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[Senator calling for answers from Hyundai and Kia over MPG debacle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/senate-calling-for-answers-from-hyundai-and-kia-over-mpg-debacle/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/senate-calling-for-answers-from-hyundai-and-kia-over-mpg-debacle/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/30/senate-calling-for-answers-from-hyundai-and-kia-over-mpg-debacle/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Kia Rio sedan - front three-quarter view, white

Hyundai and Kia have already gone public with plans to make good on the inflated fuel economy claims scandal that has rocked both companies in recent weeks. But one US senator, Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), is skeptical that the general public will see much good from the proposal, and he's looking for answers.

To recap: Hyundai/Kia have agreed to compensate owners of 900,000 affected vehicles for real versus previously claimed fuel mileage (as well as adding in a one- fifteen-percent premium), by way of pre-loaded debit cards. It has been speculated that this payout could crest $100 million by the time the Korean automakers are done writing checks.

Said Rockefeller to The Detroit News, "While I believe this is a positive step, I am concerned that many affected customers may not learn about the program or may find it burdensome to participate in the program." Rockefeller would reportedly like to see a monitoring system for the paybacks more clearly defined, with the goal being as many wronged car buyers as possible getting the recompense that they're due.

For its part, the EPA is continuing its probe into the matter, and the government agency could yet pursue civil penalties against the automakers.

Senator calling for answers from Hyundai and Kia over MPG debacle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel economyhyundaijay rockefellerkiampgmpg scandalrious senateFri, 30 Nov 2012 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20391799/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/30/senate-calling-for-answers-from-hyundai-and-kia-over-mpg-debacle/20391799/article-detail.xml 20391799 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/kia-rio-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/kia-rio-628.jpg <![CDATA[Act Surprised: Hyundai, Kia sued over inflated fuel mileage ratings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/act-surprised-hyundai-kia-sued-over-inflated-fuel-mileage-rati/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/act-surprised-hyundai-kia-sued-over-inflated-fuel-mileage-rati/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/act-surprised-hyundai-kia-sued-over-inflated-fuel-mileage-rati/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Hyundai Elantra window sticker

You knew this was coming. Shortly after Hyundai and Kia admitted that their internal processes for calculating fuel economy were flawed, resulting in a major program to compensate drivers for lower-than-advertised mile-per-gallon numbers and the re-rating of a large percentage of the two-headed Korean automaker's vehicles, we have word of a lawsuit.

There had already been a lawsuit seeking class-action status filed in California well before the admission of inflated fuel economy claims was made. This latest suit was filed in Ohio on behalf of Molly Simons, a 2012 Kia Rio owner, and Rebecca Sanders and Jeffrey Millar, owners of a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. Both of these models were included in the 900,000 or so vehicles cited by the automakers as having incorrect mileage estimates.

According to Automotive News, this lawsuit seeks, in addition to covering legal fees and unspecified damages, to allow owners of affected Hyundai and Kia models in Ohio to back out of their purchase or lease agreements. Both Hyundai and Kia have so far declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Act Surprised: Hyundai, Kia sued over inflated fuel mileage ratings originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 19:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio2013 hyundai elantraclass action lawsuitelantrafuel mileagehyundaihyundai fuel economykiakia fuel economyohiorioMon, 05 Nov 2012 19:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20371337/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/act-surprised-hyundai-kia-sued-over-inflated-fuel-mileage-rati/20371337/article-detail.xml 20371337 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/hyundai-elantra-sticker_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/hyundai-elantra-sticker.jpg <![CDATA[Kia transforms five <i>Justice League</i> inspired models for Heroes charity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/kia-justice-league-cars-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/kia-justice-league-cars-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/kia-justice-league-cars-sema-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Following up on the dark and sinister Batman Optima that we saw revealed in New York City a while back, Kia has come to SEMA with a selection of super hero-inspired cars for your viewing pleasure.

DC Entertainment has offered up its well known Justice League cast of characters for Kia-fication. Flash has lent his livery to a Kia Forte Koup, Green Lantern gets a Soul, Cyborg a Forte Five-Door and the much-lampooned Aquaman (he talks to fish) has inspired a Rio Five-Door.

The cars are sure to get the comic community at least a little fired up, which is great, because all will be auctioned off for charity at the conclusion of this year's show. The charity in question, We Can Be Heroes, dedicated to fighting hunger in the Horn of Africa.

Have a look at all of the cars in our live gallery, or scroll down to read the full press release from Kia.

Continue reading Kia transforms five Justice League inspired models for Heroes charity

Kia transforms five Justice League inspired models for Heroes charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc comicsforteforte koupjustice leaguekiaoptimariosemasema 2012soulTue, 30 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20365805/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/30/kia-justice-league-cars-sema-2012/20365805/article-detail.xml 20365805 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/01-kia-justice-league-sema-2012-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/01-kia-justice-league-sema-2012-628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to offer limited edition 2013 Rio 5-Door SX with manual gearbox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/kia-to-offer-limited-edition-2013-rio-5-door-sx-with-manual-gear/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/kia-to-offer-limited-edition-2013-rio-5-door-sx-with-manual-gear/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/kia-to-offer-limited-edition-2013-rio-5-door-sx-with-manual-gear/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Kia Rio SX 5-Door - blue - front three-quarter view

Up until now, if you wanted the top-of-the-line version of the Kia Rio 5-Door, you could only get it with the six-speed automatic transmission. But now, Kia has now announced a limited run of six-speed manual-equipped hatchbacks.

That means that Rio 5-Door buyers no longer have to decide between a row-your-own gearbox and features like the UVO infotainment system, backup camera and Bluetooth hands-free calling. You can have all these features, plus the manual gearbox for an MSRP of $17,900.

According to Kia, the combination of range-topping trim and manual transmission provides a "more engaging drive experience without sacrificing the comfort and convenience offered by the subcompact model's highest trim level."

The idea for the Rio SX M/T (manual transmission) was apparently inspired by Kia's B-Spec race car, which has been competing in the Grand-Am race series. Only 500 examples of the SX M/T will be sold for the 2013 model year.

Continue reading Kia to offer limited edition 2013 Rio 5-Door SX with manual gearbox

Kia to offer limited edition 2013 Rio 5-Door SX with manual gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 kia riokiamanual transmissionriorio 5-door sxuvoTue, 11 Sep 2012 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20320004/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/11/kia-to-offer-limited-edition-2013-rio-5-door-sx-with-manual-gear/20320004/article-detail.xml 20320004 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/kia-rio-5-door-628_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/kia-rio-5-door-628.jpeg <![CDATA[Kia recalls nearly 73,000 Rio models over airbag issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/kia-recalls-nearly-73-000-rio-models-over-airbag-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/kia-recalls-nearly-73-000-rio-models-over-airbag-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/kia-recalls-nearly-73-000-rio-models-over-airbag-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Due to a potentially faulty sensor mat, Kia is voluntarily recalling Kia Rio models from the 2006 to 2008 model years. The sensor in the passenger's seat is susceptible to cracking from fatigue. If that happens, it may not be able to detect whether a child is in the seat, nor will it be able to adjust the airbag deployment settings so as not to deploy if there is a child present.

Kia says there are around 73,000 units affected, and the Korean automaker will begin notifying owners in July. Scroll down for the bulletin posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Continue reading Kia recalls nearly 73,000 Rio models over airbag issue

Kia recalls nearly 73,000 Rio models over airbag issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2006 kia rio2007 kia rio2008 kia rioairbagkiakia recallkia rioNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallriosafetyTue, 05 Jun 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251683/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/05/kia-recalls-nearly-73-000-rio-models-over-airbag-issue/20251683/article-detail.xml 20251683 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2008kiario_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2008kiario.jpg <![CDATA[Watch French motorcyclist Julien Dupont stunt his way through Rio de Janeiro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/watch-french-motorcyclist-julien-dupont-stunt-his-way-through-ri/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/watch-french-motorcyclist-julien-dupont-stunt-his-way-through-ri/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/watch-french-motorcyclist-julien-dupont-stunt-his-way-through-ri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Julien Dupont trials bike in Rio de Janeiro from Redbull

There are literally thousands of videos on YouTube highlighting riders performing all manners of mind-bending stunts on motorcycles. Most of them merit a passing glance and little more. The video you'll see after the break, featuring French trials rider Julien Dupont, is an exception. You really should watch this video from start to finish.

Brought to us by the energetic group from Redbull, Dupont's antics through city streets and their many obstacles - stairs, poles, walls and cars - are impressive. Coupled with incredible views of Rio de Janeiro and the awestruck looks on the faces of local residents is icing on the proverbial cake. See for yourself by watching the video that we've pasted below.

Continue reading Watch French motorcyclist Julien Dupont stunt his way through Rio de Janeiro

Watch French motorcyclist Julien Dupont stunt his way through Rio de Janeiro originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>julien dupontmotorcycle stuntredbullriorio de janeirostunt videotrialstrials stuntTue, 24 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223378/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/watch-french-motorcyclist-julien-dupont-stunt-his-way-through-ri/20223378/article-detail.xml 20223378 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/julien-dupont-redbull-rio_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/julien-dupont-redbull-rio.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top <i>Consumer Reports</i> subcompact shootout]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 Kia Rio sedan

Consumer Reports has just wrapped up an evaluation of subcompact sedans, and the Kia Rio EX has rolled out ahead of the class. The four-door beat out its corporate clone, the Hyundai Accent and the Chevrolet Sonic to take the top spot. Evaluators pointed to the sharp handling and well-optioned interior in the Rio as reasons for the vehicle's win. The newly redesigned Nissan Versa and unloved Toyota Yaris filled out the top five sedans. And what of the baby hatchbacks? CR once again credited the Honda Fit as leader of the pack, followed closely by the Versa Hatchback and Rio Hatchback.

The organization found fault with the base Chevrolet Sonic's fuel economy, and found the turbocharged LTZ model to be too expensive. Evaluators also felt the Sonic Turbo "didn't live up to its sporty aspirations."

We'll politely agree to disagree on that one.

All of the vehicles in the evaluation are either too new or scored too low in CR evaluations to earn a coveted Recommended rating. Hit the jump for a look at the full press release and debate amongst yourselves in Comments.

Continue reading Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top Consumer Reports subcompact shootout

Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top Consumer Reports subcompact shootout originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accentchevroletchevrolet sonicconsumer reportscrfithondahonda fithyundaihyundai accentkiakia rionissannissan versariosonictoyotatoyota yarisversayarisFri, 23 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20199653/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/20199653/article-detail.xml 20199653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/kia-rio-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/kia-rio-628.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 partners with <em>Antenna</em> mag for retro surf-themed Rio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/kia-partners-with-antenna-mag-for-retro-surf-themed-rio/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/kia-partners-with-antenna-mag-for-retro-surf-themed-rio/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/kia-partners-with-antenna-mag-for-retro-surf-themed-rio/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Antenna Kia Rio 5-Door SEMA Concept

Kia has teamed up with Antenna magazine to create a special surf-themed concept for this year's SEMA show in Las Vegas. The publication turned its attention to the 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door. With a special sunset-metallic paint, custom gold wheels and a wooden front splitter, there's no mistaking the machine as a run-of-the-mill Rio.

Inside, the vehicle has been fitted with a special '80s gaming console as well as a vinyl record player and shelves for shoes and swimsuits. Oddly enough, there's no surf rack on top for transporting your boards to and from the beach.

If this isn't the pure essence of SEMA, we don't know what is. We're a little concerned about the thought that went into putting the record player below the shoe shelves as sand and LPs don't typically hang out at the same bar... Kia and Antenna plan to show off this particular 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door on Tuesday, November 1. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Kia partners with Antenna mag for retro surf-themed Rio

Kia partners with Antenna mag for retro surf-themed Rio originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 semaantennaantenna kia rio 5-doorconceptkiakia rio 5-doorriorio 5-doorrio 5-door conceptsemasema 2011sema showWed, 26 Oct 2011 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20089890/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/kia-partners-with-antenna-mag-for-retro-surf-themed-rio/20089890/article-detail.xml 20089890 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/antenna-rio-5-door-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/antenna-rio-5-door-628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia prices 2012 Rio sedan at $13,400*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/kia-prices-rio-sedan-at-13-400/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/kia-prices-rio-sedan-at-13-400/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/kia-prices-rio-sedan-at-13-400/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We're not exactly surprised, but Kia will be selling the sedan version of the Rio for $200 less than the five-door hatchback. The five-door is on sale now, while the $13,400 sedan won't hit dealers until January 2012.

An automatic-equipped Rio sedan will set you back $14,500, while the high-end SX trim starts at $17,500. None of those prices include the $750 destination charge.

While we found a lot to like about the all-new Rio five-door in our First Drive, we remain disappointed that yet another automaker has decided to charge a premium for the hatchback version. If we had a nickel for every time we've heard automakers say Americans don't want to buy hatchbacks, we'd all be able to retire to Bora Bora.

From where we sit, hatchbacks are not only easier on the eyes, but easier to live with, too. Of course, the bias against hatches seems like a self-fulfilling prophecy when there's no equity in pricing. Read the full release after the jump.

Continue reading Kia prices 2012 Rio sedan at $13,400*

Kia prices 2012 Rio sedan at $13,400* originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio2012 kia rio sedankiariorio sedanTue, 25 Oct 2011 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20089810/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/kia-prices-rio-sedan-at-13-400/20089810/article-detail.xml 20089810 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2012-kia-rio-sedan628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2012-kia-rio-sedan628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia expands racing program with Rio-based B-spec race car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/12/kia-expands-racing-program-with-rio-based-b-spec-race-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/12/kia-expands-racing-program-with-rio-based-b-spec-race-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/12/kia-expands-racing-program-with-rio-based-b-spec-race-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Kia Rio B-Spec racer

Of all the things that you could call a Kia, "racy" isn't the one that jumps first to mind. But the budget-oriented Korean automaker has been competing in Grand-Am, and is stepping things up (or down) a notch with the racer you see here.

Built for the B-Spec showroom stock class, this Rio five-door has been fitted with the requisite safety features (like a stripped-out cabin and roll cage) but little else. Kinetic Motorsports did the preparation work with an eye on numerous different racing series, but we'll have to wait another couple of weeks until SEMA when the car's set to be unveiled for all the details. In the meantime you can click the above image to view in high resolution and follow the jump for the brief announcement.

Continue reading Kia expands racing program with Rio-based B-spec race car

Kia expands racing program with Rio-based B-spec race car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia riokinetic motorsportskio rio b-specriosemaWed, 12 Oct 2011 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20078814/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/12/kia-expands-racing-program-with-rio-based-b-spec-race-car/20078814/article-detail.xml 20078814 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webkia-rio-b-spec_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webkia-rio-b-spec.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Rio priced from $13,600*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/2012-kia-rio-priced-from-13-600/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/2012-kia-rio-priced-from-13-600/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/2012-kia-rio-priced-from-13-600/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Kia Rio 5-Door

Kia has announced that the 2012 Rio 5-door will carry a price tag of just $13,600, excluding a $750 destination fee. For that slim slice of change, buyers can enjoy a vehicle with an automatic start/stop system designed to conserve fuel when the hatch would otherwise be idling. Kia says that this is the first application of the technology outside of the hybrid and luxury segments in the States. Combined with the company's 1.6-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine, the 2012 Rio 5-Door is good for 138 horsepower and up to an EPA rated 31 miles per gallon city and 40 mpg highway.

If the bare-bones Rio 5-Door LX isn't quite your speed, there are two additional trims to choose from, including the topped-out SX guise. With 17-inch alloy wheels, LED-trimmed head and taillights and the company's UVO voice-activated entertainment system, the Rio 5-Door SX is loaded with an impressive level of gear. Hit the jump for the press blast.

Continue reading 2012 Kia Rio priced from $13,600*

2012 Kia Rio priced from $13,600* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio 5-door5-doorkiakia rio 5-doorkia rio 5-door pricingriorio 5-doorMon, 26 Sep 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20066656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/26/2012-kia-rio-priced-from-13-600/20066656/article-detail.xml 20066656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/kia-rio-5-door-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/kia-rio-5-door-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Rio 5-Door [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/2012-kia-rio-5-door-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/2012-kia-rio-5-door-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/01/2012-kia-rio-5-door-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Fun And Efficiency Without Glaring Faults

2012 Kia Rio 5-door

It is an amusing conversation when Kia executives, from the United States and Korea, discuss their relationship with Hyundai.

Kia Motors is partly owned by Hyundai Motor Company. As a result, the two share platforms, powertrains and an impressive research and development center in Namyang, Korea. But that is where the cooperation ends and the competitiveness takes over. Each of the automakers has their own top-secret design center, unique marketing teams and individual directorate. Ask Kia leaders about Hyundai and they will say the automaker is a fierce competitor. It is nearly as silly as watching two siblings who share the same parents argue that they are not related.

The all-new Kia Rio 5-Door was bred from this curious relationship. Oddly enough, the uniquely competitive synergy may have made the compact hatchback all the better.

Continue reading 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door [w/video]

2012 Kia Rio 5-Door [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio2012 kia rio5featuredfirst driveFirstDrivehyundaikiakia+motorskia+riokia+rio+2012kiamotorskiariokiario2012riorio5Thu, 01 Sep 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20031981/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/01/2012-kia-rio-5-door-first-drive-review/20031981/article-detail.xml 20031981 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-kia-rio-5-door-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-kia-rio-5-door-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Sorento gets 2.4L GDI engine, UVO infotainment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/15/2012-kia-sorento-gets-2-4l-gdi-engine-uvo-infotainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/15/2012-kia-sorento-gets-2-4l-gdi-engine-uvo-infotainment/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/15/2012-kia-sorento-gets-2-4l-gdi-engine-uvo-infotainment/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Kia Sorento SX
2011 Kia Sorento SX - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 Kia Sorento will be available with the company's hands-free UVO infotainment system, and its brand-spanking-new GDI direct-injection four-cylinder engine. With those new features, the big Kia crossover can really dance with the big guns from the likes of Ford.

Other available options include Kia's YES Essential seat treatment, which makes the seats resistant to stains and static electricity and includes an anti-bacterial chemical. That, along with an entertainment system to be reckoned with, should keep the young family demographic very happy.

The Sorento's new engine uses the same GDI setup as the upcoming 2012 Rio, but this time, it sees duty atop a 2.4-liter version of the brand's Theta II architecture. Thanks to GDI, the 2012 Sorento should close in on 200 ponies, as opposed to the old engine's 175.

For those who aren't looking to upgrade to the Sorento just yet, the new options are also available on the 2012 Sportage. Click past the break to see Kia's full press release.

Continue reading 2012 Kia Sorento gets 2.4L GDI engine, UVO infotainment

2012 Kia Sorento gets 2.4L GDI engine, UVO infotainment originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 May 2011 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio2012 kia sorento2012 kia sportagegdikiariosorentosportageuvoSun, 15 May 2011 16:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19940573/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/15/2012-kia-sorento-gets-2-4l-gdi-engine-uvo-infotainment/19940573/article-detail.xml 19940573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-kia-sorento-sx-harbor-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/2011-kia-sorento-sx-harbor-630.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2011: Kia debuts all-new 2012 Rio with start-stop, good for 40 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-kia-rio-new-york-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-kia-rio-new-york-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/2012-kia-rio-new-york-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 kia rio
2012 Kia Rio - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 Kia Rio debuts at the 2011 New York Auto Show today, sporting brand new bodywork, Kia's new direct-injected four-cylinder and the company's Idle Stop and Go, or stop-start technology. Kia claims the combination of direct fuel injection and stop-start means the 2012 Rio will pull down 30 miles per gallon around town and 40 mpg on the highway.

On top of that, the new Rio should be a peppy little beast, knocking down 138 horsepower from its 1.6-liter four cylinder. Switching the ratios will be either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Idle Stop and Go is an all-new feature for any Kia - when the car is stopped and the brake depressed, the computer kills the engine to save gas. When the brake pedal is released, the engine fires back up and away you go.

2012 Kia Rio5Outside, the Rio has been treated to a full re-skinning, taking on the high-shouldered, wedge-shaped look of the rest of the Korean automaker's lineup. Out front, the Rio gets a slightly slimmer version of the company's familiar grille, re-shaped to better integrate with the car's headlights. The 2012 Rio has also grown to 171.9 inches in length and 67.7 inches in width, but sits lower than the outgoing model. Kia claims that, despite its increased dimensions, the widened stance and use of high-tensile steel in the car's construction makes for significantly better ride and handling over the old Rio.

The 2012 Kia Rio will be available in three trim packages, starting with the LX, which gets 15-inch steel wheels, body-color door handles and side mirrors. Above that, the EX model rides on the same wheels as the LX, but gets power mirrors and locks and keyless entry. The top-level trim will be the SX, which sports 17-inch wheels, fog lamps, LED daytime running lights, a dual-tip exhaust and heated mirrors sporting turn signal repeaters. The five-door Rio5 SX, meanwhile, will be upgraded to projector headlights. Check out Kia's full press release after the jump and our gallery of images below.


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio: New York 2011


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio


Live photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading New York 2011: Kia debuts all-new 2012 Rio with start-stop, good for 40 MPG

New York 2011: Kia debuts all-new 2012 Rio with start-stop, good for 40 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2011 new york auto show2012 kia rio2012 kia rio5kianew yorknew york auto showriorio5Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19917615/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/21/2012-kia-rio-new-york-2011/19917615/article-detail.xml 19917615 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/01-2012-kia-rio-ny-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/01-2012-kia-rio-ny-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia unveils K2 sedan in Shanghai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/19/kia-unveils-k2-sedan-in-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/19/kia-unveils-k2-sedan-in-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/19/kia-unveils-k2-sedan-in-shanghai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Kia K2
2012 Kia K2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia has launched a new small-car assault on the Chinese market with the introduction of the 2012 K2 at this year's Shanghai Motor Show. Based on the company's Rio, the K2 will be offered in both four-door and five-door configurations and should compete with other premium small-car offerings in the market. Kia says the vehicle is the latest in the company's efforts to better match products with local market tastes, and that the K2 was specifically designed inside and out for Chinese buyers. That means that the vehicle wears a new set of headlights and a slightly-altered grille among a few other minor aesthetic adjustments outside.

Under the hood, the Chinese take on the Rio rocks a variety of drivetrain options, including a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 107 horsepower or a 1.6-liter four-pot with 123 ponies. Both a manual and an automatic transmission option are available for both lumps, though Kia hasn't said how many gears are on hand.

Kia says that the company will begin producing the four-door K2 this July at a new facility in Jiangsu province. Five-door production will get under way the following month. Hit the jump for the press release, and stay tuned for the official launch of the U.S.-market Rio that's coming in very short order.


Gallery: 2012 Kia K2


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Kia unveils K2 sedan in Shanghai

Kia unveils K2 sedan in Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 shanghai motor show20122012 kia k22012 kia riok2kiakia k2rioshanghaishanghai motor showTue, 19 Apr 2011 18:38:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19918056/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/19/kia-unveils-k2-sedan-in-shanghai/19918056/article-detail.xml 19918056 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/kia-k2-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/kia-k2-630.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Rio sedan confirmed for New York Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Rio
2012 Kia Rio - Click above for high-res image gallery

Our man Jeremy Korzeniewski is attending a Kia event in Phoenix, Arizona this week, and during a press briefing this morning, JK learned that the Korean automaker will be unveiling its 2012 Rio sedan at the 2011 New York Auto Show. The four-door Rio will complement the hatchback bodystyle that bowed at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Four powertrains will be available on the Rio overseas - two gas and two diesel - and while mum's the word on which engine(s) will be available here in the United States, we're putting our money on the 1.4-liter gasoline four. This mill produces 108 horsepower and 100 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual or four-speed(!) automatic transmission.

In other news, Kia also let slip that the KV7 concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show previews what's in store for the next-generation Sedona minivan. We hinted at this after a conversation with Michael Sprague, Kia's vice president of marketing, though it's still unclear exactly what elements from the KV7 will be incorporated into the next-gen Sedona. The concept focused on a more traditional conversion van setup rather than the family-centric Sedona that currently graces our streets.


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio sedan confirmed for New York Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2012 kia riokiakia+rio+2011kia+rio+2012kiario2011kiario2012new yorknew york auto showriorio sedansedanThu, 31 Mar 2011 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19898980/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/19898980/article-detail.xml 19898980 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rio34frontbstatic-1301593737_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rio34frontbstatic-1301593737.jpg <![CDATA[New Kia Rio to spawn hot hatch?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/14/new-kia-rio-to-spawn-hot-hatch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/14/new-kia-rio-to-spawn-hot-hatch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/14/new-kia-rio-to-spawn-hot-hatch/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Kia Rio
2012 Kia Rio - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Autocar, the minds at Kia may be mulling the creation of a hot hatch based on the all-new Rio. The news has sprouted from comments made by Benny Oeyen, Kia marketing and product planning boss in Europe. Oeyen said that the brand's perception in the old country still lags behind the quality and design that the automaker currently has to offer, and that one way to rectify that problem is with a new vehicle that can help sway public opinion. Exactly what type of vehicle are we talking about here? Oeyen pointed to a hot hatch, cabriolet or coupe as viable options.

Autocar says that a hot hatch version of the Rio is the most likely of those options, thanks largely to the fact that the segment is booming in the UK. Kia just recently unveiled a Rio show car at the Geneva Motor Show that came with a few sportier touches, including a set of large alloy wheels.

Even if Kia does pull the trigger on a hot hatch version of the Rio, chances are that the vehicle would be a Euro-only offering. If you live in the land of the free, you'll have to turn to the Hyundai Veloster for your Korean hot hatch fix.


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio: Geneva 2011


Photos copyright (C)2011 Noah Joseph / AOL

[Source: Autocar]

New Kia Rio to spawn hot hatch? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 Kia Riohot hatchkiarioMon, 14 Mar 2011 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19878529/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/14/new-kia-rio-to-spawn-hot-hatch/19878529/article-detail.xml 19878529 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rio_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rio.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2011: 2012 Kia Rio falls in line with the rest of its swoopy family]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/2012-kia-rio-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/2012-kia-rio-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/2012-kia-rio-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Kia Rio at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show
2012 Kia Rio - Click above for high-res image gallery

The fourth-generation 2012 Kia Rio has made its world debut in front of the 2011 Geneva Motor Show crowd. From the subtle swooping body lines to the front grille, the all-new Rio now resembles the rest of the Kia family.

For the 2012 model year, the Kia Rio has become longer (3/4-inch), wider (1-inch) and lower (1/2-inch). Kia has pushed the wheelbase out to 101-inches, an increase of nearly three-inches over the outgoing Rio.

Available as a five-door or three-door, the 2012 Rio is offered with a choice between four engines and three transmissions. The two gas-burning options are a 1.25-liter inline-4 producing 83 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 87 pound-feet of torque, or a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 108 hp and 100 lb-ft of torque. Two turbocharged diesel options are available; a 1.1-liter triple that generates 81 horses and 69 pound-feet of torque or a 1.4-liter unit producing 89 hp and 159 lb-ft. Both diesel burners and the 1.4-liter gas engine are paired with a six-speed manual while the 1.25-liter gas-sipper gets a five-speed manual transmission. The 1.4-liter gasoline engine is also available with a four-speed automatic.

No word yet on which engines and door configurations are headed to the States, but we do expect for this much better looking hatchback to supplant the aging Rio here in North America soon. While you're waiting, check out our galleries below and the official presser after the jump.


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio: Geneva 2011


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio2012 Kia Rio

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Noah Joseph / AOL

Continue reading Geneva 2011: 2012 Kia Rio falls in line with the rest of its swoopy family

Geneva 2011: 2012 Kia Rio falls in line with the rest of its swoopy family originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 kia rio2012 riogenevageneva 2011geneva motor showhatchbackkiakia riorioWed, 02 Mar 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19864742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/02/2012-kia-rio-geneva-debut/19864742/article-detail.xml 19864742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/kia-rio-geneva-2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/kia-rio-geneva-2011.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Rio looks sharp ahead of Geneva rollout]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/11/2012-kia-rio-looks-sharp-ahead-of-geneva-rollout/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/11/2012-kia-rio-looks-sharp-ahead-of-geneva-rollout/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/11/2012-kia-rio-looks-sharp-ahead-of-geneva-rollout/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Rio
2012 Kia Rio - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia has released the first images of its 2012 Rio hatchback ahead of its official Geneva Motor Show debut, and might we say, it's quite a looker. The Korean automaker has been doing some fantastic things with styling in the past few years - thanks in part to strong leadership from design director Peter Schreyer - and now the smaller Rio gets a healthy dose of modernity. It looks fantastic in these photos and we're eager to see the new angles and curves live in the metal.

The Rio will be offered with a range of gasoline and diesel powertrains in other markets, including a 1.1-liter diesel that only generates 85 g/km of CO2. We're most curious about the new 1.2-liter turbocharged direct-injected engine - we've heard about this three-cylinder powerplant before - and if it proves to be well-received in Europe, Kia will likely offer it here in the United States after the Rio's initial launch.

Look for the Rio to go on sale in the UK starting in September, with a three-door variant expected to launch in early 2012. We don't have any official word as to when we'll see the facelifted Rio here in the United States, but we'd guess that it'll arrive roughly around the same time as the Euro-spec version. Hit the jump for Kia's official release. Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio2012 Kia Rio

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading 2012 Kia Rio looks sharp ahead of Geneva rollout

2012 Kia Rio looks sharp ahead of Geneva rollout originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 geneva motor show2012 kia riogenevageneva 2011geneva motor showgreenkiarioFri, 11 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19839977/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/11/2012-kia-rio-looks-sharp-ahead-of-geneva-rollout/19839977/article-detail.xml 19839977 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-kia-rio630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/01-2012-kia-rio630opt.jpg -1 2