Kia Optima and Soul ranked highest in class in J.D. Power & Associates study!

IRVINE, Calif., July 25, 2012 - Kia Motors America (KMA) is the fastest-growing car company in the U.S. and two of its best-selling vehicles – the Optima and Soul – were awarded the highest ranking scores in their respective segments within the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.^℠ The Optima ranked highest in a tie in the "Midsize Car" category, while the Soul claimed the highest ranking in the "Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)" grouping. The APEAL study measures new-vehicle buyers' gratification with the design, content, layout and performance of their newly-purchased vehicles.

Top-of the-line Kia Optima SX Limited is now available with a host of premium features and materials -->

"As key entries in Kia's design-led transformation, the Optima and Soul have attracted new customers to our showrooms, and the results of the J.D. Power and Associates' APEAL Study illustrates just how delighted these new buyers are with the purchase of their new Kia vehicles," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. "Both of these popular models, along with the rest of the Kia vehicle line, continue to deliver on a promise to offer U.S. consumers high-quality vehicles with an impressive combination of design, performance, comfort, safety and technology. All of this while still maintaining the brand's unmatched value proposition."

This year's study emphasizes the point that although buyers are continuing to downsize, they are looking for vehicles that are as appealing and well-contented as the larger ones they previously owned. Both the Optima and the Soul allow consumers to shop for a smaller, more affordable vehicle without having to make sacrifices in quality and amenities.

The 2012 APEAL Study is based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. Responses were gathered between February and May 2012 from more than 74,000 new car and light truck owners who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership.

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

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.³ 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: Kia Media

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Kia Racing is Brickyard Bound to Regain Title in Indianapolis

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Kia Racing Is Brickyard-Bound In Bid To Regain GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Points Lead In Indianapolis

--Kia Racing Team's Michael Galati to Co-drive No. 12 Infinity Audio Forte Koup With Mathew Pombo While Mark Pombo Continues His Recovery - No. 10 Infinity Audio Forte Koup pilots Andy Lally and Nic Jonsson sit third in Street Tuner (ST) points with three races remaining - Large contingent of local Kia dealers to cheer on Kia Racing for first competitive outing at legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]IRVINE, Calif., July 26, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The birthplace of U.S. auto racing, Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), is the site for Round Eight of the 2012 Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge (CTSCC). Kia Racing's Infinity Audio Forte Koups take to the Brickyard for the first time, and Kia Motors becomes the first Korean automaker to take the green flag at the legendary 103-year-old racetrack. Co-pilots of the No. 10 Infinity Audio Forte Koup, Nic Jönsson and Andy Lally, look to bounce back after a challenging race at Watkins Glen in Round Seven and regain the points lead in the Street Tuner (ST) class.

Returning to the track after a single-race hiatus is the No. 12 Infinity Audio Forte Koup piloted by Mathew Pombo. Pombo's co-driver will be none-other than Kia Racing team member Michael Galati, who helped clinch Kia Racing's ST Driver and Team Championships last season in the No. 10 Koup, and who has spent the first half of the 2012 racing season behind the wheel of one of Kia's new turbocharged Optima racecars in the Pirelli World Challenge (PWC) series. Galati, who has already posted a victory in his PWC Optima, will fill in for the rest of the 2012 CTSCC season while Mark Pombo continues his recovery at home following his incident at Road America in June.

"Michael was our first and only choice to keep the seat warm while Mark gets healthy and back up to speed," said Russell Smith, co-owner of Kia's racing partner, Kinetic Motorsports. "He's already part of the Kia Racing family, he knows the Forte Koup very well, and he was instrumental in helping Kia win the championship in 2011. He and Mat will make an excellent driver pairing, and fortunately, there are no scheduling conflicts, so Michael will also be able to continue with his Optima driving duties for the remaining two World Challenge races."

The last two outings for Kia Racing's Forte Koups have been daunting, and the high-caliber CTSCC competitors aren't expected to make it easy for the team when the series hits Indy's famous yard of bricks. Indianapolis will be a new experience for the Kia Racing family but hopes are running high that teammates Jönsson and Lally will once again take the points lead in the ST class following this weekend's 2.5-hour race.

"Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the epicenter of auto racing in the U.S., and it's a great honor for Kia to compete with two highly competitive Forte Koups at a track with this much motorsports heritage," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Kia Racing continues to showcase the performance, quality, durability and safety of our cars, and our motorsports success is taking the Kia brand to new heights and helping us to reach a new enthusiast audience."

The Brickyard Sports Car Challenge at Indianapolis Motor Speedway is scheduled for Friday, July 27. The green flag drops at 1 p.m. ET. Check out live race status, photos and updates at www.facebook.com/kiaracing . Race fans can also tune in for television coverage on SPEED Sunday, August 5 at 12 p.m. ET. (Time and date subject to change. Check local listings).

Courtesy of Kia Motors America

Kia's International Design Credibility Blooms

A trifecta of prestigious international design awards has confirmed what the public and media experts have been saying _ Kia stands out from the crowd.

Kia's baby Rio, winner of the Carsguide Car Of The Year for 2011 and Australia's Best Car for the Light Cars under $20,000 segment, picked up a pair of prestigious international awards for its styling, quality, innovation and practical capabilities.

The Rio was awarded a 2012 Red Dot Design Award in March this year against the best the world has to offer and backed up this month with a bronze medal in the transportation design category of the IDEA (International Design Excellence Awards) program, administered by the Industrial Design Society of America.

Since its inception in 1955, the Red Dot Design award has become one of the world's largest and most recognized design competitions. This year 1800 companies from 58 countries submitted to the Red Dot product design category.

The new Kia Rio was awarded thanks to its "powerful personality, created by a distinct wedge shape, a low roofline and its metal-to-glass ratio". The jury praised not only the Rio's self-contained design, but also its sound workmanship. Kia has won six Red Dot awards since 2009 with vehicles like the Soul, Optima and Sportage.

The IDEA awards are decided on by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) and recognize designs that affect a person's quality of life in 18 categories. This year, the Kia Rio received Bronze honours in the Transportation category.

The judging panel cited its fresh, sporty feeling; exciting design, and environmental credentials, saying "the Rio is a car that is extremely attractive with a fresh feeling of sportiness _ a car that people will want to buy for its looks as well as its environmental credentials In the 2012 model Kia created a car that answers consumer demand for more quality, more choice and a more attractive, exciting design."

The third leg of the design trifecta went to the Picanto which, in addition to a Red Dot Design Award, collected an iF (International Design Forum) Award from the Hanover-based global design recognition organization.

Courtesy of Paddoktalk.com

Monday Maintenance Tip: Essential Items to Keep in Your Car

Owner’s Manual
The hefty owner’s manual found in your glove box is probably the first item to get moved out when you need room to store that iPod connector and GPS unit, but you never know when you’ll need it while on the road. In it, you can find all kinds of information from an explanation on the warning light that just illuminated or the type of oil your car requires –bits of knowledge that you’d rather not guess on when the time comes.

Jumper Cables
Leave your lights on overnight? Yep, we’ve done it too. In fact, most drivers have experienced the sound of a sharp click instead of an engine turning over at one time or another, but those who have jumper cables don’t need to panic or have to rely on the tow truck. If you have cables within reach, flagging down a fellow driver and connecting the leads is all it takes to get your car going again.

Distilled Water
We can’t live without the stuff, which means water tends to come in handy when stranded by the side of the road. Keeping a container of water in your car will help stave off dehydration while you wait for help to come. In warmer areas, it can also be used to top off your radiator so your car doesn’t overheat – just be sure to use distilled water instead of tap water to avoid rust formation.

First-Aid Kit
We keep Band-Aids, antiseptic cream and a variety of other first-aid items tucked away in a medicine cabinet at home, so it makes sense to have a first-aid kit in your car too. You’ll delve into it to cover up that paper cut on your kid’s finger or to administer more critical first aid in serious situations.

Duct Tape and Rope
Duct tape and rope have about a million uses, and while they can create a mean cat’s cradle and impervious wallets, they also tend to help in automotive situations. The two inexpensive items may not save your life, but duct tape can help you hold your glove box closed if the latch breaks and rope can be used to strap down a piece of furniture you’re transporting across town. They’ll just make life a little easier.

Blanket or Large Towel
Anything large enough to cover you and provide extra warmth will do the job here. The goal with a blanket is that it should keep you nice and toasty if the heater breaks or you have to spend the night in your car, when staying warm is a priority.

Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman
They don’t call them multi-tools for nothing; these handy little gadgets hold pint-sized versions of the tools you’ll need in everyday life and they are so compact that there’s no reason not to have one in your glove box. From screwdrivers to tweezers, you’ll always have a tool suited for the job at hand.

Tire Pressure Gauge 
Maintaining the recommended pressure in your tires is important for a number of reasons– fuel economy stays on target and your tires are less likely to blow out. Having a tire pressure gauge in the car means you can quickly check the pressure anywhere, and you won’t have to rely on the potentially inaccurate ones at the gas station.

Snack Bar
If you’ve ever spent three hours stationary on the highway because a trucker decided to spill his entire load of canned goods across four lanes, you’ll know exactly how important having a little snack in the car can be. No one wants to resort to scrounging for food in the seat cushions and feeling lightheaded from hunger while driving probably isn’t the safest option. A snack bar goes a long way when waiting for a tow truck to reach you as well.

Napkins, Tissues or Paper Towels
We tend to do a lot of eating and drinking in our cars – it’s only natural when we spend so much time in them. But spills also happen, and so do marker stains, runny noses and even bouts of crying – hey, everyone’s had a bad day, right? Be able to give friends a lift with dignity by keeping your car, your kids, and your face clean.

Updated Registration and Insurance Card
Even the best of us get pulled over for some reason or another. The laws vary state to state, but most require you show registration and proof of insurance when you get pulled over. Don’t make the nice policeman mad by not having the proper documentation on you. Your insurance card and all the information it contains will also be mighty useful if you get into a fender bender.

 

Courtesy of Carcare.org

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2012 Kia Rio is taking the sub-compact segment by storm

The all new 2012 Kia Rio is taking the US sub-compact automotive market by storm.

After driving a new Kia Rio SX for a week here in Central Texas, my view is that it is stunningly designed, well engineered, capable around town and on the road, very comfortable, fun to drive and very affordable.

View slideshow: 2012 Kia Rio taking the sub compact segment by storm

The 2012 Kia Rio has been awarded several design, engineering and consumer awards for 2012 including the prestigious IDEA (Industrial Design Society of America) award in the Transportation Category for creating a car that answers consumer demand for more quality, more choice and a more attractive, exciting design and a 2012 Red Dot Design award by the Design Centre of North Rhine-Westpahlia in Germany for its innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability and intuitive handling.

Additionally, Vroomgirls.com has named the 2012 Kia Rio as one of the Six Best New Cars for your Teenager for its modern styling, high fuel economy and exceptional value exhibited by its abundance of standard features, USB connectivity, steering wheel controls, media/navigation system and affordable price.

Therefore, it should be no surprise that sales of the 2012 Kia Rio for the first half of 2012 are almost double what they were for the same period of 2011, reflecting enthusiastic acceptance by the US consumer of the all new Kia Rio.

Our 2012 Kia Rio SX sedan was very well equipped with an MSRP of $17,500 and included the optional Premium Package for $2,200 plus carpeted floor mats with Rio logo for $95. With delivery, this Clear White with Black Leather trimmed interior Rio SX, running on uniquely styled 5-spoke 17 inch wheels, was $20,545.

The 2012 Rio is powered by a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine generating 138 horsepower@ 6,300 rpm with 123 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,850 rpm. One of only two vehicles in the segment to offer a GDI engine, the 2012 Rio delivers a fuel economy rating of 30/40 mpg (city/highway) for both the sedan and hatchback.

The Kia Rio has an available Active Eco driver setting that enables the engine and transmission to automatically adjust to more economical operational settings based on driving style and conditions.

Driving the Rio SX around the area locally, we were pleasantly surprised at how the new Rio drove and rode much larger than it actually is.

The power train on the Kia Rio is exceptionally well integrated delivering much stronger performance for the 138 horsepower engine than I expected. The six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is matched so well that, at all times and in all local driving situations, I never experienced any hesitation or lag in engine performance or shifting of the transmission at any speed.

The test to confirm how good this power train was to take the 2012 Rio to a nearby locality with a twisting and turning two lane road that runs from lakeside 8.7 miles up the canyon side to the top above the lake with an elevation change of around 500 feet and, as the crow flies, a geographic distance of just under 4 miles.

Running the Rio on this road both up the grade and then back down to the lake, the Kia Rio performed like a sports car. I do have to acknowledge that this was the SX that is equipped with the sports tuned suspension system, so it did have a bit of advantage, but still performed better than I had expected.

The engine and transmission were in perfect synch. At each point that the engine was nearing maximum revolutions for the conditions, the transmission shifted easily to the next gear continuing the acceleration with no hesitation. In some cases, the shift was seamless to a point that, until I hit the accelerator powering out of curves, I was not sure it had downshifted.

The posted speed for this road is 45 mph. Curves are cautioned at 15 and 20 mph. The Rio SX handled every bit of the road both up and down between 30 and 45 mph with no difficulty.

Braking was smooth and firm, the suspension kept the Rio squarely on the road with almost no perceptible roll or other movement. Traction was firm at all times. The power train enabled near competition type driving of this road with excellent margins of control and safety both up and down.

We made these runs with the Rio in Active Eco mode and did not notice that the active setting impaired the performance of the engine and transmission at any point in these runs.

The 2012 Kia Rio is available in three trims - LX with manual transmission (MSRP $13,400), LX with six-speed automatic transmission (MSRP $14,500), EX with automatic transmission (MSRP $16,300) and the SX.

The 2012 Rio is loaded with standard features starting with the LX trim that includes body-color door handles and side mirrors, rear wiper and washer, multi-reflector headlamps and 15-inch steel wheels with 185/65R15 tires The Rio 5-door also comes with a standard rear spoiler to improve aerodynamics.

Moving up to the EX trim brings additional standard conveniences, including power door locks with keyless entry and a chrome front grille surround, giving Rio a more sophisticated and sleek look.

The top-of-the-line SX offers higher levels of sporty refinement with the standard 17-inch wheels with 205/45R17 tires, a sports tuned suspension system, fog lamps, LED accent lights and rear combination lamps, dual chrome exhaust tips, power-folding outside heated mirrors with turn signal indicators and, for the Rio 5-door, projector headlamps and a rear camera with display.

Inside, the cabin of the Rio is generous in space, features and functionality. The 2012 extended wheelbase adds to interior passenger space front and rear. There is more than ample cargo space for weekend getaways or trips to the grocery store with an impressive 13.7 cubic feet for the sedan and 15.0 cubic feet in the hatchback. The 60/40 rear seats, folded down flat, add additional cargo capacity.

The 2012 Kia Rio is also exceptionally quiet and smooth riding.

The new 2012 Rio has a new longer, wider and lower platform. It employs high-tensile-strength steel in 63 percent of body. The lightweight design offers high torsional stiffness for improved handling, ride quality and refinement.

Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Rio utilizes an independent front suspension system. MacPherson struts, coil springs and a stabilizer bar are used in the front with a torsion beam axle suspension in the rear to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide the utmost comfort in a variety of driving situations.

The 2012 Rio has increased noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction with hood, dash and trunk lid insulators and as well as expandable foam in the A and C pillars and Thinsulate™ in the A and B pillars.

Standard on the LX trim is a driver's seat height adjuster and six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, trip computer, electric power steering, 60/40 split folding rear seats and a cargo cover for the hatchback.

The EX trim includes standard power windows with automatic up/down on the driver's window, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Bluetooth wireless connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for compatible mobile phones and a sleek metallic finish throughout with leatherette door trim.

The SX trim offers a more upscale and athletic look and feel with standard metal pedals, metal grain, a Supervision™ meter cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual map lights, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, UVO powered by Microsoft voice-activated infotainment system with rear camera display.

The three available optional package upgrades are designed for each trim level. The Rio LX has the Power Package, which adds power windows with automatic up/down functionality on the driver's window, power door locks with two-turn entry system and remote keyless entry.

For the EX trim, the available Convenience Package includes 15-inch alloy wheels, the UVO powered by Microsoft™ voice-activated infotainment system with a 4.3-inch color touch screen and rear camera display, automatic headlamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power folding side mirrors with turn signal indicators, front fog lights, dual illuminated vanity mirrors and dual map lights.

The more luxurious Premium Package available on the SX trim, adds a navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic™ (replaces the UVO system), push-button start with Smart Key, leather seat trim, heated front seats and a moon roof to give an open, airy feeling.

For 2013, Rio will also have an available Idle Stop and Go technology that will allow shut down and seamless restart of the engine when the car is stopped to further improve gas mileage. There will also be steering wheel paddle shifters available to enhance the sporty driving feel and performance of the Rio. And cargo capacity will be enhanced by an available under floor cargo tray.

The 2012 Rio and Rio 5-door are covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which offers consumer protection at an exceptional value. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited power train warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.

Courtesy of The Examiner

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Kia Apprentice Scheme launched at all-new Kia Academy

Kia Motors UK officially opened an all-new Training Academy in Ruddington, South Nottingham. The Academy gives the next generation of Kia apprentices from across the UK the opportunity to become fully qualified at the facility in their chosen course.

Kia's goal
is to have at least 100 apprentices signed up to a scheme by the end of the year. With 179 dealerships across the UK to serve, the Kia Academy will run up to 2,500 apprentice delegate days this year alone.

Kia Academy opened for business on January 1, 2012 and offers a variety of apprentice schemes. Apprentices are able to train in both technical and non-technical domains, whereas only technical courses were previously available. Courses now available at the facility include, Light Vehicle Technician, Service Advisor and Parts Advisor. For the first time in the UK, apprentices will also be able to study a combined Service and Parts Advisor course. 

All of the apprentices will undergo an Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) accredited assessment prior to completing their training. The governmentally recognised accreditation - coupled with industry leading technical trainers - means the apprentices will receive the very highest quality in automotive training.
The latest Kia models will be used as part of the technical training development, meaning the apprentices will have a second-to-none knowledge on the very latest Kia technology.

"Over the last few years Kia has experienced growth, in sales, market share and brand image and our dealer network has been changing too, with a bold new red face for Kia on the high-street," said Simon Hetherington, Dealer Development Director, Kia Motors UK.

"We recognise that the most important thing to ensure we deliver great customer experiences is our people. That is why we have invested in our new Kia Academy training centre, enabling us to deliver our latest courses to technicians, service advisors and sales consultants from all around the UK. It is also the home for our new Apprenticeship Programme, providing a great start to their careers and supporting the growth of the next generation of Kia people."

Courtesy of Wheelsology.com

2012 Kia Soul: $169 Per Month/ 36 Month Lease

Closed-end lease based on new 2012 Soul (Model B1512 Base Auto. Trans.) subject to credit approval, dealer participation, and vehicle availability. Offer shown based on $1,999 due at lease signing including $169 first monthly payment, $1,235 capitalized cost reduction, $595 acquisition fee, plus tax, title, license and registration fees, dealer conveyance fee, processing fee or optional service fee and any emission testing charge. No security deposit required. Offer shown total lease payments are $7,914. Actual payments may vary. Purchase option at lease-end for offer shown of residual value of $9,376.50. Lessee is responsible for insurance, maintenance, repairs, $.20 per mile over 12,000 miles/year, excess wear, and a $400 termination fee*. Lease offer applies to Soul Base 1.6L I4 A/T (MSRP $16,450, includes freight, and excludes taxes, title, license, additional options and retailer charges). Actual prices set by dealer. Must take delivery from retail stock by 7/31/2012. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. See dealer for warranty and lease details or go to kia.com. Lease offered through Kia Motors Finance (KMF) [Hyundai Motor Finance (HMF) in MA and D.C.].

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Kia Dubstep Contest World Final

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Review: 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

I admit it, I am now in LOVE with Kia. I have been a very loyal Nissan owner ever since I was a teenager and after driving 2 different Kias, I am seriously considering switching my loyalties!!!

This time I was given the opportunity to drive the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid for a week and once again, I didn't want to give it back when I was done. I will say for MY personal lifestyle I would pick the 2012 Kia Sorrento SX that I got to review a month or so ago because of the fact that it seats 7 and this car seats only 5, however I just LOVE the fact that you get 35 mpg city and 40 mpg highway with this 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid. My van gets only half that which means over the life of this vehicle, I could save a TON of money buying less gas !!! ** It even set the Guinness World Record for the lowest fuel consumption by a gasoline hybrid car traveling through all 48 contiguous US states.

When I first got the car, the gas tank was full and when I switched over to the screen that showed how many miles til empty I was SHOCKED to find that it said "Distance to Empty: 553 miles". I was determined to try to empty the tank during the week I had the car but it was next to impossible. We even drove to places we normally would not go to because they were "too far" (like downtown Disney just to walk around and window shop).

It was really fun to watch the screen which showed the car switching back and forth between the battery mode and the engine mode. When you come to a light and are just sitting, the car switches over to the battery which is how it saves so much gas. Once you start to drive, the car will switch back to using gas. It was a very smooth transition with only a very slight hesitation (I probably noticed it more because I have such a "lead foot")

The next thing that caught my eyes was just how "sharp" this car looked. The 17? alloy wheels, rear lip spoiler and LED tail lights made this vehicle look classy!!!

Looking good however is not nearly as important to me as safety and the 2012 Kia Optima got 5 stars in government safety ratings on front crash, rollover and rear seat side crash tests. It comes with dual front advanced airbags, front seat mounted side airbags and full length side curtain air bags plus lower anchors and tethers for car seats, 3-point seatbelts for ALL seat positions, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control system (TCS), electronic stability control (ESC), hill start assist control (HAC) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Starting the Kia Optima was a breeze with the push button start and the thing that I found that I think I loved the most is that you don't need a key to lock and unlock your doors. You just keep a remote "smart key" in your purse or pocket and it will detect that it is close-by and you just push a button to lock or unlock the doors. That is so much easier than digging through my giant purse to find my keys that sank to the bottom. Also you can NOT lock your smart key in your vehicle, it will beep to let you know and it will just not lock until the smart key is out of the vehicle.

A feature that I wish I had in my van is the rear camera display and "warning system" so that if something is behind your vehicle, not only will you be able to see it, the car will beep to let you know. I really like this because my kids are always leaving their bikes on the sidewalk behind my vehicle and one day I know I am going to back over one. With this fabulous camera feature, I would never have to worry about that at all.

No need to worry about forgetting to turn off your lights and running down your car battery… just keep the setting on "auto" and it will detect when to turn the lights on and off as needed.

The kids once again LOVED the front seat sunroof and the 2rd row moonroof; they keep telling me how we really need to get one in our van LOL!!! Other fabulous features of this vehicle are cruise control, power windows, power door locks and power outside mirrors, bluetooth wireless technology, heated and air-cooled front seats, heated back seats and a heated leather wrapped steering wheel which is great for cold winter mornings when your hands feel like ice.

Of course having the navigation system w/ SIRIUS traffic and the SIRIUS satellite radio along with the Infinity surround sound audio system was a true luxury. The kids loved that Radio Disney comes in so clearly in this car and I loved the Pearl Jam radio station. Plus the 2012 Kia Optima will even come with a complimentary 3-month SIRIUS subscription included.

If you have 2 regular drivers, this vehicle has "2 driver memory seats and mirrors" which will allow you to switch back to your own personalized settings with just a touch of a button. Perfect for families that have one driver that is much taller than the other (or just has longer legs).

This fully loaded 2012 Kia Optima retails for $32,500 (base price is only $26,450) and will come with a 10 year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, a 5 year/60,000 mile limited basic warranty, and a 5 year/60,000 mile roadside assistance.

Courtesy of Who Said Nothing in Life is Free? (Blog)

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'I bought a used Kia Rio5. The staff are enthusiastic, very polite and happy to help. As a bonus, so is the service department-- and I really feel that any used vehicle that has been made-over is a solid deal" - hws2.

Are you in the market for a pre-owned vehicle? Take a look at this 2011 Kia Forte EX!

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"Pam was courteous and very helpful. She answered my questions and followed through to the finish even though we didn't finish until almost 10:30 PM, a full two and a half hours after closing on July 3rd. I would recommend Pam to anyone" - Jane.

2013 Kia Optima SX Limited

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Monday Maintenance tip: Cold Facts About A/C Refrigerant

How did we ever get along without air conditioning in our cars? It’s a feature we take for granted until, suddenly, it’s blowing hot air.

In the past few years, many owners have discovered that fixing an inoperative air conditioner can cost a few hundred dollars or more, depending upon the make and model of vehicle. The reason is that the old standby R-12 refrigerant, trade named DuPont Freon, has been replaced by R-134a. Touted as being environmentally safer than its predecessor, R-134a has been standard since ’94.

If your older vehicle needs major repairs to the air conditioning system you can expect to replace refrigerant and the oil in the compressor in addition to the old components. You also may need to install a retrofit conversion. Do not allow anyone to mix refrigerants. They’re not inter-changeable. You cannot add R-134a to your older air conditioner without first flushing the system. Further, according to the Car Care Council, some substitutes are volatile mixtures of propane, butane and flammable hydrocarbons. Keep in mind the fact that if your vehicle is leaking refrigerant, you’re damaging the ozone layer.

An annual inspection of the vehicle, including the air conditioning system, may help forestall costly repairs. Many automotive service shops offer AC inspection specials when warm weather arrives. Otherwise, ask your service center to evaluate your system before those hot and humid days of summer.