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[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[Kia disavows sexy cartoon ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/kia-disavows-sexy-cartoon-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/kia-disavows-sexy-cartoon-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/kia-disavows-sexy-cartoon-ads/#commentsFiled under: ,

Racy Kia Ad
The racy ads Kia says it knew nothing about - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia is putting some distance between itself and the racy ads for the company's dual-zone climate control on the Sportage. According to the automaker, the sultry print ads were penned by the Brazilian ad agency Moma. Apparently, Kia Motors America has no business relationship with the company and didn't approve the print ads in any way. The manufacturer called the clever spots "undoubtedly inappropriate" in a short release. Despite disavowing any association with the marketing company that created the spots, the KMA statement goes on to apologize to anyone who may have been offended by the materials.

The ads featured children's tales in two temperatures, with a safe, cool telling of the stories in the left panels, and a more heated variant to the right. You can check them out for yourself in the gallery below. The art was reportedly displayed at a festival in Cannes, though we wouldn't expect to see them resurface stateside anytime soon. Hit the jump to read KMA's official statement on the ads.

Continue reading Kia disavows sexy cartoon ads

Kia disavows sexy cartoon ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canneskiakia adskia advertisementkia advertisingkia moma adskia sportagemomaracy adracy kia adssportageMon, 27 Jun 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19977365/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/27/kia-disavows-sexy-cartoon-ads/19977365/article-detail.xml 19977365 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/kia-ad-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/kia-ad-630.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[First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage SX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/2011-kia-sportage-sx-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/2011-kia-sportage-sx-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/07/2011-kia-sportage-sx-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Turbocharging Adds Welcome Spice To This Handsome Soft-Roader

2011 Kia Sportage SX - front three-quarter
2011 Kia Sportage SX - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's no replacement for displacement. Ask any man or woman who dined on the muscle cars that Detroit was serving in the '50s and '60s, and they'll tell you to always order the largest engine offered if you want to have any fun. Thing is, that tired old axiom just isn't accurate in the modern era. Downsizing is what's for dinner these days.

Before anyone older than 60 has a heart attack, know that the ever-escalating horsepower wars are alive and well. As it turns out, there is a replacement for displacement: technology. Take one part modern computers and the hundreds of sensors that feed them, add the classic trick of turbocharging and sprinkle on the relatively newfangled mechanical magic of direct injection, and you've got yourself one tasty recipe for performance. And you don't need a cup that measures power in cubic inches to get it.

Look no farther for proof than Kia. The Korean automaker is working hard to change its hard-earned image of offering low-cost, basic transportation to something more like the sportier side of a dual-headed Korean conglomerate that also includes Hyundai. Its SX trim level is part of that plan, and the latest two vehicles to bear those letters only have a less-is-more strategy of power production on the menu. We've already sampled the turbocharged, direct-injected Optima SX and were left wanting seconds; now it's time to taste Kia's well-received and attractive compact crossover, the Sportage, in turbo flavor.

Continue reading Review: 2011 Kia Sportage SX...


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage SX: First Drive

2011 Kia Sportage SX2011 Kia Sportage SX2011 Kia Sportage SX2011 Kia Sportage SX2011 Kia Sportage SX

Photos copyright (C)2011 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage SX

First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage SX originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia sportage sxfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivekiaroad testsportagesportage sxsportage turbosxThu, 07 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19905420/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/07/2011-kia-sportage-sx-first-drive-review/19905420/article-detail.xml 19905420 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2011-kia-sportage-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2011-kia-sportage-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo packs 256 hp, priced from $25,795]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/2011-kia-sportage-sx-turbo-packs-256-hp-priced-from-25-795/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/2011-kia-sportage-sx-turbo-packs-256-hp-priced-from-25-795/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/2011-kia-sportage-sx-turbo-packs-256-hp-priced-from-25-795/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo
2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia has dropped all the juicy details on its 2011 Sportage SX Turbo. The vehicle will hit the streets with a 256-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's also good for 264 pound-feet of torque. That makes the Sportage the second vehicle in the Kia lineup to take advantage of the automaker's all-new direct-injection engine, the first being the 2011 Optima. The forced-induction four-pot will come bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission, which should help the Sportage SX nab 27 miles per gallon on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise. The automaker says that the figure gives its CUV better fuel economy than any of its competitors.

In addition, the Sportage SX Turbo will use a firmer suspension compared to its naturally aspirated kin, and a host of aesthetic changes will set the vehicle apart from the rest of the Sportage line. Look for special 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust and a different grille to adorn the new turbo model.

Prices start at $25,795 for the front-wheel drive version. Opting for all-wheel drive will set you back an additional $1,500. Both prices exclude a $695 destination charge. Hit the jump for the full press blast.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading 2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo packs 256 hp, priced from $25,795

2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo packs 256 hp, priced from $25,795 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia sportage turbokiasportagesportage turboFri, 04 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19868328/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/04/2011-kia-sportage-sx-turbo-packs-256-hp-priced-from-25-795/19868328/article-detail.xml 19868328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/04-1299257901-1299259022_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/04-1299257901-1299259022.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Sportage tops small CUVs in <i>Consumer Reports</i> test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/kia-sportage-tops-small-cuvs-in-consumer-reports-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/kia-sportage-tops-small-cuvs-in-consumer-reports-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/14/kia-sportage-tops-small-cuvs-in-consumer-reports-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Kia Sportage
2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Kia Sportage beat out both the Nissan Juke and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport in a recent CUV shootout conducted by Consumer Reports. According to CR, Kia has managed to more effectively straddle the line between a full-on SUV and a more civil hatchback with its offering. That's thanks largely to the fact that the Sportage serves up plenty of interior room without falling on its face in the fun-to-drive department. While the Juke delivers unique styling and plenty of performance, buyers are forced to make major sacrifices in the cargo room department.

Meanwhile, Consumer Reports found the Outlander Sport to share too much DNA with the standard Outlander to take the title.

Everything wasn't all roses and sunshine with the Sportage, however. CR noted that the vehicle has a planted highway ride, but that acceleration was "leisurely." Additionally, the Korean CUV has a stiff ride and plenty of road noise at speed. The tester for this particular competition carried a $23,790 MSRP and the company's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 176 horsepower. CR says that the vehicle managed 22 combined miles per gallon in its testing. Hit the jump for the press release.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage: Review

2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage

Photos copyright (C)2011 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Kia Sportage tops small CUVs in Consumer Reports test originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia sportageconsumer reportskiasportageMon, 14 Feb 2011 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19842991/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/14/kia-sportage-tops-small-cuvs-in-consumer-reports-test/19842991/article-detail.xml 19842991 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/sportage-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/sportage-630.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Sportage with turbo engine debuts in Canada]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/24/kia-sportage-with-turbo-engine-debuts-in-canada/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/24/kia-sportage-with-turbo-engine-debuts-in-canada/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/24/kia-sportage-with-turbo-engine-debuts-in-canada/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Kia Sportage Turbo

The 2011 International Truck of the Year has an all new available engine under the hood. Canadian Kia fans can soon head over to dealers and pick up the 2011 Kia Sportage SX, which features a direct-injected 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. We expect the U.S. to follow suit in very short order.

Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the turbo mill has a relatively flat torque curve with peak power occurring between 1,800 and 3,000 rpm. When bolted into the 2011 Sonata, the 2.0T is rated at 274 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. We expect the Sportage SX to produce similar numbers, including the 30+ miles per gallon highway fuel economy figures.

The car will show up in Canadian dealer showrooms by the end of winter. Priced at $36,995 Canadian, it comes loaded with standard features including the new UVO entertainment system, which is similar to Ford's Sync. Check out the full press release after the break.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage: Review

2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

[Source: Kia Canada via Auto North | Image: Montreal Motor Show]

Continue reading Kia Sportage with turbo engine debuts in Canada

Kia Sportage with turbo engine debuts in Canada originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0t2011 kia sportage sx2011 kia sportage turbocanadakiakia canadakia sportage sxsportagesportage sxsportage turboturbo kia sportageMon, 24 Jan 2011 18:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19813516/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/24/kia-sportage-with-turbo-engine-debuts-in-canada/19813516/article-detail.xml 19813516 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/kia-sportage-turbo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/kia-sportage-turbo.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai Sonata, Kia Sportage win International Car and Truck of the Year Awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/hyundai-sonata-kia-sportage-win-international-car-and-truck-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/hyundai-sonata-kia-sportage-win-international-car-and-truck-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/hyundai-sonata-kia-sportage-win-international-car-and-truck-of/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 hyundai sonata and 2011 kia sportage win 2011 ICOTY

The International Car and Truck of the Year award is determined by 12 judges and handed out at the Detroit Auto Show. Established in 1996, the award is given to "the most emotionally compelling international car and truck for the new model year." The latest recipients of the award are the 2011 Hyundai Sonata and 2011 Kia Sportage.

Upon receiving the 2011 ICOTY for the Sonata, Hyundai's U.S. CEO John Krafcik remarked:
"While we're proud of the Sonata from a technical and engineering standpoint, this award addresses the fact that our cars are now the sorts of vehicles that appeal to the lifestyle set. With sales up more than 110 percent from last year, the Sonata and its all four-cylinder lineup has been a game changer for us, and we're thrilled to be recognized by the ICOTY awards."

Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T: First Drive


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage: Review

2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage

Photos copyright (C)2011 Zach Bowman and Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

[Source: ICOTY]

Continue reading Hyundai Sonata, Kia Sportage win International Car and Truck of the Year Awards

Hyundai Sonata, Kia Sportage win International Car and Truck of the Year Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 08:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata2011 icoty2011 kia sportagedetroit auto showdetroit auto show 2011hyundaihyundai sonatainternational car of the yearjohn krafcikkiakia sportagesonatasportageSun, 16 Jan 2011 08:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19807781/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/16/hyundai-sonata-kia-sportage-win-international-car-and-truck-of/19807781/article-detail.xml 19807781 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/2011-icoty_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/2011-icoty.jpg <![CDATA[SEMA 2010: Kia mixes business and pleasure with pair of Sportage concepts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/sema-2010-kia-mixes-business-and-pleasure-with-pair-of-sportage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/sema-2010-kia-mixes-business-and-pleasure-with-pair-of-sportage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/sema-2010-kia-mixes-business-and-pleasure-with-pair-of-sportage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Kia Sportage Business concept
Kia Sportage "Work" concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's not always easy to mix business with pleasure, and because of that, Kia has teamed up with the folks at Antenna magazine to create two custom Sportages - one for work, one for play. Together, Kia calls this pair "The Duel," and we're quite fond of both.

The blue Sportage, dubbed "Work," features a full host of gadgets and gizmos sure to make any on-the-go professional happy. Opposite to that, the red "Play" Sportage comes with goodies like a 22-inch LCD television and a motorized, stainless-steel grill, and the package is topped off with a Cannondale and Yakima roof rack. Take a look at both in our galleries below, and hit the jump for the full information in Kia's press release.


Gallery: SEMA 2010: Kia Sportage Work

Kia Sportage BusinessKia Sportage BusinessKia Sportage BusinessKia Sportage BusinessKia Sportage Business

Gallery: SEMA 2010: Kia Sportage Play

Kia Sportage PlayKia Sportage PlayKia Sportage PlayKia Sportage PlayKia Sportage Play

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

Continue reading SEMA 2010: Kia mixes business and pleasure with pair of Sportage concepts

SEMA 2010: Kia mixes business and pleasure with pair of Sportage concepts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 20:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia sportage2011 sportagekiaKia sportagesemasema 2010sema auto showsema auto show 2010sema showsema show 2010sportageWed, 03 Nov 2010 20:18:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19701663/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/03/sema-2010-kia-mixes-business-and-pleasure-with-pair-of-sportage/19701663/article-detail.xml 19701663 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/kia-sportage-business-sema015-1288823457_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/kia-sportage-business-sema015-1288823457.jpg <![CDATA[Kia reports record third-quarter profit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/31/kia-reports-record-third-quarter-profit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/31/kia-reports-record-third-quarter-profit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/31/kia-reports-record-third-quarter-profit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Kia Sorento

In spite of a ridiculous 247WallStreet.com article that simply will not die, Kia appears to be doing anything but going out of business. Hyundai's "weakest brand," as it was called, just posted a 66 percent increase in profit for Q3. Kia's home market sales, in South Korea, rose by 25 percent, while international sales were only a shade off, increasing by 24 percent - in the U.S. specifically, sales were up eight percent.

That has meant 541,884 retail sales, earning net income of 666.6 Korean won ($593 million) and an operating profit of 421 billion won ($375M U.S.). Sales of the new Kia K5/Optima and Sorento have been credited - and we're sure new Sportage sales haven't hurt - and record profits are expected again in the fourth quarter.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Kia reports record third-quarter profit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Oct 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kia optimakia profitkia saleskia sorentokia sportageoptimaprofitsalessorentosportageSun, 31 Oct 2010 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19696025/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/31/kia-reports-record-third-quarter-profit/19696025/article-detail.xml 19696025 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/kiarecq310_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/kiarecq310.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2011 Kia Sportage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/2011-kia-sportage-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/2011-kia-sportage-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/2011-kia-sportage-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Another Korean Competitor That Beats Expectations

2011 Kia Sportage
2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia likes to say it has the Power to Surprise. Back in the day (oh, five or so years ago...), the Korean automaker's customers were supposed to be pleasantly surprised that their new car, crossover or SUV was a better vehicle than expected. Perhaps you've heard the drill: "I bought it because it was cheap... and you know, it's really not that bad."

These days, though, being less mediocre than expected simply isn't good enough. See not-so-(inter)stellar brands Saturn and Mercury for proof thereof.

In other words, each new Kia has to be completely on-target and every bit as good as its competitors from America and Japan - and judging by the ambitions of its corporate partner, Hyundai, you might even be inclined to include Germany on that list.

And we've come to expect exactly that from Kia. If the company's first Sportage was a passable entry with a cut-rate price to make the masses take notice, and the second go-round was, you know... "not that bad..." then this crossover, the third-generation Kia Sportage, had better be good.

So, were we pleasantly unsurprised by the 2011 Kia Sportage?

Continue reading...


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage: Review

2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage2011 Kia Sportage

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2011 Kia Sportage

Review: 2011 Kia Sportage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia sportage2011 sportagefeaturedkiakia sportagekia sportage reviewreviewreviewssportageMon, 11 Oct 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19668369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/11/2011-kia-sportage-review-road-test/19668369/article-detail.xml 19668369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/2011kiasportage-1opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/2011kiasportage-1opt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Kia Sportage bags IIHS 'Top Safety Pick']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/20/2011-kia-sportage-bags-iihs-top-safety-pick/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/20/2011-kia-sportage-bags-iihs-top-safety-pick/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/20/2011-kia-sportage-bags-iihs-top-safety-pick/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

When it comes to the 2011 Kia Sportage, there's a lot to talk about. From where we sit, it's one of the best-looking compact crossovers on the market, it's reasonably priced (starting below $20,000) and as we found out in our first drive, it's a pretty enjoyable steer, too. To add to these selling points, the Sportage was just named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning high marks in frontal, side, rear and rollover crash tests.

Top Safety Picks are nothing new for Kia these days - the Soul, Sorento, and Forte sedan have all been given this seal of approval. Follow the jump to read Kia's own words about the Sportage's safety recognition.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading 2011 Kia Sportage bags IIHS 'Top Safety Pick'

2011 Kia Sportage bags IIHS 'Top Safety Pick' originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia sportage2011 sportage2011KiaSportage2011Sportagecrash testcrash testingCrashTestCrashTestingIIHSiihs top safety pickIIHS Top Safety PicksIihsTopSafetyPickIihsTopSafetyPicksInsurance Institute for Highway SafetyInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetykiaKia sportagekia sportage 2011KiaSportageKiaSportage2011sportageTop Safety PickTopSafetyPickFri, 20 Aug 2010 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19600306/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/20/2011-kia-sportage-bags-iihs-top-safety-pick/19600306/article-detail.xml 19600306 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/sportage630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/sportage630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Rondo discontinued in U.S. market with nary a whimper?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/kia-rondo-discontinued-in-u-s-market-with-nary-a-whimper/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/kia-rondo-discontinued-in-u-s-market-with-nary-a-whimper/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/kia-rondo-discontinued-in-u-s-market-with-nary-a-whimper/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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

"Thank you for inquiring about the Rondo. As the saying goes, 'all good things must come to an end.' But with endings, come new beginnings..."

That's the message visitors receive when they attempt to learn about the 2010 Kia Rondo from the Korean automaker's U.S. website. Interestingly enough, when we contacted Kia officials for confirmation that the Rondo wouldn't be around for 2011, we received the following response: "Kia has not yet decided on a 2011 model, but the 2010 is still available in dealerships."

Yes, that sounds like a typical canned response, and our best guess is that the Rondo is pretty much a goner. Taking a look at sales figures from last year, the Rondo was Kia's third slowest seller just behind the full-size Borrego SUV and the faux-luxe Amanti sedan. Worse yet, the Rondo's 2009 sales total of 14,206 units was less than half of the 28,645 sales it managed in 2008.

Kia is naturally hoping it doesn't lose out on customers that would otherwise have considered a Rondo. In lieu of the micro-minivan, Kia's consumer website is pointing buyers towards its new-for-2011 Sportage cute ute, which does have a good bit of space for stuff but surely isn't quite as family friendly as the apparently outgoing seven-passenger Rondo.

Interestingly enough, Kia of Canada does not seem to have the same message on its site, so we wouldn't be surprised if the MPV soldiers on with our neighbors to the north. If you're still interested in getting a Rondo of your very own in these United States, there are massive incentives that remain active on the 2009 model, including $2,000 cash back, $1,000 for a competitive vehicle turn-in, $1,000 for Kia owner loyalty, and/or a $500 discount for military service. That's a whole lotta cash on the hood. Hat tip to Michael B!


Gallery: 2010 Kia Rondo


[Sources: Kia; Kia Canada]

Kia Rondo discontinued in U.S. market with nary a whimper? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia rondo2010KiaRondo20112011 kia rondo2011 kia sportage2011KiaRondo2011KiaSportagekiakia mpvkia rondoKia sportageKiaMpvKiaRondoKiaSportagerondosportageThu, 19 Aug 2010 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19600473/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/19/kia-rondo-discontinued-in-u-s-market-with-nary-a-whimper/19600473/article-detail.xml 19600473 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/2010-kia-rondo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/2010-kia-rondo.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Kia Sportage to start at $18,295*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/2011-kia-sportage-to-start-at-18-295/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/2011-kia-sportage-to-start-at-18-295/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/2011-kia-sportage-to-start-at-18-295/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Kia Sportage is one great-looking crossover, and with a starting price of $18,295 (*$18,990 with destination) it's rather affordable as well. Kia announced Tuesday that its longest running nameplate will start well below the $20,000 mark while sporting standard features like a six-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, power everything, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, MP3 inputs and Bluetooth connectivity.

At $20,295 ($20,990 with destination) the mid-level LX model adds outside mirrors with LED turn signal indicators, keyless entry and privacy glass. Another $3,000 ($23,990 with destination) adds 18-inch alloy wheels and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Standard safety features include six airbags, four-wheel ABS and electronic stability control.

The Sportage appears to be a screaming deal - though it's starting price is $1,300 higher than the outgoing model, it's a much improved vehicle - and its 176-horsepower 2.4-liter will deliver an impressive 22 miles-per-gallon in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway. A far more powerful 270+ horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter Sportage variant will be available later in the model year. Hit the jump to read over Kia's press release.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading 2011 Kia Sportage to start at $18,295*

2011 Kia Sportage to start at $18,295* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 sportage2011 sportage pricing2011Sportage2011SportagePricingkia motorskia sportagekia sportage starting priceKiaMotorsKiaSportageKiaSportageStartingPricesportageWed, 21 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19562228/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/21/2011-kia-sportage-to-start-at-18-295/19562228/article-detail.xml 19562228 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/sportageext01-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/sportageext01-copy.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage keeps moving in the proper direction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Kia Sportage - click above for high-res image gallery

The crossover is the high-fructose corn syrup of the automotive world. Think about it: Rather than using real sugar, Pepsi opts for a cheaper, highly refined and processed sweetener. Which, according to lots of studies, is pretty bad for us. Why would they do that? Higher profits, pure and simple. Likewise, CUVs offer all of the space of a comparably long station wagon or hatchback, get inferior mileage, don't handle as well, take longer to stop and in most cases offer none of the utility of a true off-roader. But guess what? They pull in fistfuls of greenbacks for auto companies.

Like high-fructose corn syrup then, car experts ("Hi, Mom!") can scream out their lungs until they're blue about the benefits of a more sensible, safer, smarter product (again, wagons). Yet consumers simply don't listen. The fastest growing automotive segment is - of course - the small CUV. Like the Snickers bar, the Twinkie and a twenty-piece Chicken McNuggets meal with BBQ sauce (all of which is mostly corn syrup), they are here to stay, forever. Buyers just seem to like the looks and the perceived safety that a high-riding vehicle affords them. Plus, for those with infant children, not having to stoop down to strap Junior into his car seat is the most luxurious feature on earth. With all that in mind, some CUVs are better than others - and not only in terms of looks, but also handling, packaging, content and value. Is the new 2011 Kia Sportage one of them? Read on to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage


Photos by Jonny Lieberman / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage keeps moving in the proper direction

First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage keeps moving in the proper direction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia2011 sportage2011Kia2011SportagecrossoverCUVfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveford syncFordSynckiakia crossoverKia CUVkia sportageKia UVOKiaCrossoverKiaCuvKiaSportageKiaUvoMicrosoft WEAMicrosoftWeaPeter SchreyerPeterSchreyerSportageUVOThu, 01 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19537697/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/19537697/article-detail.xml 19537697 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1kiasportagefd2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1kiasportagefd2011.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Kia's 2011 Sportage comes to America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/kia-sportage-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/kia-sportage-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/kia-sportage-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

The original Kia Sportage was one of the vehicles that led the Korean automaker's initial charge into the American market. Those early SUVs (they were body-on-frame back then) were inexpensive and honest, but that's about the best thing you could say about them. After a near brush with extinction, Kia is a very different kind of automaker today. Like the rest of the company's recent introductions, the Sportage features crisp, aggressive styling that won't leave you embarrassed to be seen in one.

The new Sportage actually had its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show early this month, but the New York Auto Show is considered the crossover's U.S. coming out party, even though it actually showed up at the Atlanta show just recently. Like sister brand Hyundai's new Tucson, the American-spec model gets a new 176 horsepower variable valve timing 2.4-liter inline-four that beats the power and efficiency of the old 2.7-liter V6 with the buyer's choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions.

Later in the 2011 model year, the Sportage will finally get some real sport when it gets the new 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct injected inline four that's going into the Optima and Hyundai Sonata. A snazzy looking, 274 hp Sportage? What is this world coming to?


Gallery: Geneva 2010: Kia Sportage


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading New York 2010: Kia's 2011 Sportage comes to America

New York 2010: Kia's 2011 Sportage comes to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia2011 kia sportage2011Kia2011KiaSportagekiakia sportagekia sportage 2011kia sportage gtdiKiaSportageKiaSportage2011KiaSportageGtdinew yorknew york 2010new york auto shownew york cityNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkCityNYIASNYIAS 2010Nyias2010sportageWed, 31 Mar 2010 16:38:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19419233/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/kia-sportage-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut/19419233/article-detail.xml 19419233 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/sportageext01-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/sportageext01-copy.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Kia Sportage makes world debut, looks good]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-kia-sportage-makes-world-debut-looks-good/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-kia-sportage-makes-world-debut-looks-good/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-kia-sportage-makes-world-debut-looks-good/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

What do you think of when you hear the phrase "Longer, lower, wider, more spacious?" You probably didn't think of the 2011 Kia Sportage, but you should, because it has all of that on top of a phalanx of powertrain and accessorizing options.

Globally, the five-seat crossover will offer two gas and two diesel engines from 115- to 163-horsepower, in front- or all-wheel-drive forms, as well as manual or automatic transmissions. Despite all the new choices, the variety of flavors still equals less fat: it weighs 182 pounds less than the outgoing Kia Sportage. The new design under Kia designer Peter Schreyer include a "ribbed roof" and "chunky door handles," all of which have their reasons for being. To find out what they are, have a gander at the press release after the jump and the shots in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Geneva 2010: Kia Sportage


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Kia Sportage makes world debut, looks good

Geneva 2010: Kia Sportage makes world debut, looks good originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia2011 kia sportage2011 sportage2011Kia2011KiaSportage2011Sportagekiakia crossoverkia sportageKiaCrossoverKiaSportagesportageWed, 03 Mar 2010 09:22:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19381028/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-kia-sportage-makes-world-debut-looks-good/19381028/article-detail.xml 19381028 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01kiasportagegenevaliveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01kiasportagegenevaliveopt.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva Preview: 2011 Kia Sportage gets stylish new duds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/03/2011-kia-sportage-gets-stylish-new-duds-geneva-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/03/2011-kia-sportage-gets-stylish-new-duds-geneva-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/03/2011-kia-sportage-gets-stylish-new-duds-geneva-preview/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Kia Sportage - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Kia introduced the original Sportage in North America in the early 1990s, the best thing it had going for it was a low-ball price. There was nothing particularly compelling about the way it looked or drove, though it was at least passable on both counts. When the Geneva Motor Show opens up next month, the third-generation Sportage will finally bring the compact crossover to the head of the class in appearance.

Looking like a 5/8-scale version of the recently introduced Sorento, the new Sportage incorporates the Peter Schreyer-penned Kia design language in an an aggressive looking package that should stand out among the Escapes, Rav4s and CR-Vs of the world. The new model is longer, lower and wider, but Kia hasn't released any other details yet.

We expect that the Sportage will have the same 2.4-liter inline-four found in the new Hyundai Tucson when it arrives Stateside this fall, although other markets will get a range of gas and diesel power options from which to choose. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: 2011 Kia Sportage gets stylish new duds

Geneva Preview: 2011 Kia Sportage gets stylish new duds originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 kia2011 kia sportage2011Kia2011KiaSportagekiaKia sportageKiaSportagesportageWed, 03 Feb 2010 03:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19342121/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/03/2011-kia-sportage-gets-stylish-new-duds-geneva-preview/19342121/article-detail.xml 19342121 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/kia-sportage-north-american-spec-frontopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/kia-sportage-north-american-spec-frontopt.jpg <![CDATA[European Registry pulls wraps off 2011 Kia Sportage?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/16/european-registry-pulls-wraps-off-2011-kia-sportage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/16/european-registry-pulls-wraps-off-2011-kia-sportage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/16/european-registry-pulls-wraps-off-2011-kia-sportage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Kia Sportage Rendering
2011 Kia Sportage renderings - Click above for high-res image gallery

The European Registry must be a bigger thorn in the side of automakers than the likes of Brenda Priddy and her minions. After all, the new-vehicle images the Registry keeps in its database are devoid of camouflage, and the latest to show its face (and rear, and roof, and flanks) appears to be the 2011 Kia Sportage.

Based on these images, the new Sportage looks to be a big step up from the friendly but aged current model. Underneath slick new sheetmetal that's in keeping with Kia's current family design themes, the Sportage will likely share much with the just-unveiled Hyundai Tucson. No word yet on when we'll see the trucklet's official unveiling, but given that Kia's usually good for a significant reveal at the New York Auto Show, we'll wager that at the very least, we'll see the Sportage's North American debut in the Javits Center in late March/early April. Stay tuned.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sportage - European Registry Images


[Source: European Registry via Autoblog Spanish]

European Registry pulls wraps off 2011 Kia Sportage? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Jan 2010 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 kia sportage2011KiaSportageeuropean registryEuropeanRegistrykiasportagespy shotsSpyShotsSat, 16 Jan 2010 19:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19319618/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/16/european-registry-pulls-wraps-off-2011-kia-sportage/19319618/article-detail.xml 19319618 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/sportagekiafilt00630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/sportagekiafilt00630.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to reveal facelifted Sportage in London]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/kia-to-reveal-facelifted-sportage-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/kia-to-reveal-facelifted-sportage-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/21/kia-to-reveal-facelifted-sportage-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As much as we would like the new vehicle that Kia plans to unveil at the British Motor Show to be the production version of its KOUP concept car, that doesn't seem all that likely. Instead, it appears that Kia has something rather less exciting in store. According to Auto Express, a revised Sportage mini-ute will be unveiled at the upcoming show in July, and this may be the vehicle Kia was referring to in their previous announcement. Nothing major to report as far as the update goes as "subtle improvements" are being made to both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. No changes will be made to the base 2.0-liter four-banger in either gas or diesel form, though the European audience will get an optional 2.7-liter V6 which is already available in the U.S. Considering how popular diesel engines are in the U.K., we're not surprised to hear that the Korean company is working on a revised version for the Sportage with extra power and lower emissions which should be available in short order.

[Source: Auto Express]

Kia to reveal facelifted Sportage in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 May 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british motor showbritish-motor-showBritishMotorShowkiakia koupkia koup conceptkia-koupkia-sportageKiaKoupKiaKoupConceptsportageWed, 21 May 2008 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1200360/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/05/21/kia-to-reveal-facelifted-sportage-in-london/1200360/article-detail.xml 1200360 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/05/kia_sportage_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/05/kia_sportage.jpg -1 2