Tiny Kia Soul is a boxy cutie with plenty of space and style

MIAMI -- Kia's new Soul shows the company has a sense of humor and a sense of adventure.

Soul is a deliberate word play on Seoul, capital of South Korea. And Soul, the car, is a boxy little number that's sure to tip Kia's image upside down. Or give it an image in the first place. The automaker thinks it has neither a positive nor negative image and is starting with a clean page.

You, on the other hand, might already have an impression of Kia as the low-price car company you consider if you're on a tight budget.

Soul, though, is what they call "aspirational" in the car business. That is, a model that people want; to which they aspire. Not one for which they settle. It's meant to make Kia your first stop to shop.

Soul is another of a growing number of wheeled boxes, along the lines of Honda's Element, Scion's xB and Nissan's Cube, Soul is aimed at urban hipsters. Thus, the official rollout to reporters in the rich and funky South Beach area of this city -- somewhere that in any other context could seem an odd match for Kia.

Funky urban stuff aside, Soul is a nifty car that will appeal on many levels to many people.

The boxy shape is appealingly honest. Rectangles are just what they appear to be -- roomy containers. And when designers start with a box, delightful things happen to passenger space and comfort.

For a little car -- same length as a Honda Fit -- Soul packages enough space to haul adults and their gear in comfort, though three-across in back is a skosh tight. But fore-aft room is generous. In fact, the back seat has nearly as much legroom as most cars' front seats -- meaning it has a lot more than most rear seats.

Lanky adults can sit back there without rubbing knees against the back of the front seat, even when it's back far enough for tall folks in front.

For another thing, a box swallows a lot more stuff than you'd get inside a car with the same footprint but a sloping roofline.

All models except the base version have a robust foam cargo tray under the rear floor, too. The tray will hold some types of baggage. Nice.

The backs of the rear seats fold forward with a single movement to form a flat-load floor.

Possibly useful: The glove box door, open, is a tray big enough to hold a laptop computer. There's not enough room to open the laptop's lid and use it, but stowing it on the open glove box door keeps it from sliding off the seat and crashing to the floor in fast stops. Of course, you could just put it on the floor to begin with, but somebody at Kia thought it useful to offer the glove-box tray, so there it is. If nothing else, it seems to impress people when you show it off.

Also showy, for extra dough: lighted door-panel audio speakers, with four modes, no less. Off, for no-nonsense folks. On, for those who like the constant glow: Pulsing (called "mood"), and pulsing to the beat of music (called "music"). Amusing, and that's a useful attribute these dark days of iffy jobs and a murky economic future.

And dashboard lights zigzag around some controls, innocuous by day, striking at night.

You get smooth, touchable surfaces everywhere, and controls that are well-located, easy and pleasant to use.

Driving the box mainly is satisfying, though there's a major minus -- the drivetrain. The 2-liter engine roars and thrashes, even when not asked for much response. The four-speed automatic jerks on many shifts. The manual box is a bit sloppy moving from gear to gear.

If you were hoping for a taut, rev-happy, go-get-me machine, sorry. Go buy that Mini Cooper.

But for those not married to the sporting life behind the wheel, Kia's go-goodies are good enough. The power's there, it just ain't happy.

Otherwise, the driving experience in the test cars generally was satisfying, because:

-Steering was good. Straight ahead without lots of fussy little jiggles. Firm enough to give suitable feedback in corners, light enough that parking's no hassle.

-Brakes came on right now. Touchy, some folks will say. But in this city, where no lanes seem to be strictly for going, and random stops in front of you happen without reason frequently, maybe touchy's just what you want.

Modern disc brakes are on each wheel; no resorting to drums in back to cut pennies. However, the rear suspension is a beam axle, not an independent setup, so it qualifies as crude nowadays. Still, no hopping and slewing over bumps, as you often get with a beam axle in back.

-Suspension was adequate. Comfortable ride and good control on fast freeway ramps and other moderate challenges. But wind gusts could be taxing, as were really tight, fast corners. It's a tall car, loosely based on the everyday Kia Rio sedan, so what'd you expect? Go-kart handling?

Soul's striking styling, its fun accessories and the car's remarkable room and comfort add up to powerful appeal. Now, if Kia'd just slap in a refined drivetrain the box would be tough to beat.

ABOUT THE KIA SOUL

What? The latest small, boxy car to hit the market. A subcompact, front-drive, four-door hatchback -- classed by the government as a small station wagon, and referred to within the industry's size nomenclature as a "C-segment" car. But forget that. It's just a rectangular way to present a small car. Available in four levels: Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul Sport.

When? On sale since Feb. 15.

Where: Made in South Korea.

Why? Boxy could be the new sleek, and nobody wants to miss the trend.

How? Heavily modify a Kia Rio car chassis and craft a boxy body pretty close to a concept car that made its debut at Detroit in 2006.

How much? The base model -- which Kia says only 5% of customers will buy -- starts at $13,995 including $695 shipping. Loaded models top out around $19,000. Test cars: a Soul+ with automatic transmission and several options ($17,890); a Sport with manual transmission and a $700 sunroof ($18,345).

How many? 40,000 this year, Kia forecasts.

How potent? Base model gets a 1.6-liter four-cylinder rated 122 horsepower at 6,300 rpm, 115 pounds-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm. Others: 2-liter four-cylinder rated 142 hp at 6,000 rpm, 137 lbs.-ft. at 4,600 rpm. Five-speed manual transmission standard; four-speed automatic optional on all but base.

•How big? In inches, 161.6 long, 70.3 wide, 63.4 tall, on 100.4 wheelbase. Passenger space is listed as 83 cubic feet. Cargo area is 19.3 cubic feet behind the back seat, 53.4 when back seat's folded. Base model weighs 2,560 lbs. Others: 2,800 lbs. with manual, 2,820 with automatic. Turning circle is a tight 34.4 feet.

How thirsty? Base model rated 26 miles per gallon in town, 31 on the highway, 28 combined. Others: 24/30/26. Test car with 2-liter and automatic got 21 mpg in lead-foot suburban use, equivalent to 4.76 gallons per 100 miles. Uses regular. Tank holds 12.7 gallons.

•Overall: A nice car needs a better drivetrain.

By James R. Healey, USA TODAY

Kia Soul becomes a hot seller

SEOUL -- Kia thinks it has found its soul.

The quirky, youth-oriented little car is being snapped up so fast in North America that execs at the Hyundai-owned brand here are trying to figure out how many more to make.

Kia thought it would sell 40,500 Souls in the U.S. and Canada in its first year on sale, which started about a month ago. Now, executives are studying whether they may need 10,000 or more additional cars, says Sung-Bok Lee, general manager of Kia's Americas team.

Soul could become the kind of high-impact hit that thus far has eluded Kia.

"It marks a new direction for the brand," says Jack Nerad, editorial director for Kelley Blue Book. "Kias have largely been bought strictly on their price/value position. Strong interest in the Soul, largely driven by styling, indicates they are turning the corner toward aspirational models that people will buy because of what they are, not their price."

Kia wants to shed its image as a maker of high-value, but mostly dull-looking vehicles. The goal is cutting-edge design to attract more upscale buyers.

With the Soul, "We target the younger generation," says Soon-Nam Lee, head of the overseas marketing group here at Kia headquarters. "The higher goal (is) to enhance the brand image."

The five-passenger Soul is stylish but still low priced. It starts at $13,995 including destination charges, and tops out at $18,595. Soul is rated at 31 miles a gallon on the highway with its base engine. The two Lees, who share a common South Korean name but aren't related, say the low price and upscale look will give Kia an edge in picking up market share during the recession.

Soul is being treated as a so-called halo car, an industry term for head-turning vehicles that bring customers into dealers' showrooms, even if they end up buying something else in the line.

Kia, Hyundai and Subaru were the only major automakers to eke out U.S sales gains in the first quarter vs. the same period last year. In Kia's case, it was 2.3%, better than Hyundai's 1.9%. The overall U.S. auto market was down 37.6%, Autodata says.

Some of Hyundai's success has come from its "Hyundai Assurance" program, which allows people who are laid off to return their cars without having their credit dinged. Ford and General Motors followed with similar programs. But not Kia. Soon-Nam Lee says Kia will find its own promotions but would not say what's in the works.

Kia is also picking up U.S. market share, which was 2.3% in the first quarter, Autodata figures show. He says the goal is to grow to 3.5% of the U.S. market for the year. "Even in a recession, we are investing in the marketing side."

By Chris Woodyard, USA TODAY

Local View: Sleeper alert -- Kia Sportage is really that good

What the heck is Kia doing, coming out with such a peppy, powerful mini-SUV with a manufacturer's suggested retail price that starts at just more than $20,000?

It's important to take all of the kudos any car receives with a large grain of salt, but it's clear why Consumer Digest named the 2009 Kia Sportage a "Best Buy" for the second year in a row. Although last year's model rightfully received praise, the 2009 version has an updated exterior that includes a reshaped grill plus new headlights and bumpers -- making it even sportier looking. The same high-gloss, premier exterior finish that won the 2008 Sportage praise shines on.

Climb behind the wheel and head out to pick up the kids without fear of "soccer mom" or "soccer dad" slander flying your way. This is no dreaded "minivan." The Sportage is sleek, with a deceptively shapely exterior that belies the roomy interior and a top-of-the-line finish. This beauty is more than skin deep.

Now before we go on, it's important to release your memories of the '90s-era Sportage. Sure, it was less than stellar then, and last decade's auto reviews underscored its faults. Well, this is a new century and along with it comes a new Sportage. This year's car shares the same name as the '90s version but not much else.

When you turn the key, the first thing you'll likely notice is that the Sportage drives more like a car than a big truck. No gingerly inching your way into a parking spot with this car. It swings into even relatively tight spots with ease. Plus the design makes vision clear in all directions.

The inside story is that the 2009 Sportage features a four-wheel-drive system that Kia says can transfer half the engine's power to the rear wheels when needed. During this test drive, those conditions weren't encountered. But the Kia handled well -- and proved steady -- on both dirt roads and highways. Its power was smooth and steady with none of the hesitation rampant in some of its competitors.

Now here's something adults and kids will all like: the comfort of the car. The interior is roomy (23.6 cubic feet with the back seat up, 66.6 cubic feet with it down, according to Kia), enough to give you plenty of leg and elbow room without such an expanse that you need an arm extension to reach the back seat. That's super important to most parents. Plus, the car is easy to enter, unlike some SUVs with steps so high they're almost impossible for youngsters to enter.

The rear seats split and fold into all kinds of configurations, perfect for hauling passengers and gear. As corny as it sounds, the cup holders are well-placed and have that extra touch, in the form of plastic stabilizers, that means so much when you are traveling with a high-stain-alert drink such as grape juice. Other extras that mean a lot: plenty of interior storage spots, large convenient dials that are easy to use even when wearing gloves, six standard airbags, traction control, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes are standard.

Now the downside: The Kia doesn't get great gas mileage. The 2008 ratings were 20 mpg city, 25 mpg highway (2WD) and 17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway (4WD), according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The numbers for the 2009 models aren't in yet, but Kia hasn't announced any major modifications that indicate they'll be much higher.

It's interesting to note that weeks after this test drive, those who'd seen the Kia were asking for more details about it. Yeah, it looks that good. As gas prices continue to dip, the smart money bets that the Kia Sportage's market share will continue to rise.

Nancy Dunham
Washingtone Examiner

Best Box: Kia wins the Soul of today's youth, experts disagree

In the beginning, there was the Scion xB. For the American design palette in 2004, this boxy "toaster" was an extreme and contrarian shape, but it unexpectedly became the darling of the West Coast youth market. The car has since won nationwide popularity and is now in its second generation.

Fast-forward several model years later; enter two more cube-shaped contenders, the 2009 Nissan Cube and the 2010 Kia Soul. Each model, squarely targeted at "Millenials," –- the more than 80 million consumers born sometime between 1980 and 1995 -- is priced between $14,000 and $20,000 (depending on options).

In a recently reported boxy car comparison test, Motor Trend magazine found three college students to square-off against their professional road test staff to evaluate the three cars and name their personal favorite.

Like all Motor Trend comparison tests, the article deserves a long, languishing read, but (spoiler alert) in the end, the young crew of college students was quite taken with the new...

Kia Soul, while the older, professionally experienced test editors chose the Scion xB as King of the Cubes.

What made the outcome of this small focus group so interesting is that we hear many automotive marketers who target young people say that most kids today don't really care what's under the hood as much as how good the radio sounds. The Motor Trend editors concur. "With the students, it came down to styling and the radio," said Edward Loh, Motor Trend's senior editor and author of the comparison article.

But what of the super-cute Nissan Cube? Well, let's just say it didn't click with the tech-savvy students. "It was unanimous that our student test drivers could not have been less interested in the Cube from the start," said Loh. "One student said, 'It's just too Japanese for me,'" Loh said.

When the MT experts get involved and test the three cars for objective things like performance, handling, ergonomics, value and interior refinement, the 2009 Scion xB wins first place. Their conclusions:

1ST PLACE: SCION XB
The benchmark maintains its position based on solid execution, performance and value. The formula needs fine-tuning, however, as competitors loom large in the mirror.

2ND PLACE: KIA SOUL SPORT
Solid A for effort. Stunning design makes it the unanimous undergraduate pick. More powertrain refinement and a couple of tweaks will easily put this at the head of the class.

3RD PLACE: NISSAN CUBE 1.8S
Awkward proportions and asymmetric styling prove big barriers that mask the Cube's many strengths-including a lively drive, impressive interior room and attractive details.

This experiment continues the age-old debate that what the targeted mass market wants isn't necessarily the product with the highest quality and refinement. Sometimes newer, cooler and hotter audio does the trick. Kudos to Kia for reaching out and touching a few young souls with the new Soul

Joni Gray
LATimes.com

All-New 2010 Kia Forte Koup Recognized as a 'Best in Show' for 2009 New York International Auto Show

New Two-Door Coupe Celebrated by MSN Autos for Style, Substance and Value

# Newest Kia vehicle honored by prestigious automotive Web site
# Kia's first two-door coupe noted for style and value

IRVINE, Calif., April 16, 2009 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Kia Forte Koup, unveiled just last week during the 2009 New York International Auto Show, has been chosen by the editors at MSN Autos as a "Best in Show" pick. Vehicles that made the list offered impressive style, value and overall potential to help move the automotive industry forward.

"As the New York Auto Show offers a number of concept and production introductions, we are pleased that MSN Autos recognized Forte Koup as a "Best in Show" for its bold styling and immense value," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "The all-new Forte Koup, combined with the recently launched Soul urban passenger vehicle and soon-to-be launched Forte sedan, really drives home our current strategy to create a full lineup of value-laden vehicles with a distinct and attractive Kia design."

MSN Autos, the largest global network of online automotive sites providing consumers with comprehensive research, buying and ownership services, recognized the Forte Koup for its sleek styling and extensive offerings for a good value. The all-new two-door also was noted for its competitive power and fuel efficiency.

Based on the design styling of the KOUP concept vehicle shown during last year's show, the all-new Forte Koup's fluid lines and balanced proportions closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile. Available in two trim levels (EX and SX), Forte Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design.

More powerful than the Honda Civic Coupe, Ford Focus Coupe or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe, Forte Koup EX is driven by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, while the SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine delivering 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, more than the Scion tC. Both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway), with estimated fuel economy of 25/34 (city/highway) for the 2.0-liter when mated with either the five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. The more powerful 2.4-liter offers an economical 22/32 mpg with the six-speed manual and 23/31 when paired with the five-speed automatic.

Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte and Forte Koup.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. 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."

2009 Kia Borrego fulfills SUV needs

"Pure" SUVs, you probably know, are something of a dying breed. Last summer's soaring gas prices and growing public disinterest have thinned the options for those who still want a genuine SUV.

So the 2009 Borrego comes to Kia showrooms as an interesting contradiction. It definitely has plenty of the old-school SUV attributes: It's a little large, a little thirsty and probably a little overbuilt for what anybody really will do with it. But the Borrego certainly is a modern interpretation of what has become a tired idea.

Take the optional, big-hearted 4.6-liter V-8 of our top-of-the-line Borrego EX. It's far from the slightly grouchy, truck-based engine that's common for SUVs. Instead, this thing has luxury-car genes, based on the award-winning V-8 that powers sister brand Hyundai's Genesis premium sedan.

And in conjunction with this engine's impeccable refinement is grit that would do a lumberjack proud. The 4.6-liter churns out 337 horsepower. The V-8 also enables a burly 7,500-pound towing capacity.

The Borrego's V-8 is joined with an enterprising six-speed automatic transmission (V-6 Borregos get five gears) that has enough power-transmitting bandwidth to enable a respectable 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway fuel-economy rating, though that's still not going to get you a lapel pin from Greenpeace. Our only complaint is the transmission is programmed to seek the highest possible gear - to optimize fuel economy.

The Borrego also squires you around on one of the more up-to-date suspensions you'll find on a true SUV. There is a double-wishbone layout upfront and an independent multilink design at the rear, meaning the beast sort of willingly goes in the direction you point it. Pity, then, that the springs and shocks are cooperative only on a part-time basis: The general ride is smooth and absorbent, but large bumps or chuckholes send shivers through the body and steering that sometimes threaten your course.

That's about the only thing that will jolt you in the Borrego's mostly upscale cabin. At the Borrego EX's very competitive base cost - but particularly when upgraded with the reasonably priced ($1,500) luxury and premium packages that bring power leather seats and a rich-sounding Infinity stereo - the Borrego interior makes a pretty fine account of itself.

The wide center console is particularly handsome, reminding of a similar, clean design in Volkswagen's Toureg, with a fine-looking and feeling shift lever and one of the best integrations of USB port and audio auxiliary jacks I've seen.

The overall interior ambience is upscale but not opulent. You can see some homage to the Borrego's reasonable price in the average leather quality and average thought behind accessing the standard third-row seat, which can accommodate two people, but is designed for entrance only from the passenger side of the vehicle, a slight annoyance.

There's no getting around it: The audience for big, blocky SUVs is drifting to more "sensible" alternatives, so Kia's new Borrego didn't hit showrooms with the most advisable market timing.

But for those who want a rugged and highly capable utility vehicle in the vein in which they originally were designed - to effortlessly haul people and things while providing a high degree of comfort - the Borrego is thoroughly contemporary and a high value.

By Bill Visnic MOTOR MATTERS | Friday, April 10, 2009

Kia starts to think inside the box

New Soul takes on the xB

South Korean automaker Kia is putting the "hip" in "hiproom" with the all-new Soul, a youth-oriented compact wagon.

Officially a 2010 model but already in showrooms, the Soul aims to attract young drivers with features that range from a trendy, boxy exterior to special "mood lighting" on the inside. The model also carries a low $13,300 base price - perfect for teen and 20-something car buyers.

Motor Mouth recently tested the $15,900 Soul Plus, the model's mid-level trim line.

On the outside, this car takes its cues from Toyota's popular Scion xB.

Looking like a minivan that you accidentally shrank in a clothes dryer, the Soul features a compact hood that sweeps back toward small five-spoke wheels.

However, the model also boasts cool hefty front doors and large folding side mirrors. Additionally, higher trim lines come standard with sharp-looking black-tinted rear windows.

All the way back, the Soul sports large tail lights and a deliberately boxy liftgate.

Inside, the model features a design that's somewhat spartan, but still nice looking.

Both the driver's and front passenger's seats offer good legroom, headroom and hiproom. My test model also came with a cloth finish that featured the word "Soul" weaved into the fabric over and over again.

In back, the Soul's 60/40 split fold-down rear seats offer good headroom, but only so-so legroom and hiproom. Although theoretically designed to accommodate three adults, this space is a bit tight for two grownups during all but short city trips.

All the way back, the Kia's 19.3-cubic-foot cargo area provides enough space for perhaps one large suitcase. There's also a private storage box built into the cabin floor.

If you need more cargo space, the Soul's rear seats fold down to create a generous 63.4 cubic feet of space. That's enough room for four or five large suitcases.

The Soul's dashboard features a compact but efficient layout: A big speedometer and large tachometer laid out side-by-side with smaller fuel and temperature gauges.

My test car's standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sirius stereo likewise offered a small digital display mixed with 13 well-marked buttons and knobs.

More importantly, this sound system features the Soul's snazziest feature: Nightclub-like mood lighting.

To give the car a unique vibe, Kia outfits doors on the Soul Plus and higher trim lines with lights that flash on and off in tempo with any music that you're listening to.

Kids will love using this feature while cruising around on hot summer nights with the windows down and the radio blaring. (Parents, neighbors and your local police department will be less thrilled.)

On the road, the Soul's carlike frame and independent front and rear suspensions team up to provide a fairly good ride.

Although the model lacks a large SUV's "high-up" road view, the Soul's big windows and small frame make backing up and parking a snap.

The model also brakes and corners well, while the Soul's 142-horsepower four-cylinder engine accelerates adequately, if a bit noisily. Motor Mouth's test car loudly revved up to 5,200 rpm just to go from 0 mph to 40 mph getting on the highway.

On the plus side, the EPA rates the Soul's fuel efficiency at a pretty good 24 mpg/city and 30 mpg/highway.

The model's $13,300 entry price also stacks up nicely against the Scion xB's $16,700 base sticker.

The bottom line: If you're old enough for a driver's license - but young enough to have a MySpace page - the 2009 Kia Soul is definitely worth checking out.

By Jerry Kronenberg / Motor Mouth

Boxy Kia's got Soul

Snap. Snap Those sounds are the pencils and slide rules the designers at Volvo are breaking in frustration as Kia introduces the latest new auto on the market that is bringing "boxy" back into vogue.

Yes, it's hip to be square, again, not long after the Swedish car-builder changed its design philosophy and introduced curves and swoops instead of its trademark right angles.

But don't think Kia's new model is a one-off in the automotive landscape. The Honda Element and Scion xb got things rolling a number of years ago with their "shoebox" profiles. And Nissan is going to be introducing its aptly named Cube this year.

So, why not get on the bandwagon and dish out another square offering?

But to be fair, the Soul is not all flat sides. It does have a prow. But the dramatically cut off rear puts the Soul in that "square" category.

And it's an extremely encouraging step forward for the South Korean manufacturer which shows it has the confidence to step well beyond offering safe and sober commuter cars. The Soul provides a funkiness Kia has never had before. And hopefully that means there are more design milestones on the way for Kia in the same way Chrysler became known as a design maverick.

But first, does the Soul have a heart to match its daring looks?

There's two choices of engine—a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder that produces 122 horses and a spunkier 2.0-litre called the 4u Burner that ups output to 142 horses and adds racy, 18-inch alloy wheels.

As you might imagine, fuel efficiency is pretty good with a small car. Kia rates consumption for the 1.6 litre engine at 7.7 litres in the city and 6.3 on the highway after travelling 100 km.

The 2.0 litre is slightly thirstier at 8.6 litres in the city and 6.6 on the highway.

Inside, the Soul has room for five passengers. Rear seats flat to provide 1,511 litres (53.4 cubic feet) of cargo space. If you need to carry a full passenger load, stowage room is reduced to a still useful 546 litres or around 19 cubic feet.

Another intriguing part of the Soul's interior is the contemporary look of the dashboard. And the centre stack that houses controls for the stereo and climate control is housed in an elongated oval that flows down from the top of the dash to the center section. Emphasising the unique design is the bold, two-tone coloured materials that match the body colour. Chrysler's PT Cruiser accomplished this well, and the Soul takes up the design scheme.

So, does all of this "now" style come at a fashion conscious price?

Remember, this is still Kia which built its market niche on inexpensive autos. That means the Soul is priced with thriftiness in mind—try a base of $15,495.

And that should get plenty of car buyers to think inside this particular box.

By Philip Raphael - Richmond Review
bclocalnews.com

Verdict: 2007 Kia Rondo EX

The Gift that Keeps on Giving

When Kia first handed us the keys to the Rondo back in October 2007, our biggest debate had been what to call this vehicle. It has three rows of seats, yet no AWD or 4WD (so it isn't a crossover or an SUV), no sliding side doors (calling it a minivan is out), and a cargo area (could that make this the only seven-passenger hatchback in the U.S.?). Perhaps it would be best to refer to it as a wagon. Whatever you call it, the Rondo has proven a reliable, capable, and frugal SUV alternative. For an as-tested price of $23,495, our EX came with the 182-horse, 2.7-liter V-6, optional third row, heated (front) leather seats, power sunroof, and an AM/FM/CD system. The small-size/big-cabin combo appealed to many staffers, who went to work putting miles on the hard-to-define vehicle.

The second question that popped up about the Rondo: How long do we get to keep it? What started out as a basic one-year long-term evaluation has continued for nearly two years, making the Rondo the elder statesman of the long-term fleet. It was here for the housing boom and the recession. It was in our fleet for two presidents. It was here during the Beijing Olympics and saw two Super Bowl and two World Series champs get crowned. It's been with us a long time. That's not to say it hasn't been fun. Within a week of getting our hands on the Rondo, senior editor Ron Kiino took advantage of the generous cargo area for a fishing trip to Mammoth Lakes. A buddy rode shotgun and the rest of the cabin was filled with gear-but the Rondo easily held it all. A month later, photographer Brian Vance used the Kia to scoot up to Reno, noting that his trip "was done in record time on Thanksgiving morning; the Rondo's bean shape and dark blue paint allowed me to skip past slower traffic and fly under the radar of the California Highway Patrol." Sometimes you can drive faster in an economy car than in a sports car.

Mark Williams used the Rondo to drive his daughter and her belongings home from college in San Francisco. Even with the seats folded flat and "every inch of the rear cargo area" used, "there was still plenty of good visibility out of all the windows." However, on a run to dinner, he filled the Rondo with people, noting "with seven aboard, the engine and suspension felt tapped out. It's not made for adult passengers all the time, but it still got us there and back safely."

Everyone who drove the Rondo for an extended amount of time was impressed with the vehicle's economy and surprising spaciousness, but many were not so thrilled with its plain-Jane cabin and strange yet dull styling. The interior was noted by more than one staffer as having an odd plasticky smell. Also, many were disappointed with the seats: You sit on them rather than being nestled in them. And it didn't have navigation, an iPod/aux jack, satellite radio, or tire-pressure monitoring system. We know these aren't things you can't live without, but for a 2007 model, these were options available in similarly priced vehicles. That, plus the somewhat outdated styling, and old-tech, small V-6 made the Rondo feel decidedly behind the times. As of the 2009 model year though, all the aforementioned interior features have been made standard (TPMS) or options.

Our Rondo has been to the dealer three times for scheduled maintenance, at 7500-mile increments. The first trip came about four months into our time with the Kia, at which point the dealership changed the oil and filter, rotated the tires, and checked the tire pressures ($95.13). The adjusting clip (lets you change the angle of the vent) had come off one of the vents on the center stack, so we had them take a look at that. The techs wedged the clip back in place-the logical thing to do-and sent us on our way. By the next visit, the clip had come off again, so while it was in for its next oil/filter change, inspection, tire rotation, and rear brake adjustment ($228.12), the service advisor ordered the replacement parts for the clip. When the Rondo was getting its 22,500-mile service, the parts were in and we discovered that the vent itself-not just the clip-would have to be replaced, which would require pulling the entire dash assembly and about five hours of time. Instead, we waited an hour for the oil change, inspection, and tire rotation ($97.17) and accepted that we would find other ways to redirect airflow. Adjusting clip aside, we had zero mechanical problems and no other issues needed to be resolved.

In terms of styling, interior amenities, and power, the Rondo has fallen behind the pack. However, during our year-plus, it more than made up for those shortcomings in interior volume, frugality, and value. While we still have it, we've learned that the Rondo will be going away soon, and when it does, we'll lose a long-termer with the seating capacity of a minivan or SUV with the size and fuel economy of a compact-not a bad combination.

From The Logbook

"The V-6 is small, but is a good match for a car of this size and weight."
- Brian Vance

"This Kia is practical, useful and, best of all, cheap."
- Ed Loh

"The Rondo is an interesting combination of ample power, mundane styling, questionable interior aesthetics, and excellent functionality."
- Kirill Ougarov

"I'd feel comfortable recommending this car to someone who's looking for a frugal, spacious, easy-to-drive car that focuses more on practicality than enjoyment."
- Rory Jurnecka

Our Car
Base price $20,795
Options Premium Package ($1200: power sunroof, Infinity AM/FM/CD stereo system); Leather Package ($1000: leather seat trim, heated front seats), third-row seat ($500)
MSRP, as tested $23,495
Total mileage 22,589
Avg fuel economy 19.6 mpg
Problem areas Broken vent clip
Maintenance cost $417.42
Normal-wear cost $29.98 Replacement of wiper blades
Three-year residual value* $8,928
Recalls None
* Automotive Lease Guide

2007 Kia Rondo EX
POWERTRAIN/CHASSIS
Drivetrain layout Front engine, FWD
Engine type 60 V-6, alum block/heads
Valvetrain DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
Displacement 162.1 cu in/2656 cc
Compression ratio 10.4:1
Power (SAE net) 182 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque (SAE net) 182 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Weight to power 20.4 lb/hp
Transmission 5-speed automatic
Axle/final-drive ratios 3.68:1/2.68:1
Suspension, front; rear Struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar; multilink, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Steering ratio 14.2:1 (est)
Turns lock-to-lock 2.8
Brakes, f;r 11.0-in vented disc; 10.8-in disc, ABS
Wheels 6.5 x 17 in, aluminum
Tires 225/50R17 93V M+S Michelin Energy MXV4 S8
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase 106.3 in
Track, f/r 62.0/61.8 in
Length x width x height 179.0 x 71.7 x 65.0 in
Turning circle 36.1 ft
Curb weight 3705 lb
Weight dist, f/r 59/41%
Seating capacity 7
Headroom, f/m/r 41.3/38.2/31.3 in
Legroom, f/m/r 40.9/39.8/32.4 in
Shoulder room, f/m/r 57.7/56.9/51.2 in
Cargo vol behind, f/m/r 74.4/32.8/6.6 cu ft
TEST DATA
Acceleration to mph
0-30 2.8 sec
0-40 4.6
0-50 6.6
0-60 8.9
0-70 12
0-80 15.6
0-90 19.2
Passing, 45-65 mph 4.8
Quarter mile 16.8 sec @ 83.3 mph
Braking, 60-0 mph 132 ft
Lateral acceleration 0.75 g (avg)
MT figure eight 29.5 sec @ 0.55 g (avg)
Top-gear revs @ 60 mph 2200 rpm
CONSUMER INFO
Stability/traction control Yes/yes
Airbags Dual front, front side, f/r curtain
Basic warranty 5 yrs/60,000 miles
Powertrain warranty 10 yrs/100,000 miles
Roadside assistance 5 yrs/60,000 miles
Fuel capacity 15.8 gal
EPA city/hwy econ 20/26 mpg*
CO2 emissions 0.86 lb/mile*
Recommended fuel Unleaded regular
*Based on 2008 rating

By Allyson Harwood
MotorTrend.com

For Kia, the Soul should have wide appeal

The Kia Soul is an economical, stylish, roomy subcompact that can be highly personalized. It's a formula that's been used to great advantage by Toyota with the Scion and BMW with the Mini Cooper.

All three models are marketed to the young generation, yet appeal to wide swaths of the buying public.

So what are the Soul's advantages?

First, it's roomy. I can easily see young families going for this one. Only the Scion xB has as much space. Secondly, the Soul has a much lower price tag, starting at around $13,300. Minis and Scions can get pricey when you add a few options.

The Soul, which is a front-wheel drive, four-door hatchback/wagon, comes with two engine options: a base 1.6-liter, 122-horsepower four cylinder or a 2.0-liter, 142-horsepower four. Fuel economy figures were unavailable.

The Soul comes in four models: Base, Sport and + and !. Yes, punctuation marks are being used to designate two models.

Standard equipment for the base model includes 15-inch steel wheels, rear drum brakes, air conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt steering column, a 60/40-split rear seat and a four-speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio and USB and auxiliary audio jacks. It also includes antilock brakes and stability control.

Options include Bluetooth, an upgraded stereo with tremendous quality sound, a sunroof and cool two-toned interiors done in good quality materials.

You can personalize the Soul with the purchase of several exterior customization options.

The Soul+ has the bigger engine, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, cruise control, keyless entry, tinted rear windows, glow-in-the-dark upholstery, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and additional speakers and Bluetooth as standard equipment, not an option.

The Soul! includes sunroof, foglights, an upgraded audio system, 18-inch wheels and two-tone upholstery. The Soul Sport includes niceties like a sport-tuned suspension and model-specific interior and exterior items.

This car, with its upright profile, eye-catching vertical taillights and unusual front end, draws attention. And it handles beautifully, and corners better than many subcompacts, such as the Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris.

On the downside, The Soul is noisy on the highway and it has been criticized for being sluggish -- although I did not think that was the case.

By Don Hammonds
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Kia Motors America Introduces Forte Koup at 2009 New York International Auto Show

Kia Adds Design-Focused Two-Door Coupe to Forte Lineup

# Newest vehicle offers distinctive Kia style, value and safety features
# Sporty features and capabilities make Kia's first-ever two-door a true driver's car

NEW YORK, 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 KMA 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 heel 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

Based on the design styling of the KOUP concept vehicle shown during last year's show, Forte Koup's fluid lines and balanced proportions, meant to evoke an emotional driving experience, closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile. Available in two trim levels (EX and SX), Forte Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design. Even from behind, Forte Koup exudes attitude with slim, wrapped tail lights, duel exhaust outlets and a rear diffuser.

Athleticism and convenience are standard for the Forte Koup EX with body-color bumpers, power heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and 16-inch alloy wheels outfitted with P205/55R16 tires. The SX trim offers an even sportier profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires.

Smooth and Sporty Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 176.4 inches, an overall width of 69.5 inches and overall height of 55.1 inches, Forte Koup is slightly shorter in length and height than the Forte sedan, but still boasts comfortable seating for up to five passengers. Koup's lowered stance provides better aerodynamics for those looking for a more exciting ride.

The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte Koup better handling, smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned suspension developed to optimize responsive handling on curvy roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, Forte Koup utilizes the same platform as the sedan, with an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling to help provide the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. The SX trim also comes with a sport-tuned suspension providing for a firmer ride with reduced body roll and improved handling.

Lively Performance

More powerful than the Honda Civic Coupe, Ford Focus Coupe or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe, Forte Koup EX is driven by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, more than the Scion tC. Expanding upon the dynamic look and feel, Forte Koup's engine hums powerfully courtesy of the dual exhaust outlets outfitted on both EX and SX trims.

Like the Forte sedan, two transmission options are available for both 2010 Forte Koup models: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

Forte Koup fuel economy is not sacrificed for sportiness, as both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway). The 2.0-liter engine offers 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated with either the five-speed manual transmission or the optional four-speed automatic. Those opting for the more powerful 2.4-liter engine also can expect an economical 22/32 mpg with the six-speed manual and 23/31 when paired with the five-speed automatic transmission.

Striking Interior

With a surprisingly spacious interior for a two-door coupe, Forte Koup provides a comfortable 90.7 cubic feet of interior volume, larger than the 2009 Honda Civic Coupe, Scion tC or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe. Driver and passengers have an impressive 38.7 inches of headroom and 43.6 inches of legroom in the front seats and 35.3 inches of headroom and 33.9 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Trips to the beach and weekend getaways will be a breeze with ample cargo space of 12.6 cubic feet, enough to accommodate luggage and belongings of all passengers.

Forte Koup continues the luxury treatment with a host of standard interior features, beginning with supportive, nicely appointed sport seats outfitted with more aggressive bolsters on the seat cushion and seat back for optimal comfort. Air conditioning, a driver's seat height adjuster, adjustable rear seat headrests, tilt steering column, rear defroster, center console with dual cup holders, map lamps and variable intermittent wipers are also just some of the myriad amenities standard on every vehicle. Also standard on all models are power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry and cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls for added convenience.

Progressing to the SX trim offers additional standard touches such as: unique sport cloth seats with vibrant red stitching, a tilt and telescoping steering column, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, metal pedals and metal finish trim and a Supervision™ gauge cluster with trip computer further enhancing its energetic personality. Both EX and SX trims also offer an optional power moonroof.

An optional Leather Package is available for both EX and SX trims. When combined with the EX trim the Leather Package adds leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and heated seats. When paired with the SX trim it includes leather and heated seats in addition to the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

Superior Sound

For inside entertainment while cruising down the road, Forte Koup comes with a standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service¹. For added listening convenience steering wheel-mounted audio controls also come standard on all models, as well as USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte Koup offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte Koup is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte and Forte Koup.

About Kia Motors America

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 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. 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."

2009 Kia Rio's inexpensive, but it certainly doesn't feel cheap

The 2009 Kia Rio test car, a small sedan, made a terrific first impression because of its eye-popping red paint. Pretty shallow, huh?

But in this case, the paint was symbolic. It had a rich, premium sheen, and that theme held up, more or less, throughout the car.

Rio, it can be reported with delight, is an example of how to make an inexpensive car that doesn't look or feel cheap. It was a pleasant surprise among rides that are right for the Great Recession, especially after a disappointing bare-bones version of Nissan Versa and the uninspiring Toyota Yaris five-door.

If the "cheap" thing doesn't bother you, then consider that the sub-$11,000 entry Versa is remarkably roomy for its overall size, and the Yaris is well-equipped and offers a generous array of useful options -- which quickly take it out of the low-price transportation category (defined here as a sub-$15,000 sticker price).

We're focusing on some low-price models from time to time to see which are worthy candidates for people battered into financial reasonableness (or desperation) by the economy -- at least those people who need cars and prefer the virginal persona and factory warranty of a new car to the value proposition but underlying mystery of a used car.

The current version of Rio was introduced as a 2006 model. The '09 tested is almost identical to the '08 model, except '09s get a new audio system that includes built-in satellite radio hardware, a different gauge design and different climate controls.

Rio is available as a four door sedan and a "five-door" (four-door hatchback), which is identical except for the body configuration.

The Rio sedan is worth a look because the bare-bones base model starts at an alluring $12,145 and comes with hard-to-ignore warranties: 10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain, five years/60,000 miles on most everything else, which matches most luxury cars. Three years/36,000 miles is typical for non-luxury brands. The Rio5 hatchback, not tested, has no bare-bones version.

The really, really, really red Rio sedan test car was an LX (starting at $13,875), one step up from the base. For the higher price, LX gives you air-conditioning, adjustable steering column, split-folding rear seat and input jacks for both an iPod-like device and a USB drive.

Kia says Rio's been its highest-quality model. It scored first among subcompacts in J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality Survey in 2006 and 2007, and second in 2008. The '09 ranking is not yet available.

The brand as a whole also has moved up in Power's '09 Vehicle Dependability Study, which measures problems in 3-year-old models. The '09 results, out Thursday, showed Kia 27th of 37 brands, up from 35th of 37 in '08.

The test car had an optional automatic transmission (not available on the base version) and floor mats ($95), bringing the sticker price to $14,820.

So, no longer dirt cheap, but still tempting. Here's how the test car escaped feeling "cheap."

- It had manual mirrors, like the low-end Versa did, but Rio's can be adjusted via stalks inside the passenger compartment. You don't have to lean out, tap the mirror glass, then sit back to see how close you came, as on the Versa.

- It had manual door locks, like the Versa, but provided a keyhole in both front doors, not just the driver's. Big difference in convenience.

Operating the rear door locks also was easier because of the wide reach-back gap between the front seat and door pillar. You could open the front door and stretch your arm back to the rear-door lock without much twisting or trouble.

- Manual windows benefited from cranks positioned just where your hand automatically reached. Each crank was angled up to catch your palm just right as you began the window-winding.

- A one-piece top on the instrument panel meant no creaks from plastic parts rubbing together, as when multiple pieces are involved.

On the other hand:

Its safety potential might not suit everyone. Rio got "poor" ratings in side- and rear-impact tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety: www.iihs.org, though it got an "acceptable" front-crash rating. But Kia points out it received good scores in the government's less-severe crash tests.

Anti-lock brakes are not offered on the base and are a $400 extra on the others. Stability control is not available, period.

The engine was adequate for merging, passing, hauling a load. It sounded coarse, until wide-open throttle application transformed it to husky and almost appealing. That encouraged hard-throttle driving, which hurt fuel economy.

By contrast, the engine in that Yaris tested recently didn't encourage spirited driving, and the Yaris returned remarkably good mileage.

The Rio's four-speed automatic downshifted abruptly, was jerky and without finesse. The back seat was tight for adults. If you need generous space back there, the Versa and the Yaris are better.

The chemistry between driver and car sometimes is weak despite powerful on-paper attributes and features of a vehicle. And sometimes it's delightfully strong even though the spec sheet suggests otherwise.

Despite explicably mediocre mileage in the low 20s (lowered by hard driving, lots of winter idling), Rio had good chemistry. It felt right for everyday use. It never made you shudder at the lack of power accessories, or prodded you into looking around for something else to drive that had more power under the hood or a fancier interior.

Maybe that orange-tinted red paint had a magic ingredient.

ABOUT THE KIA RIO

- What? Four-door, front-wheel-drive, low-price, small economy car, available as conventional four-door sedan (tested) and a hatchback.

- When? On sale now.

- Where? Made in South Korea.

- Why? Because tight economic times mean more interest in economy cars.

- How much? Base sedan starts at $12,145, including $650 shipping. LX is $13,875. SX is $14,675.

Test car -- LX with automatic, air conditioning, floor mats -- was $14,820.

- What's the drivetrain? 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine rated 110 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 107 pounds-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. Is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Four-speed automatic is optional on LX and SX, not available on base.

- How lavish? Not; that's the point. Fewer features equals lower price. Anti-lock brakes, standard on many cars, are a $400 option. Stability control's MIA.

- How big? Bigger than the Toyota Yaris hatchback (Test Drive, March 13), smaller than the Ford Focus (Test Drive, March 6). Rio sedan's 158.1 inches long, 66.7 in. wide, 57.9 in. tall on a 98.4-in. wheelbase. Weighs 2,365 lbs. (manual) or 2,403 lbs. (automatic).

Passenger space: 92.2 cubic feet. Trunk: 11.9 cu. ft.

Turning circle, 33.1 ft. (32.7 ft. base model).

- How thirsty? Manual's rated 27 miles per gallon in town, 33 on the highway, 30 combined. The automatic is 26/35/30.

Automatic test car, hurt by cold-weather keep-warm idling and hard-throttle fun, registered 21.5 mpg in suburban use.

Uses regular. Holds 11.9 gallons.

- Overall: Crash-test scores (www.iihs.org) give pause, but surprisingly classy and satisfying otherwise.

By James R. Healey
USA TODAY

2010 Kia Soul Named to the Ward's Autoworld 'Interior of the YEAR' List

All-New Urban Passenger Vehicle's Funky and Fun Interior Impresses Editors

# Newest addition to the Kia lineup earns "Grooviest Interior" recognition from prestigious automotive publication
# Vehicles evaluated based on design, quality, comfort and safety

IRVINE, Calif., April 7, 2009 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Kia Soul urban passenger vehicle has been named as the "Grooviest Interior" on the Ward's AutoWorld "Interior of the Year" list. Recently launched in Miami and on sale now in dealerships nationwide, Soul was one of only 11 vehicles honored for offering great looks and great value along with extensive safety features, comfort and convenience features.

"We are extremely pleased with Ward's recognition of the Soul as a youthful, aesthetically pleasing vehicle that offers consumers tremendous value," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of KMA. "As we continue to focus heavily on design, both with the Soul and our upcoming 2010 Kia Forte, we are confident that consumers will recognize our continued commitment to providing stylish vehicles with an emphasis on value, safety and quality."

Ward's AutoWorld editors evaluated a field of 35 vehicles that are either all-new or have significantly upgraded interiors for the 2009 or 2010 model years. The vehicles were divided into six car and truck segments based on price, with one winner being named for each of the six categories, plus special-achievement honorees are selected in five other areas. Having both types of awards allows vehicles to compete with others in their segment, as well as with the entire field, regardless of price, resulting in all 11 awards carrying equal weight. Vehicles were awarded points for design, material selection, fit-and-finish, ergonomics, driver information, safety, value and comfort.

Available in four trims (Soul, Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport) and with a base price of $13,300, Soul offers consumers a highly personalizable vehicle with an equally "groovy" yet user-friendly and practical interior space. With design elements influenced by the car's audio system, Soul offers an uncluttered dashboard with a three-dial instrument cluster, LCD illumination and floating center stack design that provides access to the AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service. Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks also are in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel controls achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable.

Passengers also will be treated to unique patterns and style regardless of trim. The Soul+ trim offers funky black cloth seats with "glowing" Soul logo inserts while the Soul! trim comes with a distinctive sand-black interior with houndstooth-patterned inserts. The Soul sport presents a bold red-black interior trim with red-trimmed cloth seats and metal-finish interior accents. Further enhancing the personal lounge feel, an Audio Upgrade Package (optional for Soul+, standard for Soul! and Soul sport) offers speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music or simply add mood lighting to the interior cabin.

Kia Motors Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte sedan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. 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."

2009 Kia Rio and Spectra on Forbes.com 'Most Fuel-Efficient Cars for the Buck' List

Kia Motors' Sub-Compact and Compact Offerings Noted for High Value and Low Fuel Cost

# Value-laden Kia sub-compact and compact recognized yet again
# Vehicles ranked by average cost of gas combined with starting price

IRVINE, Calif., April 3, 2009 -- Recently named as one of the "Greenest Vehicles of 2009" by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the 2009 Kia Rio sub-compact sedan has been recognized as the #2 pick for the "Most Fuel-Efficient Cars for the Buck" by Forbes.com. The 2009 Kia Spectra compact sedan was also recognized -- placing sixth on the Forbes.com list -- with both vehicles earning praise for their impressive fuel economies and low starting prices.

"Kia vehicles are continually praised for their value, fuel efficiency and long list of standard safety features, and we are pleased that Forbes.com has recognized Rio and Spectra for those qualities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of KMA. "Our global focus on design is starting to deliver stylish products such as the all-new Soul and Forte to our lineup, and we are excited to offer a new level of distinguishing design in addition to the high levels of value, quality and safety features for which Kia is known."

Using data from Vincentric, an automotive research company based in Michigan, Forbes.com considered only 2009 models and added the price of gas for each vehicle, assuming 15,000 miles per year over a five-year span, to manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) and took the 2009 models with the lowest sums. No hybrids made the list of most fuel-efficient cars for the buck.

In addition to the Forbes.com list, the Rio and Spectra have earned numerous value-oriented accolades, including Rio being named as a "Top 10 Most Fuel Efficient Car" and "Editors' Most Wanted -- Sedan/Wagon Under $15,000" by Edmunds.com. Spectra was designated a "Best Bet" by The Car Book 2009 and was named to the MSN Autos Editors' Pick List for "Top 10 Cars for Less Than $15,000." With starting prices of $11,495 and $12,895 respectively, and estimated fuel economy of at least 30 mpg (highway), Rio and Spectra offer consumers the full package of fuel efficiency, value and safety features.

Kia Motors Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte sedan.

About Kia Motors America

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 625 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. 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 Soul and Kia Borrego Named to the Weekly Kelley Blue Book 5 Great Deals List on KBB.com

Kia Vehicles Offer the Complete Package at an Exceptional Value

• Practicality and capabilities make Soul and Borrego even more appealing to buyers
• Vehicles with attractive packaging and overall value top list

IRVINE, Calif., March 19, 2009 -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Soul passenger vehicle and 2009 Borrego LX recently have been included in Kelley Blue Book's weekly "5 Great Deals" list on kbb.com. The two newest vehicles to join Kia Motors' ever-expanding lineup were lauded for offering attractive pricing on top of an impressive combination of capabilities and value.

"In economically challenging times such as these consumers are looking for vehicles that offer the total package," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "Our entire vehicle line offers desirable content and packaging with pricing and standard safety features that surprise and delight. We are pleased with how well the Soul and Borrego are being received by the public and the press and the recognition they are getting from a well-known consumer and industry resource like Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com." Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, a leading automotive information company, issues a new "5 Great Deals" list each week to make new car buyers aware of packages and offers that dealers in their area are offering. New cars with low financing, cash back and low-payment leases often make the list. Kbb.com featured the 2010 Kia Soul as one of its "5 Great Deals" for the week of March 9, and the 2009 Kia Borrego LX for the week of March 16. For more information about kbb.com's "5 Great Deals" visit www.kbb.com/5_great_car_deals.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the all-new versatile five door begins at $13,300 for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950 and tops out at $17,100 when all options are included. Moving up to the Soul!, pricing begins at $16,950 and peaks at $17,900 with all available options included; and the Soul sport, designed for those with active lifestyles, starts at $16,950 and tops out at $18,600 with all available options included.

With a starting price under $27,000, the 2009 Borrego, recently given a "Best Bet" distinction by The Car Book 2009, offers consumers a midsize SUV that combines practicality and luxury. With Borrego's impressive class-leading towing capacity of 7,500 pounds when paired with the V8 engine and best-in-class fuel economy of 15/22 city/highway when the V8 2WD engine is under the hood, the 2009 Borrego, also available with a V6 option, gives consumers a reliable SUV perfect for long weekends or camping trips while keeping passengers comfortable in a nicely appointed interior.

2009 Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives at dealerships nationwide.

About Kia Motors America

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 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. 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."

This 2010 Kia is good for the Soul

Walking through the Chicago Auto Show with a colleague earlier this year, I mentioned that I saw two new 2010 models I thought would be hits: The Nissan Cube, which I haven't driven, and the Kia Soul, which I have.

After a week with the Soul, I'm more convinced than before that it will be one of the handful of bright spots in this dark market.

The Soul -- and the Cube, for that matter -- is pretty much a box on wheels, similar to the Scion xB and Honda Element. The original xB had a certain funkiness that made it successful far beyond even Scion's expectations: The second-generation xB is larger, more powerful, more expensive and substantially less funky, alienating a portion of the original market. To those people: Check out the Soul.

After years of buying vehicles above their means, I'm thinking in this next year we'll see people spending below their means, which suggests the success stories will likely be appealing, unique vehicles that cost less than $20,000.

While the Soul's base price is less than $14,000, you can't get a lot for that, but the test model was loaded with features, and it listed for well under $19,000. Some of those features I like (a power sunroof, nice 18-inch alloy wheels, a good sound system with Sirius satellite radio), a few I could live without, such as red interior mood lights that can flash on and off with the beat of the music you're listening to.

Mechanically, the Soul is basic and straightforward: The standard engine is a 1.6-liter, 122-horsepower four-cylinder engine, but most models, including the one tested here, will have the 142-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder. That engine is a little coarse and loud, but mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, it gets the job done.

EPA-rated fuel mileage is a decent 24 mpg city driving, 30 mpg on the highway.

Kia gets a bit precious with the colors ("Molten," "Alien," "Java") and the model designations, which include the base model, the Sport, and the Soul+ and Soul!, which was the test vehicle, and written out on a specification sheet, is "Soul Exclamation Mark." The level of luxury varies as you climb the ladder, but underneath the skin, all Souls are pretty much the same, with the exception of the two engine options and the automatic and manual transmissions.

Inside, evidence of cost-cutting is scarce. Front bucket seats are comfortable, and the rear seat is pretty roomy for two, tolerable for three. The list of safety equipment is complete: Side and side-curtain air bags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, stability control and front active headrests. There are anchors and tethers in the rear for child seats.

None of this clever packaging would matter if the Soul doesn't deliver as solid transportation, and it does. Ride is compliant and handling is good, thanks in part to the plump P225/45R-18 radials. The Kia's suspension is uncomplicated, but it works.

Styling alone should be enough to get the Soul more than its share of attention, but it closes the deal by making a lot of sense as a practical people-mover.

Nicely done, Kia.

Steven Cole Smith
Orlando Sentinel
Enginehead.com

Kia Borrego serves heavy hauling needs with luxury

After all the uproar regarding gas prices last year, and General Motors Corp. pulling the plug on its Janesville-built large sport-utility trucks, it seems odd reviewing a large luxury SUV.

Kia has just entered the large SUV market with Borrego. I tested the EX 4X4 model in a cool copper color. It looks and feels like a luxury SUV with some chrome outer trim and a crisp execution of traditional sport-SUV styling.

The Borrego offers a third-row seat and can haul seven people. It starts at a modest $26,245 for the LX with 276-horse V-6 power. Add about $2,000 to that for four-wheel drive; to get a V-8 you'll need to move up to the EX, at $30,995 with two-wheel drive.

My EX added four-wheel drive and started at $32,995, still well below the Cadillac Escalade and Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon. This really comes closer to the Chevy Traverse or Ford Flex. Both of those are in that price range, but both offer just a V-6 for power, yet both are 12-13 inches longer and ride on 3- to 4-inch longer wheelbases.

This one loaded enough luxury items, such as leather-trimmed seats, a sunroof, stereo upgrade and navigation system, to hit $39,295. That's nearer the neighborhood of those larger luxury SUVs, and mighty close to the fully loaded Borrego Limited 4X4 that starts at $39,995. A buyer might do better just moving up to that model instead of loading the EX up this way.

With the V-8 power and 337 horses that'll tow 7,500 pounds, Borrego fills a niche. This is a strong SUV with plenty of muscle to pull a trailer or haul a load. There's a bit of kick to this V-8 as you accelerate onto a highway, but its power is delivered smoothly through a six-speed automatic. You also can select four-wheel drive if the roads are wet or snowy. There's a knob to turn and lock in four-wheel high, low, or standard two-wheel drive.

Borrego handles well. It turns into corners quickly and there's a firmer, sporty feel to the wheel, something you don't find too often in a larger SUV. A double-wishbone front suspension gives the nose a good feel for the road, too, but the multilink rear suspension, while fine in small stutter bumps, was bad over rolling, dip-filled pavement. There's too much rebound - while the initial shock of the dip isn't hard on occupants, you bounce too much thereafter.

Borrego is incredibly quiet inside, plus the test truck loaded in a lot of luxury with nearly $6,000 in options.

A $1,500 package included heated leather front seats in two-tone gray. The package also included a power tilt/telescope steering wheel and two-position memory system to set driver's seat, outside mirrors and the steering position automatically.

Borrego's interior is attractive enough, but not up to luxury standards. For instance, the dash has brushed metal-look trim on the doors and part of the dash, but not by the main center stack, so the overall look is not as finished and polished as you'd expect. It didn't look bad, but even while saving a little cash I'd like my interior to look completely finished.

The steering wheel hub has all the goodies like radio and cruise control buttons, and I liked all the large buttons to adjust the climate control system and radio. This one had an upgraded Infinity system that sounded great, part of a $1,800 package that also added a sunroof.

Gauges with white numbers are attractive and easy to read, plus the trip computer is a red digital readout, also simple to see. Buttons for the computer are behind the steering wheel, a little harder to get at than I'd like.

There's plenty of seating room in back, plus rear climate controls and roof-mounted air ducts. Folding down the third-row seats is easy enough, but raising them again is a bit clunky. You have to crawl into the SUV and release the seat with one hand while folding the seat back up with the other. I'm also not a fan of the third-row seats having plastic backs. It's easy to clean but allows your luggage to slide all over the cargo area.

Overhead, the sunroof is easy to use and the Kia has good solid visors, too. They include lighted mirrors and extenders to help block side sun.

Like so many larger SUVs and crossovers, gas mileage is poor. I got 14.4 mpg in one drive that was about half highway miles and 15.7 in another drive that was heavier on highway driving, about 65%. The EPA says to expect 15 mpg city and 20 highway. For the record, the V-6 powered Borrego gets 16 mpg city and 21 highway.

If you need the V-8 power to pull or haul, the Borrego is a good option and certainly starts at an attractive price point.

Savage on Wheels | Mark Savage

Kia Models Recognized in Editors' Pick Lists

Three Kia Vehicles Commended by MSN Autos for Quality, Space and Comfort

# Spectra and Rio5 named to Top 10 Cars for Less Than $15,000 List
# Rondo a top pick for Best Family Cars for Downsizing

IRVINE, Calif., March 26, 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. 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 M/T and 24/32 A/T (city/highway), while Rio5 offers a frugal fuel economy of 27/32 M/T and 25/35 A/T.

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 A/T (city/highway), while the 2.7-liter V6 is 18/26 A/T.

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.

2009 Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives at dealerships nationwide.

About Kia Motors America

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 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share. 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."