE’
CO₂ Emissions (g/km)	124	137	140	100	112
VED Band	D	E	E	A	C
Combined Economy (mpg)	52.3	47.1	46.3	74.3	65.7
0 – 60 mph (seconds)	9.8	9.5	10.4	11.5	10.5
Top Speed (mph)	121	121	121	122	122
Dimensions & Weights
Length (mm)	4,310
Width (mm, exc. mirrors)	1,780
Height (mm)	1,425	1,430	1,430	1,425	1,430
Wheelbase (mm)	2,650
Min Kerb Weight (kg)	1,267	1,267	1,296	1,375	1,375
Max Kerb Weight (kg)	1,384	1,384	1,408	1,490	1,490
Boot vol. (l, VDA, min/max)	380 / 1,225 (seats down)

PRICING:

Model	CO₂ (g/km)	OTR Price
pro_cee’d ‘S’ 1.6 GDi	124	£17,495
pro_cee’d ‘S’ 1.6 CRDi	100	£18,595
pro_cee’d ‘SE’ 1.6 GDi	137	£19,495
pro_cee’d ‘SE’ 1.6 CRDi	112	£20,595
pro_cee’d ‘SE’ 1.6 GDi DCT	140	£20,795

Source: Kia

February 15, 2013

Kia Unveils Cross GT Concept In Chicago [VIDEO]

Kia Cross GT Concept that has been teased a week ago made its official debut at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. Cross GT has elegant but powerful stance, mixes high technology with nature. This concept shows Kia’s intentions to offer a larger premium SUV than the current Sorento.

The Cross GT is based on the GT chassis, its proportions are similar to its rear-wheel-drive stable mate with short overhangs, a long wheelbase and an aggressively wide posture. However, the new concept SUV offers even greater visibility due to its taller stature and the all-wheel drive for improved performance and all-weather capability.

The exterior color is decided in Fusion Copper, which links the vehicle with the inspiration-from-nature that the designers had. Furthermore Cross GT is powered by a hybrid powertrain: 3.8-litre V6 hybrid unit mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It also is equipped with a pancake-shaped electric motor positioned between the V6 and transmission.

Combined, the V6 and electric motor produce 500 lb/ft (678 Nm) of torque and 400 horsepower (295 kW), with an all-electric range of 20 miles.

The powerful visual appearance of the concept is due to the unusual proportions: 122.0 inches (3099mm) wheelbase, overall length of 192.8 inches, 79.1-inch (2009mm) width, and overall height of 65.3 inches.

Other highlights include the LED technology that makes the highlights more dramatic, and a multi-panelled sky light with hexagonal glass inserts that improve the Cross GT’s premium design aesthetic.

httpv://youtu.be/YNsEvQYuhdw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kia

February 8, 2013

Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman Shown in Chicago

Kia Optima Hybrid Project Superman is a result of the creative efforts of three companies: Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Streetmagazine. The head-turning Optima Hybrid was just unveiled and is created in order to signal the continuation of a 10-month, eight-vehicle-partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment. Those eight vehicles are going to be based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg.

The final vehicle will be mixture of all seven Super Heroes in one. Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve as a force for good in the world by raising awareness of DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign. The latter is a relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.

This one-of-a-kind Superman inspired Kia represents the strength and fortitude of the world’s most iconic Super Hero. In order to do that, the car was widened with custom fenders, which makes it now even more muscular. In addition it includes an adjustable suspension system that can raise and lower the vehicle with the push of a button.

The exterior color-theme of the vehicle strikes immediately: a stylized color scheme on the hood spotlights Superman’s unmistakable chest emblem while an eye-catching red paint design extends to the trunk, evoking the look of his crimson cape. The beveled front grille is there to remind us of Superman’s belt, and the red headlights glow with the same intensity of his heat vision.

Next, the interior of this Optima is wrapped in custom materials chosen for their unique appearance and texture. Again they reflect Superman’s impenetrable battle armor. The iconic “S” shield is integrated into the seats and steering wheel to give it the right heroic touch.

As Kia’s sales have grown, so has the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, and the Superman-themed Optima furthers those efforts with two video screens in the front-seat headrests that will raise awareness about the worst hunger crisis in 60 years by featuring a custom “We Can Be Heroes” video that demonstrates how one small act can make anyone a hero.

Source: Kia

February 8, 2013

“Hotbots” 2014 Kia Forte Big Game Car Ad [video]

Kia has published second ad for the Super Bowl XLVII. This time, the former Miss USA Alyssa Campanella stars as a sexy robot.

One unsuspecting auto enthusiast gets a little too touchy-feely with the all-new 2014 Kia Forte compact sedan, Alyssa Campanella springs into action to help him learn an important lesson: “Always respect the tech”.

“Hotbots” is scheduled to air during the third quarter of Super Bowl XLVII on February 3 and introduces the technology-laden Forte, which will offer the next iteration of Kia’s hands-free infotainment and telematics system, UVO eServices, when it goes on sale in the coming months.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emhtp2prOxQ

Source: KIA

February 1, 2013

KIA to Debut Cross GT Concept in Chicago [TEASER]

With 2013 Chicago Auto Show being just around the corner, more and more companies are giving a glimpse of their new vehicles. No exception makes KIA, which has just revealed a teaser image of their new concept vehicle.

It carries the name KIA Cross GT Concept and at a first glance it shows a very powerful stance. The car is said to be inspired by nature but driven by technology and it gives a clue of what the future of Kia’s design language in the form of a premium Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) will be.

Unfortunately, no additional details were disclosed so we are eagerly waiting till 9th of February when we will see more of this exciting new concept.

Source: KIA

January 31, 2013

2014 Kia Sorento – More Refined and Impressive Than Ever

The 2014 Sorento will arrive to market as no mere refresh or facelift, boasting instead an all-new chassis, a powerful new Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) V6 engine, a substantially restyled interior, a next-generation infotainment system and Kia’s first-ever blind spot detection system. The CUV is expected to hit the market in the first quarter of this year.
“The new Sorento improves heavily on its already successful crossover formula with significant enhancements across the board to chassis, powertrain, technology, amenities and design,” commented Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing and communications, KMA.

“Now more refined and impressive than ever, the Sorento advances people-moving and family transportation to new levels of sophistication.” , he added.

The engine range will now include a new 3.3 liter GDI V6 with 290HP (213 kW) at 6,400RPM and 340Nm (252 lb-ft) at 5,200RPM. It’s available optionally on the LX, while residing as standard equipment in the LX V6, EX V6, SX and SX Limited.

Power is routed to either the front wheels or, optionally, to all four using an enhanced Torque On Demand all-wheel drive system that seamlessly directs power to the tire with the most traction and now includes the benefit of Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC) that aids stability under certain driving conditions.

The smaller 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder replaces the previously standard 2.4-liter MPI 4-cylinder. The new 4-cylinder GDI has 191HP (140 kW) at 6,300RPM and 244Nm (181 lb-ft) at 4,250RPM.

Regardless of engine or driveline choice, the Sorento comes standard with a smooth shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. Also standard in the new 2014 Sorento, Electric Motor Driven Power Steering replaces the hydraulic unit from the 2013 model for improved efficiency and is quicker with 2.95 turns of the steering wheel, lock-to-lock. The new steering also features an available FlexSteer™ system that offers drivers a choice of three steering modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

2014 Kia Sorento SX Limited is destined for market within the second quarter of 2013. With the success of the Optima SX Limited launched earlier this year, offering a similar appearance package on the Sorento was a logical follow-up.

Offered only in Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl or Titanium Silver, the SX Limited is set apart visually from the Sorento SX by unique self-leveling Xenon HID head lights, exclusive 19-inch chrome wheels and sporty red painted brake calipers. Exclusive SX-L badges adorn the exterior to complete the look.

Inside, unique and luxurious Nappa leather trimmed seats, a wood-trimmed, heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats are all standard. The exclusive soft-touch head liner and pillar accents make the Sorento SX Limited an inviting respite from the stress and strain of urban existence.

Source: Kia

January 30, 2013

Kia Adds Versatility to the Picanto Line Up

2013 Kia Picanto has been unveiled to the world in October last year, showing new exciting looks and features. Now the Picanto line-up is going to be offered in exclusive new color named “Fuchsia Blush” (to say it more simply – in pink).

The “girly” model will be available on the five-door model on grades “2” and “3” and will keep all of the characteristics of the main Picanto such as 14” alloy wheels, chrome door handles, heated door mirrors and front fog lights.

Additionally, Kia is adding to the range the new Picanto “White”, which will be available on the three-door model. This is a high-tech addition to the range, which is set to replace the top-specification models “Halo” and “Equinox”.

Basically, this means that the “White” Edition is the new top of the range. It is fitted with five-spoke 15” alloy wheels, Engine Start/Stop with Smart Entry System as well as Bluetooth and automatic air conditioning, and reversing sensors.

The exterior of the car is emphasized via black tiger-nose grille with a quirky red surround. Regarding the interior, there are included leather trim steering wheel and steering wheel mounted controls, “Hollywood style” vanity mirror with a three-stage illumination feature sequence and ambient LED lighting.

Picanto “White” is going to be powered by a 84 hp (62 kW) engine mated to a five-speed manual ISG gearbox or to a four-speed automatic one.

Source: Kia

January 28, 2013

Tag: Kia