Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Why BMWs are cheaper than Hyundais in Korea]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Hyundai Equus

Bloomberg reports shifting tariff regulations have upended the traditional automotive pecking order in Korea. Thanks to cheaper import taxes, foreign brands have seen market share jump from 28 percent to 41 percent over the last two years. BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi have all capitalized on the shift, with domestics like Hyundai and Kia suffering at the hands of their German rivals.

Taxes on European imports have fallen from 8 percent in 2011 to just 3.2 percent today. Over the next few years, tariffs will all but be eliminated for most imports, and taxes on US-made vehicles are expected to fall to just 4 percent in 2014. By 2016, that number will be zero. Needless to say, Hyundai and Kia are concerned about the shift.

Hyundai has seen profit fall by 15 percent last quarter, and the company says it is on pace to see the slowest sales growth since 2007. The company's shares have fallen by 12 percent. In order to stem the losses, Hyundai has discounted its midsize sedans and started working on diesel engine options.

Why BMWs are cheaper than Hyundais in Korea originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 May 2013 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibmwhyundaikiakorean auto marketmercedesSat, 18 May 2013 08:51:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/why-bmws-are-cheaper-than-hyundais-in-korea/20573562/article-detail.xml 20573562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-hyundai-equus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-hyundai-equus-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Sedona rises from the dead, same as it ever was]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-kia-sedona-rises-from-the-dead-same-as-it-ever-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-kia-sedona-rises-from-the-dead-same-as-it-ever-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-kia-sedona-rises-from-the-dead-same-as-it-ever-was/#commentsFiled under: ,



Don't throw away your car seats just yet, Korean minivan enthusiasts - the Kia Sedona is back on the market. If you recall, Kia killed its minivan offering at the end of 2012 (there was never a 2013 model). But here's what's making us scratch our heads: Despite the fact that Kia did confirm that the Sedona would eventually be back, we were under the impression that it would return with a proper replacement for the aging van. (Earlier reports suggested something along the lines of that cool KV7 concept.) Instead, the reincarnated Korean minivan you see here is, well, the same as it ever was. Consider our buzz killed.

That's not to say there haven't been a couple of delightfully refreshed bits thrown into the new package. For starters, the Sedona wears a slightly updated schnoz with a redesigned grille, LED positioning lamps and standard foglamps inside the reworked lower fascia. (If we're honest, the Kia looks a bit Ford Windstar-ish from the front three-quarter angle.) There's a new 17-inch wheel design for the 2014 model year, and aside from a couple enhancements to the interior in terms of storage, that short list rounds out the full extent of the new updates.

All Sedonas are powered by the same 3.5-liter V6 that debuted in the 2011 model, producing 269 horsepower and 246 pound-feet of torque, mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy ratings fall in at a rather mediocre 17/24 miles per gallon (city/highway).

Pricing starts at $25,900 for the base LX model with 16-inch wheels and a cloth interior, while upmarket EX vans with leather and 17-inch wheels command $30,900 - both prices exclude $850 for destination. That's sort of a bargain, considering that the segment-leading Honda Odyssey will run you something like $45,000 when fully decked out. But remember, you get what you pay for.

Have a look below for the official release.

2014 Kia Sedona rises from the dead, same as it ever was originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 kia sedonakiakia sedonaFri, 03 May 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557594/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/2014-kia-sedona-rises-from-the-dead-same-as-it-ever-was/20557594/article-detail.xml 20557594 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sedona628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sedona628.jpg <![CDATA[South Korea firms up fuel economy regs following Hyundai/Kia debacle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Soul Eco - profile view

According to a report from Reuters, South Korea's government has drafted strict new rules for automakers to follow when calculating fuel economy. The legislation comes after a major snafu by Hyundai and Kia that resulted in the automakers lowering the estimated fuel mileage of many popular models - some by several miles per gallon, including the Soul subcompact above - and compensating owners in the US and Canada for the reduction.

The new fuel economy rules were announced by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy in South Korea and will see average mileage ratings drop by roughly three to five percent, according to the report. In addition, manufacturers found guilty of overstating mileage figures will be liable for fines of up to $900,000.

These sweeping new regulations will go into effect in the second half of 2013 and, while they won't have any effect on EPA estimates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles in the United States, they are expected to result in new ratings for the two automakers in their home market of South Korea, where they enjoy a whopping 70-percent market share.

South Korea firms up fuel economy regs following Hyundai/Kia debacle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>calculating fuel economyfuel economyfuel mileagehyundaikiakorean autoskorean governmentministry of tradesouth koreaTue, 30 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553285/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/south-korea-firms-up-fuel-economy-regs-following-hyundai-kia-deb/20553285/article-detail.xml 20553285 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-kia-soul-base-eco_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-kia-soul-base-eco.jpg <![CDATA[Kia calls reports of second US plant 'groundless']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/kia-calls-reports-of-second-us-plant-groundless/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/kia-calls-reports-of-second-us-plant-groundless/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/kia-calls-reports-of-second-us-plant-groundless/#commentsFiled under: ,

Kia plant in Georgia

In discussing how Kia planned to use a focus on quality to raise its brand perception and take the fight to BMW and Audi instead of Toyota, a recent article in Automotive News Europe said one of the primary constraints was production capacity; Kia simply doesn't have the ability to make enough cars to meet its aims with the plants it has.

The CEO of Hyundai-Kia is said to be reluctant to build more plants because of that focus on quality and the fact that its suppliers are stretched to the limit. The effects of that position are being felt right now with both makers losing market share, as in the case of Hyundai not being able to make enough of its Veloster Turbo for the US market.

A South Korean newspaper apparently reported last week that Kia was planning to build a second factory in Georgia with capacity for up to 150,000 units annually, and that the company would break ground as soon as this month on "KMMG2." Kia has responded to the news by saying, "The report is all groundless." The mayor of West Point, site of the current KMMG plant, said he didn't know anything about such plans, nor did the Georgia department of economic development have knowledge of a new Kia factory.

Kia calls reports of second US plant 'groundless' originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>georgiakiakia motors manufacturing georgiakmmgplantsThu, 25 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548457/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/kia-calls-reports-of-second-us-plant-groundless/20548457/article-detail.xml 20548457 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-georgia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-georgia.jpg <![CDATA[Kia unveils Horki sub-brand in China, kicks off with concept car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/kia-unveils-horki-sub-brand-in-china-kicks-off-with-concept-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/kia-unveils-horki-sub-brand-in-china-kicks-off-with-concept-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/kia-unveils-horki-sub-brand-in-china-kicks-off-with-concept-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia-DYK Horki Concept live at 2013 Shanghai Motor Show

While we were busy ogling new vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GLA Concept, Maserati Ghibli and Hongqi L9 at the Shanghai Motor Show, Kia was busy unveiling an entire brand. Through its Chinese joint venture, Dongfeng Yueda Kia (or DYK), the South Korean automaker has introduced its new Horki sub-brand and a concept car, simply called the Horki Concept.

The name Horki comes from the combination of two Chinese characters "Hor" and "Ki," which translates to "China driving." As this suggests, the brand will only be offered in China, and this concept sedan shares its platform with the 2014 Kia Forte. We didn't happen to catch the car live at the auto show, and apparently neither did Kia, since it only provided us with some drawings rather than live (or even studio) shots of the actual concept car. Thankfully, our friends at Newspress managed to ferret it out, so we have a couple of live pics to share after all.

Continue reading Kia unveils Horki sub-brand in China, kicks off with concept car

Kia unveils Horki sub-brand in China, kicks off with concept car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 shanghai motor showchinadongfeng yueda kiadykhorkihorki conceptkiakia ceratokia forteshanghaishanghai motor showWed, 24 Apr 2013 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547444/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/kia-unveils-horki-sub-brand-in-china-kicks-off-with-concept-car/20547444/article-detail.xml 20547444 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-horki-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-horki-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Cub Concept wanders over from Seoul]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/kia-cub-concept-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/kia-cub-concept-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/kia-cub-concept-shanghai-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Cub Concept - Shanghai 2013 - front three-quarter view

The little machine you see above is the Kia Cub. The Cub first debuted at the Seoul Motor Show, but this is the first time we've been able to see it in person, so we pointed our camera lenses its way and got to snapping.

According to our men on the show floor, the Cub Concept is "quite good looking," with a squat and funky shape that looks mostly ready for production. With a five-door hatchback shape featuring reverse-opening doors (we'll resist calling them suicide doors... whoops...), this machine doesn't seem to share much design DNA with current Kia products. And that's fine. As much as we like Kia's swoopy line of cars and 'utes, a little shakeup every now and then never hurts.

We're sure the diminutive hatchback would be a fun car to pilot, with 204 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque coming from its turbocharged and direct-injected 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Kia quotes a 0-62 time of 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 143 miles per hour. Sounds to us like it could be a worthy competitor to such successful sporting hatchbacks as the Mini Cooper S and Fiat 500 Abarth.

It's a pity really - we're honestly not holding our breath to get a chance behind the wheel of the little Cub any time soon. That being the case, we suggest you check out our high-res image gallery above, as it may be the closest you'll ever get to seeing it yourself, and you're of course encouraged to read through the press release below.

Continue reading Kia Cub Concept wanders over from Seoul

Kia Cub Concept wanders over from Seoul originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 shanghai motor showkiakia cub conceptshanghaishanghai motor showSat, 20 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546125/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/kia-cub-concept-shanghai-2013/20546125/article-detail.xml 20546125 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-kia-cub-concept-shanghai_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-kia-cub-concept-shanghai.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Cadenza goes on sale this month priced from $35,100*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/2014-kia-cadenza-goes-on-sale-this-month-priced-from-35-100/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/2014-kia-cadenza-goes-on-sale-this-month-priced-from-35-100/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/2014-kia-cadenza-goes-on-sale-this-month-priced-from-35-100/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Kia Cadenza

Kia's sedan lineup is about to get much more luxurious with the addition of the new Cadenza and range-topping Quoris models, but the Amanti-replacing 2014 Cadenza will be the first to hit dealers this month with a starting price of $35,100 (*not including $800 for destination). For those keeping record, that's more expensive than Hyundai's version of this car, the Azera, and about $1,000 more than the Genesis, but it sounds like the new front-wheel-drive Kia will be getting a few more advanced features than its Hyundai counterpart.

In base form, the Cadenza comes standard with leather seating, navigation and a premium Infinity 12-speaker audio system, and the $3,000 Luxury Package adds nappa leather seats with a ventilated driver's seat, a seven-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) display, heated rear seats, power tilt and telescoping steering column, adaptive HID headlights and a panoramic sunroof. On models already equipped with the Luxury Package, buyers can also add on the Technology Package, which includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, lane departure warning and hydrophobic glass on the front doors - previously, Kia stated that the Cadenza would be getting this water-repelling technology on the windshield, but this press release specifies that it will be applied to the front side windows. And if these two packages aren't enough luxury for you, Kia's cherry on top is a no-cost White Package that adds white nappa leather seats, woodgrain trim and a premium headliner.

All in, the 2014 Cadenza will run $41,100 with every option box checked, so we can only imagine how much the Qurois is going to cost when it makes its debut. Scroll down for the press release detailing the pricing for the new Cadenza.

Continue reading 2014 Kia Cadenza goes on sale this month priced from $35,100*

2014 Kia Cadenza goes on sale this month priced from $35,100* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 kia cadenzakiakia cadenzakia cadenza pricingFri, 19 Apr 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545669/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/2014-kia-cadenza-goes-on-sale-this-month-priced-from-35-100/20545669/article-detail.xml 20545669 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-2014-kia-cadenza628opt-1366387727_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-2014-kia-cadenza628opt-1366387727.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai, Kia ratchet up fleet sales as retail transactions slide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo - front three-quarter view

Automotive News reports both Hyundai and Kia have stepped up fleet sales in an attempt to offset disappointing first quarter results. The Korean automakers saw their sales decline by nine percent compared to last year, while all major competitors managed to increase their sales. That situation marks an inversion of two years ago, when both gained ground after Japanese rivals suffered production and inventory shortages after the country's earthquake and tsunami tragedies.

Now, Hyundai can't come up with enough volume models in popular trim configurations to satisfy buyers, and lower-volume models are also in a snag. At the moment, Hyundai can only build 20-30 percent of Veloster hatchbacks with turbocharged engines while the US market would apparently support closer to 70 percent.

In order to reverse the sales slide, Hyundai and Kia have stepped up fleet sales of the vehicles they do have by some 50 percent, ringing up a total of 42,400 units in the first quarter. By contrast, Automotive News reports the seven largest automakers increased retail volume by seven percent and fleet sales by four percent as a group.

Hyundai, Kia ratchet up fleet sales as retail transactions slide originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai velosterhyundaihyundai saleshyundai velosterhyundai veloster turbokiakia salesTue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20541009/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/hyundai-kia-ratchet-up-fleet-sales-as-retail-transactions-slide/20541009/article-detail.xml 20541009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-hyundai-veloster-review-1347979129_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-hyundai-veloster-review-1347979129.jpg <![CDATA[Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Step inside just about any new car these days and you'll quickly see that vehicle interiors have become a pretty nice place to spend some time in. For the third consecutive year, WardsAuto sat in each and every new vehicle that had received redesigned or updated interiors, and it has now named its 10 Best Interiors.

Judges look at everything from design and fit-and-finish to comfort, safety and technology. Some of the standout selections include budget cars like the Chevrolet Spark and Kia Forte all the way up to more expensive sedans like the $60,000+ Cadillac XTS and Lexus GS450h. An interesting note here is that WardsAuto praises Cadillac for its CUE infotainment system while Consumer Reports generally lambasts the system. Asian automakers definitely won the contest for nicest interiors as the list is comprised of five Japanese automakers and two South Korean, with Toyota and General Motors in a dead heat with the most number of cars on the list with two each.

Scroll down for the full list (in alphabetical order) and press release from WardsAuto for its 10 Best Interiors of 2013.

Continue reading Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots

Ward's 10 Best Interiors released, Asian automakers take 7 of 10 spots originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best interiorsacuraacura rdxcadillaccadillac xtschevroletchevrolet sparkhyundaihyundai santa fe sportkiakia fortelexuslexus gs450hmazda6nissannissan pathfinderramram 1500ram 1500 laramie longhorntoyotatoyota avalonwards autoMon, 15 Apr 2013 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20541080/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/wards-10-best-interiors-released-asian-automakers-take-7-of-10/20541080/article-detail.xml 20541080 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cadillac-xts-interior.jpg <![CDATA[Kia using quality and technology to increase sales and brand prestige]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/#commentsFiled under:



Kia is a long way from hawking the anonymous lozenge known as the Sephia on our shores. That was only 1994, though, and in less than 20 years the company has gone from judging its aspirations against Japanese budget competition to walking auto show floors checking out the German standard-bearers for tips on how to increase sales and brand prestige. In an interview with Automotive News, Kia executives laid out their plan for carving out a Volkswagen-like niche for the company whereby they could be viewed as the premium pick in a volume segment. Concepts like the Kia Cub, above, would seem to point in this direction.

Kia is keen to make sure its sales targets don't impinge on its quest for better and better quality.

Kia's prime directive is "an unrelenting focus on quality." The Japanese brands earned a reputation for bulletproof reliability, and Kia is keen to make sure its sales targets don't impinge on its quest for better and better quality - neither in-house nor for its suppliers, a trade-off we've seen go wrong before. It has a Pilot Center that studies each new model for potential production problems before being given the approval for manufacture, and it isn't until the quality control department gives the okay that manufacture can begin.

Assuming quality is assured, the second part of the mission is to develop cars with powertrains that provide "performance-oriented technology." That means putting its small turbo engines in more of its model line, like the new Forte getting the 1.6-liter, direct-injected turbo, more hybrids options among current nameplates and a plug-in hybrid, and bringing dual-clutch gearboxes to the US by 2015.

Beyond the keeping an eye on quality, though, Kia has to keep an eye on the South Korean won. Its plants are now at capacity, it wants to sell 800,000 more vehicles in 2016 than it did in 2012, but the rising value of the South Korean currency means it would need to look at removing content in order to maintain profits. AN said the company will get by right now by trimming the R&D budget and putting more expensive trim packages in the range, but that if that isn't enough it might have to shorten the list of standard features. It's looking at features that customers don't care about, but if it came to that, taking items out would take Kia in the opposite direction of its market segment.

Kia using quality and technology to increase sales and brand prestige originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybridkiaqualityThu, 11 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532829/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/kia-using-quality-and-technology-to-increase-sales-and-brand-pre/20532829/article-detail.xml 20532829 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-cub-benchmark_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kia-cub-benchmark.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In what is likely the largest recall campaign for Hyundai and Kia, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall of more than 1.6 million models due to a faulty brake switch. This is in addition to almost 700,000 Hyundai and Kia models recalled for the same problem back in 2009.

In more than 620,000 Kia models and 1 million Hyundai products for the 2007 through 2011 model years, the brake switch could malfunction causing the brake lights to not illuminate, which could lead to accident. Other possible issues with a faulty switch include the cruise control not cancelling with the brake pedal, the push-button starter not working properly and the shift interlock not disengaging causing the transmission to be stuck in Park. To fix the problem, the brake lights switch will be replaced.

Due to the large number of units being recalled, both automakers are issuing a notice by next month with parts not expected to be ready until June. The full list of affected vehicles and the NHTSA press releases are posted below.

Continue reading Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch

Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai accenthyundai elantrahyundai genesis coupehyundai recallhyundai santa fehyundai sonatahyundai tucsonHyundai Veracruzkiakia optimakia recallkia rondokia sedonakia sorentokia soulkia sportagerecallWed, 03 Apr 2013 11:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20528166/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/hyundai-kia-recalling-1-6m-more-models-for-faulty-brake-switch/20528166/article-detail.xml 20528166 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2011hyundaisonata2.0t---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2011hyundaisonata2.0t---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia's promised "four-door coupe" Cub concept... isn't]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/kias-promised-four-door-coupe-cub-concept-isnt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/kias-promised-four-door-coupe-cub-concept-isnt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/kias-promised-four-door-coupe-cub-concept-isnt/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Cub Concept - front three-quarter studio view

Kia appears to have pulled a quick one on the world with its Cub Concept. As it turns out, the machine isn't the four-door coupe they promised at all. Instead, the little showcar is a five-door hatch with suicide rear doors. That's certainly fine by our reckoning, but it isn't quite what we were expecting to see on display at the Seoul Motor Show. The concept was penned at the company's design studio in Seoul with direction from Peter Schreyer, and it gets its thrust from a 204-horsepower, 1.6-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine. With 195 pound-feet of torque on hand, we suspect the Cub would have little trouble hustling down the road.

Indoors, the Cub serves up black leather seats with yellow accents as well as a new Driving Information System that uses a gesture camera to control various operations. Right now, there are apparently no plans to put the Cub into production anywhere in the world, but we wouldn't be surprised to see some of the hatchback's elements make their way to the show room floor.

Kia's promised "four-door coupe" Cub concept... isn't originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 seoul motor showcub conceptkiakia cub conceptpeter schreyerseoulseoul motor showThu, 28 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20521839/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/kias-promised-four-door-coupe-cub-concept-isnt/20521839/article-detail.xml 20521839 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-cub-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-cub-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Wonder Woman Kia Sportage is anything but invisible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Wonder Woman Kia Sportage - live at 2013 NY Auto Show

The spectacular partnering of Kia and DC Entertainment (the company we grew up loving as DC Comics) continues here at the New York Auto Show, with this Wonder Woman-inspired 2013 Kia Sportage. Ardent Autoblog readers will undoubtedly remember the fruits of earlier Kia/DC efforts: Batman Optima, Flash Forte Koup, Green Lantern Soul, Cyborg Forte, Aquaman Rio and Superman Optima Hybrid. (We're still trying to figure out who Cyborg is, too.)

The Wonder Woman Sportage, sporting the Amazing Amazon's particularly patriotic livery, is perhaps the most, eh, eye-catching super-Kia to date. (Actually, no, none of the superhero rides seared our eyeballs like Supe's hybrid.) Red, white and blue paint with spangled sides, an aggressively low body kit and a WW logo grille really sell the theme. Of course, The Lasso of Truth is represented too, showing up in the design as a subtle gold line that wraps around the bodywork.

As with the earlier DC concept cars, the Wonder Woman Sportage's real goal - aside from entertaining the kid-contingent of auto show goers - is to raise awareness for the We Can Be Heroes charity. The DC charitable program seeks to raise money and awareness about the hunger crisis in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia. Get a better look at Wonder Woman's crossover in our attached galleries and find the Kia press release below.

Continue reading Wonder Woman Kia Sportage is anything but invisible

Wonder Woman Kia Sportage is anything but invisible originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 kia sportage2013 new york auto showcharitydc comicsdc entertainmentkiakia sportagenew yorknew york auto showwe can be heroeswonder womanwonder woman kia sportageThu, 28 Mar 2013 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20521632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-is-anything-but-invisible/20521632/article-detail.xml 20521632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/wonder-woman-kia-sportage-ny.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Optima is better by a nose]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-optima-new-york-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-optima-new-york-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-optima-new-york-2014/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Kia Optima

Kia is showing off a slew of vehicles here in New York, including the ever-so-slightly refreshed 2014 Optima sedan you see here. The brunt of the changes surround the new front fascia, with repositioned LED lighting above the headlamp units and some new quad-LED fogs rounding of a touched-up front bumper. At the rear, Kia has reworked the taillamps, and of course, LEDs are found there, as well.

Other changes to the Optima for 2014 include the additions of two new displays inside the cabin - a 4.3-inch TFT display in the gauge cluster and a larger, eight-inch high-resolution screen that houses the navigation and infotainment data. There are also new seats inside the Optima, which are hopefully more comfortable and offer better bolstering than the decidedly flat chairs found in the current car, plus Kia has added available new safety features like blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert.

The powertrain offerings have not changed for 2014 - base cars still get a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine while the SX models get the 2.0-liter turbo. There is, however, a new Drive Mode Select system specifically for the SX, which adjusts transmission shift points and steering weight for a more engaging dynamic, or so we're told. (The Optima Hybrid model did receive upgrades to its battery and electric motor just recently, but those changes technically hit during the 2013 model year - it is not immediately clear if the gas-electric model will receive the updates shown here).

We'll have plenty more images of the refreshed Optima in short order, so stay tuned. In the meantime, have a look below for Kia's press blast.

Continue reading 2014 Kia Optima is better by a nose

2014 Kia Optima is better by a nose originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto show2014 kia optimakiakia optimakia optima hybridnew yorknew york auto showWed, 27 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520051/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-kia-optima-new-york-2014/20520051/article-detail.xml 20520051 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014kiaoptima05-1364404669_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014kiaoptima05-1364404669.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Soul totally redesigned, now bigger and more refined]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-soul-new-york-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-soul-new-york-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-soul-new-york-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The 2014 Kia Soul has been unveiled at the 2013 New York Auto Show, and the all-new five-door box-on-wheels offers up nearly an extra inch of wheelbase and a track that's wider by .6 inches. The changes offer up a bit more space indoors, and since overall height has remained the same, the Soul now looks a bit less top heavy than before. A wider rear hatch opening also makes loading and unloading cargo easier. Indoors, the 2014 Soul offers a substantially revised cabin with more soft-touch materials, and leather seats are now on the option sheet. Designers borrowed inspiration from the Kia Track'ster Concept indoors, using organic lines throughout.

An available eight-inch touch screen takes care of infotainment duties on the center stack, and now features the ability to scroll through content by flicking a finger, just like a smartphone, instead of paging through multiple screens. Buyers can also fit their 2014 Soul with a larger TFT LCD color screen in the instrument cluster, which now displays turn-by-turn directions on vehicles equipped with navigation.

Engineers managed to create a chassis that's also 29-percent stiffer, with 66 percent of the shell using ultra-high-strength steel for safety and rigidity. Under the hood, base models bow with a 1.6-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque, while Plus and Exclaim trims get a more potent direct-injection 2.0-liter four-cylinder. That engine develops 164 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, and both mills can be bolted to either a six-speed manual or automatic depending on trim. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 Kia Soul totally redesigned, now bigger and more refined

2014 Kia Soul totally redesigned, now bigger and more refined originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto show2014 kia soulkiakia soulnew yorknew york auto showWed, 27 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520030/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-kia-soul-new-york-2013/20520030/article-detail.xml 20520030 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014kiasoul-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014kiasoul-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Forte Koup bows with new look, new engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-forte-koup-bows-with-new-look-new-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-forte-koup-bows-with-new-look-new-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-kia-forte-koup-bows-with-new-look-new-engine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Kia Forte Koup

Third time's the charm. The final member of Kia's Forte trio has been revealed here at the New York Auto Show, and this new coupe Koup will join the sedan and five-door models when it goes on sale near the end of this year.

The two-door Forte looks sharp, and we like the way Kia's new design language for its compact car has translated onto this coupe model. LED running lights are found up front, matching the LED taillmaps at the rear. EX models will ride on 16-inch alloy wheels, while the upgraded SX model will use 18-inch rollers.

Two powertrains will be offered in the Forte Koup: a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four in the EX, producing 173 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque, mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission; and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four in the SX, rated at 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The five-door Forte also gets this turbocharged mill, and if its specs sound familiar, it's because this engine is also found under the hood of the Hyundai Veloster Turbo.

Inside, Kia says there are plenty of sporty touches to the cabin, though all that really means for buyers is a smattering of fake carbon fiber and some leather-wrapped touchable surfaces. Still, things should be pretty pleasant inside the Forte, and Kia promises standard features like the company's UVO connectivity system, Bluetooth, Sirius satellite radio and a rear camera display.

Pricing will be announced closer to the 2014 Forte Koup's on-sale date later this year. We'll have more images direct from New York in short order, so stay tuned. In the meantime, take a glance below for the official press release.

Continue reading 2014 Kia Forte Koup bows with new look, new engine

2014 Kia Forte Koup bows with new look, new engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto show2014 kia forte koupkiakia fortekia forte koupnew yorknew york auto showWed, 27 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20517807/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-kia-forte-koup-bows-with-new-look-new-engine/20517807/article-detail.xml 20517807 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014kiaforte01-1364405229_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014kiaforte01-1364405229.jpg <![CDATA[Kia confirms Cub "four-door coupe" concept for Seoul]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/kia-confirms-cub-four-door-coupe-concept-for-seoul/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/kia-confirms-cub-four-door-coupe-concept-for-seoul/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/kia-confirms-cub-four-door-coupe-concept-for-seoul/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Cub Concept - shadowy teaser

Kia has announced it is headed to the Seoul Motor Show with a new sedan concept. Details are still scarce, but the Kia CUB Concept should be small, at under 13 feet long and come with coupe-like proportions. Kia wants the vehicle to "appeal to trend-setting urban dwellers," a notoriously car-hungry market. The automaker says the Cub has a cheerful face decorated with two-point LED headlamps just like those found on the Quoris flagship, but the teaser image above looks a bit more sinister than happy to us. Kia plans to give the Cub a proper unveiling on March 28.

Hyundai has also given us a glimpse at what the company has planned for Seoul with its HND-9 luxury sports coupe. You can refresh yourself on that machine by checking out the post here. You can also take a closer look at the brief press release below.

Continue reading Kia confirms Cub "four-door coupe" concept for Seoul

Kia confirms Cub "four-door coupe" concept for Seoul originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 seoul motor showconceptcubcub conceptkiakia cub conceptseoulseoul 2013seoul motor showMon, 25 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20516579/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/25/kia-confirms-cub-four-door-coupe-concept-for-seoul/20516579/article-detail.xml 20516579 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-cub-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-cub-628.jpg <![CDATA[Younger buyers leaving Japanese for South Korean, American brands]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/younger-buyers-leaving-japanese-for-south-korean-american-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/younger-buyers-leaving-japanese-for-south-korean-american-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/younger-buyers-leaving-japanese-for-south-korean-american-brand/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Young new car shoppers looking at a Ford

Edmunds has taken a closer look at the buying habits of young adults. As it turns out, Gen X and Gen Y buyers are increasingly eschewing Japanese brands in favor of South Korean and American automakers. Five years ago, that wasn't the case, with more than half of all young buyers flocking to brands like Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Subaru and Mazda. But the U.S. has made up quite a bit of ground in recent years by producing inexpensive and fuel efficient small cars that appeal to a younger audience. Likewise, Hyundai and Kia have sharpened their small car games as well, and are now making more credit available to younger customers.

Those efforts have begun to pay dividends. While Japanese brands have seen their share of 18-24 year-old buyers slide by 9.8 percent between 2008 and 2012, domestic automakers have enjoyed a 1.9 percent increase. South Korean brands, meanwhile, have enjoyed the largest jump, with a 6.8 percent increase over the same time period. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Younger buyers leaving Japanese for South Korean, American brands

Younger buyers leaving Japanese for South Korean, American brands originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domestic brandsgen xgen yhyundaijapanese brandskiayoung buyersThu, 21 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20513514/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/21/younger-buyers-leaving-japanese-for-south-korean-american-brand/20513514/article-detail.xml 20513514 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/young-car-shoppers-at-ford-dealer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/young-car-shoppers-at-ford-dealer.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Forte sedan priced from $15,900*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/2014-kia-forte-sedan-priced-from-15-900/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/2014-kia-forte-sedan-priced-from-15-900/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/21/2014-kia-forte-sedan-priced-from-15-900/#commentsFiled under: ,



During our recent First Drive of the 2014 Kia Forte sedan, Kia revealed many of the sedan's specs, but left out pricing and fuel economy for its all-new compact sedan. With the new Forte set to hit dealerships soon, Kia has announced the starting prices for the sedan's two initial trim levels and released the fuel economy for the EX trim level equipped with the bigger engine. Marking a slight $500 jump in price over the current 2013 model, the 2014 Forte sedan will have a starting MSRP of $15,900 (*not including a destination charge of $800).

This price is for the base LX sedan with the 148-horsepower, 1.8-liter inline-four paired to the manual gearbox, but buyers wanting an automatic transmission will have to pony up an extra $1,500. Some of the notable features standard on the LX include Bluetooth and heated, power-folding door mirrors.

Stepping up to the EX trim level will run $19,400, but it also brings the peppier 2.0-liter direct-injected four-cylinder producing 173 horsepower and returning 24 miles per gallon in the city, 36 mpg highway and a combined rating of 28 mpg; Kia says these are EPA estimates, but the EPA's website does not yet list the 2014 Forte. Kia is still holding out on fuel economy for the base engine.

These are the only two trim levels mentioned for the new Forte - there is no word as to whether or not Kia is planning a sportier SX trim level - but you can check out some of the options and features that will be offered on the 2014 Forte in the press release posted below.

Continue reading 2014 Kia Forte sedan priced from $15,900*

2014 Kia Forte sedan priced from $15,900* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 kia forte2014 kia forte fuel economy2014 kia forte pricing2014 kia forte sedankiakia fortekia forte sedanThu, 21 Mar 2013 08:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20511427/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/21/2014-kia-forte-sedan-priced-from-15-900/20511427/article-detail.xml 20511427 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-kia-forte-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-kia-forte-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to green-light GT and Provo for production?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/kia-to-green-light-gt-and-provo-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/kia-to-green-light-gt-and-provo-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/kia-to-green-light-gt-and-provo-for-production/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Kia GT Concept - front three-quarter view, live on auto show stand

Kia is looking to inject a bit more performance life into its brand, and according to Auto Express, the company is looking at creating sporty models based on two of its recent concept cars, the GT four-door from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (shown above) and the Provo hybrid hatchback that debuted in Geneva last week (inset, right).

"The GT is close to being approved and going into production, but, as with all our cars, they have to be developed on a sound financial footing," Benny Oeyen, Kia Europe's VP of marketing and product planning, told Auto Express. When it debuted, the GT four-door was powered by a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6, reportedly good for 389 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Kia Provo Concept - front three-quarter view at Geneva Motor Show revealThe Provo, on the other hand, could stand as a sort of halo car for the company's B-segment offerings. It would ride on the same front-wheel-drive platform as the Rio compact, though Kia says it's eager to keep the concept's gasoline-electric powertrain intact. "Our brand is currently rational, but there's space for a B-coupe," says Oeyen. Of course, the company would indeed have to look at different naming possibilities for its B-segment coupe, since the week-old Provo is already stirring up some controversy.

Kia has not disclosed any sort of timeline for when the cars may officially get the green light or when they would arrive in production form. From where we sit, some sporty Kias sound good to us, and if anything, the GT and Provo concepts certainly seem like promising building blocks for new products.

Kia to green-light GT and Provo for production? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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