The Kia Sportage Cross-over will Turn Heads in 2012!

When we transition directly into 2012, just one car to check out once again is the 2012 Kia Sportage. It absolutely was entirely refurbished, and so the 2012 Kia Sportage design provides just a few modifications. For that matter, the only real new components for that forthcoming year are definitely the suspensions and some additional audio insulation. In any other case, there are several new additional in some of the trims. The Competition involves the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV, both providing a little more cargo space. Other competitors are the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Chevrolet Equinox, and that is generally companies to companies within this comparability.

Features of the Kia Sportage incorporate snazzy cabin and outlook appearance which will make heads turn. Additionally, there are top quality found inside the Kia Sportage that could improve the value in some other manufacturers.

The Kia Sportage has 5 seats and is presented in the basic foundation, EX and LX trim levels, along with the modified turbocompresseur SX trim.

The base provides specifications like 16inch cast aluminum wheels, all-power accessories, air-conditioning, pull back on steering wheel together with audio and phone features. It arrives with material furniture, but theres a premium package deal you may get with all the top grade EX for a leather alternative.

The Kia Sportage LX provides you with convert signals on the outlook mirrors, keyless entry and also tinted rear windows. Together with the Kia Sportage EX you will have LED daytime running lights, chrome exterior features, 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler, dual-zone automatic hvac, a leather-wrapped controls, roof rails and also telescopes, a power driver seats, and, fully grasp this, a chilled glove-box.

Obviously, you can also find deals such as the EX Premium-package that not only present leather-based covers, but additionally heated up front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a ventilated driver seat, rear parking sensors, and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. With the EX and LX models you can also find the choices of a modified sound system and a voice-controlled navigation system with a backup camera.

Underneath the hoods, the EX and LX are all 2.4 liter inline 4 engines applying 168 pound-feet of torque and 176 Hp. You will get the base using a 6-speed of manual transmissions. The EX and also LX features a 6-speed automated, as well, however, you can easily select front or perhaps all wheel drive or even the turbo-charged with 2.0 liter engine SX trim, which with front-wheel-drive has been examination automobile for this car reviews.

The Kia Sportage precautionary features incorporate front side and also full-length side window curtain safety bags, active front head rests, anti lock disc brakes with brake support, tractions control, balance control, and mountain lineage and also mountain start control.

Inside the Kia Sportage, the actual top-of-the-line cabin turns on the EX trim with many different shapes and user-friendly controls which are well-placed and simple to locate and use.

The seats inside all the trims are stand apart, with more comfortable shaping to the entire body, there are lots of leg-room and head-room for adults. Even just in the rear seat, 2 adults can fit in effortlessly. A third passenger in the rear seat will make this a bit of a confined, except if the 3 passengers are rather little.

To get an effortless to drive and a pleasurable around town car, evaluate the SX if you would like more power when driving. However, the ability from the four-cylinder engine is sufficient and the automatic transmitting can make it a simple drive throughout. Without requiring the maximum amount of cargo space as some of the competition cross-overs, there is 26.1 cubic feet at the rear of the back seats and 54.6 cubes using the 60/40-split-folding seats laid toned.

 

Courtesy of KiaMedia

Less than a week until the Big Game, which will include some of our favorite things.

This weekends amazing specials are ready to roll! Stop in and see us!

Kia Motors Dreams Up Super Bowl Commercial Starring Supermodel Adriana Lima, Rock Legends Motley Crue and MMA Fighter Chuck Lidell

Dreams have been a topic of speculation and interest throughout history, and Kia Motors America (KMA) is tapping into the idea of dreams revealing true desires in a new 60-second commercial set to air during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVI. In the spot, titled “Drive the Dream,” the new 2012 Optima Limited races through a Gen X couple’s wildest thoughts as they sleep, including: Victoria’s Secret® Angel Adriana Lima waving the checkered flag at a speedway; an in-your-face Mötley Crüe concert; mixed martial arts legend Chuck Liddell battling in the ring; a heroine and hunk on horseback in a romance novel setting; champion bull rider Judd Leffew taming a bucking rhinoceros; and a fairy tale ending.

Kia returns to the big game for the third straight year with a fully integrated marketing campaign incorporating TV, cinema, digital, print, social media and in-dealership components. In a Super Bowl advertising first, the complete “Drive the Dream” ad will premiere on February 2 on more than 18,000 movie screens nationwide in National CineMedia’s FirstLook pre-show program before airing in the game. Kia also will run 15-second teaser ads featuring Adriana Lima on TV and in cinema beginning on January 27, while also leveraging the Twitter and Facebook channels of the spot's celebrity cast. A special expanded version of the ad will be available at on Youtube beginning on February 2.

“With more than 100 million people watching the Super Bowl broadcast and millions more viewing content online around the world, Kia will once again deliver a memorable, one-of-a-kind campaign that entertains people before, during and after the game and leaves them wanting to see the Optima Limited fantasy again and again,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “We selected an eclectic group of celebrities and personalities for ‘Drive the Dream’ to enable us to tap into a diverse body of fan bases and leverage each talent’s expansive social media footprint.”

Created by David&Goliath, “Drive the Dream” opens with the familiar notes of The Chordettes’ “Mr. Sandman” as a real-life Mr. Sandman enters the bedroom of an unsuspecting young couple who are asleep. After being sprinkled with “Sweet Dreams” dust, the woman smiles and envisions herself on a horse with a romance novel-like hunk in a beautiful green meadow. Meanwhile, Mr. Sandman accidentally stumbles and spills his entire night’s dust supply on the man, launching an extreme dream sequence that begins with the roaring guitars of Mötley Crüe’s “Kickstart My Heart” and Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag as he blasts around a race track at night in a Snow White Pearl Optima Limited with thousands of bikini-clad fans cheering him on from the stands.

As he circles the track with Lima looking on adoringly, the dreaming driver receives nods of approval from the band as bursts of flames and fireworks surround their stage as well as Chuck Liddell, champion bull rider Judd Leffew, and a pair of lumberjacks sawing a massive submarine sandwich.

“Mötley Crüe had a blast doing the Kia commercial,” said bassist Nikki Sixx. “A hot model, a fast car, a pro fighter, pyrotechnics and rock n' roll...What's not to love?”

Much to the disbelief of Lima and drummer Tommy Lee, the high-octane dream turns into a fairy tale when the husband makes a conscious decision to drive the Optima Limited off the race track and into his wife’s fantasy to win her back from Prince Charming.

“After working with Kia for the Super Bowl last year I was drawn to work with the fast-growing brand again by the idea of exploring people’s ultimate fantasies in a fun and lighthearted way, and I am certain we have created a spot people will be talking about after the game,” said director, Noam Murro.

As part of the “Drive the Dream” campaign, beginning on Thursday, February 2 consumers can download a $25 pre-paid test drive voucher¹ at Kia.com that is redeemable after eligible consumers visit a Kia dealership and complete a test drive of any Optima model.

New for 2012², the Optima Limited adds a new level refinement to the premium technology, convenience and performance features found on Kia’s award-winning turbocharged Optima SX. In addition to head-turning design, class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency and a class-exclusive panoramic sunroof, the Optima Limited offers elegant touches that modern drivers would expect to find in the car of their dreams, such as: unique design 18-inch wheels, high-grade Nappa leather seating, LED accent lights, chrome exterior accents and sporty red brake calipers.

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 quality³ and the industry’s highest brand loyalty ranking⁴. 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 sedan⁵. 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.

 

 

Courtesy of KiaMedia

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Broadway KIA - (5) Star Review on DealerRater

• Jim Hamman was great from the start! He approached me with confidence and helped me find the exact car i was looking for within minutes. Jim certainly knew what he was talking about and i actully learned some new things from him. Jim is a really great guy and i encourage everyone to go to him, matter of fact the whole Broadway Kia staff was polite and i DEFINITELY recommend them to everyone!

Kia Motors USA to premiere Super Bowl ad in theaters

The Super Bowl has become television's biggest stage. Within days, Kia Motors USA will begin touting its Super Bowl commercial on big screens.

To kick off its football championship advertising campaign, Kia Motors will release a teaser trailer for its upcoming Super Bowl commercial in 18,000 movie theaters, beginning Jan. 27.  Then, four days before the big Feb. 5 game, the car company will introduce the full-length 60-second commercial, called "Drive the Dream," on the same 18,000 screens.

It is believed to be the first time a Super Bowl commercial will premiere in movie theaters. 

The move by Kia is part of a growing trend by marketers to give sneak peaks or unveil their entire ads before the Super Bowl to get a jump on competitors and gain traction in the increasingly important social media platforms. 

"We are trying to continue to push the envelope,” Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing for Kia Motors America, said. “Consumers at the movies will start tweeting about the ad, and that should help us build momentum and awareness.”

Kia's Optima sedan ad -- created by the car company's longtime agency, David & Goliath of El Segundo -- features super model Adriana Lima, MMA fighter Chuck Liddell and the rock band Motley Crue.  The concept for the commercial came during research sessions in which a consumer on a panel said the Optima was his dream car, said David Angelo, chief executive of David & Goliath.

Kia doesn’t think the early release will spoil the freshness of the ad, which will make its television debut during the Feb. 5 championship game broadcast by NBC. 

“Every year, the Super Bowl audience grows. And if we can tap 5 to 10 million people who see it early, there will still be 100 million people who haven’t seen it when it breaks during the Super Bowl,” Sprague said. “We are simply trying to create the buzz and get people talking.”

The Kia ad will be distributed in theaters by National CineMedia, which describes itself as the largest in-theater network in North America.  The company -- a joint venture between AMC, Regal and Cinemark -- also programs sporting events and concerts.

The Super Bowl ad stakes are increasingly high. This year, companies are paying NBC an average of $3.5 million for a 30-second spot, and more than $6 million for a 60-second spot. 

Courtesy of LA Times.

 

 

Thank you Josh for sharing your feedback with us! Great work team!

Broadway Kia - (5) Star Review on Yelp

• Tom Tyson was awesome.  He found the perfect car for my family.  He was very knowledgeable about everything I asked, and found a car that had all the features we were looking for.  I originally went into the dealership for an oil change, but ended up with a new Optima for our 10th wedding anniversary.  My wife and I would recommend Tom to anyone who is looking for an honest, knowledgeable person who is dedicated to matching the right car with the person.  A++ to Tom and the dealership together get all 10's.  Thanks Again -Josh G.

 

Thank you Dennis for sharing your feedback! Great work team!

Broadway KIA - (5) Star Review on GoogleMaps

• Having been attracted to the new model Kia Optima by recent TV ads, I contacted my nearby dealer, Broadway Kia, by Internet. Although it was nearly 9:00 at night, it took only about 20 minutes for Sales Representative Jim Hamman to respond to my inquiry by telephone. We set an appointment for 10:00 AM the next morning and, by that afternoon I went home driving a 2012 Kia Optima. People generally tend to get excited about getting a new car and I am certainly among them! My experience with Broadway Kia, in particular with Jim Hamman, was very positive. The negotiation portion, often the least fun part of the buying process, was completed in short order and without stress. All in all, I am pleased with the courtesy, service and professional treatment I received there and I recommend the team at Broadway Kia to others in the market. I am looking forward to doing business there in the years to come. -Dennis R. 

How long do you think it will be?

Kia Renews NBA Team Partnerships and Establishes New Relationship With the Golden State Warriors

Kia Motors America (KMA), the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA and one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S., has added a new team to its National Basketball Association (NBA) team partnerships by becoming the "Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors." Beginning with the 2011-2012 basketball season, KMA also has renewed relationships with the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Miami HEAT, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs, while the Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic and Portland Trail Blazers remain on Kia Motors' roster in 2011-2012 as part of multi-year agreements.

Kia's U.S. sales have increased 78 percent since 2008 and the company's unprecedented growth is the direct result of expanded brand visibility through high-profile partnerships, including involvement on- and off-the-court in professional basketball. Kia is currently in its fifth year as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA, which is the brand's largest U.S. sports marketing initiative. After he leaped over an Optima midsize sedan to become the 2011 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest champion, NBA All-Star Blake Griffin became a global brand ambassador for Kia. The brand also serves as the Official Automotive Partner of NBA All-Star, title partner of the Kia NBA Performance Awards, and an Official Automotive Partner of NBA Cares. Kia also is the title sponsor of ESPN's "Kia NBA Countdown."

"Kia's involvement with the NBA and nearly half of the league's teams has driven dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand and was a major factor in our best-ever sales total in 2011," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "All of our team partnerships leverage the excitement of the game and increase Kia's interaction with the passionate fan bases in each market, and we are proud to add the Golden State Warriors to our roster and establish a relationship with Bay Area basketball fans."

Kia's 13 NBA team designations are as follows:

• Official Vehicle of the Chicago Bulls
• Official Vehicle of the Denver Nuggets
• Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors
• Official Vehicle of the Los Angeles Clippers
• Official Vehicle of the Miami HEAT; Exclusive Vehicle of the Miami HEAT
• Official Vehicle of the Orlando Magic
• Official Automotive Partner of the New York Knicks; Official Vehicle of the New York Knicks
• Official Automotive Partner of the Boston Celtics; Official Partner of the Boston Celtics
• Official Partner of the San Antonio Spurs
• Proud Partner of the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Proud Partner of the Philadelphia 76ers
• Proud Partner of the Phoenix Suns
• Proud Partner of the Portland Trail Blazers

Kia's growing roster of sports initiatives includes basketball, women's professional golf and motorsports and is designed to increase brand awareness among a new and more affluent group of consumers. Michelle Wie is the brand's official golf ambassador and Kia was recently named the Official Automotive Partner of the LPGA in addition to its role as title sponsor of the annual Kia Classic tournament in Southern California. In just its second year, Kia's U.S. racing program captured the company's first-ever championships in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, and it will expand to include the Pirelli World Challenge in 2012. With several key initiatives planned for 2012, Kia Motors is poised to continue driving increased consumer interest and expanding its brand presence with new and enhanced partnerships while continuing to deliver world-class design, cutting-edge technology, modern conveniences and amenities, and outstanding safety features in all its vehicles.

 

 

 

 

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 quality and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking. 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 sedan. 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.

 

Courtesy of TheAutoChannel

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Kia Motors' First-Ever Production Electric Vehicle to Make North American Debut at 2012 Consumer Electronics Show

When the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) opens tomorrow in Las Vegas, show goers will glimpse into Kia Motors' electrified vehicle future as the Ray production Electric Vehicle (EV) and Naimo EV concept car are displayed for the first time in North America. Both vehicles feature advanced lithium polymer battery packs, and the Naimo introduces an all-new and groundbreaking User Centered Driving (UCD) telematics concept which previews future possibilities in safety, media and entertainment in-vehicle technologies.

"With the Kia Ray, which is Korea's first production electric vehicle, and the Naimo concept's forward-thinking UCD telematics, Kia is demonstrating leadership in the area of advanced technology development as our global R&D team pursues the goal of taking the vehicle-driver relationship to new levels with facial recognition technology and a number of interactive features," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Where the Naimo EV concept looks into the future of zero-emissions vehicles from Kia, the Ray EV is the first realization for the brand and represents exciting new possibilities for the future in the North American market."

User Centered Driving Concept
The UCD Concept, which can be seen as a fully working prototype on the Kia Naimo zero-emissions EV concept, represents the future of vehicle/occupant relationships. Featuring a "glass cockpit" style interface, UCD employs a digital "heads-up" display that replaces the traditional gauge cluster for information including speed, distance and battery life. The display also incorporates augmented reality features such as navigation directions or downloadable applications for parking to make driving an easier, more satisfying experience.

To improve screen visibility and accessibility, the UCD concept increases the touch-screen currently found on Kia's UVO system from 4.3 inches to 12.3 inches with a resolution of 1280x480 for crystal clear images. This new, larger touch-screen also allows users to use multi-touch interactions such as "swipe" and "flick".

The UCD concept also takes significant steps in safety, including the integration of the driver-status monitor and Color Night Vision (CNV). Utilizing an infra-red LED and camera to monitor the driver's face, the system detects changes in eye movement and also recognizes whether the driver's eyes are opened or closed, examining alertness and safeguarding against an accident caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel. CNV – which builds off the previously developed black-and-white "Smart Night View" system that assists in identifying potential hazards during dusk or night time by combining two infra-red cameras, an infra-red lamp and a processor to offer a clearer picture of the road – has been enhanced for the UCD concept. Now using two infra-red lamps and a color infra-red camera, the integrated processor is able to distinguish pedestrians in the camera's field of view, highlights them on the 12.3-inch touch-screen display and triggers a warning sound to alert the driver.

Kia Naimo Electric Vehicle Concept
Taking its name from the Korean word "Ne-mo", (pronounced "Neh-mo," meaning "square shape"), the Naimo EV concept was conceived by Kia's international design team in Seoul, and is characterized principally by its simple lines and solid, muscular stance. The third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year, the 153.5-inch long Naimo concept explores the possibility of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into future markets.

The uncomplicated overall design is accentuated by a number of striking key details, including the wraparound windscreen and asymmetric sunroof design, and front and rear dot-style LED headlamps and positioning lamps.

Innovative technology features can be found throughout, giving the car a premium feel and ensuring the car's exterior remains uncluttered. Naimo has no traditional wiper blade on the windscreen – instead employing a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an "air wiper" function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars.

Power comes from a PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) electric motor with a maximum output of 107 horsepower and maximum 207 pound-feet of torque, enabling Naimo to reach a top speed of 93 mph. A twin-pack 27 kWh battery is located under the trunk floor and uses innovative LiPoly (Lithium Ion Polymer) technology that offers numerous advantages over other battery types. Equipped with this battery, Naimo provides a driving range of 124 miles on a single charge. To enhance range, Naimo is fitted with special low-drag 20-inch diameter alloy wheels.

Under the quick recharging cycle (50 kW) the Naimo's battery can be recharged to 80 percent of its capacity within 25 minutes. Under the normal cycle (3.3 kW), 100 percent power is attained after five and a half hours.

Kia Ray Electric Vehicle
Launched in December, the all-new Ray is the first EV in the world assembled on the same production lines as its regular combustion-engine sibling, and is built exclusively for the domestic Korean market.

Capable of a range up to 86 miles on a single charge, the Ray EV is powered by a 50kW electric motor and high-capacity 16.4 kWh lithium ion polymer battery pack engineered to be capable of a 10-year lifespan and packaged neatly under the rear seat and cabin floor, with the battery only needing six hours to be fully charged using a 220V outlet and just 25 minutes while in "fast charge" mode.

Though slightly heavier than the gasoline-powered Ray, the EV model's 167 Nm of torque ensure ample power and responsive performance, with a top speed of up to 81 miles per hour. The automatic transmission offers drivers the choice of two modes – "E," (eco), which optimizes the delivery of torque to achieve minimum battery consumption and maximum driving rage, or "B" (brake), which can be selected when driving downhill, on highways or on mountain roads to maximize braking power.

With the same striking exterior styling as its gasoline sibling, the Ray EV can be distinguished with four small enhancements. A flap in the front radiator grille covers an electricity inlet for a 220V power supply for the "slow charge" mode, while another inlet for the "fast charge" mode is fitted in the same location where the gas cap would be. Special decals can be found on each front door marking "Zero Emissions EV" while sleek 14-inch alloy wheels improve aerodynamic efficiency.

Inside, the Ray EV features a unique instrument cluster, displaying electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It also is equipped with the first-ever EV-specific navigation system that features a seven-inch screen and provides crucial information for EV drivers such as the nearest locations of slow/fast recharging stations. The display shows a circular-shaped area in which the vehicle can travel with its current level of battery power, so that drivers can see which destinations are reachable without a recharge.

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 quality and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking. 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 sedan. 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.

 

Courtesy of KiaMedia

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Kia's new 2012 Soul has more horsepower, more fun

By James Healey

Kia's hamster car gets drivetrain updates for 2012 and a few filigrees that make the Soul more desirable without compromising its funky appeal or the plain, old usefulness of a car shaped like a box.

Kia has scored points with kids and hipsters using hamsters in Soul's TV ads, but others easily can enjoy the small sedan.

Launched as a 2010 at about the same time as Nissan's Cube, Soul has mojo Cube seems to lack. Kia sold 102,267 Souls in 2011, up 52.4% from 2010, reports sales tracker Autodata. Nissan sold just 14,459 Cubes, down 37%.

The really, really red Soul test car, a $20,000 high-end model, was hobbled by big wheels and tires. They look cool, but they amplify Kia's questionable tendency toward stiff-riding cars.

When the test car hit speed bumps or potholes just a little faster than normal, the car whammed and felt as if the suspension would really rather be someplace else. Over wrinkled asphalt it was a teeth-slammer.

A lower-level, $17,000 Soul test car with ordinary tires rode smoother. But its suspension made the dreaded thunk-clunk noises over even small bumps, which the fancier model with big tires didn't. And the lesser model's chassis seemed to bob and toss when confronted with bumpy pavement. Both models cornered OK at brisk speed on smooth roads.

A few touches still murmured "cheap," an image Kia is trying to kill. For example, the outside door handles operate with a brittle "clack" instead of the smooth quietness some value-price cars can manage. A sharp edge around the sun visors annoys your hand. The covered cubbyhole in the center of the dashboard is lined with unpleasant hard plastic. And the upholstery in the lower-price model is chintzy. Perhaps they seem like minor items, but they're the sort that can clinch buying decisions in the competitive small-car market.

Despite the suspension's drawbacks, the Soul can be a lot of fun. A key reason: Both the base 1.6-liter and optional 2-liter engines are newly powered-up.

The 2-liter, four-cylinder in the test cars is rated 164 horsepower and 148 pounds-feet of torque, and has the extra go-power this 2,700-lb. car has needed from the start. The 2-liter was rated 142 hp and 137 lbs.-ft. when Soul was launched as a 2010.

The 1.6 four, not tested, gets direct injection and is rated 138 hp, 123 lbs.-ft. In 2010, it was rated 122 hp, and 115 lbs.-ft.

You don't have to be a hot-shoe driver to appreciate the 2-liter. It delivers horsepower and torque smoother and more usefully than is typical in smaller-displacement engines. That means you can jump quickly into a hole in traffic without seeming to have started an underhood riot. You can zip to merging speed coming out of that rest stop without fearing your engine will bust a gut.

The automatic transmission in the pricier Soul shifted suitably most of the time. But now and then it let the engine continue revving after an upshift, when the engine speed is supposed to drop. The manual in the lesser Soul was easy to shift, but not a lot of fun. Nothing wrong, just lacked the shifting precision and premium feel that Kia's corporate cousin Hyundai has brought to some small cars.

If you just want to play, the new engine's a good buddy. Interestingly, the 2-liter doesn't yet have direct injection, a technology growing more common because it can increase horsepower and mileage while decreasing emissions. Costly and noisy, but getting cheaper and quieter fast, as more automakers adopt it.

Kia says it soon will offer an "idle stop" Eco package for mpg mavens. Available on automatic-transmission cars, it will shut off the gas engine at long stops. The package also includes low-rolling-resistance tires.

Listed as a $1,000 option on 1.6-liter cars and a $500 option on the 2-liter, the Eco package ups fuel economy 1 or 2 mpg. Seems like a lot of dough for small result, but perhaps your driving situation would make it worthwhile.

Kia mates six-speed manuals or six-speed automatics to both engines. Appropriately tuned, a six-speed car is smoother, quicker, more fun and more fuel-efficient than a five-speed, all else equal. Having more speeds, or ratios, makes it easier to select just the right one for maximum benefits. It can be quieter, too, if it provides more overdrive ratios to slow the engine at highway speed.

The 2012 Soul gets bright, Audi-like LED lights outlining the headlights. Everybody's trying to match Audi on that. On Soul, the lights look silly, their brilliance making the ordinary headlights look weak.

On other matters, it's gratifying to note that none of the changes for 2012 disturbed the well-weighted, nicely proportioned steering and the very prompt brakes.

No change, either, in the relatively generous rear legroom that makes the car more useful than most its size.

The strong sales show Soul has struck a chord in this country. The changes for 2012 are likely to pluck that chord a bit louder.

About the 2012 Kia Soul

•What? New drivetrain and other updates for the quirky front-drive, four-door, five-passenger hatchback.

•When? On sale since September.

•Where? Made in South Korea.

•How much? Base prices range from $14,650, including $750 shipping, for base model with 1.6-liter engine and six-speed manual transmission to $20,350 for top model with 2-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic.

•What makes it go? Base 1.6-liter four-cylinder rated 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm, 123 pounds-feet of torque at 4,650 rpm. Optional 2-liter four, rated 164 hp at 6,500, 148 lbs.-ft. at 4,800. Both engines available with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Kia promises an idle-stop "Eco" feature for automatics soon that shuts off the engine at stoplights, raising fuel economy ratings 1 or 2 mpg.

•How big? Roughly the size of a Honda Fit. Soul is 162.2 inches long, 70.3 in. wide, 63.4 in. tall on a 100.4-in wheelbase. Weighs 2,615 to 2,778 lbs.

Cargo space, 19.3 cu. ft. behind rear seat, 53.4 cu. ft., rear seat folded.

•How thirsty? 1.6-liter is rated 27 miles per gallon in town, 35 highway, 30 combined. Idle-stop Eco version: 29/36/32.

2-liter: 26/34/29; Eco, 27/35/30.

Trip computer in 2-liter, automatic, non-Eco test car registered 18.1 mpg (5.52 gallons per 100 miles) in brisk suburban driving. Manual registered 17.9 mpg (5.59 gal/100 mi) in similar driving.

Burns regular, holds 12.7 gallons.

•Overall: Fun, roomy, useful, but squirrely on rough roads.

 

Courtesy of USAToday

Kia's electric cars debut at CES, skip Detroit Show

The first Korean electric vehicle is going to have its North American debut tomorrow. Two things are surprising about that. It's not the Korean company you think and the debut location is not at the North American International Auto Show.

Instead, Kia has chosen the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas for its debut of the Ray production Electric Vehicle (EV) and Naimo EV concept car for the first time in North America.

Both vehicles feature advanced lithium polymer battery packs, and the Naimo introduces an all-new and groundbreaking User Centered Driving (UCD) telematics concept which previews future possibilities in safety, media and entertainment in-vehicle technologies. The lithium polymer battery packs are currently in use in Kia and Hyundai's hybrid vehicles on sale in North America.

Many might have expected Hyundai, the parent company of Kia, to come out with an electric vehicle but its green bona fides are heading in a different direction. Green Car Reports says Kia is going to have the electric vehicles while Hyundai focuses on plug-in hybrids and fuel-cell vehicles.

Capable of a range up to 86 miles on a single charge, the Ray EV is powered by a 50kW electric motor and high-capacity 16.4 kWh lithium ion polymer battery pack engineered to be capable of a 10-year lifespan and packaged neatly under the rear seat and cabin floor, with the battery only needing six hours to be fully charged using a 220V outlet and just 25 minutes while in fast charge mode. That would make it among the fastest charging electric vehicles on the market.

Currently the Ray is being built in Korea for the Korean market. Kia bringing it to the United States points to it probably becoming available in the North American market in the next two years if sustained interest can be demonstrated in the EV market. Korean manufacturers are not ones to rush products to market for a perceived need.

Inside, the Ray EV features a unique instrument cluster, displaying electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It also is equipped with the first-ever EV-specific navigation system that features a seven-inch screen and provides crucial information for EV drivers such as the nearest locations of slow/fast recharging stations. The display shows a circular-shaped area in which the vehicle can travel with its current level of battery power, so that drivers can see which destinations are reachable without a recharge.

The UCD Concept, which can be seen as a fully working prototype on the Kia Naimo zero-emissions EV concept, represents the future of vehicle/occupant relationships. Featuring a glass cockpit style interface, UCD employs a digital heads-up display that replaces the traditional gauge cluster for information including speed, distance and battery life. The display also incorporates augmented reality features such as navigation directions or downloadable applications for parking.

To improve screen visibility and accessibility, the UCD concept increases the touch-screen currently found on Kias UVO system from 4.3 inches to 12.3 inches with a resolution of 1280x480 for crystal clear images. This new, larger touch-screen also allows users to use multi-touch interactions such as swipe and flick. That screen is as large as the one found on the 2013 Lexus GS 350 that is set to roll out in February without quite the same features as found in the UCD.

The UCD concept also takes significant steps in safety, including the integration of the driver-status monitor. Using an infra-red LED and camera to monitor the drivers face, the system detects changes in eye movement and also recognizes whether the drivers eyes are opened or closed, examining alertness and safeguarding against an accident caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel. This is similar to the system currently found in the Mercedes E and S class sedans.

Taking its name from the Korean word "Ne-mo", (pronounced Neh-mo, meaning square shape), the Naimo EV concept was conceived by Kia's international design team in Seoul, and is characterized principally by its simple lines and solid, muscular stance. The third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year, the 153.5-inch long Naimo concept explores the possibility of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into future markets.

One of its most intriguing features would have to be the lack of windshield wipers. Instead, it employs a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an air wiper function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars. The latter could have the most impact on avoiding lane-changing accidents.

 

Courtesy of TorqueNews

2012 Forte $500 Owner Loyalty Offer

Have you been looking to upgrade your Kia? Right now Broadway Kia is offering all current Kia owners a $500 bonus to qualified buyers when they purchase a new Forte. Visit the dealership for full details.

The new year means the best deals from Broadway Kia are ready to roll!

The new year means the best deals from Broadway Kia are ready to roll!

Kia Optima Named Autobytel 2012 Sedan of the Year

Following a year in which Kia Motors America (KMA) received more vehicle awards and accolades than ever before, the brand's stylish Optima mid-size sedan kicked the New Year off in high gear by being named "2012 Sedan of the Year" by Autobytel. Recognized by the automotive research website's editors as "setting the bar" in the sedan category, the Optima took top honors against tough competition with its head-turning design, roomy interior and outstanding fuel economy.

"Since its introduction, the Optima has been attracting new customers to the brand with the right balance of performance, modern amenities and fuel economy that consumers are looking for," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. "The mid-size sedan segment is more competitive than ever, and Autobytel's recognition of the Optima continues to keep Kia's momentum going into 2012."

Autobytel is an automotive research website providing consumers with the information they need to purchase new and used cars. Over their 75 years of combined experience, Autobytel editors have driven hundreds of vehicles and have chosen the 2012 Sedan of the Year based on the Optima's game-changing market potential, advances in design and overall performance and efficiency options.

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^® audio system, HD Radio^™, and Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft^® voice-activated infotainment and communications system with a starting MSRP of $19,500.

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 17^th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking. 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 sedan. 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.

 

Courtesy of Kia Media

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Kia Mulls Coupe, Wagon Versions of GT

Kia's stylish GT concept, due to appear in production form in 2013, could be joined by a two-door coupe and a wagon, say insiders. Kia believes that the GT could provide another family of cars for the brand rather than a single halo model.

As shown at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, the rear-wheel-drive GT is equipped with a 390-horsepower turbocharged 3.3-liter gasoline V6 that drives an eight-speed automatic, placing it firmly in premium brand territory by price if not reputation.

Kia sees the GT as a more affordable alternative to Audi's A5 Sportback and A7, bringing the Korean brand closer than it's ever been to competing with premium European brands.

Chief Designer Peter Schreyer, who joined Kia in 2006 from Volkswagen/Audi, says he is also keen to develop a budget sports car to compete with the Mazda MX-5, although this is definitely not part of the product plan.

 

Courtesy of EdmundsInsideLine

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Broadway KIA - Two (5) Star Reviews on GoogleMaps

• I have been shopping for months and really was getting tired of the game. I needed just one car, but everywhere I went something didn't feel right.... I was driving down NE Broadway street and ran into the Kia store. I parked on the used car side and was greeted by Paul Fleischman. I was kind of curt with him and asked him if we could just look around! I expected him to grill me and ask me a multitude of guestions. To my surprize he just smiled and said of course you can, (thats what we are here for) ....Ten minutes later he came back and asked us if we had any questions. I must have asked him about ten questions and Paul answered everyone of them. I bought a 2010 jeep that night! The next dayI went back and bought a sports car from Paul.... I didn't need 2 cars, but broadway was so easy to deal with so I figured that I would just treat my self!!! Next time you want to look around and not be followed just ask for Paul at Broadway Kia :)
• After trying to work with other dealerships for a week and a half, I was put in touch with Jim Hamman. He worked with me for three days to find the car I wanted. I told him it was a go on 12-31 a:m and he stayed late to make it happen. He had the car ready and the process was great, from him to the finance team. We are very happy with the whole process, especially with all the work Jim did for us.

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