Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Kia K9 Rear-Drive Flagship Sedan Unveiled, Could Come to U.S
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Having shown us teaser photos, Kia has now taken the wraps off its new Kia K9 flagship. The luxury sedan is the first-ever rear-wheel-drive Kia sedan, and is also said to be the most luxurious Kia to date.
Kia had previously teased the new sedan as the KH, but picked the K9 name to fit in with the company’s other Korean-market offerings. The letter K stands for Korea, Kinetic, and Kratos, the Greek work for domination. The number nine shows how the car fits in the company’s lineup, above the K5 (aka. Optima sedan) and K7 (the Cadenza).
The elegant sedan seems to blend design cues from many existing luxury sedans — the curved nose and swooping headlights remind us of the BMW 6 Series, the profile line suggests the Lexus GS, and the stubby tail with twin parallelogram exhaust tips apes the Lexus LS. Nonetheless, the Kia K9 looks sophisticated and classy. Plenty of chrome trim adorns the outside, include twin portholes on each front fender, and the rear window slopes gently toward the trunklid. Out front, the so-called “Tiger Nose” chrome grille defines the car as a Kia.
Little else has so far been revealed about the K9, but as it is based mostly on the Hyundai Genesis, we can expect some of that car’s engines and technologies to carry over. Kia says its new sedan offers the company’s “best of the best” handling, technology, and design. We also wonder whether features from the Kia GT concept, first shown at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, will reach production in the K9. The show car had a turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6 with 390 hp and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Kia K9 will go on sale in Korea within the next few months, but it’s unknown where else the new car might land. Kia has confirmed the luxury sedan won’t be sold in Europe, but says that it will announce on-sale dates outside Korea at a later time. Also, Kia says the car will be renamed when it is sold elsewhere around the world.
With Europe off the map and Kia working to improve its image in our market, we’d say chances are strong that the new Kia K9 flagship will be sold in the U.S. It remains to be seen, however, whether the car can stand out from both its mechanical sibling the Hyundai Genesis, and the array of similar luxury cars already on sale here.
Courtesy of motortrend.com
Monday, February 27, 2012
Friday, February 24, 2012
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Kia Signs on to Support World Environment Day 2012
Kia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations Environment Programme(UNEP) on February 22 to confirm its support for the organization’s hallmark World Environment Day (WED). The official signing ceremony took place at the United Nations compound in Nairobi, Kenya and marked Kia’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability.
Commemorated on every 5 June since 1972, WED has grown to become the most widely celebrated global day for positive environmental action. WED activities take place year round as a worldwide call to action for individuals and organizations to mobilize environmental activities. This year Kia will award an eco-friendly vehicle to five participating organizations whose WED activity mobilization scores high on criteria as evaluated by UNEP.
The five vehicles to be awarded include four 2012 all-new Kia Rios and one 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid, which were chosen for their high fuel efficiency and to highlight 2012’s WED theme ‘Green Economy: Does it include you?’
The signing ceremony was attended by Achim Steiner, UN Under-Secretary General and Executive Director of UNEP; Izabella Teixeira, Brazilian Environment Minister and MK Kim, President of Kia’s Middle East and Africa Regional Headquarters.
Courtesy of kiabuzz.com
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Become a Kia Fan Reporter & Win a Trip to the Geneva Motor Show
All automotive enthusiasts can agree that the Geneva Motor Show is one of the top must-see auto events of the year. And with the 82nd show right around the corner, Kia is on the lookout for fan reporters we can send to Geneva to share news and updates with global Kia fans. We’re seeking people with personality and a talent for storytelling, filming and/or photography. If that sounds like you or a friend, then keep reading!
Fan Reporter Teams
Kia will assemble three teams of two fan reporters each, so make sure you choose the right partner when applying. If chosen, you and your co-reporter will get access to cover all news and events related to Kia and all three teams will receive the following:
1) Passes to Geneva Motor Show
2) Round-trip air transportation
3) Hotel accommodation.
To apply, simply go to the following Facebook link and learn how to participate:
http://www.facebook.com/Kiamotorsworldwide?sk=app_212253232206083
The application submission period will be from February 15 to 26 and the three winning teams will be announced on February 27.
We encourage everyone to participate, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!
Courtesy of kiabuzz.com
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Kia Cee’d Hatchback Revealed Ahead Of 2012 Geneva Motor Show
A new Kia Cee’d (essentially the equivalent of the Kia Forte in the United States) is set to debut at next month’s 2012 Geneva Motor Show and now we have all the official images and details of the five-door hatchback version following last month’s leak.
The Cee’d is aimed at European markets and borrows styling cues from the new Kia Optima and even the redesigned Kia Rio.
The wing-shaped grille is more rounded than in the Optima, but the sculpted hood and upswept lower front valence are common traits. The wraparound headlamps also sport new LED daytime running lights.
The vehicle is longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor, but features the same wheelbase. This results in a very sporty profile as well as a wide track and solid stance.
Inside, designers have gone for a premium look and feel by using better quality materials than used in the previous Cee’d, as well as improved switchgear, touch-screen technology and enhanced driving position ergonomics.
Kia is keeping quiet on the car’s engine details but expect a range of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel units and the choice of manual and automatic transmissions. We should know more once press days for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show commence on March 6, but in the meantime stay glued to our dedicated show page for all the latest updates.
First sales of the new Kia Cee’d are scheduled to start in Europe in the second quarter of the year.
Courtesy of motorauthority.com
Kia Cee’d Hatchback Revealed Ahead Of 2012 Geneva Motor Show
A new Kia Cee’d (essentially the equivalent of the Kia Forte in the United States) is set to debut at next month’s 2012 Geneva Motor Show and now we have all the official images and details of the five-door hatchback version following last month’s leak.
The Cee’d is aimed at European markets and borrows styling cues from the new Kia Optima and even the redesigned Kia Rio.
The wing-shaped grille is more rounded than in the Optima, but the sculpted hood and upswept lower front valence are common traits. The wraparound headlamps also sport new LED daytime running lights.
The vehicle is longer, wider, and lower than its predecessor, but features the same wheelbase. This results in a very sporty profile as well as a wide track and solid stance.
Inside, designers have gone for a premium look and feel by using better quality materials than used in the previous Cee’d, as well as improved switchgear, touch-screen technology and enhanced driving position ergonomics.
Kia is keeping quiet on the car’s engine details but expect a range of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel units and the choice of manual and automatic transmissions. We should know more once press days for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show commence on March 6, but in the meantime stay glued to our dedicated show page for all the latest updates.
First sales of the new Kia Cee’d are scheduled to start in Europe in the second quarter of the year.
Courtesy of motorauthority.com
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Kia Rio and Optima Named Best Subcompact and Family Sedan by Motorweek
CHICAGO, February 8, 2012 - MotorWeek, one of television's longest-running and most respected automotive programs, today announced its 2012 Drivers' Choice Awards at the Chicago Auto Show with the all-new 2012 Rio subcompact and 2012 Optima midsize sedan topping the Subcompact Car and Best Family Sedan categories, respectively. Recognized by MotorWeek's editors for their performance, fuel efficiency and overall value, Rio and Optima bring a multitude of convenience features to their respective segments, including Bluetooth®3 wireless technology with steering wheel-mounted controls, USB and auxiliary input jacks and SiriusXM satellite radio capabilities with three months complimentary service4.
"The 2012 Rio and Optima are prime examples of Kia's commitment to offering consumers tremendous value with world-class design, cutting-edge technologies, outstanding fuel efficiency and modern amenities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "These awards from MotorWeek, which reflect what today's car shoppers are looking for in their vehicles, are a testament to the quality and features Kia vehicles provide as they continue to attract more and more people to our showrooms."
The annual MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Awards represent the editors' best automotive picks for a range of lifestyles. This year, a team of 15 judges comprised of MotorWeek's editorial staff, evaluated more than 150 cars, trucks and utility vehicles. Decisions are based on performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency and dollar value. The winners represent what MotorWeek considers to be the best in each class.
About the 2012 Rio
Available in three trims – LX, EX and SX – the eco-friendly 2012 Rio is available with a 1.6-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) four-cylinder with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission (LX only) or efficient six-speed automatic. One of only two vehicles in the segment to offer a GDI engine, the 2012 Rio provides an inviting combination of power and fuel efficiency, achieving standard class-leading 138 horsepower while maintaining a standard class-leading fuel economy rating of 30/40 mpg (city/highway).
About the 2012 Optima
The 2012 Kia Optima stands apart from the crowd with its head-turning design, fun-to-drive performance, modern amenities and long list of standard safety features. Kia's second U.S.-built* vehicle offers drivers cutting-edge technologies, including a standard eight-speaker Infinity®5 audio system, HD Radio™6, and Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft®7 voice-activated infotainment and communications system with a starting MSRP of $19,5008.
Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality9 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking10. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan11. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.
Courtesy of kiamedia.com
Monday, February 13, 2012
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Kia Motors Named Best Total Cost of Ownership Brand by Kelly Blue Book’s KKB.com
IRVINE, Calif., February 8, 2012 - Leading online automotive resource Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com reported today the top automotive manufacturers with the lowest average total cost of ownership for the initial five-year ownership period, with Kia Motors America (KMA) earning the award in the non-luxury brand category and the 2012 Soul urban passenger vehicle taking top honors in the non-luxury compact car category. Calculating depreciation, expected fuel costs, insurance, maintenance and repair costs, state fees and more, Kia's average Total Cost of Ownership over a five-year ownership period came in below $40,000 and the 2012 Soul was under $32,000.
"Kia has evolved dramatically as a company in the past three years and developed one of the youngest and most acclaimed vehicle lineups in the industry, offering unmatched levels of style, performance and technology, said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "The award from Kelley Blue Book is further validation of the maturation of the Kia brand and our unique ability to exceed consumer expectations while maintaining our reputation for tremendous value."
Based on Kelley Blue Book Total Cost of Ownership data for the initial five-year ownership period, the 2012 awards recognize current model-year vehicles and brands (in both the luxury and non-luxury categories) with the lowest projected ownership costs. According to Kelley Blue Book, depreciation plays the largest role in Total Cost of Ownership, followed by the cost of fuel during the initial five-year ownership period. The company calculates total ownership costs for new vehicles by applying a valuation methodology along with critical financial data from third-party providers.
"As the non-luxury brand winner, Kia tops all manufacturers for low average total ownership costs," said Juan Flores, director of vehicle valuation for Kelley Blue Book. "With a number of successful redesigns, greatly improved quality, superior fuel economy and competitively priced models, Kia sets itself apart. Some of the key models contributing to Kia's success are the Soul, Optima and Sportage."
Kelley Blue Book's goal for providing the Total Cost of Ownership for vehicles is so consumers can better understand the overall financial implications associated with vehicle ownership through the initial five-year ownership period. Kelley Blue Book's Total Cost of Ownership features easy-to-understand charts and graphs on kbb.com to help car shoppers make informed purchase decisions by breaking down the typical ownership costs for a particular vehicle. For more information, visit Kelley Blue Book's www.kbb.com.
Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality1 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking2. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan3. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.
About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.
Courtesy of kiamedia.com
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
2012 Kia Soul Special Lease Offer
Have you had your eye on the 2012 Kia Soul? Who could blame you! Right now, enjoy $169 a month for a 39 month lease with $1,999 due at lease signing. Visit Paramount Kia Asheville for full details!
Monday, February 6, 2012
Friday, February 3, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
2012 Kia Optima Dream Machine
Test-drive a 2012 Kia Optima by March 31, 2012, to receive a $25 Kia Visa Prepaid Card. Start by entering your information here. When you’re done, click “Print My Personalized Certificate”.
When you’re all set, bring your printed certificate to Paramount Kia Asheville and take the wheel!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
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