News from Gary Rome Kia of Enfield

Go to Gary! for Great deals on a brand new Kia Optima for only $199/month!

2011-11-17T15:10:00.002-05:00

KIA RACING CAPTURES SECOND GRAND-AM VICTORY AT ROAD AMERICA AND MOVES TO THE TOP OF THE TEAM AND DRIVER STANDINGS

2011-06-30T08:49:00.000-04:00

Michael Galati and Nic Jönsson Pilot the No. 10 Infinity Audio Kia Forte Koup to Victory Lane for Their Second GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Win

- Victory moves the No. 10 Forte Koup to the top of the Street Tuner (ST) Team standings; Jönsson climbs to the number one ranking in the Driver standings

- Both Kia Forte Koups finished in the top six at the Road America 200

Following up their historic first win for Kia Motors America (KMA) in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge (CTSCC) in April, Michael Galati and Nic Jönsson again co-drove the No. 10 Infinity Audio Kia Forte Koup to the checkered flag at Friday's Road America 200 in Elkhart Lake, Wis. Galati and Jönsson battled a field of more than 25 competitors in the 2.5 hour race, and the pair used the Forte Koup's braking and handling advantages on the fourteen-turn circuit to overtake several more powerful turbocharged cars and reach victory lane. With three races remaining in the 2011 season, the victory propelled KMA's second-year motorsports program and racing partner Kinetic Motorsports to the top of the Team and Driver standings in the ST class.

Michael Galati (left) and Nic Jönsson drove their No. 10 Infinity Audio Forte Koup to Kia Motors America's second-ever victory in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge on Friday night at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis. - Photo Credit: Melissa K. Smith Photography

"It's unheard of for a second-year racing program to stand on top of the podium, but to do it twice in a single year is even more remarkable and underscores the tremendous effort both Kia Motors and Kinetic Motorsports have put into the program," said Jönsson. "The team went to extraordinary lengths to overcome the challenges posed by the Road America course and that makes this win even sweeter."

In addition to the victory, the driving pair of Adam Burrows and Trevor Hopwood had their best outing of the season at Road America with a sixth place finish in the No. 12 Forte Koup. After starting seventh on the grid, Hopwood took the ST lead for three laps before handing the No. 12 car over to Burrows. Team "BurHop" recorded their third top ten-finish of the year, and the race marked the second time this season both Forte Koups finished in the top ten in the same event.

After qualifying in the third position, Galati fended off a series of relentless attacks from several more powerful cars and kept the No. 10 Forte Koup in the top five during the race's first 90 minutes. With just over an hour remaining, Jönsson took the wheel and moved up the grid and into a fierce three-car battle for first place before ultimately overtaking the leader with 30 minutes remaining in the race.

Jönsson successfully held off repeated challenges from the second- and third-place cars for nine laps before a severe accident and full course caution ended the race under yellow and sealed Kia Racing's second victory of the season.

"We went to Road America knowing the course's long straights and elevation changes provided a significant challenge, especially against some of our turbocharged competitors, but the Kinetic Motorsports team did an amazing job preparing both Forte Koups and the team's strategy allowed Nic and Michael to use the braking and cornering portions of the track to their advantage and bring home Kia's second GRAND-AM victory," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "We entered the 2011 season with increased expectations, and the team's hard work and dedication to continuous improvement has paid off with three podium appearances in seven races."

Racing fans can watch Kia's victory when SPEED broadcasts the Road America 200 on Sunday, July 3 at 1:00 p.m. ET. The Infinity Audio Kia Forte Koups will race for the first time in KMA's home state of California when they return for round eight of the CTSCC on July 9 at the legendary Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Fans can follow Kia Racing's progress and receive live updates from the track at facebook.com/kiaracing.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 730 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

Gary Rome Kia sets to give away a brand new Kia Soul to a deserving Enfield High School Senior

2011-06-09T12:19:00.000-04:00

BIG NEWS AT ENFIELD HIGH SHOOL!!

Friday, June 10, 2011, 185 of the seniors in the graduating class '11 will gather at the picnic grounds behind the Weymouth firehouse to enjoy the 4th annual senior outing. The day includes traditional "family style" games and friendly competitions – tugs of war, three legged races, water balloons, softball, ring toss championships , to name a few of the fun events.

A very special opportunity for this graduating class is in place this year. Gary Rrome Kia has provided a prize Kia Soul for a senior who has completed a minimun of 40 hours of community service, and has at least a "b" (85) academic average with no unexcused absences from, or late arrivals to school. Also, no disciplinary referrals were permitted to be elegible for the Kia Soul. Gary Rome Kia has emphasized the service, integrity and comittment of students and we are grateful for this opportunity to reward and recognize our seniors for their accomplishments. There were 16 finalists for the chance to draw for a key.

At 9:30 A.M. on Friday, June 10, 2011, Gary Rome of Gary Rome Kia will bring the Kia to the firehouse grounds: there will be 11 seniors who will receive a key to attempt to unlock the door of the Soul. ONly one key will unlock /start the vehicle and that lucky enfield high school senior will have a vehicle! The students are anxious, nervous and excited about this opportunity... Enfield High School is grateful to Mr. Gary Rome and Gary Rome Kia for this program.

2011 Kia Sorento Named to "Top 10 Family Cars of 2011" List by Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com

2011-03-09T12:18:00.002-05:00

First Kia Vehicle Built in the U.S. is Lauded For Superior Mix of Ride, Handling and Interior Appeal

* Stylish, family-friendly CUV combines fuel efficiency and spacious interior for the best of both worlds
* Kia's best-selling vehicle offers families a child-friendly option at an outstanding value

The 2011 Kia Sorento CUV has received a lot of attention since arriving in January 2010, and that trend continues this week as Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com names the compact CUV one of the "Top 10 Family Cars of 2011." Recognized for its exceptional mix of ride and handling as well as a stylish and functional interior, the 2011 Sorento has achieved a number of historic firsts for Kia, including becoming the company's first vehicle to surpass 100,000 units in a single year and being the first vehicle built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) in West Point, Georgia.

The Sorento combines Kia's distinctive design language with a comprehensive list of standard safety, convenience and technology features and was named a 2010 "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

"Sorento's recognition as one of the 'Top 10 Family Cars of 2011' by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com is well deserved with its striking design and standout combination of performance, safety equipment and family friendly features," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America. "As one of several recently introduced and dynamically styled products from Kia, Sorento accounts for more than 30 percent of our sales volume, making it the most popular vehicle in the Kia lineup."

Editors from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com judged vehicles based on characteristics that make vehicles family-friendly, including safety, comfort, economy of operation, child-friendliness, a reasonable purchase price and good resale value. The kbb.com editors believe that all of the worthy vehicles on this year's "Top 10 Family Cars of 2011" list will provide an excellent ownership experience for the families who choose to make them their own.

"The 2011 Kia Sorento is our new favorite in what we often label the two-and-a-half-row segment," say editors from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "If you need three rows on a daily basis or plan on putting adults in the way back, you'll be better served by something larger. But if your three-row needs are occasional and involve at least a couple elementary-schoolers, the 2011 Kia Sorento is a more affordable, more fuel-efficient, more maneuverable alternative. A superior mix of ride, handling and interior appeal helped cement the Sorento's spot on this year's list of 'Top 10 Family Cars'."

About the 2011 Kia Sorento

The 2011 Sorento, the first vehicle to roll off the line at Kia's new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, encompasses both the brand's signature design cues as well as its distinct combination of value, safety and style. The 2011 Sorento, which has been Kia's best-selling vehicle each month since going on sale in January 2010, offers consumers a well-equipped, well-appointed CUV, suited perfectly for the fun, dynamic and discerning driver. Available in LX, EX and SX trim levels, the 2011 Sorento features a starting MSRP of $22,395.

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia's model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 730 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2010, KMA recorded its best-ever U.S. sales and 16th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and new technologies.

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com) Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the industry. Each week the company provides the most market-reflective values in the industry on its top-rated website www.kbb.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In and Retail Values and Fair Purchase Price, which reports what others are paying for new cars this week. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies as well as governmental agencies. Kbb.com is a leading provider of new car prices, used car values, car reviews, new cars for sale, used cars for sale, and car dealer locations. Kelley Blue Book Co. Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of AutoTrader.com.

2011 Kia Optima SX - If Korea can do this, watch out for China

2011-01-19T11:28:00.001-05:00

DETROIT

The traditional global automobile industry has two three-letter threats. One is Kia. The other is BYD. Kia, the other half of South Korea's Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, poses an immediate threat. BYD, a China-based energy company aspiring to produce the world's most efficient and affordable electric cars, threatens to dominate the industry's future.

In this week's column, we'll focus on Kia, which in the course of a few years has become an impressive rival to Honda, Toyota, Nissan and other companies in the business of producing midsize family automobiles.

Consider, for example, the 2011 Kia Optima SX.

The Optima's debut in 2001 was greeted with a global yawn. The car was beyond dull. It was depressing in design, engineering and performance. Its attraction - to the extent there was any - lay in its low price.

Now, a decade later, the new Optima sedan is poised to take market share from every other manufacturer selling midsize family cars in America. That includes Volkswagen of Germany, which has mounted an expensive campaign to topple Toyota from its No. 1 spot as the world's biggest manufacturer and retailer of automobiles - a goal Volkswagen hopes to reach largely through the sale of midsize family sedans such as the Jetta and the Passat.

But Volkswagen will have to deal with Kia in climbing to the top of that commercial Mount Olympus. Dealing with Kia won't be easy.

Let's examine value for dollar, a category in which Kia beats Volkswagen and practically everyone else.

The base Kia Optima LX starts at $18,995. The top-of-the-line Optima SX, driven for this column, is priced at $25,995. For 2011, pricing for the base Jetta,a stripper if ever there was one, starts at $14,995. The top-notch diesel-powered Jetta TDI carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $22,995.

If value for dollar were based only on pricing, the Jetta would have an edge. But the "value" part of the pricing equation speaks to what you get for what you pay. In the 2011 Kia Optima, you get more.

The exterior and interior styling of the new Optima surpass what is offered on and in the 2011 Jetta. The Optima offers more standard equipment. The new Jetta TDI, for example, has a torsion-beam rear suspension, which is less favorable in vehicle handling. The new Optima SX offers as standard equipment a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, which greatly enhances handling.

In short, Volkswagen's strategy is to assuage consumer price sensitivity by removing content from its vehicles, which can be viewed as a common-sense approach in economically hard times. At Volkswagen, you pay for what you get, and what you get meets consumer expectations.

Kia may have a better idea. You pay a bit more. But what you get vastly exceeds consumer expectations. It is a favorable shock, one that elicited joy and surprise from nearly everyone who got behind the wheel of the Optima SX.

Ria Manglapus, who works with me on vehicle evaluations, was so happy that I was going to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and leaving the Optima SX in her hands, she drove me to the airport.

"Wow!" she said. "What a car! I can't believe this is a Kia. Wow! Wow!"

No one expressed that kind of joy over the 2011 Jetta. People were just happy that Volkswagen had reduced the car's price. But that happiness was tempered by the realization of the "de-contenting" that Volkswagen employed in getting to that price.

At the media preview of the auto show here, the Kia stand was swarming with journalists excitedly examining the new Optima. But over at the Volkswagen display, they were puzzling over VW's introduction of a new midsize Passat family sedan. Their consensus: The new Passat is going to have to be priced just right and offer much more than consumers expect to top the Optima and its sibling Hyundai Sonata sedan in the marketplace.

A decade ago, hardly anyone would have said anything like that about anything from Kia. It causes one to wonder about the prospects of China-based BYD in the automobile business.

The company has spent millions on elaborate displays at the Detroit show in the past four years. But it has yet to offer one car in the United States.

But that day will come soon, possibly sometime in 2012, said Micheal Austin, vice president of BYD America Corp.

And when that day comes, BYD will offer all-electric and hybrid electric vehicles powered by the world's most advanced batteries, charged by wind power and other renewable energy sources, Austin said.

Don't laugh.

BYD's motto, backed by hundreds of millions of dollars in research and development, is "Build Your Dreams."

Kia Sedona Tops InsWeb Cheapest-To-Insure List

2010-11-11T09:39:00.001-05:00

Kia Motors Corp.'s Sedona minivan is the cheapest 2010 model-year vehicle to insure in the U.S., while luxury performance cars crowd the list of the most expensive, topped by Honda Motor Co.'s Acura's sporty ZDX, according to online insurance comparer InsWeb Corp..

After the ZDX at the top of the most-expensive list are Audi AG's TTS and A5 cars, followed by General Motors Co.'s Cadillac's luxury Escalade SUV and powerhouse Chevrolet Corvette. Audi is Volkswagen AG's premium brand.

The Sedona, a minivan whose 2011 model starts at $24,595 new, tops InsWeb's least-expensive list to insure, followed by Mazda Motor Corp.'s Madza5 Minivan and Ford Motor Co.'s Escape SUV. Most of the vehicles on the least- expensive list carry high passenger loads.

The value of the vehicle is one of the most important factors that determine a vehicle's cost to insure, so the fact that most of the vehicles on the most- expensive list cost more than $40,000 isn't surprising, InsWeb said. The firm said the other main factor in determining insurance cost is the particular model's loss history.

Those who drive the sportscars on the top of the most-expensive list are likely "more aggressive by nature, which could lead to a higher likelihood of claims," said Brad Cooper, InsWeb's senior vice president of operations. "On the other end of the spectrum, most of the vehicles on the least-expensive-to insure list are minivans, wagons and small SUVs. Those vehicle types are often preferred by individuals with families-perhaps the least likely people to engage in risky driving behavior."

-By Nathan Becker,

Dow Jones Newswires

Fermi senior wins new car thanks to good grades, volunteer work -- and luck

2010-05-18T12:39:00.001-04:00

ENFIELD -- Sharon Pothul, an 18-year-old senior at Fermi High School, got a new car on Friday -- for free.

Pothul won a red 2010 Kia Soul, whose manufacturer's suggested retail price is $17,295, donated by Gary Rome Kia in Enfield as part of a year-long contest members of the senior class participated in.

To qualify to win the Kia, students had to maintain a B average for their senior-year classes, be involved in two activities, have no more than six absences, have no detentions or suspensions, and complete 40 hours of community service.

Seniors, whose grades for the contest were based on the first three marking periods that ended on April 9, had until April 30 to complete their community service and submit an application to Principal Paul Newton.

Newton said approximately 100 students participated in the contest but only 10 students met all of the qualifications.

Around 6:30 a.m. Friday, following a pep rally in the gymnasium, a crowd of approximately 200 students and staff gathered around the car, which was parked in the lobby at the high school, to see who would win it.

Each of the 10 students was given a car key but only one would open the driver's side door, designating the winner.

As a television crew from WFSB-TV3 filmed -- the segment was broadcast live as part of the station's "Cool Schools" feature on the morning news -- several of the students tried unsuccessfully to open the car door, until Pothul tried her key and it opened.

"I'm just really excited," she said later about winning the Kia Soul, which topped Time magazine's list of "The Most Exciting Cars of 2010."

"I was so surprised," she said. Pothul, who will be attending Elms College in Chicopee, Mass. this fall to pursue a nursing career, said she appreciated Rome donating the car.

Although Pothul won the Kia Soul on Friday she won't actually take possession of it until she graduates. The car was scheduled to be on display at Friday night's senior prom at La Renaissance in East Windsor.

All nine remaining seniors who were finalists in the contest received a $100 gift certificate to Gary Rome Kia.

Teacher Rachael O'Rourke, who had Pothul in her Spanish class last year, said the car couldn't have gone to a nicer person. "She is such a sweet person," O'Rourke said. "She's going to be a nurse and that's the type of person you want caring for you."

O'Rourke also received a $100 gift certificate and was honored because Pothul selected her as her supportive teacher during her high school career, Newton said.

Gary Rome, whose dealership has been in town for two years, said he just wanted to help people. "We're new in town and we think it's important to give back to the community," he said.

Rome also thought it was important to recognize a faculty member, which is why the dealership also awarded a gift certificate to the teacher Pothul chose.

"They have a huge impact on these student's lives," he said. Newton said the 10 finalists did a combined 500 volunteer service hours. Altogether the other 90 students volunteered more than 1,000 hours.

The principal said Pothul volunteered up to 36 hours at Blair Manor nursing home. She also volunteered at the ticket booth during the recent home show at Asnuntuck Community College. Her total volunteer hours totaled nearly 50, he said.

Newton was also glad to see Pothul win the car.

"Sharon is a wonderful young lady. I'm really happy for her," he said.

Next year the same contest will be held at Enfield High School where another lucky senior will be awarded a new car.

The nine other seniors whose keys didn't open the Kia at Fermi but who received a $100 gift certificate from Rome were: Dan Army, Patricia Cotnoir, Kaitlyn Cyr, Katlyn Fleming, Felipe Gheiman, Krista Maloney, Kevin Menaker, Derek Wright, and Torii Zaine.

Kia Motors' State-of-the-Art U.S. Manufacturing Facility is Featured in a Segment of the History™ Channel's Hit Series Modern Marvels

2010-03-05T10:29:00.001-05:00

All-New 2011 Kia Sorento CUV Production Process Shown Start to Finish

# In-depth look at advanced automotive manufacturing
# Interactive plant tour features facts and images of automotive production

IRVINE, Calif., March 4, 2010 – Premiering tonight at 8 p.m., an episode of the hit series on HISTORY™ Modern Marvels, will feature a segment on Kia's first U.S. auto assembly plant, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), and the production of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV. As part of the segment, Modern Marvels will present an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at automotive manufacturing, advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology used in Kia's brand new manufacturing plant.

As with all episodes of Modern Marvels, viewers are able to visit www.history.com for a deeper dive and more information. In addition, at >History.com/tour, viewers will find information specific to this episode of Modern Marvels on how to build a car, as well as about other Modern Marvels' episodes, such as how to demolish a building, build a modular home and build a golf club. The History.com tour site also will provide an interactive virtual plant tour of KMMG's facilities that features video, imagery and facts about the various stages of production of Kia vehicles. Through the interactive plant tour, visitors can see selected views of the Kia plant and learn how Kia is revolutionizing the auto manufacturing business.

"There is an innate curiosity for viewers to see how a car is produced from raw materials to a finished product and the opportunity to be part of HISTORY's popular series, Modern Marvels, is a natural fit as our new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant utilizes the latest in automotive manufacturing technology to assemble the 2011 Sorento," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, Kia Motors America. "Introducing new audiences to the Kia brand is a priority and innovative and educational programs such as Modern Marvels enable us to increase brand familiarity in captivating ways."

All-New Kia Sorento CUV

Completely redesigned for the 2011 model year, the all-new Sorento is a modern CUV that is just the right size for today's consumer. Sorento now employs a unibody design with the ability to comfortably fit up to seven passengers, offering more space and ride comfort than the previous-generation model, as well as easy handling. In addition to offering a comfortable ride, impressive technology features also come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service1. Also standard on all models are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting personal MP3 players and Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable hands-free operation for all compatible mobile phones. Available push button-start ignition with smart key, rear sonar back-up sensors, voice-activated navigation, rear view back-up cameras and air ionization purification technology complete the modern and high-tech driving experience.

With two new vehicle introductions and several other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, safety features and with new technology such as the recently announced UVO powered by Microsoft® infotainment system (to be available in select Kia models in the U.S. beginning in summer 2010). Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be assembled at Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup, and is now in dealerships.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Soul Named to "2010 Top Cars for Families" List by MotherProof.com

2010-02-17T16:30:00.001-05:00

Urban Passenger Vehicle Named Best Overall Value

# Top parenting site recognizes Soul for family-focused features
# Kia hatchback offers versatility, safety features, styling and value

IRVINE, Calif., February 17, 2010 – Kia Motors America's (KMA) resident halo car, the 2010 Soul urban passenger vehicle, continues to accumulate accolades, having now been named to the "2010 Top Cars for Families" list by online parenting site MotherProof.com as "Best Overall Value." Also given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), named one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine and most recently the "Best Hatchback of 2010" by online automotive authority Cars.com, visited by more than 10 million car buyers each month, MotherProof.com selected the Soul for its appealing nature, functionality and overall value.

"Shopping for a family vehicle does not mean sacrificing style, affordability or fun and Soul lets parents maintain their individuality while keeping the family safe and stylish with a slew of personalization options and standard safety features," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "As the kick-off to Kia's largest brand transformation to date, which most recently included the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover, Soul's wide-ranging appeal continues to receive consumer and media acclaim and bring more and more buyers to Kia showrooms."

The MotherProof.com awards showcase cars, SUVs and minivans that "mom reviewers" consider to be top vehicles for families in a number of segments, including minivan, three-row SUV or crossover, two-row SUV or crossover, wagon, sedan, fun, overall value, hybrid and best LATCH connectors. Winners are then chosen based on family-friendly criteria set forth by the reviewers, including ease of entrance and exit for all passengers, LATCH connector usability and easy seatbelt usage, among other features.

Soul offers an immense amount of style and value on top of an extensive list of standard safety features sure to appeal to all families, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging.

Kia Product Line

Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

2011 Kia Sorento EX V6 Full Test

2010-02-02T15:59:00.002-05:00

A Toyota Crossover, Only Better

We've only just grown accustomed to saying "20-10" instead of "2,000-nine," so where did this "20-11" Kia Sorento EX V6 come from? For bookkeeping reasons that are beyond our pay grade, there will be no 2010 Kia Sorento, and frankly that's OK with us. The 2011 Kia Sorento is worth the trouble, because it changes the Sorento from a marginalized, truck-based midsize SUV into a truly competitive crossover thanks to a totally new unibody, engine and transmission.

We had to line up the specs to verify our suspicions, but sure enough, this all-new 2011 Kia Sorento EX V6 either matches or beats the Toyota RAV4 Limited, twice a winner in our crossover comparison tests in nearly every measure: acceleration, braking, handling, horsepower, torque, towing capacity, fuel efficiency, passenger accommodations, cargo capacity, and the list goes on.

On the surface, the all-new Kia Sorento (now being built in Kia's new assembly plant in West Point, Georgia) seems to be more affordable as well. Yet as is almost always the case (and perhaps by design), it's difficult to say so definitively, as you have to sort through exact model-specific equipment levels, work out option pricing and reconcile warranty periods -- a challenge even for the most skilled spreadsheet geeks.

Suffice it to say that only $605 separates the base MSRP for a front-wheel-drive 2011 Kia Sorento EX V6 ($27,990) from a front-drive 2010 Toyota RAV4 Limited V6 ($27,385). However, this Kia's standard equipment includes a third-row seat where you'd have to hand over an extra $750 for one in the Toyota, so suddenly the Kia is ahead by $145. Like we said, you could do this quid pro quo thing all day long with these two, so let's get to the specifics.

Smooth, Powerful and Efficient
Perhaps because of the Sorento's generic exterior styling, this crossover's most conspicuous feature is its well-sorted driveline. It's an all-new package both designed and built in-house by Kia/Hyundai that's powerful, smooth and fuel-efficient.

With 276 horsepower on tap from a new DOHC 3.5-liter V6, this Sorento EX is noticeably quick. Acceleration to 60 mph from a standstill takes just 7.4 seconds (7.1 seconds with 1 foot of rollout like on a drag strip) on the way to a quarter-mile in 15.4 seconds at 91.4 mph -- essentially a tie with the RAV4. To put that performance in perspective, this lowly Sorento is slightly faster than a vaunted (and admittedly heavier, because it's built for off-roading) Land Rover LR4 with its new 375-hp 5.0-liter V8. It's also as fast as a 2010 MX-5 Miata, if Mazda's claims are correct.

The Sorento's six-speed automatic operates with seamless shifts and, unlike so many others, has the brains to know when to hold gears (uphill) and when to upshift for fuel economy. The engine and transmission are ideally paired to offer both performance and economy, returning estimated EPA ratings of 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. We verified these claims with our own 21 mpg average over 1,000 miles of testing. In fact, the Sorento's 21 mpg average in our hands matches our results from what should have been a more miserly four-cylinder 2010 Chevrolet Equinox LT2.

Also, the V6-powered 2011 Kia Sorento is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds right out of the box once equipped with the $350 tow hitch and wiring harness.

ChassisWorks
We should also point out that the Sorento achieves this level of fuel efficiency without the numbing effects of fuel-saving electric-assist power steering as found on both the RAV4 and Equinox. The Sorento has hydraulic-assist power steering that provides true, precise and communicative steering control -- a unique quantity in the crossover segment. While some criticized the effort required to park, nobody complained about the system's behavior once under normal driving conditions.

If you were to describe the Sorento's ability to corner, hold a line and ride the freeway, "direct" would be it. We also noticed how well isolated the cabin proved to be from both road and wind noise at freeway speeds. The 59.0 dBA sound measurement within the Sorento's cabin while cruising at a steady 70 mph is notably quieter than the 66 dBA performance of our long-term 2009 BMW 750i Sport. At the same time, the EX V6's standard 18-inch 60-series tires sometimes produce hiss on different surfaces and an occasional thump on pronounced seams in the pavement.

While bending the 2011 Kia Sorento EX around the slalom cones at the test track, we found that the crossover's new suspension with struts in front and a multilink setup in the rear has been tuned to land on the sporty side of the ride-versus-handling equation. A 61.8-mph slalom run and 0.79g of lateral grip put the Sorento near the top of the class in terms of dynamic capability, yet the freeway ride remains controlled, not busy and always confident.

That said, an expedition to L.A.'s pothole-ridden warehouse district with its long-abandoned railroad tracks revealed the limits of the European-style sportif suspension's ability to soak up the worst that the road has to offer. The suspension really could stand to breathe a bit better and use a bit more travel to soak up this sort of thing. We're not looking for Kia to make the Sorento into a marshmallow with a Toyota badge, but then again you wouldn't want to use this carlike crossover as a delivery van in downtown Detroit. Yet even under these extreme circumstances, our test vehicle didn't register a single rattle or buzz from the interior or the undercarriage.

Interior, Seating and Cargo
While our EX V6's all-black interior lacks visual interest, there are a number of interesting features worth pointing out. For example, keyless ignition/entry is standard. A cleverly designed (yet not overdesigned) tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel features integrated controls for audio/cruise and Bluetooth, all standard. Also standard is dual-zone climate control with flow-control vents built into the B-pillars for the second-row passengers, as is an auxiliary/USB/iPod jack at the base of the center stack.

While rear-mounted sonar parking aids are standard, our pre-production Sorento EX V6 sneaked into the press fleet with a mishmash of optional items, some of which are part of larger packages. Things like our heated front seats and rearview camera integrated into the mirror only come within the $2,700 PK2 Premium pack that should also include roof rails and a sunroof. Because of this mongrel status, our $30,690 as-tested price for this 2011 Kia Sorento EX V6 is not entirely accurate.

We've already mentioned the EX V6's standard third-row seat, but we failed to tell you that it really is a kid-only exercise, with somewhat difficult ingress/egress and compromised space for adult-scale limbs. The seats themselves aren't as pathetic as those in a Mitsubishi Outlander, but just like most midsize crossovers, this is no Toyota Sienna (or Ford Flex, for that matter).

A comfortable eight-way power driver seat is standard, but leather upholstery will cost extra. We also found the second-row seats more than generously proportioned, and a rear-entertainment DVD system with headphones is optional. We wish we could've sampled the optional navigation system with real-time traffic and 550-watt 12-speaker Infinity premium surround system.

With all three rows occupied, the Sorento's luggage space is a mere 9 cubic feet, although you'll find a generous 37 cubic feet available behind the second-row seat, while total cargo capacity of 72.5 cubic feet behind the front seats nearly leads the class. In comparison, the RAV4 offers a maximum of 73 cubic feet, while the Equinox has just 63.7 cubic feet.

Safety
Neither the NHTSA nor IIHS tests have been published, but with standard dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags, plus active headrests, ESP, ABS, EBD and hill-start assist and downhill-descent control, the 2011 Kia Sorento promises to be well regarded by those who rate safety systems. We can tell you the standard ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes work very well, bringing the Sorento to a halt from 60 mph in just 120 feet. Of the six stops we performed, the longest was 123 feet and the brake pedal remained trustworthy.

We can also vouch for the stability control system, which effectively reins in shenanigans without being a nuisance. There's only a 1.5-mph difference in slalom speeds between when the stability control is engaged and when it's disengaged, which tells you the hardware and software were developed in concert with one another rather than by chassis engineers and liability lawyers in conflict with one another.

Closing Thoughts
Without much fanfare or marketing (yet), Kia appears to have produced a truly class-leading midsize crossover. For the time being, the 2011 Kia Sorento EX V6 is nipping at the heels of one of the best in the world, the Toyota RAV4 V6. And, yes, were this a true comparison of midsize crossovers, we'd likely toss into the crowded pool (61 models by our last estimate) a 2010 Subaru Outback and a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, both all-new and full of promise.

We're impressed with the polish, poise and performance of the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento. It continues to prove that Kia and Hyundai have earned the right to be considered a big-time car company.

The manufacturer provided Edmunds this vehicle for the purposes of evaluation.

By Chris Walton
Chief Road Test Editor
Edmunds.com

Kia Soul Named "Best Hatchback of 2010" by Cars.com

2010-01-18T11:11:00.001-05:00

Award-Winning Kia Urban Passenger Vehicle Honored by Popular Online Automotive Site

# Kia Soul outpaces competition in increasingly competitive segment
# Soul offers unique styling and an abundance of personalization options, safety features and value

IRVINE, Calif., January 15, 2010 - Hot on the heels of being named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine, Kia Motors' popular five-door has been named "Best Hatchback of 2010" by online automotive authority Cars.com, visited by more than 10 million car buyers each month. Also recently given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), named one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com as well as the top ten "Consumers' Favorite Cars for College Students" list by Edmunds.com, Soul was honored by Cars.com for definitive styling, excellent safety features, agile handling and overall value.

"Designed for consumers looking for a new way to roll, Soul offers an unbeatable combination of style, personalization, safety features, and value," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Soul kicked off our largest brand transformation ever, followed closely by Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup and the all-new 2011 Sorento crossover, effectively raising our brand profile. The Cars.com honor shows Soul's perpetual appeal as it continues to receive consumer and media acclaim and attract new buyers to Kia showrooms."

Of nearly 70 all-new or redesigned cars for 2010, Cars.com reviewed and selected the top vehicles across six automotive categories, including Best New SUV of 2010, Best New Compact of 2010, Best New Hatchback of 2010, Best New Hybrid Hatchback of 2010, Best New Hybrid Sedan of 2010 and Best New Wagon of 2010. Each category winner presented outstanding value, safety features, interior comfort, handling and attractive styling.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging. In addition to presenting an immense amount of style and value, Soul also offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.

Kia Product Line

Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The vehicle line features the stylish Forte compact sedan and all-new two-door Forte Koup, the highly personalizable Soul, functional Rondo CUV, award-winning Sedona minivan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan and versatile yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Kia's first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further enhances the lineup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Soul Named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine

2010-01-14T11:34:00.000-05:00

Award-Winning Kia Urban Passenger Vehicle Honored by Top Hispanic Women's Publication

# Kia five-door selected for numerous consumer-friendly attributes
# Soul's value, safety features and styling enhance overall appeal

IRVINE, Calif., January 11, 2010 – Adding even more recognition to its growing list of accolades, the 2010 Kia Soul was named "Small Car of the Year" by FAMA Magazine during an award presentation at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Also named one of "10 Great and Safe Rides for Teens" by AutoWeek magazine, one of the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" by TIME.com, given two "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, Soul was selected by FAMA for its extensive list of safety features, dynamic styling, impressive interior room and value

"Soul offers today's consumer a practical and attractive option with a more than impressive package of vibrant styling, extensive safety features and standard amenities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "In today's economy we feel it's important that buyer's don't have to sacrifice these necessities for overall value, and Soul delivers."

Editors from FAMA selected the top vehicles across six categories, including Editor's Choice Award, Green Car/Hybrid of the Year, Best Luxury Sport Utility, Sport Car of the Year, Small Car of the Year and Car of the Year for Women. Each vehicle considered possessed a long list of safety features, impressive styling, interior space and value.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, Kia Motors' affordable halo vehicle offers an attractive starting price below $14,000. Four special edition Souls, based on the Soul+ trim, also are being released throughout the year, including Denim Soul, Ignition Soul and most recently Shadow Dragon Soul. Offering consumers even more ways to customize the Soul, each special edition comes with its own unique exterior color and packaging.

In addition to presenting an immense amount of style and value, Soul also offers an extensive list of standard safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags, an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, an impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors Unveils Advanced Infotainment System Powered by Microsoft®

2010-01-08T11:59:00.001-05:00

# Kia UVO, short for "Your Voice," features a breakthrough user interface that provides simple and quick access to your vehicle's multimedia and infotainment systems
# UVO is the first in-vehicle solution to integrate full Microsoft® intelligent speech engine technology

IRVINE, Calif., January 5, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today unveiled an innovative and intelligent in-car communications and entertainment system, "UVO powered by Microsoft®," to be available in select Kia vehicles starting this summer. UVO provides consumer friendly voice- and touch-activated experiences for simple management of music files and hands-free mobile phone operation. Co-developed with Microsoft and based on Windows Embedded Auto software, UVO is an easy-to-use, hands-free solution that allows drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from a variety of media sources and create custom music experiences.

Understanding drivers want and need intuitive controls, Kia Motors and Microsoft® designed UVO to enable a new level of voice recognition through Microsoft® speech technology. UVO users will be able to access media content and connect with people through simple, quick voice commands without having to navigate through menus. By supporting complex grammar, UVO needs only short voice commands to connect drivers and passengers with their desired functions. An interactive system, UVO responds to inquiries such as "What's playing?" and provides audible answers and related functions, helping to keep drivers' eyes safely focused on the road ahead of them.

UVO also brings advancements to in-car technology through an immersive user experience. The interface features a 4.3-inch, full-color display that provides detailed information on media content, phonebook data and vehicle information, and the screen also doubles as a rear-view camera when the shifter is put in reverse. UVO is an open platform that seamlessly integrates with a wide variety of mobile phones, music players and other devices, making it easy for drivers to quickly pair devices.

"UVO powered by Microsoft® is a breakthrough for in-vehicle infotainment that helps allow drivers and passengers to safely and easily use all of their personal technologies to create personalized in-vehicle communications and entertainment experiences," says Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. "Collaborating with Microsoft, Kia Motors is able to offer drivers an experience that will provide our cars with a clear competitive advantage."

"We are very excited with the customized approach Kia Motors is bringing to in-car infotainment," says Kevin Dallas, General Manager of Microsoft's Windows Embedded Business division. "Kia's UVO system demonstrates how the power of Windows Embedded technology can keep consumers connected to the devices, information and entertainment that matters to them most."

Based on the award-winning Windows Embedded Auto platform, UVO can be updated easily as new consumer devices continue to be introduced to the market.

UVO will debut this summer in the all-new 2011 Kia Sorento CUV and will be extended to additional Kia vehicles as part of the brand's technological evolution. Kia Sorento, Soul, Forte and Forte KOUP already come standard and at no extra cost with Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity, iPod®/MP3/USB connectivity, and a three-month SIRIUS® satellite radio subscription.

UVO will be shown for the first time at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, January 7-10, in both the Kia Motors and Microsoft booths and representatives from both companies will be on-hand for demonstrations.

Key Features of UVO, powered by Microsoft:

# Advanced Speech Recognition: Intelligent Microsoft® speech technology is trained to the system operator's voice, creating a personal profile and allowing for up to two different voice profiles in various languages. Support for large grammar commands and faster response time means the content is delivered when you ask for it. Kia Motors' UVO system is the first in-vehicle solution to integrate full Microsoft® speech engine technology.
# Natural Interface Advancements: A full-color, easy-to-use in-dash monitor allows occupants to quickly scroll through media and mobile device content through intuitive voice and touch-screen commands.
# Custom Media Experiences with MyMusic: UVO's "Jukebox" function features a 1GB hard drive for media storage, allowing users to rip music from CDs or an MP3 player into personal MyMusic folders and store up to 250 songs sorted by title and/or artist – all through voice commands. The system can shuffle through an MP3 player or AM/FM and SIRIUS® radio stations and instantly identify what's playing all through simple voice commands.
# Rear Backup Camera: When the vehicle is put in reverse, a built-in rear backup camera uses UVO's in-dash display to provide clearer images of the environment behind the car assisting the driver to identify certain objects that otherwise may be difficult to see.
# Ability to Continuously Update Features and Services: Based on a flexible Windows Embedded Auto platform, updates and services can be delivered in a number of ways (over-the-air, over-the-Web) for Kia to continue to provide a superior user experience after the system enters the market.

Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be built at Kia Motors' first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, will further enhance the Kia lineup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Review: 2010 Kia Forte continues string of hits from South Korea

2009-12-30T10:10:00.001-05:00

It's not that there was much wrong with the Forte's predecessor. In fact, the last time we drove a Kia Spectra, we walked away wondering if anything more might be overkill. The Spectra was good but tended to blend in with a crowd, and Kia's not into playing the role of wallflower anymore. In contrast, the Forte boldly saunters into the middle of the dance floor, comfortable in the hot glow of the pin spot, with the confidence of Tony Manero after a trip to the tailor.

Clearly, the Kia Forte looks remarkably better than the econobox it replaces and attracts the right kind of attention to the brand. Everywhere it goes, the Forte is a surprising conversation piece, though many aren't sure exactly what it is. With Kia's value pricing, you also get a lot for your dollar. So does it have the hat trick of style, value and performance? When the key to this black Forte SX tester was pressed into the palm of our hand, we were ready to find out.

Despite what some believe after only seeing photos, the Forte doesn't bear much resemblance to the Honda Civic. A thick swage along the top of the flanks gives the windows a chamfered, machined look. The Forte's face is bolder than its supposed Civic doppelganger with deeper shoulders formed by the fenders, and the rest of the sheetmetal is carefully creased to look pleasant and stylish, even a bit upscale. Since it doesn't aim to break new styling ground, the Forte has withstood accusations of being derivative, but its clean, precision-milled looks are more unique than that kind of critique might suggest. The lines will age well, and the bodywork grabs and bends light tastefully.

Our SX tester's dapper Ebony Black was set off by just the right amount of brightwork. Lesser trim levels get 15-inch steel wheels, but the SX gets 17s with creative fluting around the lugs, and, thankfully, no chrome. The Forte sits just right on its wheels, and the SX package dresses up the exterior with foglamps in the lower front fascia. This is not a body that carries extra strakes or adornments – there's not even rub strips along the doors. And while the looks are the better for it, we'd take to parking in the far spots, especially with a dark finish that will prominently display blemishes.

Interior styling is clean and simple, but not without flair. Just like the outside, tasteful is the order of the day, and the Forte's cabin isn't overly swooped-up. Dash-strokers will find that the Forte has its share of hard plastics, some may even find the sheen objectionable. But despite any nattering about materials quality, the Forte is right in there with its class contemporaries. The Focus is chintzier, the Civic is plain weird, and the Forte's interior is on par with the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla. The SX leather package fits perforated leather seats that look upscale and add an air of luxe inside, tacking on $1,000 to the $18,195 MSRP.

The seats could benefit from more support and adjustments, particularly with the lumbar. The seat bottom, too, was impossible to get positioned and tilted how we wanted. Although overall comfort and bolstering was good, without much adjustment, drivers might feel that the Forte was designed for some kind of mutant body type. Rear seat passengers don't have to duck and squeeze to enter and exit, with ample space for four full-sized humans, and the trunk is surprisingly large, too. If three people are comfortable with each other's company and personal grooming habits, they'll find the back seat pleasant enough for short jaunts around town, and if things get stuffy, the $600 power moonroof is worth the extra couple months of payments.

Functionally, the Forte's ergonomics are above complaint. Big, clear knobs operate the climate system, and the radio has genuine knobs for tuning and volume; two areas that can be troublesome for manufacturers to get right. Bluetooth is standard on the Forte, and the steering wheel carries controls for operating the telephone, as well as the audio system and cruise control. During its time with us, the Forte never annoyed us with hidden buttons or incongruous menus – it's a pleasantly simple car to operate – and the gauges follow the same pattern, providing clear, legible information for the driver.

Lesser Fortes get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that puts out an energetic 156 horsepower, but SX models get an uprated 2.4-liter engine. The bigger mill is borrowed from the Optima, much as Toyota Corollas can be had with a Camry powertrain. The 2.4's 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque will slake the thirst of the power hungry, but it's overkill here, and the extra 400cc of displacement brings with it an increased appetite for fuel. However, the bigger engine comes mated to an unflappable five-speed automatic that delivers smooth shifts and jumps for higher gears quickly, making the most of the engine's torquey nature. It can be a little reluctant to come out of high gear and extinguish the green "eco" light in the gauge cluster that indicates earth-friendly driving, but the manual gate is helpful – even satisfyingly responsive – when called upon.

The biggest annoyance with the powertrain is its overly-aggressive throttle tip in. A very gentle foot is required to avoid blasting away from stops like a teenager with a newly laminated license. Manual transmission Fortes are even worse, with the wonky throttle programming leading to the binary options of peel out or stall that take time to adjust to. The four-speed auto that's paired with the 2.0-liter engine has come under some fire, but either auto trans is acceptable. The five-speed's extra ratio, however, adds more refinement and relaxes the demeanor.

With the big four's beefy torque, the Forte is happy to loaf along, and variable valve timing provides a noticeable dollop of extra urge as RPMs rise. We put the Forte through commuter hell and it coughed up 28 MPG after plenty of traffic-sitting and on ramp pedal flattening, which lands in the middle of its 22 city/32 highway EPA numbers. While the fuel economy is acceptable, regular commuters could make an argument for the smaller engine, which can be had with a special fuel economy package and five-speed auto 'box to deliver 27/36 city/highway.

Enter the freeway aggressively for the first time and you'll be looking to do it again, just to make sure you're not crazy. There are signs of life from underneath. Where other vehicles in this class are merely drone pods, the Forte SX has a sport tuned suspension, and it delivers. The chassis is simple stuff with struts up front, a torsion beam rear axle, some swaybars and gas dampers – nothing fancy. Those specifications may fail to impress in modern times, but there's a long list of impressive performers sporting the same details. Nobody would accuse a first generation Volksagen GTI of being a sloppy-handling little knockwurst. When this type of chassis is sorted, it's very good, and the Forte SX is well fettled.

The steering could use a smidge more feedback and less aggressive boost; it's fast off-center. The Forte feels light on its feet, though, like a boxer that dances around his opponents. This is a spirited, fun car to drive, which bodes well for the upcoming Koup model and its more overt suggestion of sportiness. The downside is a busy ride on the taut side of comfortable. Some might find it objectionably stiff, and there are occasions where the Forte feels like it's ricocheting off expansion gaps instead of just smothering them with a more pliant suspension. But It's a tradeoff we'd make, because it's an entertaining steer that doesn't dive, squat and slobber all over the road.

The drivetrain is well polished, the uprated engine doesn't leave you wanting for acceleration, and the four-wheel disc brakes felt firm, easily modulated and effective. We would've liked a little less cabin noise at speed, but that's akin to dinging Kia because the Forte's interior doesn't have Zebrano wood trim. For its place in the vehicular hierarchy, it delivers an experience that's among the top contenders in its class.

Just like the Spectra we tried back in 2007, the Kia Forte leaves us impressed. It really only has to compete with the Honda Civic and Mazda3 in its peer group as it betters everything else in SX trim. The $20,000 price is certainly attractive, as is the list of features and one of the industry's best warranties. Redact the brand and model names from the window sticker, and this could have easily passed as an Acura or Infiniti not too long ago. While it's not likely to keep pace with any of those brands' current offerings, the Forte is a heck of a value. The fuel economy of the SX could be better and a stiffer body shell might be the key to supple-izing the suspension. Until that happens, the Sport-averse would be advised to try the normal suspension first. But overall, the Forte is a stylish, comfortable, frisky automotive companion for surprisingly short dollars – the automotive equivalent of two buck Chuck.

KIA FORTE NAMED 'CAR OF THE YEAR' BY NADAGUIDES.COM

2009-12-04T11:13:00.000-05:00

All-New 2010 Kia Compact Given Esteemed Honor by Online Consumer Automotive Resource

# Forte recognized above competition for offering new-edge styling, value and fuel efficiency
# Kia Forte sedan and Koup give consumers entire package and class-leading combination of standard safety features
IRVINE, Calif., December 3, 2009 - On the heels of being named "Car of the Month" for August by NADAguides.com, the respected online automotive source has named the all-new 2010 Kia Forte "Car of the Year." Selected from the nine vehicles chosen as a "Car of the Month" throughout the year, Forte was honored for its attractive styling, value and an extensive list of class-leading features.

"Consumers as well as dealers have come to recognize the Kia Motors brand for attractively designed and priced vehicles with impressive fuel efficiency and a long list of standard safety features all backed by an industry-leading warranty, and the all-new Forte and Forte Koup are no exceptions," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Forte is a very strong contender in the popular compact segment and it has definitely helped us continue to raise our brand awareness."

The NADAguides.com "Car of the Month" program aims to provide consumers with useful commentary, information and reviews on available new cars, trucks and SUVs, and showcases vehicles that offer impressive fuel economy, safety features and amenities. The editors at NADAguides.com carefully review the vehicles previously chosen as a "Car of the Month" to select the most deserving "Car of the Year." To be eligible, vehicles must be new for the model year and have a combination of impressive styling, fuel efficiency, low price point and cost of ownership. For the complete review, go to NADAguides.com.

"Not many cars can boast a full package when it comes to design features, price, performance and fuel economy, but the Forte leaves a lasting impression with all that and more," said Michael Caudill, automotive expert for NADAguides.com.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new Forte sedan starts at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the EX begins at $15,995 and the SX starts at $17,495. Pricing for the stylish Koup, available in EX and SX trims, starts at $16,595 (EX), while the SX trim begins at $17,695. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, starting with a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service. Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible mobile phones.

In addition to emotion-evoking performance and great design, Forte and Forte Koup also showcase a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 650 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and more recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever in 2009. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Soul: A little Asian flair

2009-10-19T11:54:00.001-04:00

It was clear that something different was happening when the video opened with a trio of hamsters bouncing to hip hop music as the scrawl stated "This is how we roll." What's up with the hip-hop hamsters?

To begin with, they were bouncing in a set of wheels dubbed the Kia Soul, the latest and, perhaps, liveliest edition to the box-shaped compact SUV class pioneered by the Toyota Scion and popularized by the Honda Fit and Nissan Cube.

But where those three Japanese vehicles are variations on a theme the Koreans - who have added blacks, Hispanics, and blond-haired California surfers to their design teams - have thrown away the base, box style book and come up with something different.

Stylistically, the Soul isn't so much a car that was drawn outside the box - they just opened up the box.

The front of the roof was raised, as if pried by a can opener, giving the impression of a cap arrogantly pushed back on the head.

The front has a thin, stretched grill and flat hood flanked by wrap-around head lights.

The overall impression is somewhere between a smirk and a smile as the Soul rolls by.

Under that flat hood is a 2.0-liter, four cylinders, fuel injected engine cranking out just 142 horsepower and 137 pound/feet of torque. But that is more than enough to provide a lot of power to such a lightweight vehicle.

The Soul, with its five-speed manual transmission, is surprisingly peppy for a compact box, and, if you feel like flirting with serious traffic tickets, can easily bounce into triple digits and traffic court.

Inside, the Soul offers a lot for an $18,000 car.

The decor is two toned and brash. The test car was charcoal and red, the bright red dash broken by the gray instrument clusters.

That red theme extends to the huge sub woofers on the doors, which bounce with bright red lights timed to the beat of the music pouring out of the car's eight large speakers.

There is a choice of noise-makers for the 300-watt sound system, which is strong enough to serve as the sound system for a block party. The Soul has a single, in-dash CD player, as well as iPod, MP3, and USB-port connections.

There also is AM/FM and Sirius satellite radio. The entertainment network is accessible via fingertip controls on the steering wheel, along with a Bluetooth system that is easy to set up and use.

All that is missing is a navigation system, though that would be unusual in this price category.

As a small SUV, the Soul has more room than one could ever get in a typical sub-compact car.

And the powered sunroof adds to the Soul's feel of ambiance.

When the rear seats are folded flat, the Soul can easily haul a washer or dryer, and its sport-tuned suspension will get the machine to its destination in one working piece. The seats are cloth and manually operated - which is to be expected in this price range - but they are easily adjusted, wide, thickly padded and would not cast a pall over a cross-country trip.

All things considered, the hip-hop hamsters are likely to make an impact rolling through the small SUV market.

By ROGER WITHERSPOON

Gainsville.com

Kia is on a roll with 2010 Soul

2009-10-15T10:31:00.001-04:00

An all-new Soul debuts for Kia for the 2010 model year. Call it a wagon, a mini-ute, a compact crossover or whatever you like, but its somewhat edgy styling, angled window line and wide stance give it a look that brings folks in for a closer look.

Soul's marketing campaign is also intriguing. Have you seen the television commercial (with the hamsters)? My kids love it. Kia also has a catchy tagline for the Soul, "A new way to roll."

I like it.

Clearly the boxy new Soul has the Scion xB in its sights, but the Soul features more rounded lines and a unique rear sloping roof line.

Soul's fun exterior styling, pleasant ride, outstanding warranty, long list of standard safety features and entry price of just $13,300 make it worth a serious look.

Soul comes in four trim levels: the base model Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport. The base model features an economical 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (making 122 horsepower) mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

All other trim levels feature a peppier 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 142 horsepower. The 2.0 can be teamed to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Soul's power goes to the front wheels. I'd like to see an available all-wheel drive model. Soul is fairly fuel efficient with the base model being rated at 26/31 and the other trims rated at 24/30.

The 2.0-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission in my Soul+ tester was a nice combination. Power is adequate for this segment and the shifts are smooth. Noise level is low at boulevard speeds; however, road noise easily permeates the cabin while cruising on the highway. Overall, though, the ride is OK and the noise level is not bad enough to scare buyers off.

Soul's exterior styling will obviously bring traffic into Kia's showroom. Soul comes in eight colors including hues like Alien, Molten, Shadow, Java and Dune. Slip inside the new Soul and you'll be greeted by a surprisingly spacious interior.

I found plenty of leg and headroom up front. Room for rear seat passengers is good. And Soul is quite versatile.

To wit: My 20-year old son called me and said, "Dad, I need your help. I'm over at Wal-Mart. I bought a new refrigerator for my room and it's too big for my ['97 Nissan Maxima] trunk. Could you bring the minivan?"

"I'll be right over," I said. But he had no idea I'd be rolling up in the new 2010 Kia Soul that I was testing.

When I tooted the horn to catch his attention he looked surprised and said, "You've got to be kidding. There's no way the fridge will fit in that." Boy was he wrong. I folded the rear seatbacks down and my Soul tester's tall cargo area easily gobbled up the fridge.

I said, "Look, there's still plenty of room for more stuff. Do you need anything else while I'm here?"

After unloading the fridge, my son asked if I could take him for a ride in the Soul. He usually only asks for rides when I've got a sports car or an ultra-luxurious model. But he was quite enamored with the Soul.

He wanted to check out the lighted speakers. They're part of the upgraded audio package and you can turn them off if you find them distracting. He thought they were awesome.

The 315-watt audio system with lighted speakers and nifty Bluetooth connection might help you forget about things like the rest of the cabin being plain or the seats being a bit firm and uncomfortable.

I do like the large bilevel glove box, but it needs a light more than the speakers do.

When it comes to safety features, the Soul comes standard with antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control and full-length side-curtain airbags.

Take a close look; you might be Soul(d).

2010 KIA SOUL+

ENGINE: 142-horsepower 2.0-liter I-4

TRANSMISSION: four-speed automatic

DRIVETRAIN: front-wheel drive

FUEL ECONOMY: 24 city/30 highway

BASE PRICE: $15,900

AS TESTED: $17,890 (includes $695 for destination)

WEB SITE: Kia.com

BY IRA SIEGEL
Chicago Sun-Times

All-new 2009 Kia Borrego: strong engine, ample towing

2009-10-14T09:54:00.003-04:00

You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

This poor economy is poor timing to introduce an all-new, three-row, seven-passenger SUV to compete with the likes of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevy TrailBlazer and Ford Explorer. Kia, however, has to play the hand it's been dealt as it muscles into the big boy market with its 2009 Borrego.

As buyers run from trucks toward fuel-efficient cars, Borrego's light is shining under a bush. And it's a shame because the Borrego is a strong contender against the long established brands. The silver lining in all this is for the confident consumer who can leverage the overall disadvantaged auto industry to buy low.

For the first time ever, Kia is using a V-8 engine. The Borrego is featured with a V-6, as well as the optional 32-valve 4.6-liter V-8. This was the powerplant in my tester. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the V-8 generates 337 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. The engine's torque rating is exemplary. It produces 323 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm.

In my V-8 tester, with a curb weight of 4,621 pounds, this powerful pulling force was felt immediately under throttle. The big and forceful Borrego is smooth running as it proceeds through its six automatic shift points. With all this force under the hood, the Borrego can bring up from its behind 7,500 pounds of trailer weight.

My 4x4 tester had a base price of $32,995. Its official 2009 EPA fuel economy ratings are 15 miles per gallon city and 20 mpg highway. The Borrego runs on regular gasoline and has a fuel tank capacity of about 21 gallons.

The 4x2 Borrego starts at $26,245 and is standard equipped with the 3.8-liter V-6. This engine is coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission and has a horsepower rating of 276 at 6,000 rpm and torque rating of 267 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm. The V-6 towing capacity is capped at 5,000 pounds. EPA estimates on this powerplant come in at 21 mpg highway on both the 4x2 and 4x4 versions.

The Borrego is a true truck and competes with not only Ford, Chevy and Jeep, but also the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota 4Runner. Kia's body-on-frame sport utility vehicle has a double wishbone front suspension with shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. The coil-over springs rear multi-link suspension incorporates a damper and stabilizer bar. The Borrego is good for on-road towing and off-road adventures. This Kia SUV has a typical ground clearance of 8.5 inches. Drivers who will be doing off-roading should inquire with the dealer about skid plate protection.

The entry model Borrego has a high level of standard amenities, such as air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control and a six-speaker sound system with MP3.

The up-level tester came standard with dual-zone climate control, Sirius satellite, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power seats, sliding and reclining second row seats, a back-up warning system and active head restraints.

A high level of standard safety equipment is offered on the 2009 Borrego. It includes electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and six airbags. The V-8 model has seven airbags with a driver's knee airbag.

Since it went on sale in July, Kia has sold only 1,233 Borrego units through September. But just like any portfolio, diversification is critical. Fortunately for Kia its small car sales are doing well in this economy with year-to-date sales on the Spectra alone at 58,915 through to the third quarter.

By Connie Keane
Motor Matters

All-new 2009 Kia Borrego: strong engine, ample towing

2009-10-14T09:54:00.001-04:00

'10 Kia Soul rated groovy and cool

2009-10-12T10:11:00.000-04:00

It is a great confidence booster when a small, affordable car starts getting awards, especially when it's a new entry to the marketplace. The 2010 Kia Soul has been named by two prestigious automotive authorities for outstanding product characteristics.

This news is not only good for Kia -- which has needed desperately to hit a homerun in the U.S. marketplace -- but it's also good news for small-car buyers, who more than anything else want to feel confident in the small product they're buying.

Ward's AutoWorld named the Kia Soul to its "Interior of the Year" list as having the "Grooviest Interior." That alone speaks volumes. Small cars notoriously get overlooked in the finishings department in manufacturers' efforts to keep costs down. But Kia pays attention to the small-car interior of the Soul, the living space of the car.

Personalization is key to the Soul. There are more than 50 ways to personalize color and interior choices and lighting -- as well as the exterior parts, too, with body kits and roof racks.

One of the big standout interior elements on my Soul tester was the audio package, which included a ring of lights on the door-mounted speaker system. The light settings could be set to pulse to the beat of the music or just create a mood. The Soul's center console floats from the dashboard, giving the driver quick access to climate and sound controls.

Kelley Blue Book named the new Kia Soul to its "Coolest New Cars" under $18,000, citing all the techie gadgets that are offered such as Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration, as well as its fuel economy and safety factors.

The front-wheel-drive Kia Soul starts well below $18,000, with an entry price of $13,300. This base model employs a 16-valve, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that will generate 122 horsepower and 115 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. It rides on 15-inch tires. The EPA rates the fuel economy at 31 miles per gallon highway and 26 mpg city.

All other versions -- the Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport -- are equipped with the 2.0-liter inline-four with 142 horsepower and 137 lb.-ft. of torque coupled to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed manual transmission. Prices for these trims range from $14,950 to $17,900. The Soul+ is shod with 16-inch tires while the Soul! and Soul Sport get 18-inchers. Fuel mileage estimates on the 2.0-liter are 24/30 mpg for both transmission types.

The Soul zips around town breezily with its 34-foot curb-to-curb turning circle. In fact, Kia labels this five-door compact an "urban" vehicle. Others might call it a hatchback because of its easy lift access to a tidy cargo area, but I gotta agree with the automaker on this -- the Soul is a decent city car. It parks easily in tight spaces, maneuvers well and has a successful look going for it, just as many of its aspirational young buyers would want.

The compact Kia Soul comes with a good list of safety equipment. Models include full-length side curtain airbags, seat-mounted (front only) side-impact airbags, dual front airbags and active head restraints. Buyer confidence is further inspired by other important safety features, including Electronic Stability Control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.

We all know the rational side of the small-car buyer chooses affordability, safety and fuel economy as primary reasons for the purchase. Kia understands the emotional side of buying a car, which involves design and passion. The Soul has it.

By Connie Keane
MOTOR MATTERS

Kia Motors Named One of the Five Most Connected Brands by Consumer Guide® Automotive

2009-10-06T09:17:00.001-04:00

Well-Known Automotive Resource Site Honors Kia Brand for Impressive Standard Vehicle Connectivity Features

# Kia recognized for offering vehicles with standard technology that helps consumers stay connected

# User-friendly features including Bluetooth® and USB and auxiliary input jacks puts brand at the top of the pack

IRVINE, Calif., September 1 2009 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced it was named to the "Five Most Connected Auto Brands" list by Consumer Guide Automotive (www.consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/five-best-connected-brands.htm). The automotive resource site compiled a list of automotive manufacturers at the forefront of vehicle technology, recognizing Kia Motors for being ahead of the curve by offering standard audio and mobile phone interface features on new vehicles.

"In today's high-tech world, mobile phones and portable music devices are quickly becoming the norm," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "We recognize the value of incorporating features such as Bluetooth and USB and auxiliary input jacks as standard equipment in our vehicles, thereby giving our drivers the freedom to stay connected safely and easily while on the road."

Brands included on the list were recognized for offering advanced yet user-friendly connectivity technology that enables today's consumer to easily connect with multiple devices while in their vehicle, including computers, mobile phones and MP3 players.

"Kia deserves this recognition for bringing MP3, digital music player and cell phone connectivity to the masses," said Ed Piotrowski of Consumer Guide Automotive. "Products such as the Forte and Soul demonstrate easy-to-use MP3 and cell phone integration that Kia has made available on nearly every iteration of these affordable cars."

Kia vehicles, including the Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan and Forte Koup two-door, offer an impressive array of standard technology features for tech-savvy drivers and passengers. With a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service1 , standard USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls (achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable), and standard Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls enabling hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones, both drivers and passengers are sure to stay well-connected and suitably entertained.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Soul Named to TIME.com's 'Most Exciting Cars of 2010' List

2009-09-01T11:21:00.001-04:00

Kia's Affordable Halo Vehicle Honored by Prestigious Web Site

# Soul recognized for eye-catching style, spacious interior and low price point

# Kia's newest five-door offers consumers entire package with safety features, value, style and options

IRVINE, Calif., August 31, 2009 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Kia Soul was named to the "Most Exciting Cars of 2010" list by TIME.com, the online edition of TIME magazine. A recent addition to the expanding Kia lineup, Soul's head-turning style was modeled under the brand's current design evolution and offers consumers an attractive vehicle with myriad personalization options as well as numerous standard comfort and safety features. Also a recent recipient of a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and named to the "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, Soul was recognized by TIME.com for its roomy interior, large cargo volume, standard convenience features and impressive value

"Being recognized by TIME.com is further proof that the Kia Motors brand hit a home run with the Soul and we are confident we are on the right track with vehicles including the Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup two-door and upcoming Sorento CUV,'" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Consumers are looking for vehicles that offer an unbeatable combination of style, fuel efficiency, technology, convenience and safety features, and Soul offers the complete package in addition to the ability to personalize and emotionally connect with your vehicle."

With a starting price below $14,000, Soul is available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. Kia Motors' newest five-door offers consumers an immense amount of style and value, equipped with such driver-friendly standard convenience features as an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service, and USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls (achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable). Soul also offers an optional Audio Upgrade Package that includes a center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music to truly enhance the personal lounge atmosphere.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

KIA Soul combines cool with fuel economy

2009-08-31T09:57:00.000-04:00

The 2010 Kia Soul hatchback mainlines fun and funk into a bland brand heretofore defined by the logical appeal of low prices and long warranties.

Leave your left brain at home, clap your hands and say yeah as the eye-catching Soul rolls into sight, lights in its speakers flashing in time to the tunes pouring out of your iPod.

The Soul is the latest player in the offbeat-cool class of small cars inspired by the Honda Element. Exactly the same length as a Honda Fit subcompact, the 161.6-inch-long Soul combines a low price with high fuel economy, arena-like interior room, spunky performance and unique looks in a winning package.

Prices for the 2010 Soul start at $13,300 for a base model with a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission.

Kia offers four equipment levels: base, the cutesy-named + and ! and the less-cloying Sport. Stepping up to the + gets you a satisfying 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and manual transmission for $14,950, and the automatic version of the + will cost another $950. Top-of-the-line ! and Sport models get the 2.0-liter engine and go for $16,950 with the manual and $17,900 with the four-speed automatic transmission.

I tested a very well-equipped manual transmission Soul Sport that stickered at $17,650. All prices exclude destination charges.

While it's the same size as the sleek and aerodynamic Fit, the Soul's offbeat looks and roomy interior make it a more direct competitor for cars like the Chevrolet HHR retro wagon, the bigger and boxier Honda Element and the cool-to-be-square Nissan Cube and Scion xB.

The four-cylinder engine in the Sport provides plenty of zip for dicing in traffic. The Kia's long wheelbase and wide track provide a stable, road-gripping ride that encourages sporty driving. The Soul is considerably more entertaining to drive than the bigger xB or underpowered Cube.

Strong fuel economy

The transmission lineup is a bit archaic in a world of six-speed manuals and five-speed automatics, however. The Soul Sport I tested accelerated ably, but a sixth gear would be welcome to boost performance and fuel economy while reducing engine noise.

Despite the dated transmissions, the Soul has excellent EPA fuel economy ratings. The 2.0-liter engine returns 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the 1.6-liter achieved 26 city/31 highway.

An innovative exterior design complements those mechanical virtues with a cheeky long-nosed body that features an aft-sloping roof, big doors for easy passenger access and a large and convenient tailgate. From its high roof and big wraparound headlights to a long wheelbase that pushes the wheels to the corners, there's nothing quite like the Soul on the road.

Outward visibility is excellent, thanks to large sideview mirrors and expansive windows all around. And the Soul offers a cavernous 102.3 cubic feet of passenger space.

Lansing State Journal

Kia's Pitch: No Curves Ahead

2009-08-25T08:54:00.000-04:00

The Kia Soul parked in my driveway earlier this morning didn't stay very long. In just a few hours it could be seen over at the local high school, where I left it after dropping off my daughter.

I headed off on foot to do some local errands. When I next saw it, the Soul was surrounded by teenagers.

"It's like it had honey smeared all over it," I told a friend after returning home with this latest entry in a thriving class of resolutely angular automobiles.

The Soul seems to score off the meter with the young-driver demographic, one of the most desirable groups for auto marketers. Win a young customer, the strategy goes, and there's a chance you will have a customer for life.

Much of the time the Soul was with us, my 16-year-old daughter, Shannon, was sitting inside, stress-testing the stereo. From inside the house I could hear its radio, even when it was parked across the street. With all the windows shut.

I had the radio cranked up as high as its 12 setting once, and I thought my ears were going to start bleeding. Shannon had it up to 35.

The Soul has a mood-lighting system inside that can be synched to the audio system. Among other tricks, the door-mounted speakers can be set to produce a pulsing red glow in cadence with your music, an effect that made me think of the furnace grates at a crematorium. Seeing the Soul come down the street at night with that glow emanating from inside, it looked as if Satan was on his way home with another load of sinners.

The Soul's appeal sneaked up on me. Kia unveiled a design study named Soul at the 2006 Detroit auto show; I made fun of it. Responding to a question about when the Soul might go into production, my answer was, "The 12th of never."

Now that it is here -- excuse me while I eat my words -- I have to say, it's kind of cool.

Sure, there are those odd television advertisements with rodents in treadmill cages. Officially, they are supposed to be hamsters; I thought they were rats. But they are hip, whatever species the little animatronic creatures represent, and they get down with some of the best music in car commercials since Mitsubishi's award-winning spots several years ago.

Did you know there is a series of the rodent commercials? Teenagers know. It's actually a single commercial visually (in either 30-second or one-minute versions), but there are several variations, each with the rodents grooving to a different music track.

You can find them all on YouTube, where the commercials had been viewed around 600,000 times the last time I checked. The full-length music videos (sans hamsters) of each song have been viewed hundreds of thousands of times more. Listen for yourself: "Do What You Do" by Marz, featuring Pack and Mumiez; "Fort Knox" by GoldFish; "Junkyard" by the Potbelleez; and "Colours" by Calvin Harris.

Yes, it seems to be working. Owners are blogging about the Soul. Web site hits are adding up. The car itself almost seems beside the point, but Souls are selling.

The Soul is little more than a box on wheels, but there is something oddly compelling these days about motorized boxes. The more boxlike they are, the more stylish they seem to be. The Scion xB -- which was outsold by the Soul in the United States last month -- Honda Element and Nissan Cube are all evidence of box lust among shoppers.

In its transition to production form, the Soul lost some of the visceral appeal seen in a series of concept vehicles that Kia has displayed at auto shows in recent years. I particularly liked the sinister look of the Burner, which I saw at the Geneva show in 2008, with its Goth color scheme of black in various finishes set off by details painted blood-red.

But the production Soul still has a soul.

"It's the color of root beer," my daughter observed of our metallic brown test car. Actually, that paint treatment is called Java. Other choices like Molten, Alien and Shadow resonate better than red, pea green and black, don't you think? Inside, there is only a sand-and-black combination, but it includes hound's-tooth accents on the headrests and seat fabric that can glow in the dark (along with the word Soul).

Two 4-cylinder engines are offered: a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter and a 2-liter with 142 horsepower. The smaller engine comes only with a 5-speed manual transmission; the larger can be ordered with an optional 4-speed automatic. I tested only the bigger engine and found it plenty peppy. Its E.P.A. fuel economy rating is 30 m.p.g. on the highway and 24 in town.

The 2,800-pound front-wheel-drive Soul is built on a modified version of the platform that Kia uses for its Rio subcompact. Driving dynamics were not intended to be a big selling point for the Soul, yet the handling is more than adequate.

Last week, the Soul received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Soul's 100.4-inch wheelbase helps with leg room for back seat passengers. Seating for five, with four doors and a large rear hatch, means the Soul easily packs a party. Even with the optional sunroof, there's plenty of headroom for 6-footers.

Prices starts at a friendly $13,995, and rise through the range with quirky model names differentiated by punctuation: the Soul + and the Soul ! lead up to the fanciest Soul, the Sport, which starts at $18,595. And then there are must-have options like an eardrum-melting stereo and crematorium disco lighting.

Jerry Garrett

2010 All-New Kia Soul Named to "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" List by Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com

2009-08-24T12:32:00.001-04:00

Kia Urban Passenger Vehicle Honored by Prestigious Automotive Resource Site

# Soul recognized for style, value, fuel economy, warranty and reliability

# All-new Kia five door is an appealing option for students headed back to school

IRVINE, Calif., August 17, 2009 – Directly on the heels of earning a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the all-new 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle has been named to the 2009 "Top 10 Back-to-School Cars" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Soul was recognized by the well-known automotive resource site for its fun and quirky styling, impressive interior space, extensive warranty, notable fuel economy and enjoyable creature comforts.

"Soul is the perfect back-to-school vehicle, providing style and options that will appeal to students, as well as safety features, fuel economy and reliability that will give any parent piece of mind,'" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Soul, along with the all-new dynamically styled Forte compact sedan and the company's first-ever two-door, the Forte Koup, is a perfect representation of the exciting new direction of Kia Motors as the brand continues its most aggressive design-led product transformation to date."

The list, compiled by editors at kbb.com, represents vehicles that offer reliability, safety features, affordability, practicality, good handling and attractive styling, effectively appealing to both parents and students. Also taken into consideration is value, with all new vehicles posting starting prices below $18,000, with Soul easily complying with a base starting MSRP of $13,3002.

Soul, which also has been included on kbb.com's "Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list, offers consumers "a new way to roll" with an extensive list of personalization options and unique exterior styling. Kia Motors' affordable halo car stands out in a sea of sameness with funky and fun features, including speaker lights, part of an available Audio Upgrade Package, that can pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting to the interior cabin, enhancing the overall personal lounge feeling. Standard features, including SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service1 , USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel-mounted controls, and Bluetooth® phone connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, only add to the overall appeal of this spirited vehicle.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,3002 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950. Moving up to the Soul! offers a price beginning at $16,950 and the Soul sport, designed for those with active lifestyles, starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600.

For more information about the 2009 Top 10 Back-to-School Cars from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/schoolrides09.

Kelley Blue Book is a registered trademark of Kelley Blue Book Co., Inc.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Forte Named 'Car of the Month' by NADAguides.com

2009-08-19T13:51:00.001-04:00

All-new 2010 Kia Compact Sedan Lauded by Online Automotive Resource

# Forte recognized for offering sophisticated styling, value and numerous class-leading features

# All-new compact sedan tops segment by offering consumers the entire package

IRVINE, Calif., August 18, 2009 - The most recent addition to the Kia Motors America (KMA) ever-expanding line-up, the recently launched all-new 2010 Forte compact sedan has been named "Car of the Month" for August by NADAguides.com. Acclaimed for attractive styling, value and an extensive list of class-leading features, Forte is the latest installment to be launched under the brand’s design-led transformation.

"Forte boasts a number of very appealing qualities, including comfort, dynamic styling, fuel economy and overall great value for the compact segment" said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). "We are pleased to be able to offer consumers the complete new car package at a low price point with the confidence of a 10/100 warranty."

The NADAguides.com "Car of the Month" program aims to provide consumers with useful commentary, information and reviews on available cars, trucks and SUVs, and features vehicles that offer impressive fuel economy, safety features and amenities.

"With a stylish and comfortable cabin, excellent fuel economy, great safety features and a 'Best in Class' engine, the Kia Forte is everything you need in a car," said a spokesperson for NADAguides.com. "Add in the low price point and a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and the Forte provides an exceptional value."

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new Forte compact sedan starts at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the Forte EX begins at $15,795. Moving up to the SX trim, pricing begins at $17,195. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, starting with a standard four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service. Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones.

Along with appealing standard convenience elements, Forte showcases numerous class-leading features, including class-leading passenger volume of 96.8 cubic feet, class-leading horsepower of 156 with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors Supports Car Allowance Rebate System With 12 Eligible Models

2009-07-28T08:21:00.001-04:00

Full Array of Kia Vehicles Qualify For NHTSA New Buyer Incentive Program

IRVINE, Calif., July 24, 2009 -- In support of the recently signed Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) by the U.S. government, Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced that consumers in need of a new vehicle will be able to choose from a total of 12 eligible Kia models (85 percent of full lineup) that qualify for up to a $4,500 rebate. Under this new buyer incentive program consumers can purchase a new, more fuel efficient Kia vehicle when they trade-in a less fuel efficient car or truck of any eligible make or model.

"Consumers have the opportunity to not only purchase a new car with a significant rebate, but also reap the benefits of modernized safety features, advanced technology as well as increased fuel economy," said Tom Loveless, vice president of sales, KMA. "There has been no other time in recent history when such an extensive national buyer incentive program has been implemented, and Kia Motors is pleased to provide consumers with a comprehensive selection of vehicles that are praised for their style, quality, value, fuel efficiency and long list of standard safety features."

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) guidelines indicate that consumers may earn $4,500 with the purchase of a new car with an increase of 10-plus miles per gallon (mpg) or may earn $3,500 with an increase of four-plus mpg when they trade in a car or SUV with less than 18 mpg combined. For SUVs, five-plus mpg may earn $4,500 and two-plus mpg may earn $3,500. New passenger cars purchased under the program must get a minimum combined fuel economy of 22 mpg while new light-duty trucks or SUVs must get at least 18 mpg combined fuel economy to qualify.

In accordance with the NHTSA, retailers that are enrolled in the program will process transactions using program guidelines and apply appropriate credits at the time of purchase. The following details the official government criteria for trade-in rebates:

* Trade-in vehicles have been manufactured less than 25 years before the date of trade-in

* Trade-in vehicles must have a federal combined city/highway fuel economy of 18 mpg or less

* Eligible vehicles must be in driveable condition and have been continuously insured and registered to the same owner for at least one year

* Vouchers are not necessary; dealers will apply a credit at the time of the purchase

Additional information is currently being developed by the National Highway Transportation Authority and will be available on its Web site as it becomes available. For more information visit www.cars.gov, the official and only Web site for the program.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia's Soul makes it hip to be square

2009-07-22T10:13:00.001-04:00

What was first introduced as a concept vehicle in January 2006 at the Detroit International Auto Show, has become a production reality for the 2010 model year. The Soul is a compact five-passenger, five-door (four doors with a rear hatch) that is poised to compete with the Scion xB and Nissan's Cube.

The Soul will come in four variations: the base Soul starts at $13,300; the Soul Plus at $14,950, The Soul Sport has a window tag of $16,950; and the Soul Exclaim starts at $17,900. A fully-loaded, top-of-the-line Soul still manages to come in under the $19,000 mark.

There are two inline four-cylinder engines available - a 1.6-liter that puts out 122 horsepower along with 115 pound-feet of torque or a 2-liter that delivers 142 horses at 6,000 rpm, while generating 137 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm.

Both engines incorporate Continuously Variable Valve Timing and both mate to a five-speed manual gearbox as standard. Souls with the 2-liter engine may also be coupled to an available four-speed automatic transmission. All Soul models are front-wheel driven. The Soul is based on a version of the subcompact Kia Rio platform with bolder cues than the somewhat conservative Kia Rondo.

The Soul sports a reverse wedge greenhouse with blacked-out "A" and "B" pillars, giving the roof a floating effect. Wheel-well arches are highly pronounced in the form of fenders. Front air inlets housed below the grille take on the look and form served up by Audi, drawing its influence from former Audi designer Ian Schreyer. The interior features a floating center stack, driver-oriented gauges and a comfortable cabin ambience. There's also a dual-level glovebox and an under-floor cargo tray.

Soul offers 11 exterior colors and three interior two-tone combinations, along with more than 50 ways to personalize one's vehicle, characterizing it to suit individual tastes and requirements.

My test Soul came in Exclaim trim with the 2-liter engine and four-speed automatic, finished outside in Dune, a creamy off-white color. The interior was Sand and black. The base price was set at $17,900, with the final sticker totaling $18,995. I also was able to test the Soul Sport model with the five-speed manual gearbox. It was finished outside in Titanium metallic with a red-an-black interior, and base priced at $16,950. Adding the power sunroof and destination charge increased the sticker to $18,345.

Standard equipment and features include: ABS, ESC, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, 60/40 split folding rear seats and lots more than one would normally expect in the Soul's price range.

Summary

The 2010 Kia Soul Exclaim is a practical transportation option that is fun to drive within stylish packaging. Acceleration is not blistering but is adequate to get the job done with a little spirit thrown in. The steering isn't sports-car crisp, but seems agile enough to provide a few giggles in the twisties. The ride quality is comfortably compliant, but the boxy form offers a substantial target for 45 to 50 mph cross winds when crossing a bridge such as San Francisco's Golden Gate. The automatic transmission shifts nicely though I prefer the five-speed manual gearbox that I tested in the Sport version.

There are lots of thoughtful storage nooks and crannies, along with cool, quirky features such as the audio speakers that flash mood lighting to match the bass notes. Rear seat passengers will find sufficient space behind even tall front seat occupants.

Add the squarely good looks to the 10-year/100,000 mile limited power train warranty and five-year/60,000 mile 24-hour roadside assistance program, and the Soul provides a hip, value-packed compact ride.

ARV VOSS
SFGate.com

All-new 2010 Kia Forte meets high standards of performance, design at a low price

2009-07-21T14:55:00.001-04:00

"It's the economy, stupid" was the unspoken theme of the 1992 presidential campaign. Then Gov. Bill Clinton got it and won. The first president Bush was retired to Texas because he didn't get it.

Well, in the automotive world, "it's the design, stupid." The cars and SUVs that are thriving in the U.S., for the most part, have great designs. GM for the past five years have mostly been designed by committee. Hello, bankruptcy. Chrysler has had one winning design in that same time frame, the Chrysler 300 (not counting a couple of retro designs).

On the other hand, we have distinctive designs and good sales from companies like Audi, Mazda, Ford, Hyundai and now, believe it or not, Kia. The Korean carmaker has heard the word and ditched its bland drawings. I present as proof the 2010 Kia Forte sedan.

Kia gathered media from all over the country (including me for some reason) in Seattle to introduce the sedan. I've been around large packs of automotive journalists before and after a couple of drinks you usually hear some muttering about a car's faults. It just wasn't happening with the Forte.

Executives touted the Forte's fun-to-drive factor. That may be pushing things just a bit. In the compact market, probably 90 percent of the cars are bought for practical reasons like fuel economy or cost. The Forte does well on both counts but practically nobody is going to buy this car because it's fun to drive. A real estate agent in a down market may trade in his Porsche Boxster for a Forte, but it's not because it's fun to drive.

However, the Forte will never make you regret the decision to buy one. During the test drive in Seattle, I spent time behind the wheel of the LX trim model with the 2.0-liter, 156 horsepower engine with 144 lb. ft. of torque and the SX trim model with the 2.4-liter, 174 horsepower engine that puts out 168 lb. ft. of torque. The 2.0-liter with two adults on board (one husky, one not) did emit some minor complaints under hard acceleration. The 2.4-liter handled everything thrown at it with nary a peep.

Let's not kid ourselves. Handling was not spirited by any means, but the Forte in the SX trim had nothing to be ashamed of on some moderately twisting roads. Every now and then my co-pilot and I would throw the Forte hard around a corner and while not maintaining a flat horizon, it didn't tip on two wheels either.

Kia made the claim that the Forte's noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) qualities have been improved. It's almost impossible for a writer to verify that claim without sophisticated testing equipment and comparable models. However, it did seem to be a quieter car, especially as I remember other Kias that I have driven.

There is one point worth quibbling about. The Forte's trunk is larger than its predecessor, the Spectra, but it still has an opening that is small for its size. By the way, funniest question heard at the press conference: "Why didn't Kia continue with the Spectra name?" The questioner said a lot of money had been invested in it, after all. Kudos to the Kia executive who admitted there was no brand loyalty to the Spectra name and very few people would miss it. Next time I hear a query like that I'm going to call it the Studebaker question.

What's going to make the Forte a huge winner, though, is its standard safety equipment, even on the most inexpensive models. It comes with anti-lock braking, electronic brake force distribution, stability control, traction control, active front headrests and six airbags. Stability control alone is worth the price of admission, especially because this is a car that is likely going to be driven by less experienced drivers.

When it comes to fuel economy, the 2.0-liter engine offers a competitive 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated to either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, while the 2.4-liter engine turns out 22/32 mpg when paired with the six-speed manual and 23/31 with the five-speed automatic. The optional Fuel Economy Package, available on the EX model with the 2.0-liter powerplant, includes the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering (MPDS), "smart" alternator, silica tires and aero enhancements. These improvements result in 27/36 mpg and a class-leading combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new compact sedan will start at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the Forte EX begins at $15,795. Moving up to the SX trim, pricing begins at $17,195. While these are affordable prices, the highest praise I can give the Forte is it doesn't feel cheap at all. The interior materials are of a good quality for the price point. It's a good looking car by my subjective standards. Plus, as mentioned above, you'll never regret buying the Forte when weighed against its competitors like the Toyota Corolla or the Honda Civic.

For more information, go to the Kia website.

Keith Griffin
Examiner.com

Kia Forte near top of compact class

2009-07-20T10:39:00.001-04:00

Finally a car advertising slogan with more than a grain of truth to it.

I'm talking about Kia's "The Power to Surprise."

A test drive in the new 2010 Kia Forte four-door sedan -- a smart looking, quick driving compact with a wealth of value and features -- suggests the Korean company may be on to something.

I was so impressed with the performance of this car that I can think of only one compact that even comes close to it: the Mazda3.

Sure, the Honda Civic is considered the class leader, and for good reason. But it's more expensive and not as attractive as the Forte.

The Toyota Corolla? High quality, yes, but too mild-mannered and predictable, with styling that's pleasant, but nothing to write home about.

Don't take my word for it. There was a marketing study in which a Forte, Corolla, Mazda3 and Civic were shown to consumers with all identifying features concealed. The consumers ranked Forte first -- even after the brands were revealed.

"That's the first time that's ever happened to us. Usually people would say, 'Oh, it's a Kia. Not interested.' So it's the first time our numbers held up after the revealing of all the brands in the clinic," said Michael Sprague, the company's vice president of marketing.

Why does the Kia stand out from the pack? Usually, when I drive a compact, I get annoyed with steering that is overassisted, meaning a driver has to adjust the steering wheel to correct course often or the car feels as if it's going all over the place.

Not with Forte. It has just about the most perfectly balanced steering I've experienced in a compact sedan -- and for a compact, there was plenty of legroom in the front and back.

And the Forte's styling is terrific. There's a hint of a spoiler on the rear deck helping to create a nice side profile in which the lines seem to come together at the front for an arrow-like profile.

The acceleration was so strong I thought I had the optional engine under the hood. My EX, which starts at $15,795, was equipped with a 156-horsepower four-cylinder, backed by a four-speed automatic transmission.

Standard equipment on the EX included air conditioning; cruise control; power windows and door locks and mirrors. The SX, which starts at $17,195, features a 2.4-liter, 173-horsepower four cylinder, with a sport tuned suspension, fog lights, telescoping steering wheel, leather steering wheel and metal trim. There also is the entry level Forte LX, which starts at $13,695 and comes with the same engine as the EX with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control, disc brakes, Bluetooth and steering-wheel mounted controls.

Like all Kias, the Forte comes with a 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

I have heard some complaints about the manual transmission, although I did not experience them myself.

By Don Hammonds
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Total transformation: the 2010 Kia Forte

2009-07-16T08:28:00.001-04:00

When automakers get ready to bring out a new car, they'll frequently get all the competing models from other brands together and bring in some more-or-less randomly selected members of the public to compare them. They don't tell the people who's paying for the exercise, and they don't show the brand names on the cars - at least not at first.

They have the subjects look over each of the cars, its price, and its specifications. Then they ask the subjects to rank the cars in order of preference - which would you most like to have in your driveway? It's a blind test, so the automaker gets a good sense of whether their car is desirable compared to the competition.

Then they unveil the brand badges on the cars and ask the subjects to rank them again. That tells the automaker how their brand reputation affects people's perception of their product.

Well, Kia just released their new compact sedan, and they went through this exercise. When the cars were anonymous, the new Kia Forte scored highest compared to the Honda Civic, Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, and a few others. But when they revealed the brand name, something totally new happened - people still liked the Kia best.

That's huge for any automaker struggling to overcome its roots as a bargain-basement brand, and Kia has certainly done the necessary work over the past few years to take honest pride in the achievement.

This is the process that Japanese manufacturers went through starting in the 1980s. They entered the U.S. market in the late 60s and 70s as bargain brands - no frills, no luxury, just an inexpensive grocery-getter. But every automaker moves upscale over time, and the Japanese brands had to work to overcome their initial image. As the Korean brands entered the market in the 80s, they came in as bargain brands just like their Japanese predecessors, and now face the same challenge to reposition themselves as something more than that.

So, enter the Kia Forte. This new compact sedan from Kia is the designated replacement for the outgoing Spectra model. I attended the press preview for the Forte this week in Seattle, and I have to say I'm impressed. This is the third Kia in the past year to make the kind of splash that says "throw away your old prejudices about Kia. This is a whole new thing."

First, last fall Kia brought out their mid-size Borrego SUV. Apart from unfortunate economic timing which is not their fault, I believe Kia did a great job with this SUV. Then the new funky-cool Soul came out a couple months ago, and it's doing the job for Kia with the young urban hipster market. Now comes the bread-and-butter car for any import brand - the compact sedan. This is where they take their swing at the Japanese giants and compete head to head against the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3. And after a full day and a couple hundred miles in the Forte, I'm confident in suggesting that if you're planning on a new small car this year, you simply must test-drive the Kia.

I'll lead with my own bias - the Kia gets great fuel economy. 27/36 in the 2.0-liter and 5-speed automatic "fuel economy" model. You get a little less than that, but still great mileage (22/32) in the hot rod version with the 2.4-liter engine and 6-speed manual. Most of the Forte options split the difference at 25/34.

You get that great fuel economy from your choice of a 2.0-liter DOHC engine making 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, or a 2.4-liter DOHC that makes 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque. To tell the truth, you won't regret buying the car with the smaller engine - it goes just fine.

You also get your choice of 5 or 6-speed manual gearboxes, or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Drop those into your choice of three trim levels, and you've got a nice product range.

Inside, the Forte is every bit as nice as the segment-leading cars. It drives and feels solid, and has the handling we've all come to expect from these sporty economical compact cars. Both the 2.0 and 2.4-liter versions pack plenty of punch.

But Kia still has a hill to climb if they want to take on Honda and Toyota, and so they've tossed a few magic arrows into their quiver. The Kia Forte has a 10 year, 100,000-mile warranty, and an attractive price point. The Forte LX starts at $13,695, the EX rolls in at $15,795, and even the luxury hot-rod edition SX comes in at $17,195.

For that money, Kia gives you all the safety gear modern cars can hold. One thing that blows my mind is when an automaker pitches a low price, then charges you extra for such basics as anti-lock brakes. But Kia gives you ABS, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system all included in the base price. Good work!

On top of the nice drivetrain and suspension and the safety gear, you can get all the stuff you want in a modern car - hands-free phone support, nice stereo, air conditioning, MP3 and iPod support, cruise control - all of it is available in one package or another.

Kia's people are excited about the Forte, and it shows. "Total product transformation" and "built for the passionate pragmatist" are the terms they're using. The bottom line on the new Forte is just this: If you think you're the kind of person who wouldn't consider a Kia, it's time to think again and take a fresh look.

Jeffrey Zurschmeide
examiner.com

First Drive: 2010 Kia Forte a compelling new compact sedan option

2009-07-15T09:28:00.000-04:00

If there's one thing we can say about Kia, it's that it keeps making progress. In the 15 years the brand has been selling cars in the United States, South Korea's second largest auto manufacturer has increased its market share every single year. The future looks bright as well, with new vehicles like the Soul receiving rave reviews and a new billion dollar production facility set to open this year. Hoping to build on that success, Kia has launched its new 2010 Forte, replacing the Spectra that failed to stand out among cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Mazda3. With a new name, a new face, upgraded powertrains and aspirations to exceed consumer expectations about the brand, can the Forte help Kia finally make its mark in the compact sedan segment? Read on to find out.

We have to admit we've never been overly excited about Kia or its cars. The brand's emphasis has always been on affordability, a bogey that generally doesn't speak to the enthusiast's adrenal glands. However, when the Forte sedan was launched at the Chicago Auto Show earlier this year, we took notice. The striking design is much more appealing than the comparatively staid Spectra, and the available 2.4-liter inline-four comes with an impressive 173 horsepower.

Available in three variants, the Forte ranges from the base LX (starting at $13,695), which features a 2.0-liter DOHC inline-4 putting out 156 horsepower, to the top-of-the-line SX ($17,195) that benefits from the aforementioned 2.4-liter engine. The mid-range EX ($15,795, shown above) comes standard with the Convenience Package (air-conditioning, folding rear seat, rear center arm rest and adjustable headrests), with the option of Premium (power sunroof and 16-inch wheels and tires) and Leather Packages. Kia has ensured that even the base model comes with standard items like four-wheel disc brakes incorporating anti-lock, stability and traction control systems, as well as full-length side curtain airbags. With the exception of air conditioning on the LX model, buyers won't have to worry about having to pay extra for the essentials.

What first attracted us to the Forte, and what ought to initially help draw potential buyers into the showroom, is its striking design. Our hats are off to the team at Kia's recently-formed California design studios who penned the sedan, and we are happy to hear that much of model's styling DNA will be passed on to future products. The bold stance owes much to the width of the body -- at 69.9 inches, the Forte is wider than the offerings from Honda, Toyota, or Mazda -- as well as to the slanted belt line and swept back headlights. With the optional 17-inch wheels on the SX model, we would even dare to say the Forte looks...cool!

The interior can often be sore subject for cars built on a budget, but the Forte doesn't disappoint. While there are some hard plastics on the dash and door, most of the materials used are fairly nice to the touch and look attractive. Interior space is abundant at 96.8 cubic feet, and the trunk is simply cavernous for a compact sedan. Kia has made it a priority to provide as many interior features as possible -- even in the base LX model -- and every Forte gets a six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel controls, Sirius satellite radio (with a three month subscription), and USB and auxiliary input jacks. In our time with the Forte, we didn't find much to complain about inside, but the optional leather seats that are available in the EX and SX models we sampled proved to be somewhat stiff and lacking in support. If it were our money, we would stick with the cloth buckets.

On paper, the Forte is a class-leader in the powertrain department. With 156 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque on tap in the 2.0-liter engine, the Forte offers more standard horsepower than any of its competitors. It's also easy on the wallet, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. We drove the EX model with the optional four-speed automatic (a five-speed manual comes standard), and came away pleasantly satisfied with the acceleration and smoothness of the combination. Interestingly, a so-called Fuel Economy Package ($600) is also available on the EX model that upgrades the car to a five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering, a "smart" alternator, silica tires, and aero enhancements. Rated at 27/36 mpg, Kia says this package makes the Forte the most fuel efficient car in its class that's not a hybrid or diesel.

While the base engine was up to snuff, we came away disappointed with the 2.4-liter inline-4 found in the SX model. With 173 horsepower and 168 lb-ft torque, the Forte SX looked like it would be able to outpace a Mazda3. Unfortunately, those numbers didn't translate to the real world. The 2.4-liter powerplant was sluggish to respond to throttle input, and it wheezed and gasped at anything above 3,500 rpm. Surprisingly, the six-speed manual transmission didn't earn our affection either. Shifting feel was vague at best, and we had problems with smoothly modulating the clutch due to a relatively low engagement point combined with a hesitant throttle. An aftermarket shift kit could go a long way toward alleviating our reservations here. The good news is that the Forte SX still manages to get fantastic fuel economy even with the extra engine displacement. Cars equipped with the six-speed manual are rated at 22/32 mpg, and those with five-speed automatics get 23/31.

While we wouldn't go as far as describing the Forte's handling as sporty, we found it to be more than capable of providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Kia utilizes an independent suspension up front and a stabilizer bar and torsion beam with struts and coil springs at the rear that both do their job, but nothing really more than that. The hydraulic-assisted rack and pinion steering provides a decent amount of feedback, but those looking for some more fun in the twisties might find the Mazda3 or Honda Civic a better fit.

When it comes down to it, the Forte ought to do for Kia what the brand has been doing the last 15 years: make progress. With great looks, plenty of standard features, better (but not great) powertrains, and excellent fuel mileage, the Forte is a much more compelling option in the compact sedan segment than Kia has ever had. Add to that its excellent pricing and a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, and we have no doubt that the 2010 Kia Forte will find its fair share of customers.

AutoBlog.com

Kia Forte is compact in style

2009-07-14T08:13:00.001-04:00

Kia Motors is on a roll. It's going faster than a hamster in a running wheel. And that's not a bad thing.

Earlier this year, the South Korean carmaker introduced the Kia Soul -- an urban compact van that has grabbed the imagination of younger buyers. It's sharp, stylish and affordable.

Now it's rolling out something for these young buyers' parents: The 2010 Kia Forte.

Smartly outfitted and well-priced, the Forte may create a conundrum for typical compact consumers. The Forte LX starts at a mere $13,695, not including shipping. The mid-range model, the Forte EX, stays under the $16,000 and a nicely loaded SX model starts at $17,195. Crazy Eddie should do the commercials for Kia because these prices are "Innnnn-Saannnnee!"

Seriously, they're super low. Just look at what you get standard on the middle trim model EX for $15,795:

First, the technical side: There's the 156-horsepower 2-liter engine with multiport fuel injection mated to a five-speed manual transmission that will get you 25 miles per gallon in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Then there's the speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, anti-lock brakes, traction control and tire pressure monitoring. All of this will give you a well-mannered car that feels a little underpowered and struggles on big hills but is otherwise a good ride. Personally, I prefer the manual transmission over the automatic, especially when driving small four-bangers, but most of America disagrees and will opt for the auto.

Driving the Forte around Seattle, I found it comfortable and agreeable on all types of roads. On the highway, it was quiet and handled the road well. On back twisty roads through Washington's steep mountains, it felt sure-footed and balanced. A well-tuned suspension provides taut handling on the top-of-the-line SX model, and the EX and LX still have responsive handling. Few commuter compacts have the word fun associated with them, but the Forte was fun. It's no Mazda 3 when it comes to performance, but it never was designed for that kind of driving. This is the car that can carry you through the daily grind, the working man's commuter.

Now I mentioned it feeling underpowered. This seemed to happen for two reasons. First, the automatic transmission is tuned to make the Forte as fuel frugal as possible. This may be good for your pocketbook, but it can sap the car's torque quicker than kimchi through a goose. Additionally, one of the vehicles I tested included Kia's optional fuel economy package. This will make the 2-liter engine stingier and includes a few other features such as motor drive power steering, silica tires and additional aerodynamic improvements. The end result is a combined 30 mpg or 27 mpg city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Remarkably quiet
Some other notables for the Forte include a remarkably quiet ride for a compact and a lot of gizmos inside.

The same EX will come with air conditioning (something many smaller cars offer as options), satellite radio, USB and auxiliary jack to connect your personal music device, Bluetooth connectivity and steering wheel controls (this is even standard on the LX), cruise control, dual 12 volt outlets and a host of other creature comfort features. Take on Kia's 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty and you've got quite a package.

This has to be one of the most loaded small cars on the planet.

Maybe Kia is trying a little too hard to impress customers. There's good reason for this: The Kia Spectra, the car that the Forte will replace. While I typically think it's better to keep the name of a vehicle and just make it better, I can see why the Spectra name was shelved next to so many left-over Spectra parts. It wasn't a good car.

So the Forte becomes the newest and most welcome member to the Kia family.

Like many popular compacts, the Forte tries to look stylish in a way that doesn't offend. It's well-defined but lacks any risk-taking in its overall look. The front end is simple and the sides have the most pronounced lines. There's more definition on the Forte than the Toyota Corolla or Nissan Sentra, but don't expect any of them to enter America's Next Top Model.

Spacious and functional
Where the Forte breaks loose from the pack is inside the cabin, which is well-executed, functional and spacious. The steering wheel controls for the phone and stereo work flawlessly and it's very easy to get accustomed to all of these features. The front row is spacious with 40 inches of head room and 43.3 inches of legroom. The second row offers 37.8 inches of head room and 35 inches of legroom. It can easily carry five adults, though I wonder how the engine might respond to a 50 percent weight increase.

The trunk provides 14.7 cubic feet of space, which is enough room to put more than four golf bags back there. On one stop, I climbed into the trunk and estimated that I could fit at least two more of me -- I'm 6 feet tall -- back there.

Lots of compact cars have the excitement of a washing machine. They need to work every time the driver turns the key. They need to provide good gas mileage and stay on the road year after year. Some drivers don't have a passion for their ride; they simply need it to get on with more interesting parts of their lives. The Kia Forte could change some of their minds.

This compact is more than just a piece of transportation. It will take you from point A to B in comfort and style. When you arrive, you'll even have a little money left over to spend on something fun.

Scott Burgess
Detroit News

Kia's Sedan Delivers Serious Quality and Value

2009-07-09T10:09:00.001-04:00

To understand the future of the automobile industry, you must understand the success of Wal-Mart, the world's largest retail organization.

It is an achievement based on common sense. Wal-Mart consistently offers excellent quality at prices lower than those charged by the competition.

It is an attractive business model that draws consumers from all walks of life, especially in tough economic times. It matters not that Wal-Mart is a nonunion company with a blue-collar persona. Nor does it matter that you are a professional, or a worker holding a union card. If you want the best for less, you shop there.

So here's the deal: The car company that best follows the Wal-Mart example is the one that will own the future of the automobile industry.

Don't be surprised if that company comes from South Korea.

Take a look at this week's subject car, the 2010 Kia Forte family sedan, sold at base prices of $13,695 to $18,195. Those prices cover compact, front-wheel-drive automobiles built as well as anything from Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Nissan or Toyota. South Korean automobile manufacturer Hyundai owns Kia. So Hyundai is included.

The kicker is that the Forte is priced lower -- in many cases much lower -- than the competition.

To say the least, I and my evaluation crew -- my wife, Mary Anne, and my Washington Post assistant for vehicle evaluations, Ria Manglapus -- were shocked. In our minds, we had equated "cheap" with, well, cheap. But after putting nearly 500 miles on the Forte EX, which sits in the middle of the Forte line, we changed our stereotypical understanding of "cheap" to a more appropriate "inexpensive." In this instance, that meant remarkable value.

Fit and finish on our Forte EX was excellent. Interior ergonomics -- ease of sight and ease of use of gauges and controls -- were better than those found in many rival cars. That's "better" as in "better" as opposed to "better for the money."

Some examples: Audio, heat and ventilation controls are clearly positioned and labeled, a welcome relief from cars in which the positioning and use of those controls have been turned into a dark science.

Also there's this: In a driving emergency, such as a sudden stoppage of traffic, the caution signal button, indicated by a small red triangle within a larger red triangle, becomes the most important button on the instrument panel. You want to quickly push that button to alert motorists behind you that you are slowing down or stopping because of trouble ahead.

Too many car companies seem to go out of their way to conceal the caution signal button. Their stylists render the button practically invisible and less useful by shrinking its size and blending it within overall instrument panel.

Kia has taken the opposite approach in its Forte line. The caution signal button is the largest single control; and it sits at the top of the instrument panel. It is hard to miss and easy to reach and use. Thus Kia gives the caution signal button the supreme importance it has always deserved.

We disagreed on the feel of the Forte EX's ride. Ria thought it was too hard, making it a tad uncomfortable for a family sedan. Mary Anne and I demurred. We thought the Forte EX's stiffer-than-usual-ride for a compact sedan (probably because of its optional low-rolling resistance tires) contributed to the car's better-than-usual handling for a compact family sedan.

We all marveled over the car's zippy acceleration, delivered via the Forte EX's 2-liter, 156-horsepower, inline four-cylinder engine. But we were more impressed with its fuel economy: 25 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway running on regular unleaded gasoline.

The Forte's standard safety features, including four-wheel disc brakes and full-length head-curtain airbags, match those found in substantially more expensive cars. The same is true of the Forte's optionally available amenities, such as iPod, BlueTooth phone and MP3 player connectivity.

By Warren Brown
Washington Post

2010 Kia Forte - First Drive Review

2009-07-08T09:24:00.001-04:00

Kia winds up and delivers a fine little sedan.

If the world of compact cars were a baseball lineup, the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic would be the meat of the order, the third and fourth batsmen. They boast home-run sales numbers, long lists of features, and nearly peerless reliability. In short, they are the compact superstars. How does the all-new 2010 Kia Forte stack up? Will it join them at the top of the order or will it be relegated to hitting ninth like its predecessor, the Spectra?

It doesn't hurt that Kia has endowed the Forte with style, power, and technology, items all conspicuous by their absence in the afterthought-ish Spectra. Designed in the company's California studio, the Forte is now the best-looking car in its class, especially standing out when viewed in person. The styling doesn't make you want to tear your clothes off or anything, but subtle details like the upswept side-window line (which also is good for front-side visibility) and the tasteful new corporate grille help the Forte stand out against competition that looks either weird (Civic, Sentra) or coma-inducing (Focus, Corolla).

A Good Assortment of Powertrain Options, Standard Equipment

There are two four-cylinder engines available in the Forte. LX and EX models are powered by a 156-hp, 2.0-liter, while the top-spec SX uses a 2.4-liter that makes 173 hp. Four transmissions are on offer, depending on trim and option package. Standard across the board are five- (LX and EX) or six-speed manuals (SX). The LX and EX automatic has four forward ratios, unless you opt for the EX Fuel-Economy package, which nets the same five-speed automatic offered on the SX. Kia says the 2.0-liter will be good for 0–60 jaunts in the eights and that the 2.4-liter will be in the sevens, but that it will leave the final measurements up to us. We'll let you know how accurate Kia's broad-stroke estimates are just as soon as we get a chance to strap test gear to the Forte.

The 2.0-liter motor returns 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway with the five-speed auto in the Fuel-Economy package and 25/34 when paired with either of the other two transmissions. The larger 2.4-liter four achieves 22/32 with the six-speed manual and 23/31 with the five-speed auto. These numbers basically fall in line with those of the Corolla and Civic, although the Forte achieves its fuel-economy figures while using more powerful engines. For example, the 22/30-mpg Corolla XRS uses a 2.4-liter four like the Kia, but it has only two more hp than the base Kia engine. Workaday (nonhybrid, non-Si) Civics use a 140-hp, 1.8-liter four.

Of course, it wouldn't be a Kia if it didn't offer value. A Forte LX starts at just $14,390, whereas the base Civic and Corolla both ring it at just over 16 grand. Besides $1700 or $1800 in their pockets, those that opt for the Kia will find Bluetooth phone connectivity with steering-wheel controls, Sirius satellite radio, USB and auxiliary input jacks, four-wheel disc brakes, and stability control among the standard features. These items are extra-cost options or require jumping to a higher trim on most competitors, if they're available at all. For example, stability control is standard only on the top-spec Corolla, and the Civic requires you to get navigation to order satellite radio.

The Forte EX begins at $16,490, and the SX at $17,890. Kia sees the EX as the volume model, and its standard features list includes power windows, locks, and mirrors; air conditioning; cruise control; steering-wheel audio controls; two tweeters for the stereo; more stylish exterior mirrors; and the world's largest fuel gauge. The SX gets larger front brakes, 17-inch wheels, fog lamps, and adds telescoping to the standard tilting steering wheel. The roughly $600 EX Fuel-Economy package adds electric steering (all others use hydraulic assist), a "smart" alternator, low-rolling-resistance tires, the five-speed auto, and aero enhancements. Other optional packages for the various models include things like bigger wheels, a moonroof, and leather seat trim.

Equipment is Nice, but How Does it Drive?

Numbers and equipment-wise, the Kia is very strong, but for enthusiastic driving it's . . . not. Our first experience was in an SX equipped with the six-speed manual. Beyond the larger engine and the equipment mentioned above, the SX adds firmer springs, bigger front brakes, retuned shocks, and a larger front anti-roll bar. It felt somewhat tighter than an EX we drove later, but the sum of all that equipment wasn't something we'd really call sporty. Turn-in was fairly aggressive, which was nice, but the tires and suspension seemed to give up by mid-corner, where the car would just begin to plow like it was the start of planting season. The numb steering required too much correction to maintain a line in corners and to stay in a lane on the freeway. The six-speed manual wasn't particularly fun, either, with a vague clutch and notchy shifter.

Believe it or not, we actually were more satisfied with an EX with a four-speed automatic. This segment isn't about barn-burning; it's about inexpensive, comfortable, roomy, inoffensive, and—increasingly—stylish cars, and those are precisely the Forte's strengths. With the smaller engine and automatic gearbox, the Forte didn't invite aggressive driving, but that's all the better to enjoy the spacious and well-appointed interior and airy greenhouse. The ride is relatively supple, and the car welcomes simply sliding it into drive and cruising.

The sedan is the only body style for now, but Kia will soon introduce the poorly spelled Forte Koup two-door. The company also hinted that a five-door Forte hatchback could happen, which we would welcome for the increased utility, but we have to say that the sedan's 14.7 cubic-foot trunk is plenty big. It's roomier, in fact, than that of the BMW 750Li.

The Forte won't be displacing the Honda and Toyota sluggers from the heart of the batting lineup, but we'd be happy to have it hit second, the place for solid and trustworthy—if not spectacular—players. (The Mazda 3, we think, would hit leadoff, where speedy agility and consistency are most prized.) This new Forte is a worthy contender and offers tremendous value; it should help Kia snag market share in this crucial segment. It's too bad the Forte isn't more fun to drive; a car that's a solid triple could have been a home run.

BY ERIK JOHNSON
Car and Driver

2010 Kia Soul deserves to be breakout hit for brand

2009-07-06T09:44:00.001-04:00

Greeting the Kia Soul with low expectations didn't make sense. Perhaps the details of the funkwagon's story seemed overly familiar at first blush - Kia wants, nay, needs to be more than just the bargain-basement Hyundai store. Differentiating product lines with the help of bold design has been tried before, and the results have been disastrous more often than they've been wildly successful. Finding out that the Soul's styling inspiration was a wild boar sent the cynical mind of this autowriter reeling, preparing to suffer with a bore of a swine-inspired car. But Kia's been on a roll lately with aggressively priced product that's well equipped and imbued with performance that's often more inspired than the sum of its parts. If any brand stands a chance of melding its design studio's hit parade with tuning that lives up to the looks, it's Kia... right?

The Boar thing - snicker if you like - but what Mike Torpey and the team of designers in Korea have wrought is earning accolades the world over. That porcine inspiration delivered a Red Dot design award for Kia, the first for any Korean car and a punctuation mark on the widely held opinion that the Soul is one fine-looking automobile. The critical success of the Soul's design is directly attributable to a nature documentary that designer Torpey took in while working on the car in Korea. The show was about a wild boar that is apparently common to the region, and something about the animal spoke to designer Torpey. The Soul's cheeky, brash stance is great looking in a non-conformist way, regardless of what got the idea going.

Boxy yet not slabby, the Soul's exterior has been deftly drawn with careful detailing. Windows and taillight clusters are set off by bevels, and a continuous line is an Easter Egg for anyone who cares to trace it from its origin outlining the glass, around the roof, down the back and across the bottom, finishing off in front. The raked and tapered sideglass furthers the Soul's ready-for-action stance. Every vent, character line, bulge and curve has been placed cleanly and with purpose, and the end result is that the Soul's styling is clever without being cloying. Drawing an automotive extrovert with just the right touch of restraint is no mean feat, and the longer you gaze at the Soul, the better it gets as you discover all the fun that the design team molded into its flanks.

No shrinking violet in any shade, the radioactive green on our test car was dubbed "Alien." The verdant hue is just the thing for springtime, and the Soul may represent a shift as big as the change of seasons in Kia's fortunes. Young buyers ought to be attracted to the Soul for its ability to tackle every request, as well as its low price and standard equipment list that includes plenty of desirable features that are optional elsewhere. Starting under $14,000, the base Soul has the bases well covered.

Down in the shadows, the mechanical details add up to a car with unexpected verve. Standard four wheel disc brakes impart a sure feeling to the brake pedal and stability control is also fitted across the board. Basic Souls are motivated by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder sending 122 hp and 115 lb-ft of torque through a five-speed manual transaxle, but those are expected to represent but a sliver of the model's total volume. Opting for an automatic transmission, ($950 extra in all trims), yields an immediate upgrade to the 2.0-liter four and its 142 hp and 137 ft-lb capabilities. Both engines employ dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing, and the 2.0-liter we sampled delivered 29.9 miles per gallon with the four-speed autobox and zero babying. The automatic is mostly unobtrusive, though it occasionally it dodders a bit before delivering a kickdown. Throaty, the engine can get harsh sounding when twisting the tachometer needle hard, but keep your inner Rat Fink at bay and the Soul's braying fades into the background.

The Soul's steering is sporty where others in this price range can be numb. There's a life to the rack-and-pinion setup that says the Soul has been tuned by folks who know what a proper front-wheel drive car should feel like. Despite any "box it came in" commentary from onlookers, the Soul is more than a mere wheeled appliance. A taut, nearly athletic feel has been part of Kia's brief across its entire vehicle range for at least a couple years and that philosophy benefits the Soul, too. A strut front end and torsion beam rear axle are certainly not revolutionary, and in the wrong hands such a suspension setup can feel woefully dated. Instead, the Soul feels great from behind the wheel. A front anti-roll bar and gas-charged dampers all around add up to a lively, well behaved experience. Simply put, the Soul is fun to drive with its standard setup, and the Sport trim level carries a retuned suspension and larger 18-inch alloy wheels, so it promises to be more entertaining still.

"Fun" will be on your lips often when discussing the Kia Soul, especially when talk turns to the interior. Just as much attention has been paid to making the experience inside the Soul live up to the exterior styling. There are four trim levels - Soul, Soul +, Soul !, and Soul Sport - mostly differentiated by what Kia fills each model with. The standard Soul has plain black upholstery, yet it doesn't skimp on equipment. The standard audio system has auxiliary and USB jacks and there are two steps of entertainment upgrades, with the top-level system kicking out 315 watts. There are even red lights in the speakers housings that can pulse soothingly or twiddle in time with the music. A gimmick, sure, but gewgaws are allowed when the basics are good. Despite the affordable pricing, the Soul's interior is not cheap. The stalks and HVAC controls feel as good as some we've sampled in near-luxury cars. Air conditioning and power windows and locks are standard, and optional Bluetooth capability is a welcome nicety.

Despite trim dimensions, there's a blessing of storage and passenger space inside the Soul. Tidy of dimension, the area behind the second row seats is useful but not huge, although dropping the 60/40 rear seats opens it right up. Rear leg- and foot-room is surprisingly generous inside the Soul, too. In the dash, there's a storage compartment at front and center, as well as a dual-level glovebox that seemingly extends all the way to the firewall. Opening either cubbie for the first time garnered a grin as we found Kia had chosen bright red as the color for inside. Doors have storage compartments and bottle holders, and more storage was found in the armrest of our car, which easily concealed a digital SLR camera. Both the steering wheel and front seats are adjustable for height, but only the chairs slide fore-and-aft - a telescoping column would've been a nice touch.

Stepping up the trim-level ladder adds more whimsy to the interior in the form of fabrics and colors. Soul + models get inserts on the seats with a repeating Soul logo, while Soul ! buyers will find houndstooth check on the seats and an interior scheme that puts sand-colored accents on the dashboard and door panels. Soul Sports ratchet the interior up to its max, with metal-look accents and pedals, and a red and black interior theme that extends to the sport seats. Door panels not graced with contrasting colors might betray a feeling of creeping cheapness, but the Soul's interior punches above its weight for sure.

Corporate sibling Hyundai seems to have cribbed the Soul's recipe of a vehicle full of equipment, fun and safety gear for the Elantra Touring, but the Soul's styling puts the Kia on top. Among rival brands, this car is going to lose a flat-out performance challenge to the Honda Fit, but it is supremely well equipped, comes with a faintly ridiculous 10 year/100,000 mile warranty - and tops out below $20,000. Standard front, side and curtain airbags along with stability control covers the safety gear comprehensively, and there's no denying the handy nature of a hatchback.

Young buyers these days seem to care less about cut-rate performance cars and just want a vehicle that will fit their lifestyle of doing stuff while being entertaining to drive and look at. The Kia Soul seems like a shoe-in under those criteria. Its styling is all but universally praised, its price of entry is eminently reasonable, and its driving demeanor exceeds expectations. All-in, we look for the Soul to be Kia's breakout hit that wins comparo crowns, sips fuel, hauls stuff and has a great time doing it all. While we may have approached the Soul steeled for disappointment, we walk away impressed and now think of Kia's backpack-wearing wild boar as one of the segment's standard-bearers.

Kia's Forte is affordability

2009-07-02T09:33:00.001-04:00

Kia's all-new Forte compact sedan goes on sale in July, giving the South Korean automaker a strong entry into a market segment dominated by the venerable Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

With a starting price of $13,695 (plus freight), the 2010 Forte joins the compact Spectra in the Kia lineup and offers a long list of standard safety and convenience features,

"On the heels of several successful vehicle debuts and introductions, Forte finds itself in good company and follows in the stylish steps of Borrego and Soul," said Michael Sprague, vice president for marketing at Kia Motors America.

"With a heavy emphasis on design, Forte sedan is poised to help consumers make that emotional connection with their vehicle by offering the entire package of style, safety features and value," he said.

Kia believes the car will have strong curb appeal in a segment riddled with plain, boring vehicles. Design cues include swept-back headlights and a wide stance that gives the car a muscular look and helps improve road handling.

Three trim levels are offered: base LX, midlevel EX ($15,795) and sporty, top-of-the-line SX ($17,195).

The Forte is 178.3 inches long, 69.9 inches wide and 57.5 inches high, which compares with 177.3 inches long, 69 inches wide and 56.5 inches high for the Civic (which also costs more -- starting at $15,305 and running as high as $25,190 for the 2009 models).

It's slightly shorter than the Corolla, which is 178.7 inches long, but here again, the Forte costs less. Corolla prices for 2010 range from $15,350 to $20,050.

Keeping the Forte bargain-priced is part of Kia's strategy to compete against Japanese models that U.S. consumers generally consider to have better quality.

Hyundai, Kia's parent company, uses the same pricing strategy for most of its vehicles -- not because it believes its cars are worth less, but because consumers generally don't seem willing to pay as much as they would for a Toyota, Honda or Nissan product. Besides, price is a strong motivator when trying to pry consumers away from tried and trusted brands such as Civic and Corolla.

Kia says the SX model has a more athletic profile, aided by 17-inch alloy wheels and premium P215/45R17 tires.

The Forte has more standard content than its key competitors, as well, which helps add to the value.

The automaker says the Forte's specially engineered body has high torsional stiffness that enhances the car's handling and ride quality, giving it "greater refinement than its competitors."

Featuring front-wheel drive, the Forte LX and EX models are powered by a 156-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which has 144 foot-pounds of torque. This compares with 132 horsepower for the base and midlevel Corolla models and 158 horsepower for the optional 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine in the Corolla. The base engine in the Civic has 140 horsepower.

The Forte SX comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 173 horsepower, which is more than that of the competing Mazda3 as well.

LX and EX models come with a standard five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The SX has a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic with manual-shift feature.

With the 2.0-liter engine, EPA mileage ratings are 25 mpg city/34 highway with either transmission. The 2.4-liter engine has ratings of 22/32 with the manual and 23/31 with the automatic.

A special "Fuel Economy Package" is offered on the EX model with the 2.0-liter engine. It includes the five-speed automatic gearbox and brings EPA ratings of 27 city/36 highway.

Among features that help boost this model's mileage are electric power steering, a "smart" alternator, silica tires and aerodynamic body enhancements.

The SX model comes with a sport-tuned suspension and larger front brakes.

Inside, the Forte has 96.8 cubic feet of passenger space, including ample rear knee room. The trunk is the largest in the class with 14.7 cubic feet of space -- more than some popular midsize sedans.

There is room for five, although the middle position in the rear is not full-size and is suitable only for kids.

Standard are cloth seats, three-gauge instrument cluster with red lighting, six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering wheel, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets.

EX and SX models come with air conditioning, power windows/mirrors/door locks with remote, map lights, cruise control (with steering-wheel controls for this and the radio), front and rear cup holders, and floor mats.

The EX Premium Package adds a power moon roof and 16-inch alloy wheels, and the EX Leather Package brings leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, and metal interior trim.

With the SX model comes a unique black interior that has sport cloth fabric with red stitching, a telescopic steering column, special gauge cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and metal-finish trim and pedals.

Optional on the SX are the power moon roof and leather seats with front seat warmers.

The standard audio system has AM/FM/compact disc/MP3 playback, four speakers and Sirius satellite radio with three months of free service; an auxiliary jack that allows for connection of an iPod or other music player; and Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety features include front seat-mounted side air bags, roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for both rows, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, electronic stability control with traction control and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

G. Chambers Williams III
San Antonio Express-News

Kia Sportage Awarded Top Ranking in AutoPacific 2009 Ideal Vehicle Awards

2009-06-30T08:53:00.000-04:00

Sportage is Highest Ranked in Compact Crossover SUV Category

# Ideal Vehicle Award is Sportage's second AutoPacific award this year
# Compact SUV honored for high owner satisfaction

IRVINE, Calif., June 29, 2009 -- Kia Motors America, Inc. (KMA) today announced the 2009 Kia Sportage compact SUV topped the compact crossover SUV category in AutoPacific, Inc's 2009 Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA), closely following the AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Award received earlier this year. The AutoPacific IVA awards are a quantitative measurement of how closely a vehicle matches an owner's expectations.

"We take great pride in knowing our owners are satisfied with their vehicles and Sportage's recognition as an ideal vehicle is a tremendous compliment," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, Kia Motors America (KMA). "This second AutoPacific award directly reflects the satisfaction of smart, discerning Sportage owners, and this type of consumer feedback validates Kia's commitment to providing high levels of quality, style, safety and practicality in all of our vehicles."

Sportage, noted for its passenger and cargo space as well as its off-road capabilities and impressive fuel economy, meets the needs of consumers looking for the total package at a significant value. Sportage offers an extensive list of standard safety and convenience features, including six airbags with full-length side curtain airbags, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with three months complimentary service and USB and auxiliary input jacks, while the 2.0-liter engine delivers impressive fuel economy at 20 mpg (city) and 25 mpg (highway).

Based on survey responses from more than 32,000 vehicle owners, the 2009 IVA measure the combination of trust, anticipation, expectations and reality within specific product segments by having respondents rate 15 attributes concerning whether they would change them after having owned their vehicle for 90 days. An "ideal vehicle" is one that meets the owner's expectations based on how few attributes they would change. Sportage received a score of 1,224 out of a possible 1,500.

In addition to Sportage's top ranking in its segment, Kia Spectra, Optima, Sorento, and Borrego ranked among the top five in their respective categories.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Feel My Forte

2009-06-29T11:05:00.000-04:00

Our 2010 Kia Forte SX falls into step with Seattle's afternoon gridlock. The compact sedan's 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine quickly becomes a necessity during all our last-second lane changes. And, sure enough, all four of the front-seat cupholders can accommodate micro-roasted coffee in 16-ounce recycled paper cups.

Somehow we don't think the Spectra, predecessor to the 2010 Kia Forte, would have blended into Seattle's coffee culture. It wasn't quick or refined, and didn't have the panache to make inroads with a caffeinated, left-of-center crowd.

Although our 2010 Kia Forte SX looks like a Civic from the front, there's confidence behind its clean lines and crisp detailing. It's a grown-up compact car penned by an A-list designer, Peter Schreyer, once of Audi but now of Kia.

If you think high style has no place in budget transportation, don't bother telling Kia. Schreyer and the Forte are part of the Korean automaker's grand strategy. Everybody's market share is fluid right now, so if you sell an otherwise respectable economy sedan, like say the 2010 Kia Forte, and it has attractive, cool-kid sheet metal, well, you just might have the next Mazda 3 on your hands.

Feel My Forte
Already Kia reports that its new Forte sedan has caused a stir in focus groups that compared it against its compact-class competitors. Actually, says Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing for Kia Motors America, Kias usually do well in focus groups -- but only in blind tests.

"Normally, for the Kia brand, as soon as you take the tape off the badge, consumers are like, 'Oh, no, we don't want that!' This was the first time in our history when consumers said, 'That is still the No. 1 vehicle.'" Still, Kia worries that you might be prejudiced against the Spectra name, perhaps associating it with ratty, 1990s-era Sephias. "The Spectra name didn't really mean anything to people," Sprague says. "We're trying to signal to the marketplace that Kia is reinventing itself, and to do that, we felt we needed a much stronger name for this vehicle." Conveniently, "Forte" connotes strength.

In reality, the 2010 Kia Forte is not radically different from the outgoing Spectra in size or focus. It has a 104.3-inch wheelbase like the Hyundai Elantra, but whereas the Hyundai has a multilink independent rear suspension, the Kia Forte uses a torsion beam, along with struts in front. The Forte's 61.3-inch front track and 61.6-inch rear track give it the widest stance of any economy sedan in the U.S., though it also has some of the widest wheels and tires, with 17-by-7-inch alloys and P215/45R17 rubber fitted on the top-of-the-line SX model.

In keeping with the new name, Kia's compact sedan also has a stouter structure. Its unit body incorporates 63 percent high-tensile steel, enhancing rigidity without piling on pounds. An overdue switch to aluminum-block engines also helps control weight.

Two Engines, Four Transmissions
Yes, the 2010 Kia Forte can be had with either of two engines à la Mazda 3. The base 2.0-liter inline-4 is rated at 156 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 144 pound-feet of torque at 4,300 rpm (or 154 hp and 139 lb-ft for PZEV states).

This 1,975cc engine is part of the new Theta engine family and thus related to the 2.0-liter in the Mitsubishi Lancer and Dodge Caliber (indeed Hyundai did the primary engineering for this powerplant). The 2.0-liter is standard on base Forte LX ($14,200 base price) and mid-range Forte EX ($16,200 base price).

A five-speed manual or (for $1,000 extra) a four-speed automatic transmission drives the front wheels. That is, unless you check off the Fuel Economy package option (add another $600) for the Kia Forte EX, which upgrades you to a five-speed automatic, while mandating low-rolling-resistance tires, electric power steering, a "smart" alternator that runs only when the battery needs charging and aero enhancements that infinitesimally enhance the sedan's 0.29 coefficient of drag.

Only the 2010 Kia Forte SX ($18,100 base price) gets the 2.4-liter engine. The SX ends up weighing over 100 pounds more (2,853 pounds total), but the 2.4 compensates with 173 hp at 6,000 rpm and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm (165 hp and 161 lb-ft, respectively, in PZEV form). Also, your front wheels can be driven by either a six-speed manual or the five-speed automatic.

Serious About MPG
Mediocre fuel mileage made the Spectra tough to justify as commuter transportation, but this won't be a problem for the 2010 Kia Forte. With the Fuel Economy package, the Forte EX earns a 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway EPA rating -- the highest of any non-hybrid, non-diesel sedan in this size class.

All other LX and EX models get a respectable rating of 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway, although you'd think Kia would just use the five-speed automatic and electric power steering across the board to pump up mpg in anticipation of rising CAFE standards.

"Electric steering assist is more expensive than using hydraulic power steering," says Fred Aikins, director of product planning for the Forte and Soul. "We've got the steering feel so that it's pretty much indistinguishable between the two, so it's primarily a cost issue. With the five-speed automatic, that again has to do with cost, as well as the current production capacity of five-speed automatics."

Mileage falls off a bit on the 2010 Kia Forte SX, but you'd be hard-pressed to top its rating of 22 mpg city, 31-32 mpg highway in any car with a large-displacement four-cylinder engine.

6 Speeds, 666 Ways To Stall
Until the Forte Koup arrives later this summer, the SX sedan is the sportiest Kia Forte you can get, thanks to its better engine, better transmissions and sport-tuned suspension with firmer springs, re-valved dampers and bigger front antiroll bar.

But you wouldn't know that from the car's sluggish throttle response, which combines with the six-speed gearbox's abrupt clutch engagement to make even the most enthusiastic manual-transmission holdout regret his choice.

If you can avoid stalling the engine as you leave the stoplight, you'll find the 2.4-liter turns out to have a pretty nice power band with useful midrange torque and a smooth delivery. There's not much going on at the top end, though, so you'll likely reach for the next gear before the redline at 6,500 rpm. But quick gearchanges aren't really possible in the 2010 Kia Forte SX, as the engine hangs onto revs while rocking around in its soft mounts. Kia says the Forte SX will run to 60 mph "in the 7s." We expect a very abusive launch will be required and we're not sure we want to be there.

We also get some time with a Forte EX sedan with the four-speed automatic and find this combination even less to our liking, as excessively tall gearing blunts whatever oomph the 2.0-liter four might have to offer.

In either case, the five-speed automatic is probably the more livable choice.

More Toyota Than Mazda
We're pretty happy with the 2010 Kia Forte SX's compromise of comfort and control on the freeway. It has the most sophisticated ride quality of any Kia to date, its compliant suspension seeing us over all manner of ruts and dips without fuss.

But even with a sport-tuned suspension and fairly low-profile P215/45R17 Goodyear tires, the Forte SX is more notable for its body roll than its cornering precision. The car doesn't seem interested in carving up a back road. Its hydraulic-assisted power steering offers reasonable weighting, but little feedback.

Three iPod-Ready Trim Levels
It's hard to make those dynamic complaints stick, though, when you pore over the standard features list. Prices haven't changed much from the 2009 Spectra, but you're getting more stuff.

The base Forte LX is still a stripped-down sedan without air-conditioning, power accessories or cruise control. For 2010, it gains four-wheel disc brakes, ABS, stability control, Bluetooth, satellite radio (three months of Sirius), and auxiliary and USB ports.

Forte EX and SX models have all of the above, plus access to a leather package ($1,000) with heated seats. A sunroof is available on the SX for $600, but costs $800 on the EX, which also picks up alloy wheels. Only the 2010 Kia Forte SX gets a telescoping steering wheel.

Harman International has already developed an Infinity system for the Forte with a claimed 360-watt amplifier and nine speakers. But Kia hasn't decided whether to make it a factory- or port-installed option, so it's not available right now. Nor is a factory navigation system.

Ordinary Car
Calling the 2010 Kia Forte an ordinary car is not the slam it appears to be. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla have mostly been ordinary cars, remember.

Still, Kia's newest compact sedan shouldn't be embracing ordinariness. As a commuter car, it's adequate. But its drivetrains are so thoroughly tuned to minimize fuel consumption and emissions that there's not much of a driving experience left to enjoy. This is especially true of the 2010 Kia Forte SX, which looks like a Mazda 3 s rival on paper but goes all limp as soon as you goose the throttle.

For an undemanding few, the 2010 Forte SX's uncommon fashion sense and huge price advantage over the Mazda 3, Lancer GTS, Corolla XRS and Nissan Sentra SE-R might offset these annoyances.

But to us, $19K is still $19K. We'd like to see Kia make some drivetrain adjustments, rather than whip out the value card.

By Erin Riches
Edmunds

All-New Special Edition 2010 Kia Soul

2009-06-26T08:35:00.001-04:00

Limited-Run Special Edition Soul is Another "New Way to Roll"

IRVINE, Calif., June 24, 2009 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today rolls out the first all-new special edition for the Soul model line, the 2010 Denim Kia Soul, a unique iteration of the popular urban passenger vehicle that further emphasizes Soul's cutting edge style and youthful, fun character. Matched with impressive fuel economy and safety features standard on all models, the special-edition Denim Soul provides consumers with even more personalization options.

"Denim Soul incorporates edginess and confidence," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "It illustrates our commitment to fresh design, even on a vehicle that's been in the marketplace only a few months, and it's the first of more special editions to be offered in 2010 for the recently introduced Kia Soul."

Exclusive to the Denim Soul is a unique denim exterior color, striking white side-view mirrors with matching white 18-inch alloy wheels, front fender turn signal indicator lights, a wing-type rear spoiler and a bold off-set white racing stripe completing the rally-inspired look. The Denim Soul is based on the Soul+ model and is fully loaded with the Audio Upgrade Package (center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music), an iPod connection cable for full functionality via the radio head unit and steering wheel controls, carpeted floor mats, moonroof and fog lights all included for this special edition.

The special edition Denim Soul starts at $17,300 with a five-speed manual transmission, and $18,250 with an automatic.

Denim Soul builds from the Soul+ model, which offers standard keyless remote entry, privacy glass on the rear and rear side windows, body-color door handles and dual body-color power side mirrors along with 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55R16 tires. Soul+ offers additional standard features including cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity, dual 12-volt power outlets and tweeter speakers, all enhancing creature comforts on the road, as well as a covered upper storage bin, dual visor vanity mirrors with covers and dual map lights. Black cloth seats are adorned with Soul logo inserts, further personalizing the cabin.

About the Kia Soul

Designed by Kia Motors' Southern California-based design team, Soul is currently on sale at dealerships across the United States and has already been recognized as a "Best Value" by the Texas Auto Writers Association and by Ward's Autoworld for its "Interior of the Year" list. Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,300 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950. Enhancing to the Soul! or Soul sport offers a price beginning at $16,950.

A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is paired with either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission and is standard on Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport models. The engine produces 142 horsepower with 137 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy offers a thrifty, fuel-sipping 24/30 mpg for both the automatic and manual transmissions², better than the Scion xB.

Offering plenty of standard features, the Soul trim offers a chrome-accented grille, clear lens auto-off headlamps, solar glass, black door handles and side mirrors, body-colored front and rear fascias with black inserts, black bodyside molding, rear wiper/washer, variable intermittent windshield wipers and 15-inch steel wheels fitted with P195/65R15 tires.

Passengers will find comfort in the Soul's roomy cabin that offers 40.2/39.6 inches of headroom (front/rear), shoulder room of 55.2/55.1 inches, 42.1/39.0 inches of legroom and a passenger volume of 102.3 cubic feet, more spacious than the Scion xB.

Soul's interior design is decidedly influenced by the car's highly specified audio system.

An uncluttered dashboard with a three-dial instrument cluster, LCD illumination and floating center stack design is the key visual feature and offers enticing access to the AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service³. Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks also are in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable.

Additional standard interior features include air conditioning, tilt steering column, power door locks, power windows with driver's side auto-down, external temperature display and digital clock in the radio, an upper storage bin, dual-level glove box, 12-volt power outlet, rear window defroster, cargo area light and a dome light with delay out. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat offers multiple seating and cargo arrangements depending on driver and passenger needs.

Standard Kia Safety Features

Soul continues to offer the same high level of standard safety equipment as all Kia vehicles, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags. An Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) also are standard. Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard on all Soul models, making for a comprehensive list of standard safety features.

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Soul is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain 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 coverage program.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

2010 Kia Soul Recognized on "Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" List by Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com

2009-06-25T10:09:00.000-04:00

Urban Passenger Vehicle Lauded for Personality, Versatility and Technology

# All-new Kia Soul delivers style with amenities and a playful spirit
# Coolness factor noted in vehicle purchase criteria

IRVINE, Calif., June 23, 2009 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Soul urban passenger vehicle was named to the 2009 Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, the leading provider of new car and used car information. The Soul joined Kia Motors' ever-expanding lineup in March and was lauded for being a cool, affordable ride with a growing emphasis on personality, versatility and technology.

"Soul's personality really has made an impact with consumers and the media, who are realizing you don't have to spend a lot of money to make a statement," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "We are pleased that Soul is being recognized for its playfulness and versatility but also that it is appreciated for its economical attributes that affect real world purchase decisions."

Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com editors selected the latest list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 using the same set of criteria that many consumers use in examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly subjective "cool" factor. The editors compiled the list of qualifying vehicles using Kelley Blue Book's New Car Blue Book Values, which reflect real-world transaction prices and provide a more useful comparison point than Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP).

On Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Web site, editors state, "You don't have to drop the big bucks to get a car with kickin' style and all the techie gadgets required to get by in the world today. Every Kia Soul comes with standout styling, Bluetooth phone connectivity, an auxiliary audio input and iPod integration. But the pulsing speaker lights are the first things you'll show your friends."

Also a recipient of the 2009 "Best Value" award by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) and the "Grooviest Interior" award from Ward's AutoWorld, Soul is available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. Pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,300¹ for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950. Moving up to the Soul! offers a price beginning at $16,950 and the Soul sport, designed for those with active lifestyles, starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600.

Soul stands out from the crowd with modern, unique styling aimed toward the young and young-at-heart and offers a unique combination of style, value and personalization options. An available Audio Upgrade Package includes speaker lights that can pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting to the interior cabin, enhancing the overall personal lounge feeling. The Soul+ offers funky black cloth seats with "glowing" Soul logo inserts while the Soul! trim comes with a distinctive sand-black interior with houndstooth-patterned inserts, and the Soul sport presents a bold red-black interior trim with red-trimmed cloth seats and metal-finish interior accents.

For more information about the 2009 Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, visit www.kbb.com/coolcars2009.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles.

Kia Soul mixes offbeat cool, performance

2009-06-22T10:20:00.001-04:00

Innovative design yields distinctive car

Like the way the godfather of soul James Brown's style and energy blasted American music out of the easy-listening blahs, the 2010 Kia Soul hatchback mainlines fun and funk into a bland brand heretofore defined by the logical appeal of low prices and long warranties.

Leave your left brain at home, clap your hands and say yeah as the eye-catching Soul rolls into sight, lights in its speakers flashing in time to the tunes pouring out of your iPod.

The Soul is the latest player in the offbeat-cool class of small cars inspired by the Honda Element. Exactly the same length as a Honda Fit subcompact, the 161.6-inch-long Soul combines a low price with high fuel economy, arena-like interior room, spunky performance and unique looks in a winning package.

Prices for the 2010 Soul start at $13,300 for a base model with a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission.

Kia offers four equipment levels: base, the cutesy-named + and ! and the less-cloying Sport. Stepping up to the + gets you a satisfying 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and manual transmission for $14,950, and the automatic version of the + will cost another $950. Top-of-the-line ! and Sport models get the 2.0-liter engine and go for $16,950 with the manual and $17,900 with the four-speed automatic transmission.

I tested a very well-equipped manual transmission Soul Sport that stickered at $17,650. All prices exclude destination charges.

While it's the same size as the sleek and aerodynamic Fit, the Soul's offbeat looks and roomy interior make it a more direct competitor for cars like the Chevrolet HHR retro wagon, the bigger and boxier Honda Element and the cool-to-be-square Nissan Cube and Scion xB.

The four-cylinder engine in the Sport provides plenty of zip for dicing in traffic. The Kia's long wheelbase and wide track provide a stable, road-gripping ride that encourages sporty driving. The Soul is considerably more entertaining to drive than the bigger xB or underpowered Cube.

The transmission lineup is a bit archaic in a world of six-speed manuals and five-speed automatics, however. The Soul Sport I tested accelerated ably, but a sixth gear would be welcome to boost performance and fuel economy while reducing engine noise.

Despite the dated transmissions, the Soul has excellent EPA fuel economy ratings. The 2.0-liter engine returns 24 m.p.g. in the city and 30 m.p.g. on the highway, while the 1.6-liter achieved 26 city/31 highway.

An innovative exterior design complements those mechanical virtues with a cheeky long-nosed body that features an aft-sloping roof, big doors for easy passenger access and a large and convenient tailgate. From its high roof and big wraparound headlights to a long wheelbase that pushes the wheels to the corners, there's nothing quite like the Soul on the road.

Outward visibility is excellent, thanks to large sideview mirrors and expansive windows all around.

The Soul offers a cavernous 102.3 cubic feet of passenger space and 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. That's as much passenger space, and more cargo room, than most midsize sedans offer.

With the seat folded flat, cargo space rises to 53.4 cubic feet.

The Soul tops the xB's passenger space and has nearly as much cargo room, despite the Scion being 5.7 inches longer. It offers considerably more room than the smaller Cube.

While the Soul Sport I tested assaulted the eye with a bright red and black interior, it also offered welcome features like USB connectivity for iPods, a separate auxiliary input jack and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phones.

Adjustable mood lighting includes a feature that set lights in the front-door speaker grilles flashing in time with music from a good six-speaker sound system.

Hit the lights, cue the J.B. horns and get on up. Kia's got a groove. Make the scene like a Soul machine.

BY MARK PHELAN
freepress.com

Kia Borrego Awarded Edmunds.com Consumers' Top Rated Vehicle Award

2009-06-19T09:51:00.001-04:00

Midsize SUV Named Top-Rated SUV by Consumers in $25,000-$35,000 Category

# Kia midsize SUV recognized for high owner satisfaction
# Borrego lauded for overall value, power and fuel economy

IRVINE, Calif., June 18, 2009 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the 2009 Kia Borrego has been named the top-rated "SUV $25,000-$35,000" in the Edmunds.com Consumers' Top Rated(SM) Vehicle awards for 2009. Borrego earned strong marks from consumers for its overall excellent value, along with impressive power and towing capacity, interior space, visibility, fuel economy and extensive list of standard features.

"Borrego offers those looking for a spacious, powerful and fuel efficient vehicle the complete package at an incredible value," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "As one of the first vehicles to roll out under Kia's exciting new design direction, accolades such as this Edmunds.com award, which provides feedback directly from owners, are evidence of Kia's commitment to consumers as well as to offering vehicles with the content consumers want without breaking the pocketbook."

To determine the winners of the 19 vehicle categories, Edmunds.com invited owners to use the Consumer Reviews and Ratings feature, where they are able to evaluate their new or used vehicles in eight different categories, including performance, comfort, fuel economy, driving impressions, interior design, exterior design, build quality and reliability. Top-rated vehicles are those that received the highest average rating from visitors as of April 30.

Borrego is offered with a DOHC, all-aluminum 3.8-liter V6 as well as Kia's first-ever DOHC 4.6-liter V8 engine, also all-aluminum; both engines are more powerful than any in Kia's line to date. While the V6 produces a competitive 276 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 267 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, the V8 generates a class-leading 337 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 323 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm -- more powerful than the Toyota 4Runner, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee and GMC Acadia. Borrego runs on regular unleaded fuel compared to some other competitors that require premium unleaded, and achieves best-in-class fuel economy of 15/22 city/highway for its V8 with two-wheel drive, and a respectable 15/20 city/highway for its V8 with four-wheel drive.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Examiner: 2010 Kia Soul road test

2009-06-18T09:52:00.001-04:00

Small vehicles with small, fuel-sipping engines and squarish truck shapes are all the rage these days. The Scion xB started it and now the Nissan Cube and the Kia Soul have joined the fray. This is a report on the 2010 Kia Soul.

The Kia Soul is a new inexpensive, but highly styled five-door panel truck it calls the Soul. Kia, in a return to humorous advertising, shows many hamsters in cages and a hamster named Larry sitting in the passenger seat of the new Soul and he is rocking out to the music in the company's latest round of television commercials.

There is actually more styling to the Soul than is apparent at first glance. It is indeed a two-box design. But the exterior style features a tapering greenhouse, a bold character line and a friendly face.

Once you are behind the wheel, you will discover that none of these new boxes are "sporty" to drive, but the Soul may indeed by the most fun-to-drive. The base engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder rated at 122 horsepower, but there is an available 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at a stronger 142 horsepower. That one has my recommendation. The 2.0liter engine can be matched to a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission and surprise, the EPA fuel economy rating is the same with either transmission – 24 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

We found the interior well finished and the controls to be straightforward. The Kia, from South Korea, has some things in its favor in addition to the low price. It has a long warranty and it has a long list of standard safety features including anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control. Prices range from $14,000 up to more than $16,000 but there should be some fantastic deals out there. On our scale of one to five, four tires and a spare, the 2010 Kia Soul rates a four.

One thing to note about automobiles imported from South Korea. The build quality is better than ever and the service should be acceptable, but the resale value may be lower than Scion or Nissan. It's just something to keep in mind.

If you are in the market for a new small truck from Asia, all the available trucks (including a used PT Cruiser (from Chrysler and built in Mexico), a new Chevrolet high heritage roofline (HHR), Scion xB, and Nissan Cube should be on your short list. Test drive all of them and select the one you like the best or the one on which you can get the best deal. There should be deals available on all new vehicles by now.

Michael Anson
examiner.com

Kia's boxy car has plenty of Soul

2009-06-17T10:56:00.000-04:00

Folks either love or hate the current brood of boxy cars. In my mind, Kia's new Soul is the cutest of the bunch.

Perhaps Kia has managed to inject a little soul into its boxy creation. Soul comes in four models, the base, the +, the Sport and the ! (or Exclaim.)

My test car was the upscale Soul! Starting price is $17,900 and only adding a $695 delivery charge ended up at $18,595. Not cheap, but not so pricey as to rule out its major buying demographic of younger folks, probably working at their first job.

For that you get a fairly peppy and smooth 142-horsepower engine, good handling, stability control, good seating for four adults, good storage made better by split and fold-flat rear seats, a tall sitting and driving position so you don't feel you're in a smaller car, a hatch, easy in and out, a fun and well-finished interior, 18-inch tires and alloy wheels, 4-wheel disc brakes, air bags front and side, plus side air bag curtains, a tire pressure monitor, air conditioning, MP3 hookup, remote keyless entry, tilt steering, power sunroof, fog lights, variable wipers, a rear wiper and a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Plus, I loved the car's looks, its feel and its performance at this bargain price. And if you need a bigger bargain, drop back to any of the other three levels. The base starts at $13,300, but you drop down to a 1.6-liter I-4 engine that only generates 122 horsepower. That might feel a bit slow, so a better option might be the Soul+ at $14,950, which includes the 2.0-liter I-4 that was in the test car. The Sport also uses the same engine and each adds a few more goodies until you hit the ! model. All start off with a 5-speed manual gearbox until the 4-speed automatic-equipped version of the !.

Soul looks fun with its upswept front roofline and profile.

The 2.0-liter I-4 gives it decent acceleration, even with an automatic transmission. I'd save the added expense and pump up the fun with the standard 5-speed manual. Even so, the automatic shifts smoothly and the test car never felt underpowered or like it was struggling, even zipping onto the freeway.

Handling is light and easy with quick turn-in at corners and only a touch of body lean. It's that light breezy feel that gives the Soul such pleasant road manners. Wind doesn't seem to bother it much. Riding on a 100.4-inch wheelbase the car has a good ride for a small vehicle. Railroad tracks and other more uniform bumps are no problem.

Braking is excellent thanks to 4-wheel disc brakes, the front being vented. Add to that stability control, standard on the Soul!.

Inside may have been an even nicer surprise with a handsome look, quality fit and finish and good tactile feel to all the knobs and controls. The test car featured a textured tan dash top with black trim atop the doors and three round gauges right in front of the driver behind a tilt steering wheel. A trip odometer button is just to the right of the wheel.

Kia also puts both the cruise control and radio control buttons on the steering wheel hub, something you'd expect to pay extra for in most small cars in this price range.

Mid-dash is a big radio speaker at the top with a sunglasses holder below that, followed by a CD and MP3 player, and the radio with Sirius satellite service for the first 3 months. All the buttons and knobs are good sized and easy to figure out and Kia also provides 3 large climate control knobs to make that a simple operation.

Obviously aimed at the younger market, the center stack also has two power outlets, an iPod and a USB plug.

The seats are comfortable and sit high so you feel more in control, and less like you're in a small vehicle. These were cloth with a checkered pattern on the top one-third (including the headrest) that looked particularly youthful. There's also a pump handle on the side to raise the seat and the seats themselves are moderately contoured. Head and legroom are excellent and the car will seat four adults pretty comfortably.

My only complaint would be the somewhat modest storage behind the rear seat, although the seat does split and fold flat.

Overhead the Soul! includes a sunroof and sliding shade, plus solid sun visors that slide to the side to help with side sun. The visors have mirrors, but no lights.

Other pluses include storage under the cargo floor, a rear wiper and a big glove box and arm rest/storage box between the front seats.

I got 27.6 mpg in about 60% highway driving, which is what I'd expect with an EPA rating of 24 city and 30 highway.

Mark Savage
jsonline.com

All-New 2010 Kia Forte Compact Sedan

2009-06-16T11:08:00.001-04:00

Kia Motors' New Compact Sedan Hits the Streets of Seattle

# Kia Motors introduces sleek, muscular and fuel-efficient compact sedan
# New Forte effortlessly blends style with comfort and safety features

SEATTLE, June. 12, 2009 -- Following the successful launch of the all-new, widely acclaimed 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle in Miami earlier this year, Kia Motors America (KMA) today launched the all-new 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan in Seattle. The Emerald City, known for its innovation and creativity, provides the perfect backdrop for Forte, a true pioneering player in its segment. On sale in North America early this summer, Forte is the first of its kind to offer consumers an impressive combination of standard safety, comfort and convenience features.

"On the heels of several successful vehicle debuts and introductions, Forte finds itself in good company and follows in the stylish steps of Borrego and Soul," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. "With a heavy emphasis on design, Forte sedan is poised to help consumers make that emotional connection with their vehicle by offering the entire package of style, safety features and value."

Dynamic Exterior Styling

With aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. Sporting a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a wide, stable stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the all-new compact sedan will start at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the Forte EX begins at $15,795. Moving up to the SX trim, pricing begins at $17,195.

Smooth and Seamless Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte taut, responsive handling, a smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned, Kia-developed suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on S-turn laden roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Forte's front-wheel-drive unibody structure employs an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the energetic essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Modern and High-Tech Interior

With one of the roomiest interiors in the segment, Forte boasts a spacious 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte's trunk also offers a best-in-class 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, perfect for luggage and weekend getaways or around-town grocery shopping.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte makes every effort to incorporate style and function, starting with a crisp, high-visibility center stack and a driver-oriented three-gauge instrument cluster exuding a stylish red glow. Forte continues to pamper its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; tweeter speakers; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX models also offer an optional Premium Package that includes a power moonroof and 16-inch alloy wheels, or a Leather Package that includes leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmers, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim.

The SX model brings even more standard features, including a unique black interior with sport cloth fabric adorned with red stitching, a telescoping steering column, Supervision™ gauge cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and metal-finish trim and pedals. The SX model also offers the optional power moonroof and leather-trimmed seats with front seat warmers.

Lively Performance and Power

Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing a class-leading 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173³ horsepower -- more powerful and with better fuel economy than the Mazda3s and Corolla XRS.

Four transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

Offering impressive fuel economy, the 2.0-liter engine offers a competitive 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated to either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions, while the 2.4-liter engine turns out a notable 22/32 mpg when paired with the six-speed manual and 23/31 with the five-speed automatic.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available on the EX model with the 2.0-liter powerplant, includes the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering (MPDS), "smart" alternator, silica tires and aero enhancements. These improvements result in 27/36 mpg and a class-leading combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.

Jamming Sound System

Forte comes with a ground-breaking combination of standard convenience features, starting with a standard four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service†. Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages add a standard six-speaker surround-sound audio system.

Forte's advanced audio system also includes Speed Dependent Volume Control (SDVC), which automatically increases the volume at higher speeds for better listening enjoyment, and Power Bass, which automatically enhances the bass response and tone.

Standard Kia Motors Safety Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as front active headrests, dual advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, side impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, four-wheel disc brakes with an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Industry-Leading Warranty Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

Kia Motors Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 13 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul and Forte further complement the lineup as they arrive in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte Koup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

First Drive: 2010 Kia Forte

2009-06-12T10:32:00.001-04:00

Kia has renamed its core small-sedan model the Forte to signal a new beginning for the brand in this segment, and it only takes a glance at the new model to understand why. It's a really good-looking car. While the Spectra that preceded the Forte certainly wasn't a bad car, its anonymous styling didn't win many friends and its feature set was far from exciting.

Like the fashionable 2010 Soul, the 2010 Kia Forte merits a new trip to the Kia dealership and perhaps a new look at Kia, as the brand is quickly shedding its reputation for dowdy vehicles. The Forte has many of the elements and features of much more expensive cars, yet it's still one of the least expensive small sedans.

Thank Kia's new design studio in California for creating such clean, assertive, and attractive look for the Forte. With smooth, clean sheetmetal and an uncluttered look in front and in back, the new Forte doesn't go over the top and it's likely to age well; even more to the point, they got the trim proportions right. The svelte 2010 Kia Forte doesn't have any awkward angles, and a nice wide stance from the front and back somehow matches the flowing, elegant roofline. Inside, the look is simple, with a smoother, more organic version of the teardrop center stack used in the Forte.

Forte shoppers have a choice of two different engines—a 156-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder in LX and EX models or a 173-hp, 2.4-liter four in the sportier Kia Forte SX. LX and EX models have a standard five-speed manual and optional four-speed automatic, while SX models get a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic.

The 2010 Kia Forte delivers a lot more driving satisfaction (and sophistication) than most value-minded buyers will expect. Both engines deliver more than adequate acceleration, and they function just fine with the automatics as they both are happiest in the mid-rev ranges. Kia expects acceleration to 60 mph to be in the low eight-second range for the SX. The standard hydraulic power steering responds well, outward visibility is good, and the ride is firm but absorbent—a nice compromise for daily driving. There's not a lot of nosedive in hard braking, and the four-wheel discs stop the Forte confidently. Automatic Fortes include a manumatic shift mode that actually locks in a gear; unlike other systems it won't force a downshift if you floor it. We actually recommend the automatic with the Forte, as it works well with the engine and clutch-throttle coordination on manual cars was imprecise.

The EX Fuel Economy Package keeps the 2.0-liter engine but upgrades to a five-speed automatic, and includes electric power steering, a smart alternator system, low-rolling-resistance silica tires, and some minor aerodunamic enhancements. And, surprisingly, it's the Forte that we liked best; we thought the weighting of the electric power steering was better, with a little more feel of the road, and boosted more while parking and less at speed. None of the other changes affected ride or handling noticeably, yet the package ups fuel economy ratings to 27 mpg city, 36 highway. What's not to like?

The rather tall roof and wider body works wonders for passenger space in the Forte. Front seats aren't generously proportioned, but there's adequate headroom even with the sunroof for this 6'-6" driver, with lots of legroom, and the back seat has plenty of space for two adults, three in a pinch—though there legroom is limited. The trunk is huge.

Overall, Kia has done a great job damping the noise and vibration that usually accompanies the cheapest small cars, and even over the coarsest road surfaces the cabin boom wasn't excessive. And while there's definitely some hard plastic around the cabin we couldn't find any ragged edges.

All safety features are standard across the entire 2010 Kia Forte line; that includes dual seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front active headrests, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, and electronic stability control.

The new Forte starts at just $13,695 for the LX model, while the EX starts at $15,745 and the SX bows at $17,195, not counting destination. All models get Bluetooth, Sirius Satellite Radio, and an auxiliary input jack for the audio system, plus steering wheel controls and voice activation. The EX model adds air conditioning, power accessories, and the SX adds fog lamps plus upgraded upholstery and trim. The SX model is the "image leader" of the lineup; in addition to those details and the stronger engine, it gets a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and showy 17-inch alloy wheels. Other options are limited to a power sunroof, leather seat packages (heated in front), and a Convenience Package that adds A/C and other upgrades to the LX.

First with the Soul, and now with the 2010 Forte, even without nitpicking features and value we can confidently say that Kia has some of the best small cars out there.

Check out our overview page on the 2010 Kia Forte for new pictures, along with specs, prices, news, and more.

By Bengt Halvorson
The Car Connection

Kia a Soul mate for Generation Y

2009-06-11T09:46:00.001-04:00

In the past when I've talked about helping my 18-year-old son buy a car, he usually requests something impractical and way out of my price range. But, the other day he told me that he wanted a Kia Soul. Apparently, it's high on the hip scale with his college buddies.

In fact, Kia is redefining its social network with the launch of its newest vehicle, the all-new 2010 Soul. Considering that the average age of a Kia buyer is 52, Kia is basically re-creating itself through the Soul to appeal to the children of those 52-year-olds, aka "Gen Y."

"We are absolutely committed to this market," said Tom Loveless, vice president of sales for Kia Motors. "This is the tip of a very big iceberg. It's the direction Kia is going."

Gen-Y buyers are the children of baby boomers, ages 16 to early 30s. They are seen as easy-going, positive, hard-working, tech-savvy and of course, social-networking butterflies. To help reach them, Kia developed a Facebook page for Soul, an interactive Web site and a presence on Twitter.

Kia also has changed how it reaches its potential buyers, from formal TV ads to something more memorable and fun with the new rolling hamsters. Other marketing activities include a partnership with the NBA and a 43-city Vans indie-rock tour.

The Soul, whose name is a play on Seoul, the capital of South Korea and Kia's hometown, is customizable with over 50 different body and interior accessories, including a fashionable red-lined glove box, speakers that pulse in time with your music, black "eyeliner" surrounding the headlights and a body kit with a rear spoiler.

Kia says that two more model intros will follow the Soul in 2010. Could it be that by next year, it will actually be cool to own a Kia?

So far, the strategy -- and the car -- is working. "This is the best response we've ever received," says Kia's director of public relations, Alex Fedorak. "We kind of knew we had a good idea."

What is it? A five-passenger front-wheel drive compact urban vehicle.

Looks like: Very much its own soul but reminiscent of the Scion xB, Nissan Cube, a baby Chrysler PT Cruiser, or a Mini Clubman.

Engine & EPA: Choice of two four-cylinders: 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter delivers 26/31 mpg; 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter returns 24/30 mpg.

Interior/Exterior: Roomy cabin with lots of storage possibilities, including a two-tiered glove box with room on the bottom for a laptop. An upper closed storage bin is perfect for cell phones, keys, etc. The Soul comes in a variety of standout colors, such as coffee-inspired Java, red-hot Molten and Alien green.

What's different: The clean-looking interior is decked out with a "floating center console" and a rockin' Infinity stereo system with available speakers that flash or vibrate to keep time with the music. Optional speaker lights pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting.

Pricing: Starts at $13,300 for the base trim and tops out at $18,600 for the Soul Sport with all available options included.

By Holly Reich
MOTOR MATTERS
Washington Times

2010 Kia Soul steps up the brand's style and function

2009-06-10T09:35:00.001-04:00

The first Kia I drove, about 11 years ago, was so miserable that I advised buyers to consider a used car instead. Owning a Kia then would have been like trading in an Armani suit for a flour sack.

Back then, Kia was an inexpensive car that never let you forget how little you paid for it. Sure, you might flip burgers for a living, but you don't want to be constantly reminded of the fact.

Kia is still a cheap ride, but its products have improved markedly.

Like finalists on "American Idol," today's Kias are almost unrecognizable from their humble beginnings, even if being a good value is still their most noticeable trait.

But the 2010 Kia Soul is a game changer for the brand. No longer just a vehicle for those with thin wallets, the Soul is chic in a way Kias never have been, and it makes no apologies for what it is.

Credit for the transformation goes to Kia's new design chief, Peter Schreyer, who was lured away from Volkswagen just more than two years ago. At VW, Schreyer sculpted many notable Audi models, including the TT roadster and 1997 A6. At Kia, the German designer has endowed the brand with personality, something lacking at many Asian automakers.

Sure, the Soul's cubist form takes its lead from the Scion xB and Nissan Cube. But from there, the Kia is its own cubicle.

Walk around it, and take in the side view. Wheel arches and a strong horizontal crease below the windows visually plant the Soul to the ground, while vertical tail lamps and strong window shapes play a carefully orchestrated counterpoint.

In the rear, a simple Kia logo is placed above the latch opening. Its elegance proves an essential mantra: Good design doesn't cost any more than bad design.

Inside, the smart design continues. No, you won't be blown away by opulence, but there are few reasons to be ashamed.

Open up the glovebox or sunglass holder, and you'll see their interiors are flaming red. The speaker grilles are lined with LED lights that pulse along with the music. Call it a tacky, novel or interesting idea, but it is new, and its inclusion speaks to the thought invested in the Soul's design.

The center of the instrument panel is angled so controls are within easy reach. No need to reach for the owners' manual; controls are easy to understand and operate. That is a luxury most luxury carmakers fail to understand.

There isn't a navigation system, but most of us know where we're going, right?

However, there is air conditioning on all models, save the base model, along with satellite radio and power windows, mirrors and door locks.

A tilt steering wheel makes finding the perfect driving position easier, even though it doesn't telescope. The steering wheel contains controls for audio, cruise control and Bluetooth telephone. One caveat: The phone button is too easy to hit while cornering, but the thought is there.

Kia equips the Soul with a USB port and power point on the instrument panel, just above the center console. Perfect for your iPod.

As much soul as the Soul possesses, you'll find that, at its heart, it's an economical little hauler. It's meant to brighten the mundane tasks of transporting cargo, both animate and inanimate, and it does so surprisingly well. Designed to hold five people, four is the more practical limit.

Base Souls (now that sounds judgmental) have a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter, four-cylinder wheezer up-front. Leave that one on the lot and opt for the Plus, Exclaim or Sport models, which get a 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine.

A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic is offered. Try the manual before you buy, but the automatic might be the better choice.

Certainly this little box has more than enough moxie to muscle down city streets and suburban parkways, although you'll have to flog the hamsters under the hood a bit to extract the needed juice. When you do, you'll find they complain vocally, which adds to occasional road and tire noise.

Surprisingly, you won't feel as if you're driving something that transports large appliances. The Soul feels like a car, because its front-wheel-drive platform is derived from the Kia Rio.

Body motions are mostly controlled when the roads turn rough, but the back end does the macadam mambo on the worst of them, hopping a bit.

And the rear-view mirror wobbled loosely over the harshest bumps.

Still, the Soul has a cheeky, cheerful feel that makes you forgive its worst transgressions.

Seats are high, firm and fairly comfy. The center console up-front makes long drives more tolerable; the lack of a rear center armrest in the rear seat makes it less so back there.

But legroom is abundant. Ditto cargo space, which ranges from 19 cubic feet with the seats up, about the same as the Cadillac DTS, to 58 cubic feet with the seats folded. That means it can swallow a lot of stuff.

But it won't swallow is a lot of fuel. The Soul is rated at 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. A test drive of mostly city and suburban driving returned 25 mpg.

And if that doesn't save some green at the pump, you'll save some green at the showroom. The test vehicle, a Plus model, included the aforementioned items along with a $400 audio system upgrade, $800 sunroof and $95 worth of carpeted floor mats and topped out at $17,890.

That's surprisingly cheap.

Lest you think that I only fall for expensive vehicles, I can say that this Soul grabbed my heart.

It's a remarkable first step in branding a marque with an identity that goes beyond your bank balance.

By Larry Printz
The Virginian-Pilot

Three Kia vehicles make the top 5 least expensive cars to insure

2009-06-08T11:09:00.000-04:00

It probably comes as no surprise that high-performance sports cars and large, premium SUVs are among the vehicles that cost the most to insure.

Research by Insure.com shows that among the 2009 model vehicles on the market, the most expensive to insure is the all-new Nissan GT-R super car, which has a 3.8-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that cranks out 485 horsepower.

"Owners of the GT-R buy it for power and speed, and their driving habits will be reflected in frequent and expensive insurance claims," the insurance Web site said in its report on the costs of insurance for the current model year vehicles.

"GT-R owners who are young with less-than-spotless driving records could easily see their annual car insurance premiums zoom to several thousand dollars," the report said.

The report noted that "sports cars dominate the 'most expensive' roster, along with theft favorites such as the Cadillac Escalade."

That points out a key factor that consumers often overlook in determining which cars might be more expensive to insure: just how popular a vehicle is with thieves. Combine the Escalade's high theft rate with its high sticker prices, and you have a nightmare for insurers.

Even so, the Escalade is 17th down the list of the Top 20 vehicles most expensive to insure, with an estimated average annual insurance cost of $1,592, compared with $2,533 for the GT-R and $2,446 for the second-place Dodge Viper.

On the other end of the scale, the Hyundai Santa Fe midsize crossover utility vehicle is at the top of the list of the 20 vehicles that cost the least to insure -- with an annual average rate of just $832. In fact, Hyundai and Kia vehicles are the top five on the list of least expensive to insure. Kia is a subsidiary of South Korea's Hyundai, and probably one key reason for their positions at the top of the list is that prices for these vehicles are somewhat below those of their Japanese and domestic competitors. Second on the list of least expensive to insure is the Kia Sportage sport utility, at $840, followed by the Hyundai Entourage minivan, at $848, and the Kia Sedona minivan, at $857. These two vans are almost identical, as they are built on the same architecture.

But what they have going for them is that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said after initial crash-testing that these minivans were the safest that had ever been tested.

The Honda Odyssey ($871), Chrysler Town & Country ($915) and Dodge Grand Caravan ($960), all of which are minivans, also were on the Top 20 least expensive list.

The two-passenger Smart ForTwo micro car was on the least expensive list as well, at the No. 7 spot, with an annual average cost of $881. While the car is quite tiny, it has fared well in crash tests because of its unique "Tridion safety cell" construction that is designed to dissipate crash energy around the outside of the vehicle, protecting the occupants.

While high-priced SUVs such as the Mercedes G-class ($2,088), Hummer H2 ($1,912), Range Rover ($1,603) and BMW X6 ($1,584) were on the list of most expensive to insure, the least expensive list had its own share of sport utilities -- but they are much lower priced.

Besides the Santa Fe and Sportage, others on the least expensive list included the Saturn Vue ($911), Mazda Tribute ($913), Scion xB ($921) and Jeep Wrangler ($939).

Sedans and coupes on the most expensive list included the high-priced Audi S8 ($2,071) and the bargain-priced Chevrolet Cobalt SS ($1,762).

On the least-expensive-to-insure list, though, were such consumer favorites as the Volkswagen Passat ($936), Honda Accord ($951), Lincoln Town Car ($955) and Chevy Impala ($959).

Insure.com said the lists were compiled using the driver profile of a 40-year-old single man who drives 12 miles each way to work, and policy limits of $100,000/$300,000 (bodily injury) and $50,000 (property damage), with a $500 deductible on collision and comprehensive coverage.

The rates were averaged nationwide and included multiple insurance companies, the Web site said. Average premiums ranged from $832 to $2,533, with the Chevrolet Tahoe in the middle, at $1,169.

G. Chambers Williams III
San Antonio Express-News

Kia's Soul has heart, stamina

2009-06-04T14:33:00.001-04:00

Uniquely designed compact cruiser is a surprisingly good, affordable ride

I laughed when I first saw the Kia Soul at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It's the opposite of nearly every compact on the road -- the competition went small; Kia went tall. It looks like a computerized roller skate.

I snickered again when the Soul showed up in my driveway. Good Lord, the red model looks like the Diablo Hell Boys Edition: red dash, red steering wheel, red lights inside the stereo speakers. Blasting the radio at night eerily lights up the cabin as if you're Arnie Cunningham in a 1958 Plymouth Fury.

It may have aerodynamics slightly better than Christine, Stephen King's fictional Fury, and mood lighting that can thump to the bass of Frank Beckman's voice, but the Soul is no laughing matter. It's a pretty good road runner designed for a new breed of customer who wants enough head room to wear a fedora, good enough fuel economy to avoid weekly fill-ups and something cheap enough to actually afford.

My fully loaded Soul sport was $18,600 -- you can't spend more than that for the Soul -- and a nicely equipped base model starts at $13,995, including $695 shipping. Those are reasonable digits.

The Soul is part of a growing segment American carmakers have not embraced. The inexpensive multi-passenger compact cruiser. Cheap and cheerful is back -- it comes as a box and plays loud music.

The Soul joins the likes of the Nissan Cube, Scion xB and the high-end (meaning it can cost more than $20,000) Honda Element. It's almost enough chopped blocked body styles to play a game of Yahtzee.

This particular car-truckie-van thing has more charm than any inexpensive compact car and a surprisingly good ride. During a week of test-driving, I took it all over southeastern Michigan. Who says personality and a full tank of gas won't take you far?

Actually, the Soul will take you well over 300 miles on a single 12.7-gallon tank. That's not a bad start. (I managed 28 miles per gallon overall on two tank-fulls.)

Too much Soul?
The trim level names of the Soul, however, give me pause. Instead of sticking to something familiar -- the touring, the sport, the base -- Kia uses some strange text-messaging code for some. Soul+Kia=Soul!

From base to high-end, Kia named its trim levels the following: Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport. It's OK; I rolled my eyes, too. I don't know if you need to yell "Soul" at the dealership to make sure it isn't confused with the base model.

What people won't confuse is the originality of this package. Nothing in any dealerships looks like the Kia Soul. Many people may not even like the polarizing design, but that's precisely the point. Love it or hate it, but at least it makes you feel something.

Straight-laced sides, a steep windshield and a high roof that slopes down from front to rear like a tin shanty are the basic bones of this vehicle. From the side, the back end bubbles out as if the rear axle was pushed too far during the design to create more space in the cabin. The backside looks oversized with a tiny door tacked between two pillars of tail lights. In the front, the little open grille and sweeping headlights give the Soul the expression of an emoticon instead of powerful vehicle.

That's probably fitting as this was not designed as a muscle van. The 2-liter four-cylinder engine (this is the optional bigger engine) manages 142 horsepower and 137 pound-feet of torque. It never struck me as powerful. Zippy, maybe, but never potent.

But sometimes zip trumps force. In city driving, the Soul can give you those bursts of speed needed to wedge into the turning lane. Overall, it's only 161.6 inches long, and that means it will easily squeeze into tight city parking spaces or the third spot on a suburban driveway.

The five-speed manual transmission provides longer-than-expected throws but gives the driver more control to eek out every pony under the bonnet. An optional four-speed automatic is available for the 2-liter engine.

Well mannered on the road
The high roof makes the body roll more than a car through corners, but it never felt loose or nearing out of control. On the highway, it could get tossed around in the wind at high speeds, but once again, it felt sure-footed and well-balanced, thanks to the independent front suspension and torsion beam rear.

The engine-speed-sensitive power steering was excellent in city driving with an exact feel and good return to center. The highway steering, however, felt slightly numb and disconnected from the road. This is a cruiser, not a missile.

High tech appeal
The Soul launches to life inside the cabin -- even the red one. There are lots of neat tech features that will appeal to the growin group of gizmo consumers who need to stay connected to their outside world all the time.

The interior takes a minimalist approach with only three knobs on the floating center stack. The zig-zag lines that separate the buttons on the stereo add a playful touch.

Music also plays an important role inside the Soul. Even the base model includes an auxiliary jack and USB port for connecting your iPod to the stereo -- which can be controlled by the stereo or steering wheel buttons.

Other optional features include Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for your cell phone and an upgraded stereo with center speaker, subwoofer and 315-watt amplifier.

Even entering and exiting the Soul is made easier by the low floor and tall door. The seating position is comfortable and more upright than a car's.

Some of the materials could have been better or higher quality, particularly the cloth seat covers and some of the plastic on the dash. But considering the price level, it felt appropriate. The pleasant surprise was the lack of lines across the dash. It looked like one solid piece, which takes away from many of those potential bad fits between pieces that can turn into squeaks and rattles in the future.

Touch points were also nicely padded, meaning your elbows didn't get sore on long hauls from pressing against a hard arm rest.

More importantly was the room the cabin provides. The high roof makes the cab feel extra large, even though the vehicle isn't. The second row will easily fit three adults with room to spare. The trunk is a deep well that provides lots of space (19.3 cubic feet) and if you need more, just fold the 60/40 second row seats down for 53.4 cubic feet of storage.

It's the versatility that gives the Soul a step over its compact car competition. All things equal, such as mileage and price, the Soul can just carry more people and stuff.

The appeal to younger buyers may also spark interest in older ones searching for ways to express their inner teen, though the only thing new and hip about them, is, in fact, their new stainless steel hip.

The Soul fills a void in a niche that no one knew existed a few years ago. Kia managed to do it with style.

It's like rolling all fives on the first try. Yahtzee!

Detroit News

2010 KIA Soul Sport - Cube Done Right

2009-06-03T08:43:00.001-04:00

Americans have a love-it-or-hate-it point of view about boxy vehicles. Scion's original xB design was as angular as it gets and showed us that a compact design mixed with box-like lines creates a lot of room in a small package. It is a design that is supposed to catch the imagination and dollars of younger drivers. Funny thing, a HUGH demographic for Scions (and other boxy rides) are older folk -- as in, grandparents of the youth movement they attempted to capture. Maybe it's the minivan look of the newer Scion xB.

The brand new KIA Soul looks much better -- both inside and out.

Good for KIA, they made a car that captures one of the most basic elements of what cheap cars should provide… fun. Yup, this is one of those rare machines that is far more valuable than the sum of its parts. Rather than remake another boring KIA Rio, they opted for something funky, unique and useful.

I have yet to evaluate the base models with the smaller engine. I did get an opportunity to zip around in a KIA Soul Sport for a week and I truly enjoyed the ride. My tester was the top of the line (just over $18,000), 5-speed manual with the large sunroof. KIA offers a lot for the money.

The top of the line 315 watt CD/MP3/Sattleight stereo system with 8 speakers, external amplifier and light-up front door speakers (which is a bit of a gimmick) sounds great. You can control the speaker lights via a rotary knob that allows you to choose "music" which kind of throbs with the music, "mood" which simply throbs all the time, keep it on full time or shut it off.

18 inch alloy wheels look great and seem to help the rather simple rear torsion-beam suspension (the front is an independent MacPherson-strut setup). For a box, the KIA Soul does a great job when being tossed around slow corners. Sure, there is some body lean, although it was far less than I expected. I was pleased with the fairly communicative steering and good turning radius.

It was less pleasant on high wind roads where the minimal side aerodynamics and soft suspension helped the wind push the little KIA about. The body felt a bit anxious over uneven pavement and pot-holes as well. Still, on a regular jaunt over average road surfaces the KIA Soul works well and drives smoothly.

Internally, the seats were firm, yet comfortable with just enough surface area for my large body to find comfort. The rear seats are somewhat flat with leg and headroom surprisingly commodious. This is one of the easiest vehicles in its class to load little ones into given its good ride height and large door openings. 3 skinny teens could fit in the back with no problem.

My 4-year-old LOVED the red and black interior. She ogled and chattered about how much fun she had sitting inside. I have to admit, the look of the interior is a major plus. If you get the higher end KIA Soul, you get red and black interior trim. Unfortunately, red is the only bright interior color available, rumor has it that other colors may become available eventually.

The KIA Soul is a light-ish 2800 lbs and has a 142 horsepower (137 lbs feet of torque) 2.0 liter 4-cylinder which is capable of a sensible 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. In power, performance and economy the KIA Soul bridges the gap between the KIA Rio5 and KIA Spectra5. Before I get to performance and driving impressions, I want you all to know how squarely KIA hit the target. The first day I drove the KIA Soul, I parked outside a Greek fast-food joint next to Cherry Creek High School. A Jr. or Sr. sauntered up. I thought he walked the way he did because of a dreadful car accident. It turns out it was the best way to keep his belt-line at crotch level.

Anyway, he and what I assume was his girlfriend, moseyed up to the KIA Soul and looked at it in serious contemplation. As I exited with my Gyro in a bag, he asked me what I thought of it. I shrugged and opened up the door letting he and his female friend (who wore enough perfume to shame OPEC) look inside. Then, I asked them "what do YOU think?" They both liked it, especially when I told them that they were available from 14K to just over 19K.

5 days later the same thing happened to me at the Denver Zoo. This time, a group of teens swamped me and I let them sit inside. One asked why old people (me, I guess) liked this car. Every single one liked the look of the interior and didn't seem to care about the hard, cheap plastics used.

Come to think of it, neither did I.

This is one of the easiest cars to get in and drive. The learning curve for a majority of components and settings is considerably easier than, say a Honda Fit. The windows are big, sightlines excellent and seating position -- ideal.

My main issues were the lifeless 5-speed manual which was anything but sporty and the clutch pedal was oddly off-kilter. The clutch pedal is poorly placed and makes engagement rough for those large of foot. The shifter and clutch are a bit on the rubbery side and offer less than stellar feel. Still, they are very easy to use and a great gear-set for a first time stick owner.

The 2.0 growls like an old-school GTI, without the hustle. Indeed, this is no speedster as I was barely able to get to 60 in less than 9 seconds. Brakes were real good with my best stop from 60 taking 127 feet. I credit and laud KIA for having the wherewithal to have disc brakes at all 4 corners. Few cars in this class have 4-wheel discs.

Handling is good. With stubby proportions and short overhangs, it's a breeze to find where your tires truly are. Accurately placing the KIA Soul exactly where you want it is simple and the grip was much better than I expected. This KIA changes direction quickly, decisively making mid-level performance cornering a blast.

This is a fun little car.

The storage capacity of the KIA Soul is quite good. With both rear seats folded, the KIA Soul would easily swallow a 5-piece drum-set complete with cymbals, stands and throne. There was room left over for a few guitars and/or small amplifiers. With the rear seats up, it can hold a small stroller or a fair amount of groceries.

Actually, the KIA Soul is more than a youth orientated product, this is a perfect car for a young family of 4 -- who like something spunky. With KIA's killer warranty and altogether better quality, I would gladly recommend this car to anyone who is looking for some cheap, logical fun.

AND it doesn't look like a miniaturized minivan...

Nathan Adlen
Denver Autos Examiner

Kia Motors' Cheap Chic

2009-05-29T09:17:00.001-04:00

Thanks to German design chief Peter Schreyer, the Korean carmaker is making a splash at home and plans to do the same in the U.S.

Seoul - When Shin So Hyun shopped for a compact car in April in Seoul, it didn't take her long to go for an $11,200 Forte from Kia Motors. "Of the cars in my budget, the Forte has the best design," says Shin, an insurance company planning manager in her late 20s. Few drivers would ever say that in the U.S., where Kia is generally seen as the opposite of style. But thanks to its new German design chief, Kia is making a splash at home and has hopes of doing the same in the U.S.

While Korean car sales plunged 15.2% in this year's first quarter, Kia's rose 6.7%. That has boosted its domestic market share to 31% from 24.6% the previous year, mostly at the expense of General Motors (GM) and Renault. Kia is also a star on the Seoul bourse, with its share price more than doubling so far this year, vs. a 27% gain for the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index. "There's no question Kia's new design is improving its brand image," says Suh Sung Moon, auto analyst at brokerage Korea Investment & Securities in Seoul.

Kia will find out whether cheap chic has broader appeal as it rolls out its newest models in North America and Europe over the next couple of years. The first, the Soul, a boxy crossover vehicle that looks like Nissan's Cube and Toyota's Scion xB, just went on sale in the U.S. in April for $14,000 to $18,600.

GOOD TIMING
The U.S. marketplace may be ready for Kia, with buyers turning to lower-priced vehicles. Kia's share stands at 3.1%, up from 2.4% a year ago. Style could give it a further selling point. Analysts say the company could poach from Korea's other carmakers and America's Big Three. Daniel Gorrell, president of Auto Stratagem, a research and consulting company in Tustin, Calif., thinks even Honda and Toyota could be vulnerable.

But Kia has to prove its vehicles are as well-built as they are good-looking. "They need to get people past the cheap Korean car image," says Gorrell.

At the heart of Kia's makeover is chief designer Peter Schreyer, whom the company hired away from Volkswagen 2 1/2 years ago. Schreyer, 55, who tends to dress all in black at official functions, made his name during his eight years as design chief at Audi. A repeat award winner in Germany, he was the one who shaped the TT roadster and the 1997 Audi A6 sedan, cars that raised the brand's status.

In Korea, Schreyer's latest product, the Sorento, is creating buzz. Even before the redesigned SUV hit showrooms in May, more than 5,000 drivers had put in orders. The base model will cost a bit more than $20,000 in Korea, about 5% more than the previous model. The new Sorento, which will be the first vehicle to be built in Kia's plant in West Point, Ga., is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. early next year.

Schreyer has assigned designers at the automaker's three studios--in Los Angeles, Frankfurt, and Namyang, south of Seoul--to compete with one another to complete the rest of the lineup by 2011. When they're done, Kia's cars will still be low-end, but they won't necessarily look like it.

Business Week

2009 Kia Spectra road test

2009-05-28T14:00:00.001-04:00

The 2009 Kia Spectra is a front-drive, compact car that deserves a closer look.

The Kia Spectra and Spectra5 are basically unchanged for 2009 and they use the 2001-2006 Hyundai Elantra platform. The Spectra is a four-door sedan and the Spectra5 is a four door hatchback. There is only one engine available; it's a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 138 horsepower. Buyers can choose either a five-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic. The automatic gets better fuel economy ratings at 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway. All Spectra models use regular gasoline.

Acceleration performance is just adequate and in this rare case we recommend the automatic transmission for its smooth shifting and increased fuel economy. The five-speed manual transmission has a "rubbery" feeling shift lever and shift action, so it feels sloppy. Air conditioning is no longer standard; it's an option as is ABS, but a tachometer is standard.

Remote start (usually a Cadillac option for New Jersey mobsters) is available as well. We liked the gauges and the switchgear, but the cabin contains a lot of plastic, which shouts "Cheap" at the driver all the time.

Kia Spectra ride quality is very comfortable, but there is a downside -- the Spectra acts like a "bucking bronco" when the road surface is uneven. The sport-tuned suspension of the Spectra5 and the SX model tends to be harsh and choppy rather than controlled. Sticker prices range from $14,000 up to $18,000. The Kia is not as refined as its Honda, Nissan and Mazda competition, but its long warranty and improved build quality make it worthy of your short list. On our scale of one to five, four tires and the spare the 2009 Kia Spectra rates a four.

examiner.com

Kia's Soul is 'superbad'

2009-05-27T13:04:00.001-04:00

Which, in the James Brown sense, is good!

Hey, any car that offers me the chance to work a song from the King of Soul into a blog title has to be cool! Now Kia's four-seat Soul (great name for a Korean car) struck me as cool based on its looks.

This car's hip factor further became apparent when my wife and I took it to a concert at Symphony Hall in Boston, and you could notice people (especially young people) giving the car a look. And, being Boston, when a fellow Massaholic on the road started veering into my lane, a hit on the horn button produced a friendly "old-fashion" toot rather than a more conventional blast. Also contributing to the Soul's ambiance was "mood" lighting in the cabin—a ring of LEDs around the front-door mounted bass speakers that can be set to pulse with the music, or periodically, or constantly on/off.

The Soul's strong youth appeal prompted me to bring in a panel of youthful judges to offer their unvarnished insight—and the visiting twin grandsons were quick to offer their judgment.

"It's cool because it looks like a shoe," was the first impression. "I like the pattern on the seats," was the comment highlighting the cabin, where a herringbone-like fabric set off the upper seat backs. (Now when was the last time you saw a herringbone on a car since one of the godawful vinyl roofs of some pre-Iacocca Chrysler products?) My wife and I both thought the pattern was "snappy," as well. The pulsating speaker lights were well received, but, "why aren't they in the back seat for the kids? Why should only the grownups (up front) have them?"

There you have it, wisdom from a pair of six-year olds.

examiner.com

2010 Kia Soul first take

2009-05-26T09:52:00.001-04:00

Too often, the only virtues cheap cars bring to the market are low price and decent fuel economy, and that latter feature is only a byproduct of a small, inexpensive engine. But Kia's Soul manages to add tech, usable space, and a little bit of fun to the usual features. We realize that the Scion xB did all of this first, but it doesn't necessarily do it better.

We spent a little time driving the Kia Soul, in its Sport trim, at a recent driving event, and had our tech sensibilities thoroughly pleased. The top-of-the-line Sport trim Soul goes for $17,900, while the base model is only $13,300, but both come standard with iPod integration. Better yet, you only have to step up to the $14,950 Plus trim to get standard Bluetooth hands-free system, also a feature on the Sport model.

Lacking an iPod during our drive, we plugged an MP3-laden USB drive into the car's USB port, and navigated through the folders on the car's head unit. The red radio display proved large enough so that it was easy to find music we wanted to hear. And the sound quality was surprisingly good, as the Sport trim Soul comes standard with a 315-watt audio system that complements the usual doors speakers with a center fill and sub.

The fun came in the form of sound-activated lighting in the door speakers. As the bass beats played, red accent lighting pulsed. A dial lets you increase the light's intensity, or switch it to a Mood setting, where it pulses to its own beat. It's a gimmicky feature, but we like it.

Missing from the Soul's tech roster is a navigation system, not terribly surprising for a car in its price range, but a feature we would, nonetheless, like.

As you can probably guess, the Kia Soul is no powerhouse. Everything but the base trim gets a 2-liter four cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower, adequate to get the car around, but don't expect a lot of speed. That engine is made efficient through Kia's continuously variable valve timing, giving it an economy figure of 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. This is not bad for a car that can squeeze in five people plus cargo.

This Sport trim model also uses a front stabilizer bar and a more tightly tuned suspension than lower trims, giving it surprisingly good handling. We drove the Soul on the track, and found it was the engine, not the handling, that held it back. Kia gives you the choice of a five-speed manual or a primitive, but serviceable, four-speed automatic transmission at no extra cost in all but the base trim.

by Wayne Cunningham
cnet.com

Borrego is good SUV, bad timing

2009-05-22T11:10:00.001-04:00

Will Kia Borrego weather the current economy?

In my recent review of the Volvo XC60, I expounded on consumers and the economy closing the door on big, V-8 body-on-frame SUVs.

Timing is everything with vehicle launches. When the business case was presented for the Borrego, midsize SUVs with three-row seating were hot. Unfortunately for Kia, it had the Borrego already in production when the mid-to-large SUV segment entered its downturn.

The 2009 Kia Borrego is a good vehicle for circa 2006-2007. In 2009 the sweet SUV segment music has stopped, and the Borrego is looking hard to find a parking spot.

The 2009 Borrego is not uncompetitive in terms of pricing or quality; it's just that there are too many choices and not enough qualified buyers.

The Borrego is Kia's first-ever midsize, body-on-frame, seven-passenger V-6 and V-8 SUV, and as such it is the automaker's top SUV offering.

The Borrego's base engine is an all-aluminum 3.8-liter V-6 with 276 horsepower. My test vehicle came with the big 4.6-liter V-8, shared with the Genesis coupe and sedan, packing 337 horsepower. Those are some serious ponies and include 323 pound-feet of torque. A plus is that both V-6 and V-8 models run on regular unleaded. Both engines also are available in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive like my test vehicle.

Kia brings a slick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission to the party. While buyers may yearn for more, the Environmental Protection Agency-rated fuel economy of the V-8 slides in at 15 city and 22 highway – not too bad for a midsize, AWD, V-8, seven-passenger SUV.

Towing of up to 7,500 pounds with the V-8 is possible if you can get away for the weekend to take the boat out.

Kia spent a few bucks developing an interior worthy of spending time in. The layout is contemporary, and the build quality of the test vehicle had only a few minor panel gaps and inexpensive looking bits. The seats were above average in comfort, and the quality of leather was good.

The interior of a Borrego sports 156.8 cubic-feet of interior volume. With all seats folded flat there is 97.6 cubic feet of cargo space.

A nice feature for second-row passengers is a sliding second row that increases second-row foot room and eases ingress/egress to the third row.

Borrego can be equipped with a slew of standard convenience features, including air conditioning; power door locks, windows and mirrors; keyless entry; cruise control; and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 six-speaker audio system. Complementing the audio system, Borrego comes standard with USB and auxiliary input jacks and is the first Kia vehicle to offer Sirius satellite radio.

The EX trim level includes an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, four-way power-adjustable front passenger's seat, floor mats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Homelink with compass, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, trip computer and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. There is even a rear seat entertainment package that includes an 8-inch wide-screen television.

The Borrego four-wheelers feature a second generation full-time torque-on-demand system, which uses electronic sensors to monitor road conditions and distribute power to the appropriate wheels.

Kia indicates that the Borrego is built on a front double-wishbone and rear multilink suspension matched with coil-over springs. The front suspension integrates shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar, while the rear incorporates a damper and stabilizer bar. Borrego is built on a hydro-formed frame structure that the company says increases durability and rigidity.

I spent several extended stretches behind the wheel and I can say that you'll be hard pressed to tell the difference in ride quality between the Borrego and some of the established competition.

Safety was also a prime consideration with this vehicle and the Borrego's standard equipment includes front advanced airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags for all three rows and driver's knee airbag (V-8 models only), four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system that includes an electronic stability control and traction control system, electronic brake distribution, brake assist system and a tire pressure monitoring system.

A standard back-up warning system provides an audible warning using ultrasonic sensors to detect and help prevent hitting hard-to-see objects. Borrego also includes premium features like hill start assist control, which helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when trying to pull away from an uphill gradient, as well as downhill brake control, which helps keep the vehicle moving straight and steady down steep grades.

The Borrego is trying to the crash the midsize SUV party that consists of the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet's Traverse, Trailblazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook.

Pricing starts at $26,250, but as the upgrades get ladled on the price rises appreciably. My tester was pretty well optioned and the final tally edged just north of $33,000.

So the verdict is good SUV, bad timing. The Borrego was launched in 2008 as a 2009 model. Will the Borrego make it to a second generation? Time (and buyers) will tell.

BY JEFF TAYLOR
Chicago Sun-Times

Kia fast-tracks design changes

2009-05-21T11:04:00.000-04:00

When Kia launched the new Soul in South Korea last fall, negative comments about some interior features filtered back to the company. Kia quickly mobilized its designers and engineers to fix the issues, not waiting for a yearly model change to make the remedies.

"Things move much quicker here than they do at Ford," says Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing for Kia Motors of America. He came to Kia about a year ago after a stint at Ford.

As an example of quick movement, Mr. Sprague says the Soul concept made its world debut at the Detroit Auto Show in 2006 and went on sale in South Korea in 2008. It's now on sale in the United States as a 2010 model.

The principal complaints of South Korean customers who purchased the Soul focused on the front side doors and the center console between the front seats. Hard plastics in the doors were unacceptable to early South Korean buyers.

The same complaints were voiced by American automotive journalists earlier this year after they tested part of a small fleet of South Korean spec cars brought to California for evaluation. In addition, customers and journalists complained that the center console made it difficult to lift and release the parking brake.

"We will do running changes in the doors starting in June," Mr. Sprague says.

The hard plastic in the door liners below the windows will be replaced with a cloth insert that is softer to the touch. It took only four months to make the change in the front doors from when the problem was first noted by South Korean customers. Kia will use the same kind of cloth inserts in the doors of the new Forte, scheduled to go into production in April and on sale in the United States in June.

Kia will also use a "soft paint" on the grab bars of the Soul's front doors to provide a softer, more lubricious touch. "The soft paint is used by high-end manufacturers a lot," Mr. Sprague says.

Kia collaborates with the same suppliers to effect the changes, he says. The console supplier rushed a redesign of its component through in 30 days so it was ready for production for the U.S. launch of the Soul.

This kind of continuous improvement is part of the Kia drive to respond quickly to customer reaction. When the 2009 Borrego premiered last year, the market asked for an upscale version of the SUV. Kia was able to develop a special limited version into production two months after Job 1. It featured new technology such as a push button start switch. Some early buyers also requested a backup camera, and Kia developed one for a running change starting in September.

The Borrego's ride quality also displeased some customers. Kia engineers designed modifications for four dampeners to smooth ride quality. The running change will go into production in June. Also, the carpeting in the 2009 Sedona drew customer complaints that it soiled too easily. Kia immediately substituted a darker color that was less prone to soiling.

The Soul got off to a fast start in its first month on sale in the United States and has produced more feedback to Kia about customer reactions to the model.

The company is considering even more improvements. "We're keeping the Soul as fresh as possible," a Kia spokesman says. Other interior enhancements will soon be incorporated into the funky new box-shaped Soul.

Mr. Sprague says Kia is determined to remain flexible and nimble when it comes to responding to customer feedback on its products. The quick changes to the Soul are part of the drive to respond to customer concerns quickly and effectively.

When the coup version of the Forte goes on sale early next year, it will also benefit from the same type of changes that Kia incorporated in the Forte sedan, the spokesman says.

Responding quickly to customer comments is costly, but it may be profitable in the long run to keep its buyers satisfied. That may be why Kia is one of the few brands that's faring well in the imploding automotive marketplace. The South Korean brand continues to pick up market share as other brands suffer shrinking sales and fortunes.

By Herb Shuldiner
MOTOR MATTERS
Washington Times

2009 Kia Sportage Receives Top Ranking in AutoPacific 2009 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

2009-05-20T13:13:00.001-04:00

Sportage is Highest Ranked in Compact Crossover SUV Category

# Sportage commended for offering consumers value and satisfaction
# Extensive list of standard safety and convenience features recognized

IRVINE, Calif., May 19, 2009 -- Kia Motors America, Inc. (KMA) today announced the 2009 Kia Sportage compact SUV topped the compact crossover SUV category in the AutoPacific 2009 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards (VSA). The AutoPacific VSA is an industry benchmark for objectively measuring how satisfied an owner is with their new car or light truck, and reflects the opinions of consumers nationwide. Sportage was recognized above other vehicles in the segment for offering superior value and satisfaction.

"Sportage, a staple in the Kia Motors lineup since the brand's inception, offers a high level of value and amenities to those looking for a low-cost option in the SUV segment, and buyers recognize that," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "We take special pride in this recognition as it is a direct reflection of consumer satisfaction and further proof that our commitment to offering vehicles with a superior blend of value, safety and convenience features is resonating with new car buyers."

Sportage, noted for its passenger and cargo space as well as its off-road capabilities and impressive fuel economy, meets the needs of consumers looking for the total package at a significant value. Sportage offers an extensive list of standard safety and convenience features, including six airbags with full-length side curtain airbags, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with three months complimentary service and USB and auxiliary input jacks, while the 2.0-liter engine delivers impressive fuel economy at 20 mpg (city) and 25 mpg (highway).

The AutoPacific VSA establishes numerical satisfaction ratings for the majority of cars and light trucks in the North American market. Owner satisfaction is measured across 48 categories relating to specific areas of a vehicle's operation, comfort, safety and overall purchase or lease experience. The 2009 ratings reflect input from more than 25,000 buyers and lessees of new vehicles acquired September through December 2008.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia: It's a real Soul machine

2009-05-19T13:14:00.001-04:00

Hot new crossover turns heads, delivers fuel efficiency, comfort

It's sleek, stylish, and the kind of car that you'd expect a first-time driver to be cruising down the roadway.

But when it comes to the 2010 Kia Soul -- the new crossover vehicle that combines the style of modern automotive engineering with the reliability of Kia's legendary warranty -- the model destroys the mold of the typical buyer.

According to Kia Country General Sales Manager Dan Espino, the first buyer of the Kia Soul was a lady in her 60's who drove down from the foothills and hadn't purchased a new car in over 15-years.

While age specific additions like Bluetooth connectivity and an iPod ready stereo are at the ready, the roomy interior and the fuel-efficiency -- topping 30 miles per gallon -- help make the Soul appeal to just about everybody.

And when it comes to how the Kia Soul stacks up to the other competitors in its class -- the Scion xB and the Nissan Cube -- the Soul can hold its own in a dogfight with other compact crossovers that are starting to appeal to more fuel and cost-efficient drivers.

According to a Popular Mechanics test earlier this year, the magazine voted the Soul the best of the three competing models with an average combined mileage of 31.2 miles per gallon -- noting that it was the "canyon carver" of the group that claimed the grin-inducing persona that the testers enjoyed.

"This car has done very well for us and it's only been here for a short time," Espino said. "We've had several people say that they were going to look at other models like the Scion and that usually means that we've lost them.

"But we've had two of them come back and purchase the Soul, and that says a lot about what this car has to offer and the impact that it's making on buyers."

For those looking to get outdoors the Soul has a ton of practical features like a hidden tray in the cargo floor, a dual-level glovebox, cruise control, and ample center console storage.

Added features that only make the experience of driving that much more pleasurable include pulsating speaker lights, Sirius satellite radio, and a sunroof.

"This car has something for everybody, and it's something that you really have to look at to believe," Espino said. "Once you get behind the wheel of one you aren't going to want to let go."

By Jason Campbell
Manteca Bulletin

Kia's new soul-stirring model sure to excite

2009-05-18T11:14:00.000-04:00

Bam! Kia has turned it up a notch. The Korean automaker brought automotive scribes here to test drive its new Soul. The five-door run about has the potential to change Kia's public persona from a manufacturer of small affordable but bland looking vehicles to the producer of funky fun to drive cars that are values for the money.

The Soul is an econo-box. It is small, square and relatively fuel-efficient. But Kia's designers angled the roof, the hood and the character lines from front to back so the vehicle looks like it's moving when standing still. That's a pretty nifty feat for a vehicle in this price category.

The Soul is an urban car aimed at youthful drivers. But Kia is realistic. Executives understand that style and value attract older drivers, too. The Soul comes in four trim levels: Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport.

Prices begin at $13,300 for the base Soul, while the Soul+ starts at $14,950 and tops out at $17,100 when all options are included. The Soul! Begins at $16,950 and tops out at $17,900. The Soul sport, starts at $16,950 and ends at $18,600. Even when you add the $695 freight charge, any version of a fully equipped Soul will cost less than $20,000.That's not much for a car that will turn heads.

Oomph is provided by a 1.6-liter engine that makes 122 horsepower. There is also a 2.0-liter engine that makes 142 horsepower. Either engine can be mated to a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. Kia didn't bring Souls equipped with the smaller engine but I got a chance to drive the automatic and the manual.

But first let's talk about the interior. Kia has done an extraordinary job of livening up the Soul's interior with fabric and color. In this price range, we're talking about plenty of fairly hard plastic but in the Soul it has been softened with texture lines and different hues.

Further interior enhancements were provided by two-tone interiors as well as herringbone-emblazoned seats.

Then there was the equipment. With a youthful target, it's about sound. The Soul offered USB and auxiliary jacks. And I was particularly impressed that the Soul was equipped with satellite radio and Bluetooth that turns compatible cell phones into handless car phones. Heck, one option is speakers that will light up in sync with the music. There was also a 315-watt premium audio system with subwoofer.

Leaving downtown's Brickell Island, we drove through Miami Beach. With the Soul's high seating position I never felt like I was oversized by anything on the road. Sight lines were good, so was handling. And the ride wasn't bad. However, we did notice some road noise. We couldn't tell whether it was the car or its tires.

We came back and went to Coral Cables for lunch. From there, we headed to Key Largo. It was during this run that I found my only complaint with the Soul: the car is a little slow.

The Soul is so snazzy looking that I think buyers will expect it to be a lot quicker than it is. In other words, the Soul could use a little more horsepower. But don't get it twisted; the car doesn't have to be a brute. But 20 more ponies should make it quick and just about perfect.

I hope to get a Soul this summer for a week-long road test to gauge reaction to it as well as its reaction to roads that have been ravaged by a particularly cold winter. Still, the Soul is a watershed for Kia. It's got the right price and it's got good looks.

Frank S. Washington
AboutThatCar.com

Boxy Soul is ready to roll

2009-05-14T12:15:00.001-04:00

Americans already have heartily embraced the extreme boxiness of Toyota's Scion xB, and now two similar vehicles have joined the xB in the marketplace -- the 2010 Kia Soul and Nissan Cube.

The Soul arrived first, going on sale in March, but the Cube is right on its heels.

While the two are quite different in their styling, the concept is the same: a small box on wheels, with lots of interior space, that doesn't leave a big footprint (like one of those SUVs that people love to hate these days).

For this report, we tested the Soul, which one of my colleagues took one look at and declared it to be a "clown car." He even started humming a circus song.

The Soul does have a clownish look about it, but that's a huge part of its charm.

Kia's ads call it "A new way to roll," and the automaker says the Soul "playfully stands out in a sea of sameness."

Even with the xB and Cube around, there's still nothing that looks quite like the Soul.

For one thing, the roofline is sloped down from front to rear, while the belt line rises to meet it. That gives it almost trapezoidal side windows.

The rounded nose with its large headlights adds to the car's comical look, created by Kia's Southern California design team. The vehicle is "aimed toward the young and young-at-heart," Kia says.

As with the xB, this car will appeal to a young crowd, for sure, but also will be embraced by lots of us who are much older. Kia's not as afraid of that as Toyota was with the xB, which was intended for young audiences only. Toyota created the Scion models to bring young buyers into the brand, then seemed somewhat shocked that older folks were buying the xB and loving it.

A redesign of the xB two years ago made it larger and less boxy, however, so now it's really in a different category from the Soul and Cube. Many fans of the original xB don't care much for the new one, and these consumers just might be the best prospects for the Soul and Cube.

The xB now seems to be competing more with the larger and more expensive Honda Element, while the Soul and Cube are in a class that includes such entries as the Suzuki SX4, Scion xD (and similar Toyota Yaris five-door), and maybe even the redesigned Honda Fit and the new Mini Cooper Clubman. Other competitors could include the Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass.

Prices begin at $13,300 (plus $695 freight) for the Soul base model with a 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual gearbox. No automatic transmission is offered with the base engine, though.

The other three Soul trim levels -- Plus, Exclaim and Sport -- come with a 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter four cylinder and a choice of the five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

Prices range as high as $18,900 for the Sport version with all available options.

Our tester was the Exclaim model with automatic transmission ($17,900 plus freight). It came in a funky color Kia calls "Alien green." It looks like it just rolled in from Roswell, N.M., after departing from the Mother Ship.

Other available exterior colors include three shades of white (are there really different shades of white?) called Dune, Clear and Ghost; Denim blue; "flame-emulating" Ignition; "coffee-inspired" Java; "red-hot" Molten; and three metallic tones, Shadow, Titanium and Bright Silver.

Standard features on the base model include a chrome grille, auto-off headlights, solar glass, black door handles and side mirrors, air conditioning, tilt steering column, power door locks, power windows with driver's side auto-down, external temperature display and digital clock in the radio, dual-level glove box, rear-window defroster, cargo area light, body-color front and rear fascias with black inserts, black side molding, rear wiper/washer, variable intermittent front wipers and 15-inch steel wheels.

Moving up to the Plus model brings cruise control with steering-wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth phone connection, dual 12-volt power outlets, tweeter speakers, dual visor vanity mirrors, dual map lights, keyless remote entry, privacy glass, body-color door handles and (power) side mirrors and 16-inch alloy wheels. Options include fog lights and a power sunroof.

With our Exclaim model came the sunroof and fog lights, along with quite nice 18-inch alloy wheels that helped exaggerate the clownish look.

The Sport version adds side sills, a rear spoiler, and unique front and rear fascias.

Inside, this car won me over from the start. The large, high doors allow for easy entry and exit, something I enjoyed immensely after a week of trying to fold myself into and out of the Saturn Sky roadster.

Once inside, this car that seems so small on the outside is quite cavernous. The front bucket seats were as comfortable as I've found in a car that sells for under $40,000, and the interior layout was designed with practicality and usefulness in mind.

Where with the Sky I never found a place to put my cell phone, the Soul had lots of cubbies and cup holders that were perfect for my assortment of traveling electronic companions, including my PDA phone, iPod Touch, classic 80-gigabyte iPod, backup phone and the ever-present pocket-size Sony digital camcorder (you never know when you might need that at a moment's notice).

The phone and iPods fit nicely in a compartment just below the top of the dash. It has a door that swings up when opened and can be closed to hide the gadgets from view while the vehicle is parked.

The little camcorder fit nicely in one of the cup holders, but when I needed both of those (with a passenger on board), the camera went into a nice, square tray just in front of the shifter.

My iPod Touch was plugged into the auxiliary jack on the front of the audio system so I could hear my tunes through the car's speakers. There was also a USB port there that allowed me to control and to play the classic iPod through the audio system. But the audio system was not compatible with the Touch, which means it won't be with the iPhone, either.

Sirius satellite radio and a CD player were part of the audio system, which in my car had six speakers. My only complaint was that I couldn't crank the volume as high as I like to have it sometimes.

The dash is stylishly sloped, and the analog gauges are large and easy to read.

Rear passengers have easy access through the large rear doors, and there is plenty of head- and legroom. Three can sit back there quite comfortably, which is unusual for a car this small.

Access to the cargo area is through a rear hatch that rises in one piece. There is enough room for a couple of suitcases or sports gear even with the rear seatbacks in place, but the cargo space can be expanded to 53 cubic feet by lowering the 60/40 split seatbacks.

While I haven't driven the 122-horsepower base model, I found the 142-horsepower engine to be more than adequate for most of my driving, while riding alone or with a front-seat passenger. Occasionally, the Soul struggled to get up to freeway speed on uphill on-ramps, but it wasn't a real problem.

The automatic transmission shifts quite smoothly, but could use an extra gear to help with fuel economy. Even so, our tester was EPA rated at 24 miles per gallon city/30 highway, not bad for a car with this much carrying capacity. The smaller engine has mileage ratings of 26 city/31 highway.

Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, active front headrests, front seat-mounted side air bags, roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for both rows, electronic stability and traction control, electronic brake-force distribution with brake assist and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

G. Chambers Williams III
MySA.com

Kia Soul! -- Yes! A car just brimming with punctuation!

2009-05-12T10:11:00.001-04:00

Gotta hand it to those marketing folks. Kia, the big Korean auto maker that is quickly gobbling up the market niche that used to be exclusive to the Japanese, has come up with a new wrinkle: put an exclamation point after the car's name -- it's the Kia Soul! -- and see what happens.

What happens is that people like me, who deal in puncutation on a more or less regular basis, take note of it. We scratch our proverbial chins and realize that Kia has caught our attention. And that is a laudable goal, given the dozens of cars that cry for attention nearly every day.

The Kia Soul (enough, awready, with the bang -- that's newsroom slang for an exclamation point) -- is a quirky, pretty well-designed sub-compact along the lines of the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe, Honda Fit, Chevy HHR, Suzuki SX4 and Scion (xD or xB).

It's a highly competitive market for these cars in the roughly $13,000 to $18,000 range, depending on the options and trim lines. The Kia Soul, a five-door hatchback, starts off with the base Soul (with a 1.6-liter, 122-horsepower four-banger), then moves up through three other versions (all with a two-liter, 142-horse four-banger) -- Soul + (yes, more punctuation, this time a plus sign); Soul! (aka Soul Exclaim) and Soul Sport. All but the base model come with standard electronic stability control.

We had the Exclaim, dressed in a sort of cream-colored paint with cloth seats, and here we have to tell you about the interior -- the tops of the otherwise black seats have a houndstooth check pattern. You'd think it be off putting, jarring, but it's not. It actually works with the otherwise plain interior.

There are all the usual mod cons sprinkled around the place -- redundant sound controls on the steering wheel, all electric windows (you'd think they would do all-power-down instead of just the driver's window; it can't cost that much more), sliding sunroof. But the piece de resistance is what Kia calls the "advanced lighting speaker."

Switch to "mood" and you get different shades of light in the front door speakers. Switch to "music" and the light kind of pulses high to low to high to low, depending on the type of music. It's not clear, what, exactly, the point of all this is, but it's diverting. The problem would be if it's so distracting that you pay more attention to the burbling light than you do to the road.

Speaking of which, when the Kia Soul is on the road it has that perky small car ride and feel -- it bounces! (see, we can use punctuation, too) over the bumps and it's not Lexus-quiet inside. But it does get up to speed and it does move down the highway at the same speed as those Lexi, even if it sounds as if the Soul is laboring a bit, or at least starting to breathe hard.

The seats are pretty comfortable and there really is room for five people, even if the ones in back will get to know each other well if they're on a long journey.

The main thing about this car, however, is that it's different from the rest of the pack and that is not a bad thing. The gimmicks -- the glowing speakers, the spunky name -- are just that. Gimmicks. But the rest of the car seems to work. It gets good gas mileage (in the 24 to 30 mpg) range, it's not expensive to buy. Awright!

SPECIFICATIONS

2009 Kia Soul!, five-door front-wheel-drive hatchback.

Price: test model, $18,595. (base price $17,900)

Powertrain: two-liter inline four-cylinder 142-horsepower engine; four-speed automatic transmission

Curb weight: 2,560 pounds.

Seating capacity: five.

Fuel consumption : 24 mpg, city; 30 mpg, highway.

Fuel tank capacity: 12.7 gallons.

Length: 161.6 inches; width: 70.3 inches; height: 63.4 inches; wheelbase: 100.4 inches.

Warranty: bumper to bumper: five years/60,000 miles; power train: ten years/100,000 miles.

Dependability: Kia ranks 27th (below industry average) out of 37 brands on the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study.

Safety: for vehicle safety ratings, visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Michael Taylor
SFGate.com

Kia puts its spirit into all-new Soul

2009-05-11T09:25:00.001-04:00

Kia Motors' new five-passenger vehicle offers another choice to car shoppers looking for fuel economy, lots of space and a unique personality.

The 2010 Soul was designed by Kia Motors' Southern California-based design team and is the latest in the company's lineup. It's actually the first of a line of next-generation vehicles that Kia plans to launch during the next two years.

"Soul offers the perfect combination of style, value and personalized options," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing for Kia Motors America. "It defies categorization, and has a long list of features and available accessories that really speaks to today's consumer."

Most automakers know that emotion has a lot to do with a customer's choice when buying a new or even a used vehicle - and it is styling that generates that emotional attraction. Soul doesn't offer the latest and greatest technical breakthroughs; it offers styling that sets it apart from its competitors.

Its low, wide stance, combined with an angled window line, rounded nose and large flared headlamps, gives Soul a trendy, youthful appearance.

Soul rides on a new platform that isn't shared with any other Kia or Hyundai vehicles. Constructed with more than 70 percent high-tensile-strength steel to enhance structural strength without adding a lot of weight, the new Kia body was engineered for high torsional stiffness - an attribute necessary for refined ride quality and handling.

Soul is available in four models: the base Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport. Most of the differences among the models are visual, such as the color of the door handles, different wheel sizes or unique front and rear fascias.

Soul's exterior styling allows a surprisingly spacious interior. Passengers will find comfort in the roomy cabin that offers passenger volume of 102.3 cubic feet, about the same as a Honda Element.

The dashboard has a three-dial instrument cluster and LCD illumination. The center-stack design allows easy access to the AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with Sirius Satellite Radio. Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks are in the center console with full iPod and MP3 controllability from the audio head unit or steering wheel controls.

For the Soul! and Soul sport, a standard audio upgrade package has center speaker, subwoofer, 315-watt external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music or simply add mood lighting. Soul features a fully independent, subframe mounted front suspension system with MacPherson struts, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is subframe mounted, using a transverse torsion-beam axle with trailing arms, coil springs and gas shock absorbers for a good ride and minimum cargo-space intrusion.

For those looking for driving fun, the Soul sport offers a sport-tuned suspension, metal pedals, unique and bold red-black interior trim with sporty red-trimmed cloth seats and metal-finish interior accents.

The base 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, producing 122 horsepower and 115 lb.-ft. of torque. For better performance, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 142-horsepower engine is available with either the five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. It's shared with several Hyundai vehicles.

s Fuel economy for the 1.6-liter manual is 26/31 mpg city/highway, while the 2.0-liter delivers 24/30 mpg with either the automatic or manual transmission.

Soul offers the same level of standard safety equipment as all other Kia vehicles, including front-seat active headrests, advanced air bags, front seat-mounted and full-length side-curtain air bags. Anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, electronic brake distribution, brake assist and tire-pressure monitoring are standard equipment.

Kia is steadily improving its reputation for building high-quality vehicles at very competitive prices, thanks to its close relationship with its owner, Hyundai.

Soul pricing begins at $13,300 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950 and tops out at $17,100. Upgrading to the Soul! runs the price up to $16,950 or $17,900 fully loaded, and the Soul sport starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600. The new Soul is proof that style, room and comfort can be had at a reasonable price.

By Dave Van Sickle MOTOR MATTERS
The Washington Times

2010 Kia Soul !: The kooky box that's almost perfect

2009-05-07T10:07:00.000-04:00

It's quite hard these days for any automaker to elicit long, head-cocked stares at a boxy compact. Honda started the kooky look with the 2003 Element, an SUV-like square with suicide doors and an interior floor that could literally be hosed down. A year later, Toyota brought over one of its Japanese-market subcompacts and labeled it the Scion xB, a supposedly youth-oriented toaster with gobs of headroom. Not to be outdone, Ford stretched the idea into a seven-passenger crossover last year, replete with a glass-topped white-painted roof, huge wheels, and enough ruler-straight lines to make a geometry teacher proud.

While the Flex is still gushing from its 2008 debut, the Element and xB have become so mainstream they hardly get second glances any more. But the 2010 Nissan Cube and Kia Soul are adding more punch to the Asian storage bin category, and while we can't vouch yet for the Cube, the Soul! (the exclamation is a trim level) was different enough to have Bostonians pointing and shouting at it.

Standing on the Kia's door sills as I snapped photos through the sunroof of the glowing red interior – and the dozens of bright LEDs in the door speakers – I heard a kid yell "gay car!" Think about that, Mr. Boston College student. If the Soul were gay, wouldn't Gaywheels.com stop lambasting Kia for denying domestic partner benefits to its gay employees? (Kia's PR head confirmed the company offers them, but Gaywheels.com is adamant that they're only for California). That's a tough call, but stepping further into this delusional, hormonal undergrad psyche reveals this: Girls are very curious about cars with big feet, and the Soul's attractive 18-inchers couldn't be more obvious.

For people who've graduated and actually have jobs, a car's sexual orientation isn't on their shopping lists. What's relevant about those big wheels and 225-width Hankook tires are their crisp, stable, no-slop handling. Combined with precise steering and minimal dead on-center feel, the Soul drives as refreshing as it looks. Granted, the body style isn't out to win a beauty contest, what with cartoonish headlights and side glass that angles downward toward the D-pillar. But it's not a copycat look, either, and the five-spoke rims give a no-nonsense attitude pushed to the edges on all corners.

The suspension never punishes, nor does chassis shake ever get in the picture. Ride comfort is surprisingly smooth, but the trade-off is a fair amount of body lean. The top-level "sport" offers a firmer setup that seems more in character with the aggressive body, but after driving the Honda Fit Sport, I don't think I could stomach a bone-jarring commute every day. The 10 percent of the time you're on twisty roads in the Boston area just isn't worth the headache.

The engine, however, could stand a tune-up from Honda. On paper, the 2.0 liter, 142 horsepower four-cylinder sounds sufficient for 2,820 pounds. At moderate speeds, it is, in addition to being quiet and vibration-free. But the engine gets coarse past 3,000 r.p.m., and it really isn't eager to go past that. When pushed, the four-speed automatic reveals wide ratio gaps that sap the torque out of the engine. The peaky power curves aren't the problem, and more output isn't needed. What the Soul deserves are faster revs and an overhaul on the gears – perhaps another one is all that's needed. A manual mode would also be a welcome effort.

The two-tone dashboard was tastefully matched to our car's Dune off-white paint, probably less so if had been colored Alien lime green or Molten bright red. The funky weave pattern on the headrests and the top of the front seats, not so much. Panel gaps are tight, and textured surfaces on the doors, steering wheel, and dash have a quality feel worthy of more expensive cars.

Ergonomics are first rate, too. The instrument panel is angled high for easy reach of the well-spaced buttons and knobs, and everything is labeled and positioned right where you'd expect. No door lock switches on the center console like on pricey Jaguars and BMWs, or digital displays crammed with too many readouts. There's nothing to figure out, and that alone deserves major kudos.

Unfortunately, the back seat isn't as inviting. The rear doors include large cupholders like up front, but there are no air louvers or power outlets.

The 315-watt, 8-speaker audio system comes with iPod, USB, and auxiliary inputs, plus the aforementioned front speaker lights that flash in sync with the beats. They're distracting while driving – even in the slow-phase "mood" setting – but fun to amuse passengers and passersby. Sound quality gets distorted at higher volumes, but this no-name system has a decent amount of chest-thumping bass. Blast Dr. Dre in the Kia and you'll get more respect than if you cranked "Still D.R.E." in an Escalade, which had a weak Bose unit.

Fuel economy was just so-so in our tester, which just had 1,200 miles. Like the Toyota Yaris I recently drove, there's no trip computer, but after 227 miles of mostly city driving, the Soul returned an estimated 21 to 22 miles per gallon. While not far below the EPA 24/30 rating, it's an unimpressive number for a car this size, especially since an all-wheel-drive Suzuki SX4 I drove in the snow returned nearly the same numbers.

But in value terms, the Kia is well-positioned among the competition. At $17,900 ($18,595 with destination), this Soul – with Bluetooth, Sirius radio, tilt wheel, power moon roof, and fog lamps – is a better buy than the bare-bones $17,515 Yaris S and about $1,500 less than a comparative Scion xB. There's a few rough edges on this box, but Kia has delivered a remarkably fresh design, something that couldn't be said about the Korean company's offerings even a year ago.

Clifford Atiyeh
Boston.com

2010 Kia Soul Recognized by Texas Auto Writers Association as 'Best Value'

2009-05-06T11:13:00.000-04:00

Urban Passenger Vehicle Highly Regarded in 2009 Spring Challenge Writer's Choice Awards

# All-new Kia honored by Texas-based automotive media association
# Soul named to annual awards list chosen specifically by journalists

IRVINE, Calif., May 4, 2009 – Kia Motors America, Inc. (KMA) today announced the 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle has been named "Best Value" in the Writer's Choice Awards for the 2009 Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Spring Challenge. One of only seven vehicles honored in this year's list, Soul was ultimately chosen for its smart combination of attractive pricing, long list of accessories and standard safety features.

"Soul is just one of many all-new vehicles Kia will be launching throughout the next year with a heavy focus on design and value," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "We recognize the high-level of competition during these events and are pleased that members of TAWA appreciate Soul's value, standard features and available accessories."

Also a recipient of the "Grooviest Interior" award from Ward's AutoWorld, Soul is available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. Pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,300 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950 and tops out at $17,100 when all options are included. Moving up to the Soul! offers a price beginning at $16,950 and peaks at $17,900 with all available options included and the Soul sport, designed for those with active lifestyles, starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600 with all available options included.

Soul stands out from the crowd with modern, unique styling aimed toward the young and young-at-heart and offers a unique combination of style, value and personalization options. An available Audio Upgrade Package includes speaker lights that can pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting to the interior cabin, enhancing the overall personal lounge feeling. The Soul+ offers funky black cloth seats with "glowing" Soul logo inserts while the Soul! trim comes with a distinctive sand-black interior with houndstooth-patterned inserts, and the Soul sport presents a bold red-black interior trim with red-trimmed cloth seats and metal-finish interior accents.

The TAWA Spring Challenge is held the last Monday of every April at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas. Members of the Texas-based media association have the opportunity to test drive sports cars, sedans, crossovers, roadsters, coupes, and vans in a controlled environment and evaluate each vehicle against others entered in the competition.

Kia Motors Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte sedan and Forte Koup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Borrego -- a truck-based SUV that's a bit out of date

2009-05-05T09:29:00.001-04:00

Maybe the Kia Borrego is just the car for its eponymous California desert town -- Borrego Springs, in a remote northeast section of San Diego County.

"Borrego Springs is a village within a park completely surrounded and protected by the amazing 600,000 acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park," the town's Chamber of Commerce and Visitor's Bureau says on its Web site. "Here in San Diego's only desert community, the nearest stoplight is fifty miles away. We have no big box or chain stores. The slower, uncomplicated pace, the scenic beauty and the human scale of the place combine to produce a rustic, authentic desert experience, a special place, in all seasons."

Just the place to have a slightly antiquated, boxy, upright, solid SUV whose time may have gone by. Not that we went to Borrego Springs to try out the Borrego. But we traveled vicariously, through the wonders of the Web.

The point about comparing the desert town to this biggish SUV is that, while Borrego Springs may seem out of whack in time it does so in a charming and inoffensive way -- we like having a town out there in the middle of almost nowhere, west of the Salton Sea and east of the moon. It's comforting. It's safe.

But do we like having an SUV whose time may be past? The big Kia, based, as it is, on a truck platform, has many of the ills associated with riding in a truck -- there is that wallowing feel you sometimes get on rough roads; it's high off the ground (the running boards help); and it has that rough, almost mannish manner about it that says it is no namby-pamby station wagon.

All well and good, except, well.... things have advanced in the auto world and the one thing that is fairly obvious is that crossover utility vehicles offer about the same amenities and hauling capacities as the Borrego, but your backside does not get beat up during that 15-mile trip to that shopping mall across the county.

The point is that for roughly the same money (our test model started life at about $30,000 and stickered at more than $36,000, when optioned up) you could get one of the terrific General Motors clan of crossovers, typifed by the GMC Acadia or Buick Enclave.

Those two, while getting roughly the same fuel mileage (the Kia and the GM variants all hover in the 16/22 mpg area) are vastly better riding and just feel and look classier.

The Borrego has two power trains available -- a 3.8-liter, 276-horse V6, and a 4.6-liter 337-horsepower V8 -- and also comes in two-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. We had the V6 AWD version and it had plenty of power for the normal urban and suburban crawl. Interestingly, the fuel mileage on the V6 is only one mpg better than the V8, which would make me (a power-hungry chap) err on the side of the bigger motor.

The Borrego, on the plus side (if this is a plus) has the same muscular feel to its looks as Acura's MDX or Nissan's Armada -- it's that big, bruising, hulking mien -- and it makes you feel invincible up there on the freeway, cruising past all the small fry to port or starboard.

There is one little weird detail that I couldn't figure out: in the instrument panel, the water temperature gauge looked like every standard gauge, with one exception. The "H" was on the left and the "C" was no the right. Huh? Normally, you watch the needle going from left to right, starting with Cold on the left. In the Kia, it was backwards. A quirk by a designer? something for the U.K. market? Who knows?

So... is this an attractive buy in the SUV pantheon? Depends on how you like your trucks. If you like trucks that say they are trucks and not some wimpy wagon, then go ahead. But if you'd like a smoother ride, with the same cargo space and modern amenities, I'd go for something newer.

SPECIFICATIONS

2009 Kia Borrego, five-door all-wheel-drive SUV.

Price: test model, $36,295. (base price $29,995)

Powertrain: 3.8-liter V6 276-horsepower engine; five-speed automatic transmission

Curb weight: 4,460 pounds.

Seating capacity: seven.

Fuel consumption : 16 mpg, city; 21 mpg, highway.

Fuel tank capacity: 20.6 gallons.

Length: 192.1 inches; width: 75.4 inches; height: 71.3 inches; wheelbase: 114 inches.

Warranty: bumper to bumper: five years/60,000 miles; power train: ten years/100,000 miles.

Dependability: Kia ranks 27th (below industry average) out of 37 brands on the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study.

Safety: for vehicle safety ratings, visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Source: Kia Motors; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

SFGate.com

Kia rolls with Soul

2009-05-04T10:43:00.001-04:00

It's nice to see a manufacturer that's doing something right in this slumping economy. And with the launch of its 2010 Soul, Kia is definitely doing something right.

This oddly shaped vehicle may not look like much at a glance, but I encourage you to look again. When you do, you'll see a nicely equipped vehicle with air conditioning, a total cargo volume (with rear seats down) of 53.4 cubic-feet, seating for five and standard safety that includes six airbags.

Oh, and did I mention that you can get all this for less than $14,000?

Kia's tagline for the Soul is: "A new way to roll." The manufacturer has set out to create a cool vehicle that gives you everything you need and plenty that you want. The idea is to make consumers think differently about the Kia brand as well as provide a cost-effective ride that doesn't mean "cheap."

The manufacturer has made no secret that the Scion xB is in its sights. Nor has Kia hidden the fact that it thinks the Soul will beat the pants off the new Nissan cube.

As far as the xB is concerned, my brief time behind the wheel of the Soul leads me to conclude that the Soul has far surpassed that previous trendsetter. Scion made a mistake with the second-generation xB, not only by creating a second-gen vehicle in the first place but also by making it bigger and more expensive. The Soul has a base price that is a full $2,000 less than the xB, and it is 7 inches shorter. For an "urban" vehicle, every dollar and every inch counts. Not to mention the fact that the quality of the Soul exceeds that of the xB, and the Soul is an overall tighter package with better handling.

I haven't yet had any seat time in the cube, so I can't make any direct comparisons in terms of quality or handling. But, on paper, cube offers only one engine choice, a base 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 122 horsepower, and it has a starting price that's just $5 less than the Soul. Visually, I like the warped "wraparound" window of the cube, but overall I like the interior creativity of the Soul better.

One of the things I really liked about the Soul is the different levels with unique trims for each. The base Soul is pretty minimal with three exterior color options (black, white and silver) and one interior color scheme (black). It is the only model that comes equipped with the 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 122 horsepower. Plus at this level there is one transmission (the five-speed manual), and the only option is floor mats ($95). In addition to the aforementioned standard features, the entry-level Soul also includes a four-speaker audio system with AM/FM/MP3/SAT, USB and auxiliary jacks, 15-inch wheels, electronic stability control and tire pressure monitoring system. Base price for the Soul is $13,995.

Upgrading to the + model keeps it close to $15,000 with the five-speed manual transmission and the up-level 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 142 horsepower. This level adds standard features like three additional paint colors (green, red and titanium), 16-inch wheels, a six-speaker audio system and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity. Options at this level include the audio upgrade with subwoofer and speaker lights ($400), floor mats ($95) and power sunroof with fog lights ($800). The interior color scheme at the + level is black with a twist. The seating surfaces have textured inserts with the word "Soul" repeating throughout. This might sound kind of busy and distracting, but it covers such a small selection of the seats that it actually looks nice. Plus, the "Soul" glows in the dark. At this level you'll pay $15,645 for the manual transmission and $16,595 for the automatic.

The next level is !, and it does away with the white, silver and red colors and adds Dune and Java (my favorite) to the green, titanium and black. The ! also takes the options from the + level and makes them standard. So you'll add $2,000 to the price tag, and you get 18-inch wheels and $1,200 in options. Plus, yet again, the interior scheme changes. The basic seating surface is black, but the headrests and top of the seats have a black-and-sand colored houndstooth print that's both kitschy and stylish. There are no options available at this level. For the ! with the manual transmission, you'll pay $17,645, and for the automatic you'll pay $18,595.

The final level of the Soul is the Sport. It has the same pricing as the ! model, but it has a few differences in equipment and colors. The sunroof becomes a $700 option, but the Sport adds unique front and rear fascias, unique side sills and a rear spoiler. Dune and Java are dropped from the color lineup, and silver, red and white reappear. The interior scheme is also different with black-and-red sport cloth.

There were no base models for us to test during the press preview, so we were only able to look at models with the 2.0-liter engine. While 142 horsepower doesn't seem like very much in the modern world of 400-horsepower V-8s, I have to say that the Soul was well powered for an entry-level four-cylinder vehicle. It wasn't underpowered at all, and I think a Chicagoan in need of those frequent quick starts and highway merges wouldn't be disappointed. Plus the mileage ratings for a vehicle of this size will be hard to beat. For this engine you're looking at city/highway Environmental Protection Agency estimates of 24/30 mpg. The 1.6-liter engine sees slightly better mileage estimates of 26/31 mpg.

My driving partner and I had the opportunity to drive a manual transmission Sport model and an automatic transmission + model. While I liked the manual transmission, this is one instance where I will tell you to pay the extra $1,000 for the automatic -- even if you are adept at driving a stick. The automatic transmission was so much better and incredibly well geared for those quick accelerations, that I couldn't do better myself with the manual. And, let's face it, in Chicago the automatic is typically the preference anyway with all that stop-and-go traffic.

I noticed that the suspension in the Sport model was a little stiffer than the +, but it was a minimal difference. Ride and handling was pretty steady in both vehicles, and I liked the stiff, responsive steering. Additionally, interior quietness was incredibly good for a vehicle in this price category. Overall fit and finish was also well above what you'd expect for a vehicle in this price range.

Another key selling point of this vehicle for me was the driving position. The manual height adjustable seat and tilt steering column really helped me get the driver's seat exactly where I wanted it. An added bonus: The seats were comfortable in all positions for long stretches of time.

The interior of the Soul is simple yet attractive. I liked the red gauge lighting, and the controls on the center stack were intuitive and easy to reach. The thing that really struck me about the interior, though, was the genuine quality. In addition to being attractive, nothing felt cheap or flimsy. Even the storage compartment at the top of the stack was solid.

I really got a kick out of the optional audio package with the speaker lights. Even though I didn't get the full effect since we only drove in daylight, I could get the general idea with the vehicle parked in shade. The red speaker lights can be set to the rhythm of the music (my favorite), to a steady blink-blink-blink beat or simply to on.

Other standard features of note include the dual glove box that is large enough to hold a laptop computer, power door locks, power windows with driver's side auto down, rear window defroster and standard steering wheel audio controls and cruise control beginning at the + level.

As this was just a preview of the Soul, my time behind the wheel was brief. But my first impression of this hip urban vehicle is favorable. I liked the oddball looks and unique interior treatments depending on the trim level. I liked the ride and handling, and I really liked the four-speed automatic transmission. The Soul has a nice size and even better fuel economy, both of which are becoming increasingly important in today's society.

So with its new "halo" vehicle, Kia presents what it calls: "The right vehicle at the right time." I think it's spot on.

BY JILL CIMINILLO
Chicago Sun-Times

Tiny Kia Soul is a boxy cutie with plenty of space and style

2009-04-30T10:17:00.000-04:00

MIAMI -- Kia's new Soul shows the company has a sense of humor and a sense of adventure.

Soul is a deliberate word play on Seoul, capital of South Korea. And Soul, the car, is a boxy little number that's sure to tip Kia's image upside down. Or give it an image in the first place. The automaker thinks it has neither a positive nor negative image and is starting with a clean page.

You, on the other hand, might already have an impression of Kia as the low-price car company you consider if you're on a tight budget.

Soul, though, is what they call "aspirational" in the car business. That is, a model that people want; to which they aspire. Not one for which they settle. It's meant to make Kia your first stop to shop.

Soul is another of a growing number of wheeled boxes, along the lines of Honda's Element, Scion's xB and Nissan's Cube, Soul is aimed at urban hipsters. Thus, the official rollout to reporters in the rich and funky South Beach area of this city -- somewhere that in any other context could seem an odd match for Kia.

Funky urban stuff aside, Soul is a nifty car that will appeal on many levels to many people.

The boxy shape is appealingly honest. Rectangles are just what they appear to be -- roomy containers. And when designers start with a box, delightful things happen to passenger space and comfort.

For a little car -- same length as a Honda Fit -- Soul packages enough space to haul adults and their gear in comfort, though three-across in back is a skosh tight. But fore-aft room is generous. In fact, the back seat has nearly as much legroom as most cars' front seats -- meaning it has a lot more than most rear seats.

Lanky adults can sit back there without rubbing knees against the back of the front seat, even when it's back far enough for tall folks in front.

For another thing, a box swallows a lot more stuff than you'd get inside a car with the same footprint but a sloping roofline.

All models except the base version have a robust foam cargo tray under the rear floor, too. The tray will hold some types of baggage. Nice.

The backs of the rear seats fold forward with a single movement to form a flat-load floor.

Possibly useful: The glove box door, open, is a tray big enough to hold a laptop computer. There's not enough room to open the laptop's lid and use it, but stowing it on the open glove box door keeps it from sliding off the seat and crashing to the floor in fast stops. Of course, you could just put it on the floor to begin with, but somebody at Kia thought it useful to offer the glove-box tray, so there it is. If nothing else, it seems to impress people when you show it off.

Also showy, for extra dough: lighted door-panel audio speakers, with four modes, no less. Off, for no-nonsense folks. On, for those who like the constant glow: Pulsing (called "mood"), and pulsing to the beat of music (called "music"). Amusing, and that's a useful attribute these dark days of iffy jobs and a murky economic future.

And dashboard lights zigzag around some controls, innocuous by day, striking at night.

You get smooth, touchable surfaces everywhere, and controls that are well-located, easy and pleasant to use.

Driving the box mainly is satisfying, though there's a major minus -- the drivetrain. The 2-liter engine roars and thrashes, even when not asked for much response. The four-speed automatic jerks on many shifts. The manual box is a bit sloppy moving from gear to gear.

If you were hoping for a taut, rev-happy, go-get-me machine, sorry. Go buy that Mini Cooper.

But for those not married to the sporting life behind the wheel, Kia's go-goodies are good enough. The power's there, it just ain't happy.

Otherwise, the driving experience in the test cars generally was satisfying, because:

-Steering was good. Straight ahead without lots of fussy little jiggles. Firm enough to give suitable feedback in corners, light enough that parking's no hassle.

-Brakes came on right now. Touchy, some folks will say. But in this city, where no lanes seem to be strictly for going, and random stops in front of you happen without reason frequently, maybe touchy's just what you want.

Modern disc brakes are on each wheel; no resorting to drums in back to cut pennies. However, the rear suspension is a beam axle, not an independent setup, so it qualifies as crude nowadays. Still, no hopping and slewing over bumps, as you often get with a beam axle in back.

-Suspension was adequate. Comfortable ride and good control on fast freeway ramps and other moderate challenges. But wind gusts could be taxing, as were really tight, fast corners. It's a tall car, loosely based on the everyday Kia Rio sedan, so what'd you expect? Go-kart handling?

Soul's striking styling, its fun accessories and the car's remarkable room and comfort add up to powerful appeal. Now, if Kia'd just slap in a refined drivetrain the box would be tough to beat.

ABOUT THE KIA SOUL

What? The latest small, boxy car to hit the market. A subcompact, front-drive, four-door hatchback -- classed by the government as a small station wagon, and referred to within the industry's size nomenclature as a "C-segment" car. But forget that. It's just a rectangular way to present a small car. Available in four levels: Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport.

When? On sale since Feb. 15.

Where: Made in South Korea.

Why? Boxy could be the new sleek, and nobody wants to miss the trend.

How? Heavily modify a Kia Rio car chassis and craft a boxy body pretty close to a concept car that made its debut at Detroit in 2006.

How much? The base model -- which Kia says only 5% of customers will buy -- starts at $13,995 including $695 shipping. Loaded models top out around $19,000. Test cars: a Soul+ with automatic transmission and several options ($17,890); a Sport with manual transmission and a $700 sunroof ($18,345).

How many? 40,000 this year, Kia forecasts.

How potent? Base model gets a 1.6-liter four-cylinder rated 122 horsepower at 6,300 rpm, 115 pounds-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm. Others: 2-liter four-cylinder rated 142 hp at 6,000 rpm, 137 lbs.-ft. at 4,600 rpm. Five-speed manual transmission standard; four-speed automatic optional on all but base.

•How big? In inches, 161.6 long, 70.3 wide, 63.4 tall, on 100.4 wheelbase. Passenger space is listed as 83 cubic feet. Cargo area is 19.3 cubic feet behind the back seat, 53.4 when back seat's folded. Base model weighs 2,560 lbs. Others: 2,800 lbs. with manual, 2,820 with automatic. Turning circle is a tight 34.4 feet.

How thirsty? Base model rated 26 miles per gallon in town, 31 on the highway, 28 combined. Others: 24/30/26. Test car with 2-liter and automatic got 21 mpg in lead-foot suburban use, equivalent to 4.76 gallons per 100 miles. Uses regular. Tank holds 12.7 gallons.

•Overall: A nice car needs a better drivetrain.

By James R. Healey, USA TODAY