Kia India Launches Official Website, Looking For Dealers

Kia Motors rise to prominence in recent years has come by selling quality vehicles in just about every corner of the world.

One market that has been closed to them is India, although sister company Hyundai has been doing brisk business there for a while now.

Kia Motors are set to join Hyundai in India, and the process is moving forward quickly.

Kia Motors India website

The official announcement of Kia entering the Indian marketplace came in April, and now the company has uploaded a website dedicated to that market.

Kia India Official WebsiteThey also have a branding plan in place that will get the word out before the production of Kia models for India begins.

Kia India dealership network plans

Applications for dealerships and job openings have already begun in India.

The carmaker will hit the road over the next two months to engage with interested dealers, allowing the dealerships to get some face to face time with Kia’s top brass.

There is very little information about which Kia vehicles will be sold in the Indian market, so we will keep you posted on that as we get more information.

There is a better than average chance that the prospective dealers will be given some insight to the model line-up during the Kia road show.

What is known is that the first Kia models should be made available towards the end of 2019, with all the new models made domestically.

Kia manufacturing plant in India

Before the sales can commence, Kia needs to build a production plant in India.

Conformation of this move has already been made, with the new plant set to be built in Anantapur District in the state of Andhra Pradesh sometime in Q4 this year.

Kia will invest a total of US$1.1 billion to build the facility and begin production in the second half of 2019.

Word is that the production capacity will be somewhere around 300,000 units annually.

Which Kia cars will be on sale in India?

As we already said, there is no official word on which models will be hitting the market in India, but we assume that a small car and an SUV would be made available.

Kia Rio or Picanto

As far as small cars go, the Rio and Picanto seem to be the ones that would be the best fit for the Indian market.

Both cars are available globally, and both have recently undergone a redesign.

By the time 2019 rolls around, they will both be due for a refresh, which should help them compete in the local market.

Another potential addition to the Kia India line-up is the KX3 small CUV.

This model is made specifically for the Asian market, and it shares a powertrain with the Hyundai Creta, both of which are already on sale in China.

The KX3 will have had a redesign by 2019, and that fresh new look could help it compete in the Indian market.

These Are The Four Best Kia Sedans In 2018

If you are in the market for a new 4-door sedan, we suggest that you give the Kia sedan line-up some serious thought.

All of the models available are extremely well designed, and are also reliable, fuel efficient, and incredibly safe to drive.

The proof of the Kia car reliability can be found in the fact that Kia ranked #1 in J.D. Power’s car quality survey for the second straight year.

For now, though, let’s just focus on the sedans that Kia offers in the US-market.

These sedans are spread across several different segments – small, compact, midsize, sport, and luxury – and the one that you choose is going to be dependent upon your specific needs.

Top Kia SedanSmall sedan: Kia Forte

If you are after a small sedan, the Kia Forte 4-door is an excellent choice.

A great looking design and upgraded powertrain technology can be found on the Forte 4-door sedan, which is a major rival to the likes of the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

The 2018 Kia Forte is a great everyday vehicle, thanks in large to its efficient range of 4-cylinder engines and its excellent safety ratings. It also comes at a very affordable price point.

Kia sedan with best MPG: Optima PHEV

While the amount of money you spend on a new vehicle is important, the amount of money you spend when you own it also comes into play.

If fuel efficiency is a concern for you, then we suggest you take a look at the Kia Optima PHEV sedan.

Under the hood of this model you will find a fuel-efficient gas engine mated to an electric motor and a battery.

In all-electric mode, you get 27 miles of range, which helps take the combined fuel efficiency (gas and electric combined) to a very respectable 103 MPGe.

If it’s a fuel efficient sedan you are after, you really can’t do much better than the Kia Optima plug-in hybrid car.

Best Kia luxury sedan: K900

You don’t often think of luxury vehicles when you think of Kia, but the K900 flagship sedan will certainly make you realize that the Koreans know how to make a luxury car.

The K900 has been around for 3 years, and while it offers the best in comfort, engine options, and premium features, it can still be yours for just $50-60,000, which is not a lot for a luxury vehicle of this high quality.

Best Kia sedan overall: Stinger GT

The best Kia sedan overall will almost certainly come down to personal preference, but we believe that the Kia Stinger sports sedan is tough to beat.

With a powerful selection of turbo engines, RWD or AWD, and great driving characteristics, you will feel as though you are hitting the highway in a sports car, especially when you go from 0-100 kmh in just 4.9 seconds.

The Stinger has all the luxurious features, and is definitely European-inspired, making it a great choice for those of you who want a 4-door sedan with a sporty feel.

Conclusion

As you can see, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to 2018 Kia sedans.

There really is something for everyone, and it’s just a matter of deciding which one is for you.

Future (2019MY) Kia Model News – Cars, SUVs, Minivans

The Kia brand is very much on the rise, and the Koreans are now looking ahead to the next chapter in their success story.

The last few years have been devoted to redesigns and the release of new models followed by short periods of inactivity.

Kia has now built their line-up to the point where they want it to be, which means it’s time to start thinking about new models.

The likelihood is that Kia will start delivering 2 new models per year.

With these new releases in 2019, Kia will be looking to continue 2019 Kia carsdelivering a better quality of ride and handling, whilst also focusing on creating better powertrains and updated technology.

Brand perception is also on their mind, and the release of the new K900 flagship sedan should certainly help in that department.

Let’s take a closer look at what Kia Motors have in store for us in 2019.

New 2019 Kia models

K900: The K900 has now been on the market for 5 years, and the flagship sedan is ready for its next big makeover. The new look will include changes to both the exterior and cabin of the vehicle. New powertrain technology, including the AWD system, is just one of the changes we will see.

Soul crossover: The Soul crossover is perhaps Kia’s biggest success story, and the iconic boxy model will get a full makeover for the 2019 model year. The US premiere of this model is expected sometime next year. The boxy look of the car is here to stay!

Forte: There’s also a new Forte 4-door in the works, with the all-new model expected to hit the U.S. market next year. The new model will have a full redesign inside and out, and will also feature improved powertrain technology. No word yet on what to expect from the 2019 Forte 5-door hatchback.

Cee’d: This model is one that is only available in Europe. The latest model should get its premiere at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, and the belief here is that the Cee’d family will include a 5-door hatchback, a wagon, and a crossover version in the 2019 model year. Rumor has it that the 3-door model is being discontinued, but no official word yet.

Niro EV: The Niro EV, an all-electric model, will hit showrooms next year, and will come with a 200-hp electric motor and a range in excess of 200 miles.

Kia facelifts for 2019 model year

Sedona: The popular minivan will be getting a mid-cycle facelift later next year or early in 2019.

Sorento: The midsize SUV, which is made in the US, is due for a bit of a facelift. A recently captured spy pic shows that the new Sorento will feature some changes to the exterior styling, as well as improved safety and technology features.

Sportage: Put this one in the “Kia rumor” folder, but we believe that the incredibly popular compact SUV will be up for a refresh in the 2019 model year.

Range-Topping 2018 Kia Optima SX – What’s The Cost?

The 2018 Kia Optima midsize sedan, manufactured in Georgia at the West Point plant, is being carried over for the third straight year with a few small changes.

The Optima is as stylish and fun to ride as ever, with the focus on this model being technology, and in particular systems that are in place to assist the driver and make life more convenient.

Included in these systems, which will be found across all Optima trim levels, are UVO eServices, blind spot detection system, rear cross traffic alert, and rear parking assist system.

The Kia Optima is an excellent choice if you are looking for a great midsize sedan, but choosing the trim level to suit your specific needs can be tough.

2018 Kia Optima MSRPThere are 5 to choose from, but we are going to focus on the top of the range Optima SX trim for the purposes of this piece.

Top of the line Kia Optima SX price

The first question you probably have regarding this model is the price.

The Kia US website shows the 2018 Kia Optima SX with a starting price of $30,500, excluding the $895 shipping fee.

SX & optional packages

The SX trim is pretty loaded with great safety and convenience features, but you also have the opportunity to load things up.

If you don’t mind spending a little extra money, there are several packages that you can add to your 2018 Optima SX.

The list of available packages is as follows:

  • SX Turbo Technology Package
  • SX Turbo Limited (Aubergine) Package
  • SX Turbo Limited (Black) Package
  • SX Turbo Limited (Ivory) Package

If your goal is to have a fully-loaded Kia Optima SX, you will need to start out by investing $3,000 in the SX Turbo Technology Package.

The next step will be to choose from one of the three other packages, at an additional cost of $2,100 for the color interior of your choice. That would take your total cost, with shipping fee added, $36,495.

If you are still interested, let’s move on to even more details about the top of the range Optima model.

Engine & transmission

You get an engine with a bit of a kick with the Optima SX.

The engine in question is the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels and generates 245-hp.

MPG figures

The fuel efficiency ratings may be lower than you would expect from an average midsize sedan, but keep in mind that this is the most powerful and fastest model in the Optima family!

If you are concerned with Optima mpg figures, we suggest going with the hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models.

The SX delivers 22/31/25 mpg city/highway/combined, which is right there with its biggest competitors.

Tires and wheels

The Kia Optima SX rides on 18-inch exclusive chrome alloy wheels shod in P235/45R18 Michelin tires.

Available color options

One thing that we are not yet totally sure of are the exterior color options that Kia is going to make available for the Optima SX 2018 (model year).

The outgoing model had 5 exterior color options, which included Snow White Pearl as standard. There were also 2 interior color options available.

We believe that this will stay the same for the 2018 model.

2018 Kia Optima Pricing & Trim Level Changes

Kia Motors America have released some new details about the upcoming 2018 Optima sedan.

The information on the new model can be found on the media page for Kia, and includes changes to the Optima, as well as updated pricing.

As of yet, there is no official word on the release date of the 2016 Kia Optima, but we do know that some of new models are starting to arrive at dealerships across the country.

This is more of a refresh for the Kia Optima, which means that the changes to the 2018 model are limited. The most significant changes can be found in the trim levels and pricing as opposed to design and engines.

2018 Kia Optima MSRPWe will be using this post to talk about the new trim level set-up, as well as how much you can expect to pay for the new model.

I’m sure the first question you all have is how much does the 2018 Kia Optima cost?

Kia Optima 2018 MSRP

Kia has always been regarded as an automaker that delivers a great product at an extremely affordable price, regardless of the segment.

They are of the belief that you should not have to break the bank to get a vehicle that is safe and filled with great features, and that is true of the Optima, which starts at $22,500 for the base model.

Those of you expecting a big price hike are mistaken, which is great news.

The LX serves as the base model, so let’s move on up the trim levels and look at the costs there.

The next one up is the Optima S, which starts at $23,500. One level up from that sits the EX, which starts at $25,600.

That is followed by the 1.6-liter turbo LX with 7-speed DCT, which has a starting price of $24,300.

The top of the range 2018 Kia Optima SX is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo engine, and comes with a starting price of $30,500.

There are a number of optional packages that can be added, but we will save those for another post. For now, let’s talk about the changes to the trim levels.

Changes to the 2018 Kia Optima trims

Kia US have added a 7-inch touchscreen with UVO eServices and connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to all trim levels.

They will also all get the Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Rear Parking Assist System safety features.

A new Optima S trim has been added to give consumers a sportier option. Additional features on this model include sport front bumper, rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights and taillights, 10-way power driver seat, and an optional panoramic sunroof.

The EX trim comes equipped with single projection headlights instead of dual projection headlights.

Standard equipment on the SX 2.0-liter Turbo now includes LED fog lights, Panoramic Sunroof, 10-way power front passenger seat, Heated and ventilated front seats, and UVO3.

No longer a stand-alone trim, the SXL 2.0 Turbo is now offered as the SX Limited package at a lower MSRP.

Kia Motors News July 2017 Recap

We always do our best to keep you up with all that’s happening in the world of Kia, but with the stories coming thick and fast, we understand that some news items may not be seen by everyone.

Since we are approaching the end of the month, we though now would be a good time to recap some of the biggest Kia news stories from the month of July.

  1. Kia Stonic gains 2500 orders

The Kia Stonic was recently unveiled in Europe, and has already hit the marketplace in South Korea.

Stonic KoreaKia has allowed people in the domestic market to place preorders, and have been blown away by the success, with 2500 orders already placed.

The goal is to sell 1500 units per month in Korea, so this is certainly a fantastic start.

Europe is where Kia hope to really hit big with the Stonic crossover, so we will be keeping an eye on the sales figures in that market.

  1. Kia Sorento facelift

Another major event that happened in Korea in July was the unveiling of the newly refreshed Sorento SUV.

This is a big story, as it tells us what to expect from the US-spec 2018 model year Sorento.

This is a model that has been a big part of Kia’s success in the US, as it has one of their best-selling models, cracking the top 3 in the Kia line-up for a couple of years now.

  1. Hyundai-Kia on a roll in Mexico

Kia has made it clear that Mexico is an important market for them, which is why the sales figures from there are major news.

In order to really increase their presence south of the border, Kia built a manufacturing plant there, with some of the vehicles produced there also making their way to the United States.

It’s early yet, but the response from consumers in Mexico has been very positive.

There were many people in the industry who believed that Kia would struggle to break into the market in Mexico early on, but they have already cracked the top 10 automakers in that part of the world.

Furthermore, when the sales figures of Kia and sister company Hyundai are combined, they are better than the figures delivered by Toyota Motor Corp.

The Korean automakers combined to sell 61,616 units in Mexico in the first half of 2017, a staggering 53% increase over the same period the year prior. Toyota went from 45,930 units to 51,307 year on year, an increase of 12%.

  1. Kia sales in US decrease

Kia has been seeing some great sales increases in Mexico, but the same cannot be said for the US.

For the month of June, Kia sold 56,143 units in the US, which is a bit of a decrease from the 62,000 units they sold in June 2016.

The Forte was the top-selling model, followed by the Optima, Sorento, and Soul, with the Sportage landing in fifth.

The all-new Niro hybrid model moved 2,188 units.

We hope that the overall Kia sales numbers will take an upward trend starting this month.

What Is The Cost Of The Niro Touring Launch Edition?

The crossover segment is one of the most popular in the United States, and the addition of the Kia Niro is one that hybrid enthusiasts are sure to love!

One issue, albeit a good one, that US consumers may have is deciding which Niro trim level to buy.

There are many options available, with each one offering something a little bit different than the others.

One trim level that really stands out, though, is the Kia Niro Touring Launch Edition.

We are going to talk more about this particular trim level and the amazing features that it delivers.

Kia Niro Touring Launch EditionAs you may have already guessed, the Launch Edition is a limited production model from Kia, so you are going to need to get in quick if you want one.

We are not even sure how many models Kia intends on shipping to the US, or when production will stop, so keep that in mind if you do decide that you want one.

Kia Niro Touring Launch Edition differences

There are some definite design characteristics that set this model apart from the other members of the Niro hybrid car family.

The Niro is a sporty looking crossover vehicle already, but the changes made to the Launch Edition take that look up a notch.

One of the first noticeable changes is the use of 18-inch Hyper Gray alloy wheels shod in Michelin tires.

Around front, a metallic grille replaces the black grille usually found on other Niro models.

The two exterior colors used exclusively for the Niro Launch Edition are Snow White Pearl and Aurora Black.

Best features of the Touring Launch Edition

On the inside, the Kia Niro Touring Launch Edition is equipped with the latest technology, which is a huge selling point.

Music lovers will certainly get a kick out of the 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system that delivers exceptional sound clarity via the premium Clari-Fi technology.

Also included is an 8-inch touchscreen that includes navigation, as well as a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat to keep you comfortable.

These are some premium touches that will make you want to take some longer road trips in the future.

How much does the Kia Niro Launch Edition cost?

As great as all of this sounds, we are sure that it is the price that is going to decide whether you will go after this special edition Niro model.

The great news is that the Kia Niro Launch Edition MSRP is just $28,000.

This is about $5,000 more than the base model, but still about $2,000 less than the fully loaded Niro model.

Worth buying?

At the end of the day, you are getting a unique hybrid crossover vehicle that is jam-packed with extra features, and which has an exterior design that is a little more on the sporty side.

If you are already looking at the Kia Niro hybrid SUV and have some extra money to spend, we suggest going with this limited edition model!

2019 Kia Sportage Premium Package (Features & Cost)

The Sportage crossover is slowly but surely becoming one of the Kia’s best-selling vehicles in the United States.

This steady rise in popularity really started to kick in after the US-spec model got a big makeover a year and a half ago.

It’s easy to understand why the 2019 Kia Sportage is such a popular choice, from the great design inside and out, to the state of the art powertrain technology. It also helps that this compact SUV also comes with an AWD option.

Kia’s compact crossover offers consumers a number of different engine and transmission options, as well as numerous trim levels and package options.

Features Of Kia Sportage Premium PackageAs far as trim levels go, there is the LX, which serves as the base, EX, and top of the line SX Turbo.

Furthermore, there are 7 great optional Kia Sportage packages to choose from, which can help you customize your vehicle to suit your specific driving needs.

For the purposes of this blog post, we are going to take a closer look at the Premium Package being offered for the Sportage, including how much it will set you back.

Premium Package features

The first thing that we should make you all aware of is that the Premium Package is not available on the base model, but you can get it with the Sportage LX mid trim.

The total cost for the 2019 Kia Sportage EX Premium package is $1,700, and while that may seem to be on the expensive side of things, the list of features that you get for the price is impressive.

Those features are:

  • Panoramic sunroof with power sunshade
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink
  • LED interior lighting

Premium package worth buying?

If your budget does not extend to Sportage Premium package or other higher trim levels, we can still assure you that you are getting a great vehicle with the base model as is.

That said, adding the Premium Package or moving up to a higher trim level means getting just about everything you will ever need on a compact crossover model

By spending a few extra bucks, you get a Kia Sportage SUV that is loaded, fun to drive, and safer for everyone traveling in the vehicle!

2017 Kia Forte Scores Top Safety Pick+ Award

The results for the 2017 Kia Forte crash tests are in from the IIHS in the US.

What the results show is that this is the safest Forte ever, putting it up there with the safest cars in the segment.

The 2017 Kia Forte underwent several structural improvements that played a role in its IIHS crash test success, particularly with the small overlap front test.

The optional front crash prevention system, which was rated superior, and the good-rated headlights allowed the Forte to earn the coveted Top Safety Pick+ award.

That award puts the Forte in the same category as some of its rivals, which include the Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, and Subaru Impreza.

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What is Top Safety Pick Plus?

You don’t win a Top Safety Pick award by sheer luck.

Good ratings must be achieved in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, while the addition of a crash prevention system up front can mean an advanced or superior rating.

Vehicles get the “+” added to the rating if they also have good or acceptable headlights.

2017 Kia Forte crash test results

The crash results mentioned here are all for the 2017 Forte, which includes models built after April. Those models came with a pair of major enhancements.

The first big upgrade is the addition of the longer side-curtain airbags, with the second being a stronger door opening structure.

Kia specifically put these in place so that they could get a good rating on the small overlap front crash test, which is one of the toughest.

The models built in April 2017 or later achieved a good rating in that particular test, thanks in large part to those new additions.

The test is designed to simulate the left front corner of the car colliding with a pole of some kind.

The driver’s space in the Forte was well maintained, with the intrusion being just 3 inches at the footrest.

While this is a severe crash, the movements of the dummy were controlled, with the result being a low risk of injury in such a crash.

How to know when your Kia Forte was built?

Go to the doorjamb of your Forte and look for the manufacturers decal, as that will show you the month and year of manufacture.

Crash prevention system

The only way to be in with a shot at the coveted Top Safety Pick award is to deliver a vehicle that comes complete with a front crash prevention system.

This is an optional piece of equipment on the 2017 Forte, but one that helped make it one of the safest cars in the segment.

In IIHS tests at both 12 and 25 mph, the system was able to help the Forte avoid collisions. The system on the Forte also comes with a forward collision warning, which also helped make the folks at IIHS very happy.

Safety test conclusion

Long gone are the days when a customer chose a vehicle based on nothing more than the brand and the color.

Safety is a major part of the car buying decision process, and as these results show, they don’t come much safer than the 2017 Kia Forte.

Q&A: Kia Rio Pulse Comes With Free Insurance In UK

It’s barely been six months since the latest version of the Rio 5-door hatchback landed in the UK, but the Koreans are already delivering their first limited edition version of the popular model, with this one known as the 2017 Kia Rio Pulse.

Simply put, the Pulse is a limited edition version of the new sub-compact hatchback, available in a pair of different exterior colors, each of which features bold red trim.

The starting price for this model is £14,595 (UK).

Practicality and reliability are staples for the Kia, bit this model adds a little bit of flair that is sure to appeal to fans of sportier looking models.

Kia Rio Pulse special edition modelThere are sure to be a lot of questions about the new Kia Rio Pulse, and we have tried to answer some of the more common ones below.

1. What is the Kia Rio Pulse?

The Pulse is the limited version of the Kia Rio 5-door hatchback released earlier this year.

Kia really upped the ante with the latest version of the Rio, delivering more room, better fuel economy, improved engine options, and improved connectivity.

This helps put the model among the best in the category, which includes the VW Polo, Renault Clio, and Ford Fiesta.

2. What is the price of Rio Pulse?

Pricing for the base Kia Rio starts at £11,995, with the top of the range model coming in at £17,445.

The Pulse essentially slots in the middle, with a starting price of £14,595. Kia says that the Pulse has specs that are in between the Grade 2 and 3 trim levels.

3. What is difference between the Pulse and other Rio models?

There are a pair of exterior colors – Clear White and Midnight Black – available with the Pulse. You can get these on the standard model, but they are considered an option, and as such cost extra.

It is the red touches, found on the roof, front vents, mirror caps, and side skirt trims, that set the Pulse apart.

The red accents are also found on the inside, where red and black faux leather can be found. Red metallic paint is also used on the fascia trim.

The Pulse special edition model is also equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels shod in 205/45 R17 tires. There is a chrome surround on the black grille, as well as privacy glass on the rear side windows and tailgate.

4. Anything special about the interior?

The gear shift and steering wheel both feature leather trim, and you will also find sporty stainless steel pedals.

Entertainment and connectivity come courtesy of a 6-speaker audio system and a 5-inch color touchscreen that features DAB radio and RDS messaging. Bluetooth with music streaming is also standard, as are numerous USB ports, a reversing camera, and a 3.5-inch cluster display.

5. Tell us more

Perhaps the biggest news is that the Pulse is part of a special sales event in the UK, but only for a limited time period.

Buy this car between July 1 and September 30 and you will receive free car insurance for a year, which includes miss-fueling coverage, as well as 90 days EU recovery cover and a courtesy car.

6. Will it be available in the US?

The bad news is that the Rio Pulse will only be available in the UK market and won’t go on sale in U.S. or Canada.

2018 Kia Sorento Facelift, Release Date News & Rumors

Latest news about the 2018 Kia Sorento changes, release date, prices

The Kia Sorento 7-seater is the top selling SUV for Kia in the US, and the popular model is ready to get a facelift.

It has been 3 years since the third-generation model made its premiere, which puts it right at the mid-cycle phase, which is where facelifts are usually applied.

We got to see what those changes look like with an unveiling in South Korea, and while they are subtle, they are still noticeable.

We have some images available from that reveal, and will now talk about some of the changes made.

Design Changes to the 2018 Kia Sorento

2018 Kia Sorento SUV faceliftThe front of the 2018 Kia Sorento features an updated chrome grille, as well as more refined LED headlights that include daytime running lights.

The car shown in the images is brown, and it certainly looks very classy when you take into account the gloss black intake surrounds and the new quad fog light setup up front.

The back of the new Kia Sorento features chrome exhaust finishers that are more angular than before, new look taillights, and reflectors that now sit higher than they used to.

The new model also gets redesigned 19-inch alloy wheels, as well as a new set of running boards.

Technical upgrades

The outgoing Sorento’s came equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, but this model is moving up to Kia’s new 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The means an improvement in fuel efficiency, acceleration, and even better NVH levels than before, not to mention a much more comfortable ride.

2018 Kia Sorento U.S. release date

There is no word yet from Kia US on when the 2018 Sorento will officially be released, Chances are that our first view of the new model in the US will be in November at the LA Auto Show, while the Frankfurt show is likely when it will be unveiled in Europe.

What changes to expect on U.S. models?

We believe that the US version of the facelifted Sorento will be exactly the same as the one shown off in Korea.

That said, we can expect the trim levels to be different, and we also believe that the US-spec model will have at least 1 or 2 different exterior color options available. We also don’t expect to see any major shift in pricing, with any potential increases being minimal.

We will keep you up to date with all the news on the 2018 Kia Sorento as we get it.

First Spy Photo Of The Next-Generation Kia Cee’d Interior

The new generation Kia Cee’d will soon be getting its big reveal.

Scheduled to make its official premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in a couple of months, the popular Kia 5-door hatchback will boast a completely redesigned exterior and interior layouts.

While the official unveiling of the 2018 Kia cee’d is already on the horizon, there is still some work that needs to be done to get the new model ready for serial mass production.

Latest spy shots showcase the cee’d prototype in heavy camouflage, which suggests that there are indeed some serious changes coming for the new Cee’d.

Kia cee'd redesign - interior spy shotsThere are some elements that are visible in spite of the camo, including a sleek front fascia complete with tiger nose grille and new LED headlights. The front bumper also gets a new look, going with horizontal fog lights.

The side profile reveals that the small window beside the A-pillar has been taken out, although the one behind the rear doors is still in place, albeit sitting a little lower than on the outgoing model.

Around back, you can see wider taillights beneath the camo, and those tail-lights appear to be less curved than before.

The license plate holder has been moved from the bumper to the trunk lid, suggesting big design changes for both of those parts.

Kia cee’d 2018 interior

The interior of the next-generation Kia Cee’d will feature a tablet-style set-up for the infotainment system, which is unsurprising given that this is a similar same set-up as in the Hyundai i30 sibling.

This may now be standard for the Koreans, as the tablet look also appears in the Rio 5-door hatchback and the Stonic crossover.

There is a slot below the display where the sat-nav map can be inserted, as well as some buttons to control the door locks and hazard lights.

Beneath that are three stacks of buttons that are similar in style to the Sportage SUV.

More spy photos of next cee’d 5-door

Spy Photos: Kia Motors   Next Generation Kia vehicles   2018 Kia models

Powertrain technology

We can almost certainly expect much of the hardware on the third generation Cee’d to match what’s found on the Hyundai i30 sibling.

That means a range of higly fuel-efficient gasoline and diesel engines, as well as a choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual clutch transmissions.

It’ll be interesting to see whether Kia also decides to also adopt the 2.0L turbo engine used in the recently-unveiled i30 N hot hatchback, which packs a rather hefty 270 horsepower.

4 Best AWD sedans From Kia, Hyundai & Genesis

Residents of regions affected by regular snow and heavy rain often feel as though their options are limited when they buy a vehicle.

Owning a sedan means running the risk of getting stuck, whilst buying an SUV usually means getting a vehicle that is bigger and more unwieldy than they would like.

The good news is that those are no longer the only options available to consumers.

If you don’t need the extra space and size of an SUV, and the prospect of getting stuck in the snow in a family car doesn’t appeal, then you may want to consider the practicality and handling delivered by an AWD sedan.

What you get here is a 4-door vehicle that will not become a liability in a storm, but rather a vehicle that you can rely on in all conditions.

The segment of sedans with all-wheel-drive segment is growing quickly, and both Kia and Hyundai, as well as Genesis, have been playing a major role in delivering great vehicles that are safe, fun to drive, and built to handle all kinds of different road conditions.

Let’s take a closer look at their current 2017 models, as well as some set for the 2018 model year.

1. 2018 Kia Stinger

2018 Kia Stinger AWDFor Kia, the Stinger is arguably the vehicle that has the biggest buzz attached to its release, probably because it is an incredibly sporty sedan that will come at a very competitive price.

This is definitely a new type of vehicle than what we are used to from Kia, as the Nurburgring tested Kia sports sedan is going to be given a look that is definitely influenced by European models.

Kia has previously only lightly dabbled in the sporty model category, but it looks as though they are onto a winner here.

A few years back, Kia unleashed the GT concept to wild acclaim, and the success of that model is what prompted the Koreans to deliver a production model with many of the same design cues as the GT.

Besides the basic trim level, Kia will also offer the Stinger AWD, which will sit at the top of the range, and will also feature the automaker’s latest all-wheel-drive system.

2. Genesis G80

Genesis G80 SportThe G80 may not be a name you are familiar with, but it is essentially the Hyundai Genesis now being delivered under the Genesis name.

Hyundai started their own luxury sub-brand, bringing the G80 and the G90, originally the Equus, to the market under the new moniker.

One of the biggest selling points of the G80 is that it delivers all the features that you would expect from a luxury automaker, but at a fraction of the price that the other luxury brands were selling their models at.

The G80 comes standard as a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, but buyers can take Genesis up on their AWD option, which they refer to as HTRAC.

3. Genesis G90

Genesis G90 luxury sedanThe G90 was the first luxury model released under the new Genesis name.

The G90 has some stiff competition to deal with, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Jaguar XJ, and Lexus LS, but they do that by providing the same features at a lower price.

The latest Genesis G90 sedan comes available with AWD.

4. Genesis G70

Genesis G70 concept carThe G70 has not yet hit the market, but when it does, it will ride on the same platform as the Stinger, which means that AWD will be an option.

This model should start to hit showrooms in the early part of 2018, and will go up against the likes of the BMW 3-series X-Drive and Audi A4 Quattro, as well as several other luxury models offering AWD.

The G70 will be more on the luxury side of things than the Stinger, and will also pack slightly more power than the Kia model.

As you may expect upon hearing that, it will also be a little costlier than the Stinger.

Hyundai

Hyundai does not have an AWD sedan available in the US, but for very good reason.

When they started the Genesis luxury brand, all the Hyundai models with all-wheel-drive were immediately shifted over to the new name.

The Genesis models previously mentioned here started life as Hyundai models, but are now bearing the Genesis brand name.

If Hyundai is your go to brand, you can still opt for an SUV that comes with the all-wheel-drive option.

2019 Kia Soul Spy Pics, Release Date, EV, AWD

We are still more than a year and a half away from the release of the 2019 Kia Soul, which is why it’s tough to make any sort of wild claims about what we can expect from the redesign.

That said, there are some rumors out there that we believe are definitely worth sharing.

The majority of these rumors come from FB pages, forums, and YouTube channels devoted to the Soul, most of which are usually eerily accurate.

Many of the people who post these nuggets are close to people within Kia Motors, which is why they are privy to sensitive information.

Some even have the ear of the Kia brass, and they tell them what current Soul owners would like to see in future models.

Kia Soul 2019 Update: 2019 Soul spy shots hit the web!

We have 4 rumors about the 2019 Kia Soul for you, so let’s get right to them:

2019 Kia Soul to get all-wheel-drive

Soul owners have been after an AWD model for some time now, and they might just get it with the 2019 model.

The new platform that the Soul will ride on is originally made for FWD, but it is also made with an option for AWD, which Kia should take advantage of given the demand for that option on the Soul.

2019 Soul EV to offer longer range

The Kia Soul EV has been around for a little while now, and while the all-electric model has proven to be very reliable, it does fall a little short on driving range.

Kia are planning to change all that with major enhancements to their electric drivetrain technology, all of which adds up to more miles on a single charge.

Kia Soul 2019 release date

We are obviously still too far away from the unveiling to have an official release date for the 2019 Kia Soul in Canada and the US, but we can hazard a few guesses as to when we will see it first.

The most likely places for an unveiling would be the 2018 Los Angeles Motor Show or the 2019 North American Motor Show.

The new generation Soul crossover vehicle should hit dealerships shortly after the official unveiling.

A rugged new design

2019 Kia Soul spy shotsIf we are to believe the rumors of a 2019 Soul AWD model, then the rumors of a more rugged design would certainly seem to fit.

The Trail’ster AWD concept model from a few years back was designed to see what people would think of a more rugged Kia Soul, and the feedback was totally positive.

There are some who also believe that we may even see two different versions of the new generation Soul: a sleek, sporty model with FWD and a rugged one like the Trail’ster AWD.

Conclusion

We are going to have to wait for official word about any changes to the next-generation Kia Soul, but these 4 rumors certainly help to get us excited about the release.

One thing that we can be sure of is that the Kia boxy car will be as stylish and popular as it has always been.

We will bring you all the latest news on the 2019 Kia Soul as soon as we can.

The Best Kia Cars for City Driving

City cars have undergone a lot of refinement across the past few years, with the majority becoming smaller, cleaner, safer, more efficient and stylish.

That’s not to say that if you live and work in a city you have to drive a specifically designed city car, there are plenty of other vehicles great for town driving.

Kia have produced many fantastic cars over the years, featuring a wide range of vehicles ideal for city drivers, whether your main purpose is commuting, the school run or anything else.

Here are the four Kia vehicles we think are best for city driving:

New Picanto

Best Kia Cars For City DrivingThe new Kia Picanto was voted third in Auto Express’ list of the Best City Cars to Buy in 2017, ahead of the Hyundai i10, Toyota Aygo and more.

This compact hatchback is incredibly spacious despite its appearance, with a better equipped interior than its predecessor and sharper looks.

Accurate steering and soft suspension make it fun and comfortable for driver and passengers alike when nipping around any town or city centre.

A range of engines are available too, with 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol models, both of which provide decent fuel economy levels, though with the automatic version this drops.

CO² emissions of 106g/km make it an energy conscious choice as well.

Soul EV

Electric cars are growing in stature and are most at home in city centres, where they don’t have to travel too far, have a greater access to recharge points and look the part.

The Kia Soul EV is ideal for short commutes, with a range of up to 132 miles on one charge.

A full charge takes over 6 hours, though 80% can be reached in just half an hour with the fast-charging socket provided.

As a high-roofed hatchback that comes with a seven-year warranty, it is a safe purchase for those living not too far from their work.

The boxy style may not be for everyone, but there’s plenty of room and four doors, great for families and car shares.

Optima PHEV

Kia’s first plug-in hybrid is a surprisingly powerful and stylish vehicle, one that wouldn’t look out of place in any office car park.

Combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 50kW electric motor, it delivers 202bhp, making it flexible for long commutes out of town into the city while being an excellent executive car too.

Low CO² emissions of 37g/km mean it is exempt from road tax when bought second hand, with low fuel costs to boot.

If buying used, remain safe by taking out car checks first to ensure the Kia Optima’s history matches up with the seller’s claims and there is nothing untoward about it.

Sportage crossover

Not a stereotypical city car, but they seem to be everywhere these days, as a compact SUV the Kia Sportage is good for the school run or lift sharing on the way to work.

With plenty of room in the cabin and boot for passengers, equipment and more, along with a high quality interior, it feels classy just to be transported around in.

The engines may not be the most efficient for city cars, but if you only have one vehicle and split your time between city, country and motorway driving, this is a versatile option.

Conclusion

Hopefully one of these Kia vehicles suits your city driving needs, whether you’re looking to buy new or used.

Kia VehicleLineup