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Even though Kia’s new compact sedan hasn’t been launched into the market yet, we’ve found a bunch of Korean websites dedicated to the Forte (see pics here). One of those websites has even managed to secure the first scoop images of the Forte’s dashboard which pretty much looks the same as the one found in the Koup Concept minus all the glossy parts and the racing steering wheel. –Image gallery after the jump
Pics via: Clubforte (Sub. req)
Caught here undisguised on Kia’s assembly line in Pic via: Soul Mania
Kia’s engineers have been fiddling around with the company’s Finally, Kia’s engineers adjusted the standard output of the 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engine available in the new cee’d and pro_cee’d models that now emits 119g/km, thus taking it into Band B meaning drivers will pay just £35 VED, a tax saving of £85 from the previous £120 a year.
These are the first official images of the 2009 Kia Forte that will replace the Spectra, or as it’s called in Unless you paycheck comes from Kia or Hyundai, the Forte’s design brings to mind the Honda Civic (especially the front-end) and if you've had one or two glasses of French wine, you may even find a couple of similarities with the long-gone Citroen Xsara in the styling of the car’s rear quarters. -Continued
Via: Thecarblogger , Source: Kia
The production version of the Kia Koup Concept that was previewed earlier this year at the New York Auto Show will go on sale in the States during the third quarter of 2009, according Lee Hyun-soon, president of Hyundai-Kia Motors' R&D division. Kia's first ever Coupe model will be based on the replacement for the Spectra, teaser shots of which have already appeared throughout the web. The Spectra sedan, that may bear a different name, will be available in the
Via: AN (Sub. Req)
The production version of Kia’s 290Hp Koup Concept that was introduced at the New York Show earlier this year will be called Forte and initially, it will be available in 5-door form. Following a teaser sketch of the Forte’s profile, Kia has now released a second teaser image featuring the subcompact hatch’s fascia which doesn’t seem to have changed a lot compared to the Koup concept. According to the folks over at “Kia-World”, the Forte, which is expected to replace the Spectra (also known as Cerato in other markets), is scheduled to be officially introduced on August 21. -One more pic after the jump
Via: Kia World
Kia is offering As part of the promo, during each stop of the tour those interested will have the chance to visit the Kia "Soul Lounge," an interactive tent featuring information displays about the new crossover and other Kia vehicles, a DJ, an airbrush tattoo artist and the chance to enter to win either a new Sportage or Spectra SX in the "Keys to the Ride" sweepstakes.
Production of the Cee’d family that consists of three body variants (5door, SW and the 3door Pro_Cee’d) at Kia’s all-new Zilina factory in Slovakia has topped the 200,000 mark, 18 months after the first car rolled off the production line at the company’s one-billion Euro facility. The Zilina plant’s productive records this year include 915 units made in a single day on Monday 21 April, 4,474 units in a single week starting 7 April and 19,300 units in one month - April. "This is another truly significant day for Kia," said Mr In-Kyu Bae, President and CEO Kia Motors Slovakia. "We produced our 100,000th cee’d last September, only 10 months after start-up, and with the addition of the cee’d wagon and pro_cee’d three-door hatch we have reached our 200,000th cee’d after only eight more months. We are proud to have achieved record productivity levels while maintaining excellent build quality."
This year’s Nurburgring 24-Hour endurance race (May 24-25) has caught the attention of many (mainstream) automakers. However, Kia didn’t go overboard creating a fully race-prepped model like VW did with its Scirocco GT24. Instead, the Korean car manufacture will participate in this weekend’s endurance race with a barely modified three door pro_cee’d that will de driven by a team from Continental Italia.The pro_cee’d that will take part in the race is powered by Kia’s stock 2.0-liter diesel engine producing 138Hp at 4000rpm and 305Nm of torque from 1800 to 2500rpm. In all, four drivers will share the 1,900km or 1,181 mile long journey between them - Dr Alberto Bergamaschi who already has 360 races under his belt; Gianni Bellani – an experienced long distance race expert; and two experienced touring car drivers, Paolo Cecchellero and Edo Varini.
As well as confirming that the production version of the Soul will retain the same name as the concept, Kia has released the first official photograph of its compact 5-door crossover that will be officially revealed at the Paris Motor Show this fall. The Soul was first seen as a concept at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit while this past March, Kia revealed a trio of concept developments at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Kia hasn’t released any details on the crossover’s mechanics, but expect it be offered with a variety of small 4-cylinder petrol and in
Apart from bringing all of its latest concept cars like the SOUL, the KEE Coupe and the ex_cee’d altogether in one place for the first time, KIA announced today that it has also chosen the According to KIA’s officials, the new model is due to go on sale in the
Crumbling pickup truck sales and rising gas prices have led Hyundai and its affiliate Kia to abandon (for now at least) their plans to build pick-up trucks in the U.S. “Because of high oil prices, the light-truck market has been declining,'” Kim Dong Jin, Vice Chairman of the Hyundai Motor Group said in an e-mailed statement today. “We don't think it's the right time.” -ContinuedAs for Kia’s new
Via: Bloomberg
Following the introduction of the 2.0 CRDi engine on Pro_Cee’d Sport, Kia is now offering the 138 Hp strong diesel-unit on the Cee’d 5door and Cee’d SW models. Kia’s range topping diesel engine is introduced with a new Sport grade for the 5door and Station Wagon models featuring 17-inch alloys, black bezel headlights and rear privacy glass. The Sport models’ interior has part leather seats featuring a specially designed tyre tread cloth design with silver stitching highlights on seats, arm rest and steering wheel. In concern of the UK market, the five-door Cee’d 2.0 CRDi Sport is priced at £15,995 while the Cee’d 2.0 CRDi Sport S W at £16,395. (Image edited by Carscoop)
Following the introduction of the 2.0 CRDi engine on Pro_Cee’d Sport, Kia is now offering the 138 Hp strong diesel-unit on the Cee’d 5door and Cee’d SW models. Kia’s range topping diesel engine is introduced with a new Sport grade for the 5door and Station Wagon models featuring 17-inch alloys, black bezel headlights and rear privacy glass. The Sport models’ interior has part leather seats featuring a specially designed tyre tread cloth design with silver stitching highlights on seats, arm rest and steering wheel. In concern of the UK market, the five-door Cee’d 2.0 CRDi Sport is priced at £15,995 while the Cee’d 2.0 CRDi Sport S W at £16,395. (Image edited by Carscoop)
Let’s face it; even if you’re a hardcore Kia enthusiast, you have to admit that the 
Via: Thecarfanatic
Let’s face it; even if you’re a hardcore Kia enthusiast, you have to admit that the Via: Thecarfanatic
While most of us thought that we had seen the last of the poorly received KEE Concept Coupe that made its debut in 
Franz Josef-Hicks, head of the Advanced Propulsion Research Institute and Laboratory at Kia Motors New Zealand, explained; ‘We have taken inspiration from current computer gaming technology to create a completely new steering and pedal system called Dynamic On-Road Kinetics. The traditional driving controls are replaced by a small ‘controller’ which fits comfortably into two hands. Making steering motions with the small controller will turn the car in whichever direction the driver likes whilst accelerator and brakes are button operated. It is a very simple and intuitive system.’ added Mr Josef-Hicks.
According to Carscoop sources, the KEE_wii dynamic control system will be available on new Kia cars on April 1 2009 and will then be optional on forthcoming generations of models as they are updated or replaced.
While most of us thought that we had seen the last of the poorly received KEE Concept Coupe that made its debut in Franz Josef-Hicks, head of the Advanced Propulsion Research Institute and Laboratory at Kia Motors New Zealand, explained; ‘We have taken inspiration from current computer gaming technology to create a completely new steering and pedal system called Dynamic On-Road Kinetics. The traditional driving controls are replaced by a small ‘controller’ which fits comfortably into two hands. Making steering motions with the small controller will turn the car in whichever direction the driver likes whilst accelerator and brakes are button operated. It is a very simple and intuitive system.’ added Mr Josef-Hicks.
According to Carscoop sources, the KEE_wii dynamic control system will be available on new Kia cars on April 1 2009 and will then be optional on forthcoming generations of models as they are updated or replaced.
Get a load of what Kia supports in its official press release on the restyled Optima that made its debut today at the New York Auto Show: “The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia’s philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion”. We’d gladly appreciate it if anyone could help us find something - anything- on the Optima that evokes passion…Along with the “hi, my name is John Doe” front-end styling the 2009 Optima also features refreshed fascia patterns and color schemes in the interior. Power comes from a new 2.4-liter four cylinder engine that produces 175 Hp and 169 lb-ft of torque (+13 Hp more than the before) and a revised version of the 2.7-liter V6 engine that delivers 190 Hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. –Details and pics after the jump
PRESS RELEASE
Midsize
Redesigned exterior and interior establishes Kia’s distinctive, aggressive new look
New engine packs powerful punch without sacrificing fuel economy
"Optima is in a strong position to change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings," said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of KMA. "Already known for its exemplary quality, safety and value, Optima’s sleek new redesign provides consumers with a sporty, fuel-efficient choice and showcases Kia’s commitment to providing the best all-around vehicle package."
Exterior Excitement
The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia’s philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The fog lamps and lower front grille have been enlarged and the headlamps narrowed to create an aggressively sharper look. Wider side garnishes add sportiness while the acute front lines continue toward the back, ending on a distinctly edged trunk lid. To complete the redesigned rear fascia, taillights are narrowed to enhance Optima’s sleeker cosmetic appearance.
Also, new for 2009 is the addition of the sporty SX trim, which complements the handsomely-equipped, value-priced LX and luxury-oriented EX trims. Already available with Kia’s Rio, Rio5, Spectra and Spectra5 models, the SX line provides another dimension for Optima buyers looking for a sportier midsize. Along with a sport-tuned suspension, SX upgrades include: a black-bezeled front grille and headlamps, LED outside-mirror turning signals, fog lights and hyper-silver-finished 17-inch wheels. EX and LX V6 models are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, and are fitted with Goodyear tires.
The 2009 Optima’s overall length also increased, extending nearly two inches in the front and one inch in the rear, to an overall length of roughly 189 inches. The larger proportions enhance the exterior styling for a lower, leaner, more powerful stance. All other dimensions, including wheelbase, remain unchanged.
Efficient, Powerful Engine
Available in two powerplants – a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6 engine – and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only), the 2009 Optima introduces a new engine under its hood. When redesigned as a 2006.5 model, the peppy four-cylinder engine delivered 161 horsepower, a 15-percent increase from the previous generation. For 2009, a more powerful 2.4-liter engine takes its place, producing an additional 13 horsepower. Optima’s four-cylinder output increases to 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. The available 2.7-liter V6 engine remains a carryover but output has increased to 190 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is mated to a five-speed, gated automatic transmission. All automatics feature Sportmatic™ clutchless shifting.
The introductions of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and a Variable Intake System (VIS) further enhance Optima’s new under-the-hood excitement. These added systems improve the vehicle’s fuel economy without sacrificing power.
Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi-link layout in the rear and are joined with coil springs and anti-roll bars (standard equipment on all models) to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.
Interior Refinement
The style makeover continues into the Optima’s cabin with expanded electronics melded with refreshed fascia patterns and color schemes. Based on a new platform, the standard audio system features MP3 compatibility, a USB port and SIRIUS satellite radio capability in addition to an auxiliary jack, which was added to 2008 models. An optional in-dash navigation system also is an Optima first.
The rest of the center fascia and floor console receive minor tuning for even more intuitive operation whereas the new barrel-type instrument cluster design adopts a sporty red illumination. Optima continues to offer two seat trims in gray or beige color schemes – cloth (LX), leather (EX) – with black leather trim on SX models, which also features aluminum trim, metal sport pedals and a Supervision meter cluster.
Amidst the host of additional options, Optima still offers an array of standard features. The LX is equipped with air conditioning, power windows and door locks, an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, cloth seat and door trim, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat and four-way adjustable front passenger seat as well as 60/40-split folding rear seats. EX models upgrade to a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescopic functions, leather seat and door trim, leather-wrapped shift knob, automatic temperature control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror featuring Homelink® and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat. Convenience and Premium Packages offer further content upgrades, including a power sunroof and an Infinity® audio system.
Safety-Minded
As with the rest of the Kia line-up, the 2009 Optima is equipped with many safety features as standard equipment. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The Electronic Stability Control Package adds Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), brake assist and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.
Competitive Warranty
The 2009 Optima is covered by Kia’s comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.
Get a load of what Kia supports in its official press release on the restyled Optima that made its debut today at the New York Auto Show: “The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia’s philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion”. We’d gladly appreciate it if anyone could help us find something - anything- on the Optima that evokes passion…Along with the “hi, my name is John Doe” front-end styling the 2009 Optima also features refreshed fascia patterns and color schemes in the interior. Power comes from a new 2.4-liter four cylinder engine that produces 175 Hp and 169 lb-ft of torque (+13 Hp more than the before) and a revised version of the 2.7-liter V6 engine that delivers 190 Hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. –Details and pics after the jump
PRESS RELEASE
Midsize
Redesigned exterior and interior establishes Kia’s distinctive, aggressive new look
New engine packs powerful punch without sacrificing fuel economy
"Optima is in a strong position to change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings," said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of KMA. "Already known for its exemplary quality, safety and value, Optima’s sleek new redesign provides consumers with a sporty, fuel-efficient choice and showcases Kia’s commitment to providing the best all-around vehicle package."
Exterior Excitement
The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia’s philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The fog lamps and lower front grille have been enlarged and the headlamps narrowed to create an aggressively sharper look. Wider side garnishes add sportiness while the acute front lines continue toward the back, ending on a distinctly edged trunk lid. To complete the redesigned rear fascia, taillights are narrowed to enhance Optima’s sleeker cosmetic appearance.
Also, new for 2009 is the addition of the sporty SX trim, which complements the handsomely-equipped, value-priced LX and luxury-oriented EX trims. Already available with Kia’s Rio, Rio5, Spectra and Spectra5 models, the SX line provides another dimension for Optima buyers looking for a sportier midsize. Along with a sport-tuned suspension, SX upgrades include: a black-bezeled front grille and headlamps, LED outside-mirror turning signals, fog lights and hyper-silver-finished 17-inch wheels. EX and LX V6 models are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, and are fitted with Goodyear tires.
The 2009 Optima’s overall length also increased, extending nearly two inches in the front and one inch in the rear, to an overall length of roughly 189 inches. The larger proportions enhance the exterior styling for a lower, leaner, more powerful stance. All other dimensions, including wheelbase, remain unchanged.
Efficient, Powerful Engine
Available in two powerplants – a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6 engine – and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only), the 2009 Optima introduces a new engine under its hood. When redesigned as a 2006.5 model, the peppy four-cylinder engine delivered 161 horsepower, a 15-percent increase from the previous generation. For 2009, a more powerful 2.4-liter engine takes its place, producing an additional 13 horsepower. Optima’s four-cylinder output increases to 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. The available 2.7-liter V6 engine remains a carryover but output has increased to 190 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is mated to a five-speed, gated automatic transmission. All automatics feature Sportmatic™ clutchless shifting.
The introductions of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and a Variable Intake System (VIS) further enhance Optima’s new under-the-hood excitement. These added systems improve the vehicle’s fuel economy without sacrificing power.
Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi-link layout in the rear and are joined with coil springs and anti-roll bars (standard equipment on all models) to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.
Interior Refinement
The style makeover continues into the Optima’s cabin with expanded electronics melded with refreshed fascia patterns and color schemes. Based on a new platform, the standard audio system features MP3 compatibility, a USB port and SIRIUS satellite radio capability in addition to an auxiliary jack, which was added to 2008 models. An optional in-dash navigation system also is an Optima first.
The rest of the center fascia and floor console receive minor tuning for even more intuitive operation whereas the new barrel-type instrument cluster design adopts a sporty red illumination. Optima continues to offer two seat trims in gray or beige color schemes – cloth (LX), leather (EX) – with black leather trim on SX models, which also features aluminum trim, metal sport pedals and a Supervision meter cluster.
Amidst the host of additional options, Optima still offers an array of standard features. The LX is equipped with air conditioning, power windows and door locks, an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, cloth seat and door trim, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat and four-way adjustable front passenger seat as well as 60/40-split folding rear seats. EX models upgrade to a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescopic functions, leather seat and door trim, leather-wrapped shift knob, automatic temperature control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror featuring Homelink® and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat. Convenience and Premium Packages offer further content upgrades, including a power sunroof and an Infinity® audio system.
Safety-Minded
As with the rest of the Kia line-up, the 2009 Optima is equipped with many safety features as standard equipment. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The Electronic Stability Control Package adds Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), brake assist and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.
Competitive Warranty
The 2009 Optima is covered by Kia’s comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.
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