Another way to roll

Kia Motors America today rolled out the first special addition of its all-new mini people hauler, the Soul. Dubbed the 2010 Denim Kia Soul, it signals the second salvo from the Koreans for the hearts and minds of the Gen-Y’ers in its intended audience.

According to the PR blurb, the new special edition is “a unique iteration of the popular urban passenger vehicle that further emphasizes Soul’s cutting edge style and youthful, fun character.” In addition, “the special-edition Denim Soul provides consumers with even more personalization options.” So what does it offer over more plebian editions?

Special features

It turns out that the Denim edition is based on the Soul+ model and, as such, offers keyless entry, privacy glass, body-color door handles, power mirrors, 16” alloys, cruise and Bluetooth along with the uplevel 2.0 liter 142 hp 4-banger.

Other standard features include such amenities as air conditioning, tilt wheel, power locks and windows, ABS, stability and traction control, Electronic Brake Distribution and brake assist.

Inside, other plus features also include an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SIRIUS capability (including a 3 month complimentary subscription) and USB and auxiliary input jacks with full iPod® controllability via the head unit and steering wheel controls with an optional iPod cable.

To this mix, the Denim version adds a unique “denim” (what else?) exterior color, white side-view mirrors, 18” alloy wheels and front fender turn signal indicator lights, a wing-type rear spoiler and a white off-set racing stripe that extends from just below the front grille back to the rear bumper. Also included is the Audio Upgrade Package (a $400 stand alone option on the plus) that adds a center speaker, subwoofer, external 315 watt amp and “speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music.” Rock on.

Pricing

Pricing for the Denim starts at $17,995 for the 5-speed manually-equipped version and $18,945 for the automatic (representing a $2,350 premium over the standard Soul+).

According to Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing at Kia Motors America, the new Denim version “illustrates our commitment to fresh design, even on a vehicle that’s been in the marketplace only a few months, and it’s the first of more special editions to be offered in 2010 for the recently introduced Kia Soul.”

Aqua Teen Hunger Force

Here at LotPro.com, we had some time on our hands, so we asked ourselves this question (yeah, right), “What do you get when you mix the latest funky urban chic econobox from Asia with an Atlanta graffiti artist and an adult-oriented show (are you dizzy yet?) from the Cartoon Channel?” Give up?

Well, it seems that Korean automaker Kia has the answer: the Aqua Teen Hunger Force-adorned Kia Soul courtesy of Atlanta graffiti artist (and member of the Atlanta-based Seventh Letter art collective) Hense.

Here is how Kia describes it:

Kia Motors America recently partnered with Cartoon Network’s “Adult Swim,” an animated and live action series for young adults for which Atlanta-based graffiti artist “Hense” was commissioned to paint a widely acclaimed Soul, themed with characters from Adult Swim’s “Aqua Teen Hunger Force.”

Still interested? In that case, as of May 4th, the Cartoon Network has set up a micro site, www.adultswim.com/kiasoul, where fans can go to view the creation of the vehicle through time-lapse photography as well as watch video footage of an interview with Hense, himself.

But wait, there’s more…

In addition to watching the genesis of the Hense-tagged Soul, those of you so inclined can also enter to win the limited-edition vehicle beginning at 10:00:01 a.m. Eastern Time on June 1, 2009. You have to be 18 or older by that time as well as a resident of the contiguous 48 states and D.C. and the promo ends at precisely 11:59:59 p.m. on June 28, 2009.

For Kia fans, the wait is over as the company used the New York Auto Show to globally debut the new Forte Koup. Based on the Forte sedan – which will be available in dealer showrooms this summer and replaces the current Spectra model, the coupe version is slightly shorter in length and lower in height than its sedan counterpart. The Koup also gives Kia a boost in the styling department, as the vehicle sports one of the slickest designs of any vehicle in its class.

Here is the press release from Kia:

(SEOUL) April 9, 2009 – With performance-inspired, aggressive and sleek styling, Kia Motors America (KMA) today globally debuted the 2010 Forte Koup production vehicle during a press conference at the 2009 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).  Joining the Forte family in the Kia lineup, the company’s first-ever two-door coupe embodies the brand’s current bold design direction first seen on the concept version of the Soul urban passenger vehicle in 2006.

“On the heels of the introductions of the Soul and Forte sedan, Forte Koup represents the next exciting step in the transformation of Kia design and offers a blend of sporty and emotional appeal,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA.  “We believe our new design evolution coupled with standard Kia value and safety features will continue to attract customers to the Kia brand.”

Curb Appeal

2009 Kia Rondo

(SEOUL) March, 2009 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the 2009 Kia Spectra, Rio5 and Rondo have been included in two MSN Autos Editors’ Top Pick lists in the USA.  Kia Spectra (LX) and Rio5 are named to the “Top 10 Cars for Less Than $15,000” list and Rondo is a top pick for “Best Family Cars for Downsizing.”  The three vehicles are lauded for offering attractive pricing on top of an impressive combination of quality, space, comfort, value and warranty.

“These days, consumers are looking for ways to make their money go further and the Kia Spectra, Rio5 and Rondo models are just a snapshot into Kia’s full line of vehicles that make economical sense,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA.  “By offering high-quality vehicles with wide-ranging amenities and comprehensive safety features, Kia vehicles are continuing to be recognized by top industry automotive review sites like MSN Autos.”

Spectra, noted for its front and back passenger space, audio system and comprehensive warranty, meets the needs of consumers looking for the total package at a significant value.  While Rio5 is the “hip younger sibling” to the Kia Spectra, according to MSN Autos, it is recognized for SIRIUS Satellite Radio, standard CD/MP3 capabilities, air conditioning and 60/40 split-folding rear seats that give way to its large hatch area.

Both vehicles also achieve impressive gas mileage, Spectra with a mpg of 23/30 (when equipped with the manual transmission) and 24/32 (when equipped with the automatic transmission) (city/highway), while Rio5 offers a frugal fuel economy of 27/32 (manual transmission) and 25/35 (automatic transmission).

Recognized in the “Best Family Cars for Downsizing” category that identifies those vehicles with a starting price lower than $25,000 and offers the best mix of cargo capacity, safety, reliability, features and value, Rondo is noted for its seven-passenger seating capacity along with top safety features, solid reliability, interior space and “impressive fit and finish.”  Fuel economy for the 2.4-liter engine is 20/27 (automatic transmission) (city/highway), while the 2.7-liter V6 is 18/26 (automatic transmission).

MSN Autos developed the Editors’ Pick lists by collecting feedback from industry analysts and conducting test drives.  It is the largest global network of online automotive sites, providing consumers with comprehensive research, buying and ownership services.

Editor’s notes: Standard equipment and specifications based on U.S. model and may vary depending on country.

Cars and Computers

Everyone here at LotPro.com knows how important technology is to the auto industry. Virtually every automotive system, from engine management to steering, braking and listening to music, is dependent upon modern technological wizardry to make it function properly.

This week, Kia Motors announced that it is partnering with Microsoft Corporation to become a worldwide sponsor of RoboChamps 2008, a global IT competition to “advance development of intelligent, autonomous driving technology.” Say what?

Danger, Will Robinson!

It turns out that this is a logical extension of an earlier agreement between Hyundai-Kia and Microsoft that was signed in May of this year in which both parties agreed to co-develop in-vehicle technology and entertainment systems.

The purpose of the RoboChamps competition is to encourage excellence in robotics programming. Using Microsoft software, programmers can “build” a virtual robot and program it to complete a number of different tasks or “challenges” in a virtual world. There are a total of 5 challenges, each taking place in its own world.

Attention all programming geeks!

The overall competition began July 5th, while the Urban Challenge portion got underway on October 9th. Most of the challenges allow entrants about a 6 week window in which to complete each challenge. The Urban Challenge segment ends on November 30th. There is no charge to enter and the development software is also available from Microsoft for free.

If it’s virtual, shouldn’t a Spectra be a Spectral?

In addition to the obvious advantages of partnering with Microsoft, Kia will also establish its presence in the virtual world. As part of the urban challenge, robot cars (all Kias) will travel from an initial position past multiple Kia dealership buildings. Points will be awarded for, among other things, each unique Kia building passed. Five Kia models will be represented, as well as Kia’s new U.S. headquarters, outdoor advertisements and videos (remember Bladerunner?).

Here is the official press release:

(SEOUL) October 13, 2008 – Kia Motors Corporation, a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart and a leader in automotive information technology convergence, announced today that it is a global sponsor of RoboChamps 2008, Microsoft’s virtual-world robotics competition.

The sponsorship is designed to encourage the nurturing of professionals specializing in intelligent, autonomous automotive technology as well as further research and interest in auto-IT convergence. Kia also hopes to reach new audiences through the innovative promotion of its brand and a range of new Kia vehicles embedded throughout the simulation.

Kia Motors is providing 3D rendered models of five of its vehicles – the all-new and recently launched Soul, Borrego SUV, pro-cee’d (not sold in the U.S.), refreshed Optima and all-new Spectra. Event participants will use the simulated Kia cars to complete the RoboChamps Urban challenge, programming and autonomously operating a vehicle in a simulated city environment with accuracy and priority.  Backdrops integrated into the simulated city will also include the new Kia Motors America headquarters, Kia Motors dealer shops, outdoor Kia advertisements and a Kia Motors’ promotional video.

Hyoung-Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President and COO, International Business Division of Kia Motors Corporation, said, “We are building on our strategic alliance with Microsoft and want to continue as a leader of next-generation automotive technology, enabling development of auto-IT convergence in Korea and around the world.  By integrating our products and advertising into the simulation environment, our brand is connecting with an audience of potentially 10 million IT professionals in a new and exciting way.”

This announcement follows the strategic alliance agreement signed between Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group and Microsoft in May to co-develop in-vehicle IT and infotainment systems, and to work together toward establishing the Automotive IT Innovation Center in Korea.

Microsoft is encouraging IT academics, hobbyists and developers to take part in the challenges of RoboChamps.  Using Microsoft Robotics Developer Studio (MSRDS) 2008 CTP (Community Technical Preview), participants are provided with immersive 3-D environments, simulated versions of robots, and compelling scenario-specific challenges. Environments range from a maze to the surface of the planet Mars to downtown driving, to robot rescue, and to soccer.

The Urban challenge kicked off at 12:01 AM PT (Pacific Time) on October 9, 2008 and ends at 11:59 PM PT on November 30, 2008. Top prizes include a $15,000 cash prize or, for the domestic Korean competition, an all-new Kia Soul vehicle.

More information can be found at www.robochamps.com.

Main Page

A Site for the Soul

Even though the guys here at LotPro.com won’t be getting a look at the new Kia Soul for a while yet, that hasn’t seemed to stop Kia from making a big deal out of it back in Korea.  Because, in anticipation of the official unveiling at next week’s Paris Auto Show, Kia Motors has rolled out an absolutely amazing web site that’s dedicated to the Soul. While it really doesn’t break any new ground in the configuration department (the section that allows visitors to paint, decorate and option out a Soul just the way they want), the “Sing a Soul” and “Studios” sections are way cool.

Studios Page (not sure what it says below Soul)

Not entirely lost in translation

Since the U.S. intro isn’t scheduled until next spring, the current web site is designed primarily for the Korean audience. This means that while many of the key site labels are in English, some of the more technical instructions are posted only in Korean. But what the heck, this isn’t a job, it’s an adventure! In any case, most of the navigation through the site is fairly intuitive. Even if you can’t read the fine print, you’ll get the idea.

Movies and Animation

Make a Soul, Sing a Soul

If you’re a frustrated DJ or feeling the least but musical, the Sing A Soul tab on the site allows you to lay down tracks on a simulated audio board to create your own “Soul Song” (try saying that quickly ten times). You can also view movie shorts, a 3D movie and even the intro TV commercial. But take heed if you’re the impatient type: this is a Korean site intended for the Korean market. This means that load times for videos and the audio applications can be ponderously slow. The “Studios” section, in particular, takes a lot of patience to view. That being said, it is worth the wait. I now know why so much animation work is done in Korea.

Korean Rappers

Let them (Kia) entertain you

To view the new Soul, and have a good time in the process, check out the following web site:

http://soul.kia.co.kr/index.html

250,000 sales by 2010

According to the press release, Kia expects to sell over 200,000 Fortes in 2009 and as many as 250,000 by 2010 including exports to Europe and South America.

In addition to its improved styling, the Forte features an optional navigation system, push-button start/stop with smart key and stability control.

Korean market Forte will have a choice of 1.6 liter engines

Although details were not available on which engines will power the new North American Spectra, Kia released the specifications on the first 2 engines that will power the vehicle in Korea.

The first is a 1.6 liter gas engine. This version produces 124 hp. and 159 lb-ft. of torque. Gas mileage is said to be a combined 30-plus mpg with the automatic transmission.

A 1.6 liter common-rail direct-injection diesel will also be offered. This variation will offer 128 hp. and a combined fuel economy rating of 39 mpg.

Here in North America, the new model will feature a version of the 2.0 liter CVVT engine found in the current Spectra sedan.

Along with the engine specifications, Kia also released the dimensions of the new sedan which are 4530mm (178.35 inches) in length and 1775mm (69.88 inches) in width. These specs represent an increase of 1 inch in length and 2.56 inches in width.

Name will not change in U.S.

Although the new model will carry the name “Forte” in the Korean domestic market, there are no plans at this time to bring the name over to the North American market. Instead, according to sources at Kia, the export name will remain “Spectra” here as well as “Cerato” in other markets.

In what has become almost a monthly mantra, Korea-based Kia Motors reports another record-setting month along with solid year-over-year sales gains.

(SEOUL) August 11, 2008 – Kia Motors Corporation announced today that its global sales (export sales, domestic sales and sales from overseas plants) of passenger cars, recreation vehicles (RVs) and commercial vehicles in July 2008 recorded 122,230, representing a 24.1% year-on-year increase.

By region, Kia posted large, year-on-year sales increases in China (11,110 units, a 114.1% year-on-year increase), Korea (27,514 units, a 37.5% year-on-year increase) and general markets (22,973 units, a 37.3% year-on-year increase).  Sales increases were also significant in Europe and North America where 28,670 (8.4% year-on-year increase) and 31,963 (6.2% year-on-year increase) Kia vehicles were sold in July, respectively.

Cumulatively, through the first seven months of 2008, Kia’s global sales increased by 16.9% year-on-year and reached 839,384 units. China (90,863 units sold) and general markets (142,402 units sold) have experienced the largest gains of 42.7%, and 33.3%, respectively. Cumulative year-on-year sales increases have also been experienced in all other sales regions: Korea (18.2% gain with 181,544 units sold); Europe (12.4% gain with 216,332 units sold); and North America (3.5% gain with 208,243 units sold).

Kia Spectra5

So far in 2008, Kia’s best selling model in overseas markets has been the C-segment Cerato (known as ‘Spectra’ in some markets) with 124,058 units sold.   It is followed by a close group of three vehicles: the B-segment Rio at 94,340, the C-segment cee’d at 91,857 and Kia’s Sportage compact SUV at 87,547.  Meanwhile the A-segment Picanto continues to perform well with 61,498 units sold.

Kia Rio

Hyoung-Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President, International Business Division, said, “As we enter the second half of 2008, we continue to experience strong sales growth across all markets, and we have achieved consistently high and significant year-on-year gains in China and general markets in particular. These results represent great performance by our sales team, especially given the difficult industry environment.”

Editor’s notes:
* Global sales figures are based upon CBU export sales and sales from overseas and Korean production plants
** Includes figures from Western and Eastern European markets
***General markets includes the regions of Central and South America, Asia and the Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa

Kia Motors Corporation (www.kia.com) — a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart — was founded in 1944 and is Korea’s oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. As part of the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, Kia aims to become one of the world’s premier automotive brands. More than 1.4 million vehicles a year are produced in 14 manufacturing and assembly operations in eight countries which are then sold and serviced through a network of distributors and dealers covering 165 countries. Kia today has over 40,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of almost US$17 billion. It is the major sponsor of the Australian Tennis Open and an official worldwide sponsor of the Davis Cup. Kia is an official automotive partner of FIFA — the governing body of the FIFA World Cup — as well as a EUROTOP partner of UEFA. Kia Motors Corporation’s brand slogan — “The Power to Surprise” — represents the company’s global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

IRVINE, Calif., Aug 01, 2008 — Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced its best July ever with record sales of 28,021 units, an increase of 5.0 percent over the same period last year, and year-to-date sales of 185,640 units, an increase of 2.5 percent over the same period last year.

Kia Sportage 

The Kia Sportage had its best month of the year with 4,035 units, a 6.2 percent increase over the same period last year, while Spectra had strong sales of 5,910 units. Kia Rio and Kia Optima both had increases of 22.1 percent and 49.1 percent respectively over the same period last year with 3,707 and 6,258 units sold.

“For the fourth month in a row Kia has achieved record sales, something rare for the auto industry in 2008,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). “During this difficult economic time, consumers are looking for quality vehicles that are fuel efficient and offer great value — for this they are heading to Kia dealerships.”

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2007, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of record U.S. sales. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline “The Power to Surprise.”

Kia Motors America is the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.” Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com.

Why not win a new Kia this Summer?

Here at LotPro.com we like everything about cars. We like to drive them, we like to wash them but, most of all, we like to win them! And now is your chance to enter to win one of either two Kia models – the Kia Spectra or the Kia Sportage. The great thing about this contest is that both vehicles are great on gas, so you could even afford to keep either one if you win.

2008 Vans Warped Tour

As part of its participation in the 2008 Vans Warped Tour, Kia Motors has partnered with Fuse Networks to give away the winner’s choice of either a 2008 Kia Spectra SX with CD changer or a 2008 Kia Sportage EX 4×2 Luxury Package.

For Vans Warped Tour participants, on select dates, online kiosks will be set up at participating Warped tour events. For a list of the participating Warped Tour events, visit the web site at www.warpedtour.com. But even if you’re unable to attend this year’s Tour, you can still enter the sweepstakes.

Enter Online

In order to enter online, log onto www.fuse.tv/keystotheride (the “Entry Site”) and follow the Sweepstakes entry directions by providing your first and last name, street address (no P.O. boxes), city, state, zip code, daytime telephone number, date of birth and e-mail address (“Online Entry”). That’s all there is to it.