Automakers

Report: 2010 Kia Soul Priced From $13,995

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 08:33:26 -0600

Look out Scion xB -- not only is the new Kia Soul more attractive, it's MSRP is a whole lot less than Toyota's second-generation xBox. In a memo meant for dealer eyes only, the Soul's pricing and specifications were leaked, showing that the new little econo-hatch will start at $13,995, which includes standard items such as six airbags, ESC, air conditioning, power windows/locks, ABS, and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with three months of free Sirius radio. The base engine for the Soul will be a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder.

Moving up the chain, the Soul + gets a bump in power to 142 horses from its 2.0-liter engine. Sixteen-inch wheels, rear disc brakes, tinted windows, power mirrors, body-matched color door handles, Bluetooth, keyless entry, and cruise all come packaged in with this Plus model, which will retail for $14,950 with a five-speed manual and $15,900 with a four-speed automatic.

Lastly, there's the top-trim Soul! which uses the same 2.0-liter engine, but has attractive eighteen-inch wheels, fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, metal interior trim, and an upgraded stereo. Optional Soul! equipment includes a sunroof and a sport package consisting of unique front and rear fascias, side sills, a rear spoiler, sport-tuned suspension, red/black interior, and sport pedals. The Soul! will command $16,950 and $17,900, respective to their transmissions.

+ Autoblog: Leakage: 2010 Kia Soul starting at $13,995

Mystery Kia Soul Concept Headed for Detroit

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:22:58 -0600

Even though the production Kia Soul recently debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the folks at Kia say that they'll be unveiling the next chapter in the Soul story in Detroit next month. Kia goes so far to say that this concept is more than just a re-packaging treatment, but it will demonstrate the flexibility of the original Soul design.

Based on this teaser shot, we're not sure what to expect. A coupe? Pickup? Two-door crossover? We'll leave the speculation up to you, our readers. Let us know what you'd like to see, in comments. In the meantime, click through the post to read Kia's short press release and stay tuned for the official reveal at the North American International Auto Show next month.

KIA UNVEILS NEW SOUL CONCEPT AT NAIAS

Kia Motors will unveil a new take on the Soul at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January.

The all-new concept based on the recently revealed and eagerly anticipated Soul urban crossover passenger car is more than just a re-packaging treatment, as it will demonstrate the flexibility of the original Soul design first shown at the 2006 NAIAS.

Soul is due to go on sale in the UK from March 1 2009. Full range details, specification and prices are yet to be revealed but Soul will be available to UK customers with fuel-efficient 1.6 litre petrol and 1.6 litre diesel engines and with a wide range of personalisation options.

The Kia Motors press conference for the 2009 NAIAS is scheduled to take place on Sunday, January 11, 2009 from 2:20-2:45 pm.

Test Fleet Roundup: Our Turkey Day Rides

NextAutos Staff — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 10:50:47 -0600

When we took some time off for the Thanksgiving holiday, it meant that our usual rotation of switching cars each day would be put on hold. Instead, we all had the chance to spend five days with a particular car in the test fleet; our choices being a 2009 Hyundai Genesis 3.8, 2009 Infiniti M35 Sport, Bosch Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD, 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, and a 2008 Kia Sportage.

Click through the gallery to read our individual thoughts about each vehicle.

Preview: First Official Photos of U.S.-Spec Kia Soul Leak Onto Web

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 09:33:00 -0600

The first official images of the upcoming U.S.-spec Kia Soul crossover have hit the web. Set to make its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month, the Soul should battle head-to-head with the Scion xB, though we much prefer the Kia's edgier looks and more aggressive styling than that of the Scion.

Although the Soul is engineered to accommodate an array of engine choices, the U.S.-spec model will only be available with a 142-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmision.

The Soul is expected to hit the American market in April of 2009. Of the 136,000 Souls that Kia intends to produce, 50,000 of those will be shipped Stateside. We'll be sure to give you the full details when the car is officially revealed in Los Angeles next month.

+ Kia World: Kia Soul to make it's official US premiere

Kia Forte Sales Brochure Slips Online

Seyth Miersma — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 11:13:07 -0500

The sales brochure for Kia’s Spectra-replacing Forte sedan has found its way onto the internet today, revealing a few new tidbits of information, and loads of new images of the fetching compact.

Korean pricing is set to range from 11.9 to 19.6 million won (approximately $11,200 to $18,500), but look for the car to start somewhere near the $13,000 range when it goes on sale in the U.S. 1.6-liter gasoline and diesel options are said to be on tap for Korean sale as well, though look for the car to come with a 2.0-liter gas engine at the top of the range in American dealerships when it goes on sale as a 2010 model.

+ Carscoop: New Kia Forte: 28 High-Res Photos and Official Brochure

Kia Unwraps New Forte Sedan

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 08:53:49 -0500

Just days after confirming that it would be replacing its compact Spectra model with a version of the Koup Coupe concept, Kia has let loose with the first official images of its Forte sedan.

The Forte design was led by Peter Schreyer, the man responsible for the first-generation Audi TT and the Volkswagen New Beetle, and seems to be taking Kia to a new stylistic level. The sedan incorporates elements of the Koup, including a toned down version of the front fascia treatment and taillights that trail around the rear corners. Despite being considerably more conservative than its concept cousin, we early fans of the Forte’s crisp, tailored, and surprisingly mature visage.

Word is that the car will make it to U.S. showrooms in 2009 and that a two-door version will be available soon after. Expect an all-new 1.6-liter four as the Forte’s base motor, with an optional 2.0-liter at the top of the range.

+ The Car Blogger (via Autoblog)

Kia to Replace Spectra with Koup-Like Coupe in 2009

Seyth Miersma — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 09:41:44 -0500

Kia has said that it will be replacing its best selling model, the compact Spectra, with a version of the Koup Concept shown at this year’s New York Auto Show.

A sedan version of the Koup will go on sale by mid-2009 said president of Hyundai-Kia Motors R&D, Lee Hyun-soon, and will be followed by a coupe proper a few months later. Kia believes that the coupe, which may very well lose the Spectra name, will sell better than the current Spectra hatchback.

The company is also hoping that the decidedly more modern and edgier styling of the Koup will turn the heads of younger buyers. Said Tom Loveless of Kia Motors America, “The Soul and Spectra Coupe — that's our opportunity to pick up steam in the future with Gen Y. We haven't done a lot in that arena."

+ Automotive News: 1st Kia coupe to debut in '09

New York 2008: Kia Koup Concept Comes Clad in Carbon Fiber

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:00:04 -0500

Kia debuted its Koup concept this morning, advertising a design that is likely to make its way into future products.

The Koup has got the wild wheels and glass roof that one might expect from a concept of this ilk, with an aggressive stance and a front end that’s vaguely reminiscent of Honda’s latest European Civic. There are also no shortage of carbon fiber bits, the material can be found on the side mirrors, rear diffuser, even as part of the Kia badge. Less impressive is the car’s hood, which seems a little ill-fitting and broad, with raised character lines that give it a bit of a peaked appearance.

The Kia concept is powered by a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged four, which sends 290 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. Kia claims that the engine’s gasoline direct injection system will also allow for better fuel economy and lowered emissions, in addition to granting the substantial power outputs.

Glance through our Kia Koup galleries and be sure to share your opinion of the concept in comments.

KIA DEBUTS KOUP CONCEPT AT 2008 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
Design Cues, Indicative of an Emotional and Powerful Driving Experience,
Reflect Brand Evolution• Distinctive "check mark" shape furthers the performance-inspired appearance
• Realistic interior design makes KOUP a true driver's car
NEW YORK, March 20, 2008 – Combining youthful exuberance with a sporty and sleek design, Kia Motors America (KMA) today globally debuted the KOUP concept at the 2008 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) during a press conference at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Illustrating the shape and evolution of future Kia vehicles, the simple yet bold and aggressive KOUP exterior is complemented by its realistic and sleek interior design. Originating from the Kia Motors America Design Center in Irvine, Calif., the KOUP concept embodies Kia's philosophy of "Exciting and Enabling" with its balanced proportions and fluid design set to evoke an emotional driving experience.
"The Kia KOUP concept represents the future of the Kia brand and its dynamic vehicles that speak to our core philosophies," said Tom Kearns, chief designer of KMA. "Kia strives to appeal to the emotional side of car enthusiasts who seek adventure and want to take a leap into the future with style and advanced technology, and the KOUP effectively delivers."
First Glance
Curb appeal begins with the KOUP's balanced proportions and fluid design. From the tab-shaped and purposeful upper grille to the high-tech and pragmatic headlamps, the front fascia's form gives the vehicle a bold and aggressive stance.
The KOUP features an uncomplicated yet dynamic wedge shape along its sides stemming from its glowing, carbon fiber and black chrome enhanced LED lamp lenses.
While the KOUP's overall form is simple and precise, it makes a design statement with positive tension created by a "swoosh" that swoops from the "C" pillar forward, down to the "A" pillar and flares all the way back around to the rear deck lid. A trailing horizontal lip along the deck lid tapers up toward the outer ends to meet up with the swoosh from the beltline. The rocker sill has a distinctive "check mark" shape and prominent wheel flares that give the KOUP a strong, lowered stance. The short overhangs and wide stance reflect its well-balanced and responsive character.
No element of high-style design is missing in the KOUP concept as illustrated by its greenhouse-integrated, panoramic-view glass with two panels extending from the windshield through the roof to the backlight, appearing as two parallel pieces of glass – similar to a fighter jet cockpit. Segregating the glass panels, an interior mood light runs the full length of the greenhouse. To further the performance-inspired appearance with sporty elegance, carbon fiber enhancements accent the KOUP's chin spoiler, lamp lenses, cowl panel, side-view mirrors, rear bumper insert and rear diffuser, while flashy twin wheel spokes include carbon fiber inserts paired with an open design to show off the Brembo® calipers and cross-drilled rotors.
Inside the Cockpit
Conceived artfully and with graphic precision, the KOUP's interior hones in on the desires of auto enthusiasts from the inward lean of the dashboard and Supervision instrument panel, enhancing the performance-inspired driving experience to the custom-designed, race-inspired steering wheel in front of a three-gauge instrument cluster. Carbon fiber accents on the shifter plate and seat tilt-adjust mechanism reinforce sporty performance.
Audiophiles and car enthusiasts alike will take heed of eight speakers, including large rear deck speakers matched to a juke box audio system, further harmonizing the driving experience. A built-in Bluetooth-enabled navigation system with Map On Demand (MOD) is just the beginning of the telematics services, including safe driving, car maintenance and life/assistance offerings.
The KOUP features a realistic interior design that integrates high-style materials, including rich and supple seat fabrics accentuated with concrete- and black-color trims. As a true driver's car, the front seats contrast the rear seats with opposing colors and patterning and horizontal, padded silicone bars occupy the seat backs for extra comfort. High-tech details are integrated into the interior, including convenient smart key with push button start, and a six-speed automatic transmission with steering column-mounted paddle shifters.
Taking Flight
Powered by a commanding 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower paired with a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) twin scroll turbocharger for greater power and efficiency, the KOUP delivers astonishing torque of 289 lb-ft at a low 2,000 rpm sustained to 4,000 rpm. By injecting fuel directly into the cylinder under high pressure using the Kia GDI system, the intake charge is cooled and combustion behavior is improved. Improved combustion assures excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Lower grille openings enable additional air intake for extra power.
Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, coil springs and stabilizer bars complement an independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts and an independent dual link rear suspension to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort and engine responsiveness. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling. In keeping with the KOUP's sporty essence, Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for quick movements and sharp turns paired with a sport-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and strut tower bar offer a tighter grip for more spirited driving.
Safety
The KOUP concept features all of the standard safety features offered in Kia's regular production vehicle lineup including six standard airbags and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) paired with CDC stabilizes the KOUP for maximum contact with the pavement. The large 245/40ZR19 tires complete the KOUP's impressive package. Also included is adaptive front lighting and cruise control, adding to the KOUP's advanced safety technology.

‘08 Geneva: Kia’s Soul Train Arrives In Geneva

Evan McCausland — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 16:30:16 -0600

Although we still haven't seen the finalized production car, Kia continues to tease us with concept versions of its upcoming Soul crossover. Taking the approach oft used for the SEMA show, Kia brought three tricked-out versions of the Soul - the Burner, Searcher and Diva - to this year's Geneva Motor Show.

The "hot" hatch of the three, the Soul Burner takes a tuner-type attitude to the five-door, donning a matte-black exterior with flaming red accents. The Burner sports 19" wheels with similar accents, aggressive LED lighting, and a red-on-black interior, complete with flashing lights mounted within each door's speaker grilles.

The Diva reminds us of a bad episode of "My Super Sweet 16," and it's not hard to see why. Although the pearlescent white finish isn't unattractive, the excessive use of chrome- and gold-plated materials in both the interior and exterior is over the the top. Inside, seats are finished in a quilted black leather reminiscent of designer purses, while a lace pattern etched into the panoramic roof projects its shape across the interior.

We think Kia looked to Volkswagen's New Beetle Dune when it came time to do the Soul Searcher, as the features added to give the Soul an "off-road" feel. A monotone-treatment's been applied to the body and trim, which includes larger bumper overriders. The five-slot wheels evoke previous Volkswagen designs, but the interior - which is trimmed mostly in jersey cloth - leaves us more than confused.

It's nice that Kia's already thinking of ways to personalize the Soul, but let's hope the performance-oriented version - the Burner - makes its way from show floor to showroom floor - and not the Diva.

Kia Takes Aim at Tuner Crowd with Soul Burner Concept for Geneva

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:00:04 -0600

Kia’s hitting Toyota’s Scion brand right in its wheelhouse for the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, by bringing a tuned version of its Soul CUV that looks a lot like an xB fan’s dream.

Kia released this teaser shot today of what it’s calling the Soul Burner (very hardcore) concept. We don’t have any details on the car, except for what we can see, but the Burner has the hot wheels, graphics, and cool light clusters that the kids all seem to like so much these days.

The Soul Burner will be joining two other Soul mods in Geneva that will show off the small car’s range of personalization options.

+ Autoblog: Geneva '08 Preview: Kia SOUL burner concept, the Koreans go after Scion

If you’ve got an idea for Question of the Day, a funny photo for Caption It, or just want to share a news tip, let us know at windingroadtips@gmail.com

‘08 NAIAS: 2009 Kia Borrego

Phil Floraday — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 12:40:44 -0600

Kia revealed the Borrego SUV at this year’s North American International Auto Show. Borrego is a midsize SUV that packs Kia’s first-ever V-8 engine.

Exterior styling is derived from the Mesa concept shown at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. Inside, Borrego offers luxury features like Sirius satellite radio, a 600 watt Infinity audio system with USB and iPod support, and Kia’s first DVD-based navigation system.

The V-8 is claimed to produce more than 300 horsepower and displaces 4.6-liters. The V-8 powered Borrego should be able to tow 7500 pounds and will be offered with two- or four-wheel-drive. A 3.8-liter V-6 engine will also be offered for those who don’t require V-8 power.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA INTRODUCES ALL-NEW BORREGO SUV
Newest Addition to Kia Line-up Makes its Debut at North American International Auto Show

DETROIT (January 13, 2008) – On the heels of record 2007 sales, Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the world debut of the all-new Borrego midsize SUV at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, further bolstering its product offerings in the United States. Inspired by Kia’s “less is more

Kia Launches Borrego SUV in Korea with New Official Images

Seyth Miersma — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 14:07:13 -0600

Kia’s Borrego midsize SUV has now been officially launched in Korea as the Mohave, which means that a whole new wave of official images is now available.

Though we don’t expect to have all the Borrego details until the U.S. launch of the truck at the Detroit Auto Show in just over a week, we can see that the Korean automaker has delivered a fairly handsome new vehicle. As reported, the Borrego will offer Kia’s first ever V-8, along with having a V-6 option, and will serve to seat seven.

Expect a full report and loads of live images when the Borrego goes off at NAIAS. Until then, enjoy our ever-expanding Kia Borrego gallery below.

+ Autoblog: Pics Aplenty: Kia Mohave/Borrego launches in Korea

If you’ve got an idea for Question of the Day, a funny photo for Caption It, or just want to share a news tip, let us know at windingroadtips@gmail.com