Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Kia's Red Rock Special Edition Soul hits showrooms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/kias-red-rock-special-edition-soul-hits-showrooms/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/kias-red-rock-special-edition-soul-hits-showrooms/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/kias-red-rock-special-edition-soul-hits-showrooms/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Soul Red Rock Special Edition

The Soul has been a success for Kia, and a big part of that comes down to style. It's something which the Korean automaker has cultivated with a series of special editions, and this is the brand's latest.

First previewed at the New York Auto Show last year, the Red Rock Special Edition has now been confirmed for production and is available to order. Named after the famous rock formations in the American southwest, it's characterized by a shade of brown exterior paint which Kia calls Canyon, complemented by glossy black trim in the fascia and mirror housings. Inside, the black and brown theme continues, with black leather trim and brown cloth seats.

Automatic climate control and heated seats come bundled as standard in a package starting at $20,600, plus destination and taxes. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Kia's Red Rock Special Edition Soul hits showrooms

Kia's Red Rock Special Edition Soul hits showrooms originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia soul red rock special editionkiakia soulkia soul red rockkia soul red rock special editionred rocksoulMon, 13 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20170473/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/13/kias-red-rock-special-edition-soul-hits-showrooms/20170473/article-detail.xml 20170473 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-soul-redrocksweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-soul-redrocksweb.jpg <![CDATA[Kia releases sketches of RWD flagship sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/kia-releases-sketches-of-rwd-flagship-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/kia-releases-sketches-of-rwd-flagship-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/13/kia-releases-sketches-of-rwd-flagship-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia KH / K9 / Opirus official sketches

Kia has released a trio of teasers for its forthcoming range-topping sedan - codenamed KH - that will launch in the first half of this year. Our trusty spy photographers recently caught the KH out testing in the cold, and looking at these sketches side-by-side with the spy shots, we can get a better look at that full-LED headlamp setup. Moreover, the KH (a.k.a. K9, a.k.a. Opirus) nicely blends in with the rest of the automaker's design, with many cues from the Optima being carried over, as well as design elements from the large GT concept that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (we see a little bit of BMW 7 Series in there, too, but perhaps that's just in the sketches)

The KH is expected to ride on the same rear-wheel-drive architecture as the Hyundai Genesis, and while no powertrain details have been confirmed, it makes sense to assume that the Hyundai's 3.8-liter V6, 4.6-liter V8 and 5.0-liter V8 will carry over. Then again, the GT concept was powered by a unique twin-turbo V6, and while it'd be very interesting to see Kia launch this vehicle with an all-new engine not available elsewhere in the Hyundai/Kia portfolio, we won't get our hopes up.

Soon-Nam Lee, the company's overseas marketing director, says that the KH will go on sale in the first half of this year, "showcasing the best of the best of Kia." The car will initially launch in Korea, making its way to all other major markets throughout the year. Well, almost all other markets - Kia's press release clearly states, "There are no plans to launch the vehicle in mainland Europe and the car will not be coming to the UK." Bollocks.

Hit the jump for Kia's official release, and be sure to check out the KH teasers for yourself in the high-res image gallery below.

Kia releases sketches of RWD flagship sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>k9khkiakia flagshipkia k9kia kh sedankia opirusopirusMon, 13 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20170458/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/13/kia-releases-sketches-of-rwd-flagship-sedan/20170458/article-detail.xml 20170458 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-kia-kh-sedan-sketch628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-kia-kh-sedan-sketch628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant.

Kia's Track'ster Concept is one of the big hits of the Chicago Auto Show, one of the rare concepts that just screams, "Build me!" But after a thorough interrogation of Kia's PR team and an interview with design chief Peter Schreyer, we realize that's just wishful thinking. We do, however, expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant when the second generation appears in a few years.

"If the Soul were to evolve into a family, it would be nice," Schreyer told us.

Kia spokesman Scott McKee repeatedly said the Track'ster was just a concept and not intended to be production feasible, all the while issuing the standard auto company disclaimer, "Every concept car we do is about gathering information from consumers and media."

One of the big pieces of information Kia is likely looking for is whether performance cars from Kia would play with the notoriously cliquish enthusiast community. Even more importantly, however, Kia will be gauging interest in additional body styles for the Soul. Schreyer said he thinks the Soul would be "more substantial" if it were also offered in a two-door version, or in a more performance-oriented flavor. All-wheel drive is a feature Schreyer also specifically mentioned as being on his wish list.

Continue reading Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"

Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showconceptkiakia conceptkia soulkia trackster conceptpeter schreyersoultracksterFri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168203/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/20168203/article-detail.xml 20168203 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-concept-live-chicago-12-opt-1328890225_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-concept-live-chicago-12-opt-1328890225.jpg <![CDATA[Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Chicago Auto Show Debuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



The Chicago Auto Show may be the smallest of the North American auto shows we cover (yet largest by square footage, ironically), but year after year, more and more automakers choose to show off some new metal under the lights of McCormick Place. This year saw a total of 18 major reveals (click here to see our full rundown), and while that pales in comparison to last month's Detroit show, there's still a lot of new metal to talk about here in Chicago.

So, of the 18 cars that took the stage in the Windy City, which ones were our favorite? More importantly, which one was the favorite? Follow the jump to see our top five picks for the best 2012 Chicago Auto Show debuts.

Continue reading Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Chicago Auto Show Debuts

Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Chicago Auto Show Debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1993 ford mustang svt cobra r2013 acura ilx2013 hyundai elantra gt2013 volkswagen beetle tdiacurabeetlebest in showchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showcobracobra reditors choiceelantraelantra gtfeaturedfordhyundaiilxkiamustangtditrackstervolkswagenThu, 09 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/20168134/article-detail.xml 20168134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-auto-show_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-auto-show.jpg <![CDATA[Kia's RWD K9 flagship caught testing in the snow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia K9 Spy Shots

Kia has taken the company's K9 to Northern Sweden for a little winter testing, and our spy photographers were on hand to catch a glimpse of the vehicle as it went dashing through the snow. The vehicle will borrow from the rear-wheel drive architecture pioneered on the Hyundai Genesis, though will likely boast design cues inspired by the Kia GT Concept. Judging by these photos, full LED headlights will make their way to the model, at least on some trims. Odds are the K9 will boast power from both a 3.8-liter V6 and a 4.6-liter V8 as well as a more powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine borrowed from the Genesis R-Spec.

A standard eight-speed automatic transmission is likely to handle gear-swapping duties, but rumor has it Kia is also working on a new 10-speed transmission, and there's a chance that gearbox will be available in the K9 in the near future. Look for the vehicle to make a full debut later this year as a 2013 model.

Kia's RWD K9 flagship caught testing in the snow originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>k9 spy shotskiakia k9kia k9 spy shotsspy photographsspy shotsThu, 09 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168175/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/20168175/article-detail.xml 20168175 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/02-kia-k9-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/02-kia-k9-628.jpg <![CDATA[KBB hands out inaugural Total Cost of Ownership awards to Kia, Audi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kbb-hands-out-inaugural-total-cost-of-ownership-awards-to-kia-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kbb-hands-out-inaugural-total-cost-of-ownership-awards-to-kia-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kbb-hands-out-inaugural-total-cost-of-ownership-awards-to-kia-a/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Kia has taken home the first ever Kelley Blue Book award for Total Cost of Ownership among consumer brands. As you might expect, the award goes to brands and vehicles with the lowest projected ownership costs. KBB examines depreciation, fuel costs, fees associated with finance and insurance, maintenance costs and state fees. Both the Optima sedan and Sportage CUV helped Kia cinch the win this award's inaugural year.

Kelley Blue Book also examined the cost of ownership among luxury brands, and Audi took the top nod in this category. KBB specifically pointed to the German automaker's low depreciation and good average fuel economy as reasons for the brand's win. The A3, A4 and Q5 all helped the automaker in the total cost of ownership evaluation.

The award is also broken up by individual vehicle categories, and there were some surprises among the winners. The Honda Insight took the Hybrid Car award while the Chevrolet Volt nabbed the Electric Car win. We would have expected to see the Toyota Prius and Nissan Leaf take those categories, respectively. Follow the jump for the full press release that reveals individual winners in each model category.

Continue reading KBB hands out inaugural Total Cost of Ownership awards to Kia, Audi

KBB hands out inaugural Total Cost of Ownership awards to Kia, Audi originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3a4audikbbkelley blue bookkelley blue book total cost of ownership awardkiaoptimaq5sportagetotal cost of ownership awardThu, 09 Feb 2012 11:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167973/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/kbb-hands-out-inaugural-total-cost-of-ownership-awards-to-kia-a/20167973/article-detail.xml 20167973 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/00-2012-kia-optima-sx-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/00-2012-kia-optima-sx-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Optima SX Limited is literally a dream come true]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



While Chrysler got the most attention for its Super Bowl ad starring Clint Eastwood, many found Kia's spot starring Mr. Sandman, Adriana Lima and Motley Crue to be the most entertaining. The car featured in the ad was the new Optima SX Limited, which made its debut today at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

The SX Limited is the new range-topping trim for the Optima, slotting neatly above the SX. What it adds to the already loaded SX are LED daytime running lights, chrome accenting on the rear spoiler and lower door sills, red painted front brake calipers, a unique set of chrome 18-inch wheels, high-dollar Napa leather, wood interior trim and three exterior colors options: Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl or Titanium Metallic.

While no pricing for the SX Limited was given, we obviously expect it to start somewhere north of the SX trim's $26,500 base price. Production begins later this month at Kia's assembly plant in West Point, Georgia.

Continue reading 2012 Kia Optima SX Limited is literally a dream come true

2012 Kia Optima SX Limited is literally a dream come true originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia optima sx limitedchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showkiamr. sandmanoptimasx limitedWed, 08 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/20167254/article-detail.xml 20167254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-optima-sxl-live-chicago-18-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-optima-sxl-live-chicago-18-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia releases second Track'Ster teaser ahead of Chicago debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/kia-releases-second-trackster-teaser-ahead-of-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/kia-releases-second-trackster-teaser-ahead-of-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/kia-releases-second-trackster-teaser-ahead-of-chicago-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Kia Trackster Concept teaser

Kia has officially dropped new teaser for its Chicago-bound Track'Ster concept. Word has it the new hatch will be based largely on the company's Soul five-door, though with a few notable tweaks. For starters, designers scrapped the rear doors for more of a hot hatch look. A new front fascia looks to be part of the recipe as well, and odds are the Track'Ster will rock suitably outrageous wheels befitting a true concept.

But will it come to production? It's hard telling. As you may recall, the Soul has been a go-to favorite as a concept platform in the past. Kia showed off the beach-going Soul'ster concept at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, and while the vehicle generated enormous buzz, the economic slowdown put a stop to any production plans. Still, with corporate cousin Hyundai rocking the Veloster, there may be room in the Kia stable for a performance hatch.

The Track'Ster Concept will make its official debut later this week.

Kia releases second Track'Ster teaser ahead of Chicago debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showconceptkiakia trackstertrackstertrackster conceptMon, 06 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165172/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/kia-releases-second-trackster-teaser-ahead-of-chicago-debut/20165172/article-detail.xml 20165172 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-628.jpg <![CDATA[Wagons West: Domestics picked up market share in California last year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/wagons-west-domestics-picked-up-market-share-in-california-last/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/wagons-west-domestics-picked-up-market-share-in-california-last/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/wagons-west-domestics-picked-up-market-share-in-california-last/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2012 Jeep Wrangler

Most days, California must seem like Kazakhstan for the Big Three. Domestic products aren't so popular out West, where Toyota and Honda have long stood atop the sales charts. But not in 2011.

According to a report in Automotive News, both General Motors and Ford managed to bump Honda from its silver medal position in 2011, though Toyota still holds a commanding market share lead. In a storyline we've heard before, the twin natural disasters in Asia curbed Japanese production, causing a 4.5 point loss of market share. Toyota's market share dropped from 22.8 to 19.2 percent, while GM and Ford tied at 12.6 percent - ahead of Honda at 12.1.

Booming sales in the Golden State helped the domestics to their 1.8 point gain. New vehicle registrations in California were up 9.9 percent, according to the report. The biggest sales gains last year were made by Kia and Jeep, which were up 53 and 49 percent, respectively.

Wagons West: Domestics picked up market share in California last year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiacalifornia car salescalifornia carsdomestic automakerfordgeneral motorsgmhondajeepkiamarket sharetoyotaFri, 03 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20163109/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/wagons-west-domestics-picked-up-market-share-in-california-last/20163109/article-detail.xml 20163109 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-jeep-wrangler-opt-1328211579_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-jeep-wrangler-opt-1328211579.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic finishes CES by going solo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/#commentsFiled under:

Translogic at CES, part 2

Our sister site Translogic follows up on its Consumer Electronics Show coverage with a new episode this week. This one is a smorgasbord of automotive tech, including a spin on the Solowheel, a mobility device that's sort of like half a Segway.

The Translogic crew also talks to the chief technology officer at Panasonic, who draws some interesting comparisons between electric cars and refrigerators. Audi shows off a new gesture-based, heads-up display. Kia announces a new version of its UVO telematics system and shows it off in some concepts.

Click past the jump to watch the whole episode.

Continue reading Translogic finishes CES by going solo

Translogic finishes CES by going solo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol autosaudicesces 2012consumer electronics showkiapanasonicsolowheeltranslogicuvoThu, 02 Feb 2012 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160987/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/translogic-finishes-ces-by-going-solo/20160987/article-detail.xml 20160987 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/translogic-ces-2-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/translogic-ces-2-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia debuts Adriana Lima-infused Super Bowl ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/kia-debuts-adriana-lima-infused-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/kia-debuts-adriana-lima-infused-super-bowl-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/kia-debuts-adriana-lima-infused-super-bowl-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Kia has been spending big on Super Bowl advertising for a few years now, but its commercials have been hit or miss. Its ad for the big game in 2010 entitled "Joyride" was a hit for bringing toys from our childhood to life behind the wheel of a Sorento, but last year's "One Epic Ride" was a definite miss. Kia's ad for this year's Super Bowl, called "A Dream Car. For Real Life," will likely be a hit.

The premise is simple: A fairy who visits bedsides with magic dust that guarantees good dreams accidentally trips over a slipper and spills his whole bucket of sprinkles on an unsuspecting, demographically targeted and non-threateningly handsome 30-something man. The resulting indulgent dream stars Victoria's Secret model Adriana Lima, 80's hair band Mötley Crüe (looking a little worse for wear, we might add) and UFC fighter Chuck Liddell. There's also a school bus-sized sub sandwich being cut in half by lumberjacks and a roaring crowd of thousands of bikini-wearing beauties.

In the midst of all this REM-induced revelry is the Kia Optima, because what other car would your subconscious pick to impress Ms. Lima?

Kia has also published a five-hour-long video of Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag in slow motion on YouTube, because hey, if you've got her on set for the day, why not? Follow the jump to watch them both.

Continue reading Kia debuts Adriana Lima-infused Super Bowl ad

Kia debuts Adriana Lima-infused Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia optima2012 super bowladriana limachuck liddellkiakia super bowl admötley crüemotley crueoptimasuper bowlsuper bowl adssuper bowl commercialsvideovince neilThu, 02 Feb 2012 12:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162939/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/kia-debuts-adriana-lima-infused-super-bowl-ad/20162939/article-detail.xml 20162939 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-adriana-lima-super-bowl_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-adriana-lima-super-bowl.jpg <![CDATA[Kia renders Track'ster concept for Chicago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/kia-renders-trackster-concept-for-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/kia-renders-trackster-concept-for-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/kia-renders-trackster-concept-for-chicago/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Kia Track'ster concept teaser for Chicago Auto Show

Things are shaping up nicely for next week's Chicago Auto Show, key among them this new Kia concept called Track'ster. Riffing on the Korean automaker's hit Soul compact, the Track'ster keeps much of the small car's boxy style, but turns the wick up considerably by scrubbing the rear doors, fitting a gaping front end, substituting massive showcar wheels and dramatically lowering the right height.

This isn't the first time Kia has toyed with the idea of a Soul spinoff - at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, it presented the Soul'ster, a rough-and-tumble concept vehicle with a small pickup bed. Thanks to a strong response from the public, the Soul'ster was understood to be under consideration for production, but its hopes reportedly fizzled due to the economic meltdown.

Despite being on the market since 2008, the Soul continues to pick up momentum in chunks. Thanks in part to a refresh for 2012 that addresses hopes for more powerful drivetrains, the Soul has emerged as one of Kia's best sellers - last month, it was only slightly outdistanced by the Optima midsize sedan, and it's outpacing Sorrento, which was Kia's best-seller last year.

Will Kia finally pull the trigger on a Soul variant? We should know more after the Track'ster makes the show circuit rounds.

Kia renders Track'ster concept for Chicago originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2012 chicagochicago auto showkiakia soulkia trackstersoultracksterThu, 02 Feb 2012 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162775/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/kia-renders-trackster-concept-for-chicago/20162775/article-detail.xml 20162775 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-teaser-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-teaser-628.jpg <![CDATA[Analysts: U.S. automakers will lose marketshare in 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/analysts-u-s-automakers-will-lose-marketshare-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/analysts-u-s-automakers-will-lose-marketshare-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/analysts-u-s-automakers-will-lose-marketshare-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Alan Mulally, Dan Akerson and Mark Reuss

Domestic automakers have much to be happy about, with Chrysler, Ford and General Motors all gaining market share last year for the first time since 1988. Yet according to Bloomberg, 2012 won't be as good to Detroit. Total sales are projected to grow from 12.8 million vehicles last year to 13.6 million, according to the report, but increasing competition from Korea and a Japanese recovery from the natural disasters of 2011 mean those extra sales aren't likely headed to the Big Three.

The news agency spoke to five analysts, and predictions have the U.S. automakers losing 1.3 percentage points this year. The analysts estimate that GM will drop 0.6 of a percent, Ford will lose 0.5 percent, and Chrysler will be down 0.2 percent. Toyota is seen gaining 0.9 percent, with Honda grabbing an extra 0.5 percent, while Hyundai and Kia are only projected to see their combined market share improve by 0.01.

If all this comes true, GM would have the top market share in the U.S. at 19 percent, with Ford in second at 16.3 percent, followed by Toyota at 13.8 percent, Chrysler at 10.5 percent, and Honda at 9.5 percent.

Analysts: U.S. automakers will lose marketshare in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto salesbig threecar saleschryslerdomestic automakersfordgeneral motorsgmhondahyundaikiamarket sharetoyotau.s. automakersTue, 31 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160811/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/analysts-u-s-automakers-will-lose-marketshare-in-2012/20160811/article-detail.xml 20160811 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012naiascharitypreview-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012naiascharitypreview-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Infographic: Which automakers gave the biggest discounts?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/29/infographic-which-automakers-gave-the-biggest-discounts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/29/infographic-which-automakers-gave-the-biggest-discounts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/29/infographic-which-automakers-gave-the-biggest-discounts/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Business was a-boomin' in the auto industry last year, and while a number of factors conspired to keep cars moving through dealerships, chief among them was discounts. How do we know that? This infographic contains part of the answer.

Compiled using data from car-shopping website CarWoo!, the infographic tells us which automakers gave the most discounts last year, where they were given, who got them, and more. Which automaker doled out the most discounts? Jeep, which CarWoo! says was selling its vehicles at a 17.7-percent discount in 2011. Which automaker also posted the largest percentage gain in sales last year? Jeep, whose sales jumped over 44 percent compared to 2010.

Mitsubishi and Kia, which posted the second and third largest percent increases in sales last year, also make CarWoo!'s list by having offered high discounts of 11.7 and 12.1 percent in 2011.

Big savings didn't always equal big sales, though. Infiniti, for instance, is on record offering discounts of 12.2 percent in 2011, but still saw its sales fall 4.8 percent.

Check out the rest of what CarWoo!'s infographic has to say about savings after the jump.

Continue reading Infographic: Which automakers gave the biggest discounts?

Infographic: Which automakers gave the biggest discounts? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingcarwoodiscountsinfinitijeepkiamitsubishisavingsSun, 29 Jan 2012 16:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157768/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/29/infographic-which-automakers-gave-the-biggest-discounts/20157768/article-detail.xml 20157768 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/jan2012carwooinfographichc-2012.01.23-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/jan2012carwooinfographichc-2012.01.23-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia start/stop system delayed due to poor feedback from media]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/kia-start-stop-system-delayed-due-to-poor-feedback-from-media/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/kia-start-stop-system-delayed-due-to-poor-feedback-from-media/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/kia-start-stop-system-delayed-due-to-poor-feedback-from-media/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The come-hither 2012 Kia Rio has been bolting off dealer lots for obvious reasons that go beyond its $14,350 price. One of its noteworthy features for the U.S. market, especially for the segment, is stop/start, which Kia calls ISG for Idle, Stop & Go. Media feedback, however, has convinced Kia that ISG is not quite ready for prime time, so it's been sent back to the engineers for tweaks.

The same system is also available on the Kia Soul, and that hatchback will be going without for the moment, as well. Apparently, some reviewers found the system's engagement rough. Kia didn't give details about the move, either what might have caused the perceived roughness or what remedy it will use to fix it. If you're holding out for ISG on your Rio or Soul, which is available by checking the special Eco options package, a Kia executive said it will now be arriving in the second quarter.

Kia start/stop system delayed due to poor feedback from media originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio2012 kia soulidle stop goisgkiariosoulstart stopstop startFri, 20 Jan 2012 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20152045/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/kia-start-stop-system-delayed-due-to-poor-feedback-from-media/20152045/article-detail.xml 20152045 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-kia-soul-eco-start-stop-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-kia-soul-eco-start-stop-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia recalls 145K Rondo, Optima models over airbag issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/kia-recalls-145k-rondo-optima-models-over-airbag-issues/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/kia-recalls-145k-rondo-optima-models-over-airbag-issues/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/kia-recalls-145k-rondo-optima-models-over-airbag-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2007 Kia Rondo in motion

Kia has announced that it is recalling 145,000 vehicles to address faulty airbags. A total of 95,569 Optima sedans built between 2006 and 2008 and 50,186 Rondo MPVs built between 2007 and 2008 are included in the recall.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the vehicles may have been built with a clock spring in the steering column that may fatigue and break over time. As a result, the vehicles may illuminate the airbag warning light on the dash and the airbag may not deploy in the event of an accident. The automaker says that while it has received some warranty claims for the problem, no crashes or injuries have been reported as a result of the default.

Kia plans to notify affected Optima and Rondo owners in March. Those vehicles that currently have their airbag lights illuminated will be fixed first. Click past the jump for the full recall notification.

Continue reading Kia recalls 145K Rondo, Optima models over airbag issues

Kia recalls 145K Rondo, Optima models over airbag issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia airbag recallkia optimakia recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaoptimaoptima recallrecallrondorondo recallFri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153011/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/20/kia-recalls-145k-rondo-optima-models-over-airbag-issues/20153011/article-detail.xml 20153011 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2007-kia-rondo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2007-kia-rondo-628.jpg <![CDATA[An early look at 2012 shows a radically new auto industry]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/an-early-look-at-2012-shows-a-radically-new-auto-industry/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/an-early-look-at-2012-shows-a-radically-new-auto-industry/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/an-early-look-at-2012-shows-a-radically-new-auto-industry/#commentsFiled under: ,

Detroit Gains Momentum As Japan Regains Its Footing

Happy New Year 2012

The automotive world as we know it underwent plenty of shaking last year and it was the result of more than just the tragic earthquake and tsunami that rattled Japan - costing makers like Toyota and Honda perhaps a million units in lost production.

While it's certainly too early to even guess at what the big stories for 2012 will be, we can suggest, with a high level of confidence, that what had long been the industry's established order won't be the same going forward. The playing field has clearly shifted. For some, it might now seem to be level for the first time in decades. For others, it is listing like the Costa Concordia, the doomed Italian cruise ship.

A week after the frantic media days, a less breathless review of the Detroit Auto Show offers some hints as to not only what's in play but who the big players likely will be.

Paul EisensteinPaul A. Eisenstein is Publisher of TheDetroitBureau.com and a 30-year veteran of the automotive beat. His editorials bring his unique perspective and deep understanding of the auto world to Autoblog readers on a regular basis.

Continue reading An early look at 2012 shows a radically new auto industry

An early look at 2012 shows a radically new auto industry originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 auto industryauto industryeisensteineisenstein on autoblogfordgmhondahyundaikianissantoyotavolkswagenThu, 19 Jan 2012 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20151366/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/an-early-look-at-2012-shows-a-radically-new-auto-industry/20151366/article-detail.xml 20151366 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/happy-new-year-2012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/happy-new-year-2012.jpg <![CDATA[New Kia C'eed unveiled, will debut at Geneva Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/new-kia-ceed-unveiled-will-debut-at-geneva-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/new-kia-ceed-unveiled-will-debut-at-geneva-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/new-kia-ceed-unveiled-will-debut-at-geneva-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The second generation of the Kia c'eed is a dramatic rework five years after the C-segment fighter was introduced. It is fronted by Kia's now-familiar design elements, attempting to go upmarket along its flanks with chrome trim around the windows and "styling typically found on a sporty coupé with the space and functionality of a five-door hatch."

We don't know what its innards look like, but Kia says it has a "driver oriented dashboard and refined interior, with a strong focus on quality of materials." Other reports suggest it will be offered with a choice of two gasoline and two diesel engines, which would be a reduction in choice from the five powerplants offered now. However, that same report says that one of the engines would be a turbocharged, 1.6-liter T-GDI making 250 horsepower, more than doubling the most powerful current option. On sale in Europe only, it will take on the Volkswagen Golf, Alfa Romeo Giulietta and Seat Leon.

It will be unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show in two months and go on sale in the UK in June. You'll find a press release that's rather light on details after the jump, and you can click on the image above to enlarge.

Continue reading New Kia C'eed unveiled, will debut at Geneva Motor Show

New Kia C'eed unveiled, will debut at Geneva Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia ceed2013 kia ceedceedkiakia ceedFri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145864/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/new-kia-ceed-unveiled-will-debut-at-geneva-motor-show/20145864/article-detail.xml 20145864 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012kiaceed_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012kiaceed.jpg <![CDATA[Hands-on with Kia UVO2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia UVO2

Kia is rolling out the second generation of its UVO infotainment system before we could really get to know the original, but UVO2 is packing all the advanced telematics and connectivity features of its competitors - or at least it will when it ships later this year.

We had a chance to sample the lower-spec version of UVO2 in an Optima Hybrid, and overall, it's an improvement over its predecessor both in terms of polish and features.

Included in UVO2 is automatic crash notification, road-side assistance, service reminders and tracking, along with geo-fencing, speed warnings and a curfew setting that lets you know when the kiddies stray too far, go too fast or stay out late.

Along with the normal raft of music and navigation features, there's a companion iPhone app that keeps track of maintenance and notifications. It also includes a vehicle finder that automatically logs the vehicle's last location and lets you find it using a nifty augmented reality feature. Get more details in the press blast and hands-on video after the jump.

Continue reading Hands-on with Kia UVO2

Hands-on with Kia UVO2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012kiakia uvo2uvouvo 2uvo2Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146695/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/hands-on-with-kia-uvo2/20146695/article-detail.xml 20146695 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/kia-uvo-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/kia-uvo-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA closes probes into Honda Accord Hybrid, Kia Sorento]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The Detroit News reports that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has concluded its investigations into both the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Kia Sorento without ordering either automaker to issue a recall. NHTSA began looking into Accord Hybrid models after a fatal traffic accident was initially attributed to unintended acceleration. The agency found no evidence of a mechanical or safety issue in the vehicles.

NHTSA had also received 18 complaints of fuel spilling from the filler port on certain 2003-2004 Kia Sorento models. Kia found the vehicles' fuel evaporation system featured a canister filter that could become clogged over time. As a result, excess pressure could build up in the fuel tank, causing gasoline to regurgitate back out of the filler neck. The canister requires regular service, but isn't mentioned in the owner's manual. According to The Detroit News, Kia has agreed to conduct a service campaign involving around 86,000 2003-2004 Sorento models.

NHTSA closes probes into Honda Accord Hybrid, Kia Sorento originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordaccord hybridhondahonda accord hybridkiakia sorentonational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaservice campaignsorentoWed, 11 Jan 2012 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20143658/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/20143658/article-detail.xml 20143658 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2005-honda-accord-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2005-honda-accord-hybrid.jpg -1 2