Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Kia Forte Koup may get brand's first-ever turbo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-kia-forte-koup-may-get-brands-first-ever-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-kia-forte-koup-may-get-brands-first-ever-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-kia-forte-koup-may-get-brands-first-ever-turbo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Kia Forte Koup - Click above for high-res image gallery

As General Motors' Saturn brand ushers its owners toward orphan-make status, at least one company is swooping in to pick at the bones of its carcass. Kia has been doing well lately, unlike nearly everyone else, its sales actually grew this year. The brand has been adding dealers by picking up ex-Saturn stores and looks to continue building market share in the East, as well as in selected large cities on the West Coast. Kia's VP of sales, Tom Loveless tells Automotive News there has been no concerted plan to go after Saturn dealers, they just happen to be in the markets Kia wants to expand into, and that some ex-Hummer and Chrysler dealers have joined, as well.

More interesting than tales of dealer signage changes is what may be coming product-wise. The Soul and Forte have been getting attention, and more new stuff is on the way as the 2011 Sorento drops in January. The Optima and Sportage both get the re-do treatment for 2011, and a hybrid lands in 2012. To counter the geek-chic of battery power, word is the sharp-looking Forte Koup might get an iron lung hung off its engine, making it the brand's first turbocharged car. Loveless seems open to the idea, calling it "a natural extension, if it makes financial sense." Word.


Gallery: Kia Forte Koup


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: Kia Forte Koup may get brand's first-ever turbo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Kia2010 Kia Forte2010 Kia Forte Koup2010Kia2010KiaForte2010KiaForteKoupkiaKia ForteKia Forte CoupeKia Forte Koupkia koupKIA Sorentokia soulkia turboKiaForteKiaForteCoupeKiaForteKoupKiaKoupKiaSorentoKiaSoulKiaTurbokoupkoup turboKoupTurboSaturnTom lovelessTomLovelessturbocharged forte koupTurbochargedForteKoupTue, 15 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia designers reportedly still want Soul'ster built - is there a market for it?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/kia-designers-reportedly-still-want-soulster-built-is-there-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/kia-designers-reportedly-still-want-soulster-built-is-there-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/kia-designers-reportedly-still-want-soulster-built-is-there-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Kia Soul'ster concept - click above for high-res gallery

Will they build it or won't they? That's the question we've all been asking since Kia showed off its funky Soul'ster concept earlier this year at the Detroit Auto Show. We've been hearing rumblings that there's a solid push from inside the Korean automaker's own ranks to put the little trucklet into production, and it appears that's still the case.

Speaking to our friends at PickupTrucks.com at the LA Auto Show, Tom Kearns, Kia North America's Chief Designer, said, "Kia's internal design community is firmly behind building the Soul'ster. We'd like to see it happen. There's no official decision to build it but it's still possible."

The base Kia Soul starts at $13,995, and though we have no idea what Kia might charge the Soul'ster if it were to make it to U.S. dealerships, the open-bed unibody would likely have its own little niche to itself as it figures to be significantly smaller and cheaper than vehicles like the Honda Ridgeline. Would it sell? Let us know what you think in 'Comments.'


Gallery: Kia Soul'ster Concept


[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Kia designers reportedly still want Soul'ster built - is there a market for it? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia soulkia soulsterKia Soulster Conceptkia soulster productionKiaSoulKiaSoulsterKiaSoulsterConceptKiaSoulsterProductionsoulsterSoulster Conceptsoulster productionSoulsterConceptSoulsterProductionTue, 08 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia gives UK buyers Soul Tempest]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/kia-gives-uk-buyers-soul-tempest/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/kia-gives-uk-buyers-soul-tempest/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/kia-gives-uk-buyers-soul-tempest/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Soul Tempest - Click above to enlarge

The first thing you need to know about Kia's new Great Britain-only Soul Tempest is that it's part of a series of Souls called "Originals," limited edition Kia Souls that get rotated in and out with the seasons. For instance, last season's Soul Original was the Samba, with the Shaker and Burner before it. And what is/was the last one, the Samba? Well, for one thing it had Tomato Red paint. For another, the interior was black on black with black "Soul Shine" fabric on the seats. Other than that, the Samba featured a kracklin' stereo coming complete with red LEDs in the speakers that pulsed along to the bass. So, that's a Samba.

But it's gone and now UK customers (and the Irish, too) can get themselves the newest Soul, an Original called Tempest. And just like with the Samba, what makes a Tempest? Glad you asked. The Tempest ditches the Samba's deep red for Titanium Silver set off by "high-gloss black" bumper inserts and wing mirrors. It also rides around on 18" wheels, however our colleagues over at Top Gear recommend against the big wheels.

Inside you still get the "Soul Shine" black seat trim, but in the Tempest its contrasted against a metallic center console and chrome instrument panel accents. You also get some more premium appointments like found on the Shaker - namely a reverse backup camera system along with more speakers and subwoofers. The Brits also have their choice of diesel or good old gasoline. While we'll (probably) never get a series like Originals here in the States, we do think it's pretty cool that Kia's doing special edition cars that cost under $20,000. Especially for the people buying them. Hit the jump for the press release.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Kia gives UK buyers Soul Tempest

Kia gives UK buyers Soul Tempest originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>KiaKia SoulKia Soul BurnerKia Soul OriginalsKia Soul SambaKia Soul TempestKiaSoulKiaSoulBurnerKiaSoulOriginalsKiaSoulSambaKiaSoulTempestSambaSoul BurnerSoul OriginalsSoul SambaSoul ShakerSoul TempestSoulBurnerSoulOriginalsSoulSambaSoulShakerSoulTempestTemptestTue, 03 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Once again, the Nissan Cube proves that it's hip (for older folks) to be square]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/report-once-again-nissan-cube-proves-that-its-hip-for-older/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/report-once-again-nissan-cube-proves-that-its-hip-for-older/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/report-once-again-nissan-cube-proves-that-its-hip-for-older/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2009 Nissan Cube Krom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Apparently, those with graying temples are attracted to cars that automakers had originally intended for younger audiences. This trend was most recently noticed with Honda Element and Scion xB, which featured heavily youth-slanted marketing schemes but were often purchased by those with a bit more experience under their belts.

By now, it's clear that trend is here to stay. According to USA Today, each automaker that offers a box-it-came-in mobile here in the United States - a list that includes the Honda Element, Kia Soul, Nissan Cube and Scion xB - reports that the average buyer is over the age of 40 and brings home over $60,000 per year.

Not surprisingly, it's not just the looks of these cars that attracts older buyers. Experts from AutoPacific and Edmunds suggest that the practical nature of such a design and its low price are key components of the genre's success. Just as long as somebody is buying them, we're pretty confident the boxy-but-cheap segment is here to stay.

Gallery: 2009 Nissan Cube Krom


[Source: USA Today]

REPORT: Once again, the Nissan Cube proves that it's hip (for older folks) to be square originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxyboxy carboxy carsBoxyCarBoxyCarshondahonda elementHondaElementkiakia soulKiaSoulnissannissan cubeNissanCubescionscion xbScionXbThu, 24 Sep 2009 09:57:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Time Magazine</i> lists its "10 Most Exciting Vehicles of 2010" - Do you agree?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/07/i-time-magazine-i-lists-its-10-most-exciting-vehicles-of-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/07/i-time-magazine-i-lists-its-10-most-exciting-vehicles-of-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/07/i-time-magazine-i-lists-its-10-most-exciting-vehicles-of-201/#commentsFiled under:

Time Magazine's 10 Most Exciting Vehicles of 2010 - Click above to begin

Before we begin, let us say that when it comes to cars, Time Magazine can get it right. Like the time they hired Dan Neil to write The 50 Worst Cars of All Time. That was really good. However, now Time has the "10 Most Exciting Vehicles of 2010," and boy is it really awful. In fact, it's so awful that we're dying to hear what Dan Neil thinks of it. Time's list isn't just regular bad, it's take all your credibility on a given subject and light it on fire bad. Akin to letting Glenn Beck run the civil rights desk. OK, but in car terms how bad? The Volkswagen Golf is one of Time's most exciting vehicles of 2010 - and that's not even the really terrible part. We're making you follow the jump for the really bad stuff.


Gallery: Time Magazine's 10 Most Exciting Vehicles of 2010

time-top-1-kiasouldemion_01time-top-2-gencoupe_1280_01time-top-3-01-2010-ford-taurus-sho-fdtime-top-4-ctssportwagon---01time-top-5-05-2011-jeep-chero-presstwo

Continue reading Time Magazine lists its "10 Most Exciting Vehicles of 2010" - Do you agree?

Time Magazine lists its "10 Most Exciting Vehicles of 2010" - Do you agree? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 09:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cadillac CTS WagonCadillacCtsWagonDan NeilDanNeilFord Taurus SHOFordTaurusShoHyundai Genesis CoupeHyundaiGenesisCoupeJeep Grand CherokeeJeepGrandCherokeeKia SoulKiaSoulMercedes-Benz E-ClassMercedes-benzE-classNissan 370ZNissan370zSuzuki KizashiSuzukiKizashiTime MagazineTimeMagazineToyota VenzaToyotaVenzaVolkswagen GolfVolkswagenGolfMon, 07 Sep 2009 09:12:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Kia Soul Denim to be limited to 1,200 units, start at $17,300]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/report-kia-soul-denim-to-be-limited-to-1-200-units-start-at-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/report-kia-soul-denim-to-be-limited-to-1-200-units-start-at-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/report-kia-soul-denim-to-be-limited-to-1-200-units-start-at-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Kia Denim Soul - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Kia-World.net, pricing for the Korean automaker's new Soul Denim, which we inadvertently stumbled upon in the land of coffee while testing the equally new Forte, will begin at $17,300 with a standard five-speed manual transmission and $18,250 with the optional slushbox. Production will reportedly be limited to 1,200 units, though we'd expect more special editions in the future.

For that sum, the buyer will get the custom Denim Blue paint scheme with offset white striping, white side mirrors and white 18-inch alloy rims as seen in our gallery below. Exterior mods continue with a new rear spoiler and fender-mounted turn signal indicator lamps.

Despite its name, the Kia Soul Denim will not feature an interior sewn up to match your favorite pair of jeans. Instead, black fabric with 'Soul' logo inserts will reportedly cover the seats. Based on the Soul+ model, the Denim will also get the uprated audio and moonroof packages, fogs lights, floor mats and an iPod cable as standard equipment.


Gallery: Kia Denim Soul


[Source: Kia-World.net]

REPORT: Kia Soul Denim to be limited to 1,200 units, start at $17,300 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia soul2010 kia soul denim2010KiaSoul2010KiaSoulDenimkiakia denim soulkia soulkia soul denimKiaDenimSoulKiaSoulKiaSoulDenimsoulWed, 24 Jun 2009 12:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Keep Your Pants On: Kia Denim Soul on its way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/keep-your-pants-on-kia-denim-soul-on-its-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/keep-your-pants-on-kia-denim-soul-on-its-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/keep-your-pants-on-kia-denim-soul-on-its-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Kia Denim Soul - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're clearly fans of the Kia Soul, in case you couldn't tell after reading our recent reviews of the Korean brand's new urban road warrior. One of our few gripes is that we can't order a Soul with as many cool features and accessories as you can in Europe. That may soon change as our recent trip to Seattle to drive the new Forte sedan (review coming soon) revealed.

Quietly on display was this special edition Soul, which we have confirmed will be called the Denim Soul and arrive at a dealer near you soon. We have no other details because Kia isn't talking, but you can tell from our gallery that this aesthetic package will certainly set your Soul apart. From its white wheels to the split stripe, this Soul has a little something extra. And while we didn't see the interior, we're almost certain it's called the Denim Soul because that's what Kia named this shade of blue, not because the seat upholstery is made of hard-wearing Levis like a certain AMC we remember. We'll let you know more and soon as Kia opens up with official info.


Gallery: Kia Denim Soul


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Keep Your Pants On: Kia Denim Soul on its way originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>denim soulDenimSoulkiakia denim soulkia soulKiaDenimSoulKiaSoulsoulFri, 12 Jun 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2010 Kia Soul deserves to be breakout hit for brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/review-2010-kia-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/review-2010-kia-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/review-2010-kia-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Kia Soul - Click above for high-res image gallery

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?


Gallery: Review: 2010 Kia Soul


Photos Copyright (C)2009 John Neff / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Kia Soul deserves to be breakout hit for brand

Review: 2010 Kia Soul deserves to be breakout hit for brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia2010 kia soul2010Kia2010KiaSoulautoblog garageAutoblogGaragefeaturedin the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGaragekiakia soulkia soul autoblog garagekia soul reviewKiaSoulKiaSoulAutoblogGarageKiaSoulReviewReviewReviewssoulWed, 10 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Kia Soul'ster headed for production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/report-kia-soulster-headed-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/report-kia-soulster-headed-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/report-kia-soulster-headed-for-production/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Kia Soul'ster - Click above for a high-res image gallery

One of the reasons automakers build concept vehicles is to gauge the public's reaction to a new design. Apparently, the Kia Soul'ster garnered enough goodwill and interest after its debut at the Detroit Auto Show the Korean automaker is strongly considering putting the canvas-roofed Soul-amino into production. Previously, Kia's Alex Fedorak said the Tonka-mobile was created "in a fashion that was production-capable."

According to Kia-World, though the automaker isn't officially saying the Soul'ster will be mass produced, unnamed Korean magazines are reporting it's looking good and that a decision is on the way in short order. If there's any truth to the rumors, we can expect to see the little subcompact pick'em-up truck on American roads in the second half of 2010. Thanks for the tip, Mike!


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Kia Soul'ster Live


Gallery: Kia Soul'ster Concept


[Source: Kia-World]

REPORT: Kia Soul'ster headed for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia soulkia soulsterkia soulster conceptkia soulster productionKiaSoulKiaSoulsterKiaSoulsterConceptKiaSoulsterProductionsoulstersoulster conceptsoulster productionSoulsterConceptSoulsterProductionMon, 01 Jun 2009 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Kia Soul aces Euro NCAP crash tests]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/video-kia-soul-aces-euro-ncap-crash-tests/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/video-kia-soul-aces-euro-ncap-crash-tests/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/video-kia-soul-aces-euro-ncap-crash-tests/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch the Kia Soul's Euro NCAP crash tests

There is no rating yet for the Kia Soul in the U.S., but in Europe the car did the business: the Soul scored five stars on the NCAP frontal offset, side impact and pole crash tests, doing no worse than "marginal" in just two areas. In the frontal offset test the windshield doesn't crack and there is only minor cosmetic damage aft of the front door's front shut line. It's a big result for a little car, and if it has the reliability to match it should do very, very well. Thanks for the tip, GenGT!


Gallery: Kia Soul Euro NCAP Test



[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Kia Soul aces Euro NCAP crash tests

VIDEO: Kia Soul aces Euro NCAP crash tests originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 May 2009 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crashcrash testCrashTesteuroeuro ncapEuroNcapeuropehatchbackkiakia soulKiaSoulncapratingratingssafetysoulvideoSat, 30 May 2009 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Shanghai 2009: Kia shows a greener Soul]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-kia-shows-a-greener-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-kia-shows-a-greener-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-kia-shows-a-greener-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Soul Hybrid - Click above for a high-res image gallery

At last year's Paris Motor Show, Kia showed off a version of the Soul equipped with a transparent hood and floorpan so show-goers could see the inner-workingings of the Korean automaker's hybrid drivetrain. Based on these photos of what appears to be mostly production-ready Kia Soul Hybrid at the Shanghai Motor Show, it seems the fuel-saver's date with the sales floor is getting ever closer. We wouldn't expect the two-tone paint scheme to make it past the concept stage (thankfully), but the important bits are all likely locked in.

Like the concept from Paris, this Soul Hybrid is equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder mated up with a 15kW electric motor. The dual powerplants send their ponies through a CVT transmission to the front wheels to offer up an estimated 48 miles per gallon and CO2 emissions of just 117 g/km - an improvement of over 26% in both categories.


Gallery: Shanghai 2009:Kia Soul Hybrid


Gallery: Shanghai Motor Show: Kia Soul Hybrid spy shots


[Source: Autoblog Chinese]

Shanghai 2009: Kia shows a greener Soul originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenkia soulkia soul hybridKiaSoulKiaSoulHybridshanghai motor showShanghaiMotorShowTue, 21 Apr 2009 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Kia Soul Sport makes the scene in Miami]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/first-drive-2010-kia-soul-sport/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/first-drive-2010-kia-soul-sport/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/first-drive-2010-kia-soul-sport/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Kia Soul Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

As far back as 2005, Kia tasked itself with becoming Korea's sporty automaker, leaving parent Hyundai to become a more affordable luxury brand. Then-chief operating officer Len Hunt admitted that while Kia's value proposition was clear, its products largely failed to connect with buyers on an emotional level - the company's models were purchased based on price, warranty and little else.

Since that time, Kia has steadily introduced a slew of greatly improved products, but nothing remotely "sporty" has hit showroom floors. Sure, there have been a few promising-looking concepts, 2007's Kee and Kue, along with 2008's Koup... but while the company has been creating one-off showcars, Hyundai has grabbed eyeballs, market share, and more than a few magazine covers by delivering both upmarket and sporty vehicles, namely the Genesis Sedan and Coupe.

And yet, here we find ourselves in Miami, ready to drive Kia's latest and greatest, the 2010 Soul. Is this where the "sporty" kicks in? At first blush, things aren't promising - the Soul is front-drive, modestly powered, tallish, and squared-off in an economy-car-tall-wagon-crossover-looking sort of way. None of which is pushing any "sporty" buttons for us. Did we miss a new, possibly ironic meaning for the word?

Follow the jump to find out...


Gallery: 2010 Kia Soul - First Drive


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Our travel and lodging for this media event was provided by the manufacturer.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Kia Soul Sport makes the scene in Miami

First Drive: 2010 Kia Soul Sport makes the scene in Miami originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia soul2010 kia soul sport2010KiaSoul2010KiaSoulSportfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivekiakia soulkia soul sportKiaSoulKiaSoulSportsoulsoul sportSoulSportTue, 17 Mar 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Kia Soul reinterprets the Hampster Dance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/12/video-kia-soul-reinterprets-the-hampster-dance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/12/video-kia-soul-reinterprets-the-hampster-dance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/12/video-kia-soul-reinterprets-the-hampster-dance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

The original Hampster Dance was born in 1998 and featured an endless loop of four hamsters dancing to the song "Whistle Stop" by Roger Miller. One of the first internet memes to really explode in popularity, the Hampster Dance and its simple animated GIFs look positively low tech by today's standards, but we remember the first time we saw it and were ROFL for hours.

Kia has come along and appropriated the domesticated rodents for a commercial promoting the new Soul. A compact, four-door, wagon-type vehicle in the vein of the Scion xB, the Soul fits four hamsters comfortably and they clearly enjoy the car's iPod connectivity. Those hamsters not riding in a Soul, however, get a hamster wheel, which obviously won't get them very far. The commercial is cute and playful, though we're suing Kia if our nightmares about giant hamsters comes back.

Follow the jump to watch anthropomorphized hamsters drive a Kia Soul.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Kia Soul reinterprets the Hampster Dance

VIDEO: Kia Soul reinterprets the Hampster Dance originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia hampster commercialkia hamster commercialkia soulKiaHampsterCommercialKiaHamsterCommercialKiaSoulsoulThu, 12 Mar 2009 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: Kia bringing Soul Coupe to Detroit?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/detroit-preview-kia-bringing-soul-coupe-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/detroit-preview-kia-bringing-soul-coupe-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/detroit-preview-kia-bringing-soul-coupe-to-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to enlarge Kia's Detroit-bound Soul teaser

Just when we thought that we'd seen every possible variation of the Kia Soul that the Korean automaker could whip up, news comes from Kia that one more concept is on its way to the Detroit Auto Show in January. Kia's not talking much about the car, but there is one early picture that's actually quite revealing. Take a good look at the rear profile of the front driver's side door. We think that the new concept could sport a new two-door take on the original boxy Soul theme. Could this be a panel van, like the one that Chevy introduced on its HHR retro-mobile? Could it be a sporty coupe alternative to the funky utilitarian nature of the standard Soul? How about a Soulamino? We have no idea, but it's always fun to speculate. Feel free to do just that in the comments below.

Continue reading Detroit Preview: Kia bringing Soul Coupe to Detroit?

Detroit Preview: Kia bringing Soul Coupe to Detroit? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia soulkia soul conceptkia soul coupeKiaSoulKiaSoulConceptKiaSoulCoupeWed, 17 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia not slowing down 2009 Auto show plans, lots of debuts coming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/kia-not-slowing-down-2009-auto-show-plans-lots-of-debuts-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/kia-not-slowing-down-2009-auto-show-plans-lots-of-debuts-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/kia-not-slowing-down-2009-auto-show-plans-lots-of-debuts-coming/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for more detail shots of the Kia Forte

Despite the downbeat news out of Motown, good things are on the way from some of the transplants. Kia, in particular, is feeling pretty upbeat these days and is the only automaker that's decided to throw a holiday shin-dig in Detroit (so far) this year. While Honda and Nissan have cancelled plans for press conferences at the Detroit Auto Show, Kia will have debut new models in the Motor City, as well as in Chicago and New York. Fedorak told us that a brand new concept would be unveiled in Detroit while the US version of the compact Forte sedan will be shown in Chicago. Fedorak also promised something new for New York, but didn't give up any hints.

But one no show to the party was the Kia Soul. Immediately after the LA Auto Show, the Soul was packed on a truck and sent off in the general direction of Detroit. Unfortunately, a large snow bank ambushed the truck somewhere in the western states, causing it to run late and miss the party.

Gallery: Kia Forte leaked detail shots


[Source: Kia]

Kia not slowing down 2009 Auto show plans, lots of debuts coming originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowkiakia conceptkia soulKiaConceptKiaSoulFri, 05 Dec 2008 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: Kia's Soul-ful debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-kias-soul-ful-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-kias-soul-ful-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-kias-soul-ful-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for more live shots of the Kia Soul in LA

Kia put on quite a show today, prancing out a slew of new Souls at the LA Auto Show. Expected to drop as an early 2010 model in late '09, the new boxy Soul will go head-to-head with the equally-new Nissan Cube for the affections of ex-xB buyers here in the States. While the Cube really goes after the square-edged look, Kia has softened the Soul. The box's rising beltline starts lower in the front and gradually sweeps skyward at the rear, adding a unique look to the little crossover. A standard 1.6L four banger pushes roughly 120 horses through a five-speed manual tranny and an optional 2.0L unit with about 140 horsepower can be mated with either the stick or a four-speed automatic on uplevel models. Each should exceed 30 mpg on the highway.

The Korean automaker promises that there will be an abundant number of customization possibilities for its new Soul and there will be three separate Soul models in addition to the base kit, including the Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport. We think that they may be trying a bit too hard to be young and hip with these odd model designations, but standard auxiliary and USB input jacks in the center console with full iPod control through the steering wheel audio controls strike us as an excellent idea for its target demographic. Details on what each model gets are in the press release pasted after the break.

Gallery: LA 2008: Kia Soul Live Debut


Gallery: 2010 Kia Soul


Live Photos Copyright (C)2008 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2008: Kia's Soul-ful debut

LA 2008: Kia's Soul-ful debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia soul2010KiaSoulkiakia soulKiaSoulla 2008la auto showla auto show 2008La2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Official U.S.-spec Kia Soul images pop up on web]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/07/official-u-s-spec-kia-soul-images-pop-up-on-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/07/official-u-s-spec-kia-soul-images-pop-up-on-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/07/official-u-s-spec-kia-soul-images-pop-up-on-web/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for more official images of the U.S. Kia Soul

Official images of the new Kia Soul have just begun making their first rounds on the interwebs. The boxy little crossover will see its first U.S. unveiling at the LA Auto Show later this month and we'll be on hand to capture the event in all its glory. Until then, take a look at these early shots of the U.S.-spec version to whet your appetite. The U.S. market Soul will get a 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter gasoline-fed four-cylinder engine that can be mated to either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox.

Kia is set to take on the Scion brand with the new Soul and is hoping to compete on level footing by offering a slew of factory customization options right from the dealer. Our second gallery shows some of those options that are being made available in Canada and should be a decent preview of what U.S. buyers are likely to choose from. Expect the new mini 'ute to go on sale in the Spring of next year.

Gallery: Official U.S. Kia Soul Shots


Gallery: Canadian Kia Soul Accessories


[Source: Kia-World]

Official U.S.-spec Kia Soul images pop up on web originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 kia soul2009KiaSoulkia soulKiaSoulla auto showla auto show 2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008official kia soulOfficialKiaSoulFri, 07 Nov 2008 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris 2008: In love with Kia's funky Soul ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-in-love-with-kias-funky-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-in-love-with-kias-funky-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/03/paris-2008-in-love-with-kias-funky-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Kia Soul

The Scion xB may have written the book on small-and-boxy, but it appears that Kia may add another volume to the work with the Soul. We have no idea how the new Soul will go on the road, or how it will hold up - either materially or financially - but taking a seat in the giant shoe on wheels was a revelation. For a car that isn't expected to cost too much, the details alone would almost have to be worth the price: the chunky moldings around the grille and bumper, the contrasting surrounds for the headlights and contrasting panels for the doors, the gearshift knob housing a ball within a plexiglass ball, the court jester seats. And when we put the driver's seat all the way back, we could sit in the back seat without our legs touching anything else. And we're not short. If the Soul can mind its manners on the road, there's no reason it shouldn't go straight to sales heaven. Get the scoop on the Soul after the jump, and the check out the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Paris 2008: Kia Soul

Continue reading Paris 2008: In love with Kia's funky Soul

Paris 2008: In love with Kia's funky Soul originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economy carsEconomyCarshatchbackskiakia soulKiaSoulkoreaparis 2008paris motor showParis2008ParisMotorShowsoulFri, 03 Oct 2008 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris Preview: More Kia Soul images, engine specs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/paris-preview-more-kia-soul-images-engine-specs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/paris-preview-more-kia-soul-images-engine-specs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/paris-preview-more-kia-soul-images-engine-specs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Kia Soul

In the lead up to the Kia Soul's production debut at the Paris Motor Show, we've seen dozens of images, a trio of concepts and a spy shot or two, but today we finally get a taste of what Kia's answer to the Scion xB will be packing underhood.

When the Soul goes on sale in Europe this February, Kia's targeted demographic of hip, urban youths will be able to choose from either a 1.6-liter inline-four putting out 124 hp and 115 lb.-ft. of torque or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel producing the same amount of horsepower and 188 lb.-ft. of torque. Those of us in the States will have only one engine to choose from -- a 140-hp, 2.0-liter four - when sales begin early next year. All three engines will be available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Hit the jump for all the details.

Gallery: 2009 Kia Soul


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Paris Preview: More Kia Soul images, engine specs

Paris Preview: More Kia Soul images, engine specs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia soulkia soul engineKiaSoulKiaSoulEnginesoulspecsTue, 02 Sep 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: See inside Kia's Soul]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/spy-shots-see-inside-kias-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/spy-shots-see-inside-kias-soul/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/29/spy-shots-see-inside-kias-soul/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A glimpse inside the Kia Soul has revealed a lot of black tape and some shiny knobs, but nothing that's any cause for alarm. In fact, if lit properly -- that is, lit cool enough to please the demographic the car is aiming at -- it should be pretty swish inside. The center pod looks to keep things quite simple, but we would like to know what the button-like appendage above the radio screen opens; just a cubby, or navigation? The tape on the top of the dash is hiding quite a few lumps -- we would expect the semicircle up top to be interesting, while the bands over the passenger area are anyone's guess. Also of note: the Soul appears to have an enormous key fob for just two buttons...

[Source: Global Motors]

Spy Shots: See inside Kia's Soul originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia soulkia soul interiorKiaSoulKiaSoulInteriorsoul interiorSoulInteriorspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsFri, 29 Aug 2008 09:31:00 EST