Showing posts with label KIA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label KIA. Show all posts

Kia 'Domino' and 'Echo' Black and White Special Editions (UK)


Kia has introduced new special editions of the Picanto city-car, Rio supermini and Soul crossover.

The Domino models offer extra equipment for less money, including fog lamps, air-conditioning and electronic stability control. The Picanto Domino is priced from $12,100, while the Rio Domino starts at $14,100.

The Picanto Domino is available with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, with either a manual or automatic transmission, while the Rio Domino is available with a 1.4-litre petrol or 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine. Both Domino models are available in white or optional black metallic.

The Picanto Domino is priced from £7,995 and Rio Domino is priced from £9,295. Kia says these prices represent savings of £400 and £350 respectively over the ‘2’ versions upon which they are based.


Black and white changes to the Kia line-up Black and white changes to the Kia line-up Black and white changes to the Kia line-up Black and white changes to the Kia line-up Black and white changes to the Kia line-up


Press Release

  • Two new black and white themed special editions
  • Domino: new to Picanto and Rio – extra equipment with savings of up to £400
  • Echo: new luxurious addition to the Soul 'Originals' line-up
  • On sale now
Kia has introduced two new special editions – 'Domino' and 'Echo' – that both play on classic black and white colour schemes and are now on sale across the UK Kia dealer network. Domino, available on the Picanto and Rio superminis, offers additional equipment for less whilst the Echo, available on the Soul urban crossover, comes with an array of luxury features more usually associated with larger vehicles.

Picanto Domino & Rio Domino
The Domino special edition is available on Kia's two practical and stylish five-door superminis –Picanto and Rio. Picanto Domino is available with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, with either a manual or automatic transmission; Rio Domino is available with a 1.4-litre petrol or 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine.

Both Domino models are available in white or optional black metallic. Their body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and door handles can be offset with an optional contrasting black or white 'domino effect' stripe. Front fog lights complement the stylish 14-inch alloy wheels (Rio) and 14-inch wheel trims (Picanto) whilst additional reassurance is provided from Electronic Stability Control, which is now fitted as standard across all Picanto and Rio versions.

Inside, both models benefit from air-conditioning, iPod connectivity, remote central locking and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear-knob. Rio Domino adds rear electric windows to the list of standard equipment.

As with every new Kia a seven year warranty comes as standard – Picanto Domino is priced from £7,995 OTR and Rio Domino is priced from £9,295 OTR. These prices represent savings of £400 and £350 respectively over the '2' versions upon which they are based.

Soul Echo
Kia's stylish urban crossover, Soul, has had a dose of luxury added with the arrival of the new Soul Echo. Echo is the latest bold addition to the Soul 'Originals' line-up – a collection of distinctive versions each with their own distinct personality – following on from other 'Originals' such as the Burner, Shaker and Samba.

Echo is available in a choice of two striking colours – Clear White or Quartz Black metallic – and both come with contrasting features that make them the mirror image of each other. The white Echo features stylish black 18-inch alloy wheels, black high-gloss door mirrors and a corresponding black sports stripe. The black Echo features white 18" alloy wheels, white high-gloss door mirrors and a sports stripe in white.

Soul Echo is laden with luxurious features usually associated with more expensive machinery. Inside, a full black leather interior and high-gloss black dashboard fascia continue the external monochrome look whilst an uprated sound system (with subwoofer), Bluetooth and iPod connectivity and reversing sensors ensure the Echo has plenty to keep everyone on board satisfied at all times. Air conditioning and privacy glass keep passengers and their belongings cool and shielded from prying eyes.

On the move, Soul Echo is powered by a choice of 1.6-litre petrol or 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engines and its occupants are protected by a host of safety features including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TC) and a five-star Euro NCAP rating. The Soul Echo is available from just £13,995 OTR.

Soul Echo also benefits from some minor revisions being made to the entire Soul line-up: A trip computer, Emergency Stop Signal (which flashes the hazard warning lights under heavy braking), 'pull' style exterior door handles and illuminated electric window buttons are now standard on all Soul versions. Bluetooth connectivity is standard from the '2' version and above. Finally, Soul Shaker, previously only available in Vanilla, is now available in Chocolate Brown metallic and comes with fully colour-coded bumpers.

KIA Spectra

KIA Spectra Car
Kia Spectra hatchback car has a four-wheel independent suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, MacPherson type front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. Kia Spectra hatchback features include external 16 x 6.0 inch alloy wheels, all season
tires, a temporary spare tire, steel spare wheel, and mounted inside the spare tire. This car has variable intermittent wipers, an army behind, a rear spoiler and rear intermittent wipers. Instrumentation features are a tacòmetre, clock and low fuel warning.

KIA Spectra Car

KIA Spectra Car

KIA Spectra CarSeats and interior features include a total capacity of seats for five people, front seats cube, upholstery fabric, and a height adjustable driver seat. To the rear, the Spectra 5 has a bench type seat and 40-60 split folding rear and a rear-seat divisible. Power Functions 2008 Kia Spectra 5 hatchback are remote power door locks, power windows, a window one-touch power, heated mirrors and electric mirrors.

Convenience features of this model include cruise control, steering hydraulic proportional to speed, tilt adjustable steering wheel, front and back and Hitch. The Kia Spectra 5 hatchback sports front and rear door pockets, front and rear outputs of 12V and 12V power. It also has a front storage console and a console with storage. Comfort features five spectra hatchback are air conditioning, front reading lamps, two mirrors and a leather covered steering wheel. Additional features include leather upholstery on the gear lever, front and rear floor mats, and light cargo area. Entertainment mind for this car includes an AM / FM radio stereo player and one CD player, six speakers total, a stick antenna, an auxiliary input and MP3 audio.

KIA Spectra Car

2009 KIA Sportage

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 1

The Kia Sportage 2009 will be receiving a minor facelift. This is due to be launched soon, unless already in the local showroom and we are not informed about it. Incidentally, this new version has been sold in China for a while now.

Most significantly, if at all, is a new front end. Machinery and options that are expected to remain the same with the Sportage today.

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 2

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 3

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 4

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 5

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 6

2009 KIA SportageKIA Sportage Outlander SUV 7

New York Auto Show: 2011 Kia Optima [Video]


The new 2011 Kia Optima / Magentis was unveiled at the New York Auto Show.

The 2011 Kia Optima will offer customers a choice of three powertrains: a 200-horsepower 2.4-liter gasoline direct-injection four-cylinder engine, a 274-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter GDI four-cylinder and, in calendar-year 2011, a 2.4-liter gasoline-electric hybrid system. The base LX model features a six-speed manual gearbox, while a six-speed Sportmatic automatic with paddle shifters is available on all models.

The Optima comes in three trims, LX, EX and SX. The LX starts with chrome-tipped exhaust, solar glass and 16-inch wheels. The EX adds fog lamps, heated mirrors, chrome or body-colored door handles and 17-inch wheels. The SX further loads on upgraded lights with HID technology front and LED rear, unique front grille design, rear lip spoiler, red brake calipers and 18-inch wheels.

Kia offers upgrades for the EX and SX trims such as power panoramic sunroof, leather seat trim, memory driver’s seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel for additional interior refinement.


2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima 2011 Kia Optima



Press Release
  • Midsize Sedan Offers a New Level of Style and Performance Features from
    Kia
  • Three all-new powertrains, including turbo and Kia's first-ever hybrid
    offer class- leading power and fuel economy
  • Segment-leading premium amenities and technology features
NEW YORK, April 1, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today globally unveiled
the all-new 2011 Optima midsize sedan at the New York International Auto
Show. Arriving in showrooms in early fall, the next generation Optima
continues Kia's design-led transformation while revealing a completely new
and stunning design language for Kia, highlighted by a dynamic and
streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every
angle. Optima's groundbreaking spirit continues under the hood and inside
the cabin with the introduction of three new powertrains – including the
brand's first-ever hybrid in the U.S. (available in 2011) – which deliver
class-leading power1 and fuel economy while the latest technology features
and luxury amenities are available at the touch of a button or a simple
voice command.

Designed at Kia's studios in Frankfurt and Irvine, Calif., the all-new
Optima is longer, wider and lower than the vehicle it replaces and is based
on an all-new midsize platform that allowed for distinctive dimensions and
proportions in the segment1 while also providing a unique canvas for Kia's
global design team to pen a vehicle that stands apart from everything else
in the segment.

"The all-new Optima is a new strand in Kia's growing design DNA with a blend
of simple and fluid lines and elegant but uncomplicated shapes that draw the
attention of the eye in much the same fashion as a perfectly-tailored fine
Italian suit," said Peter Schreyer, chief design officer, Kia Motors
Corporation. "From the distinctive sweeping chrome accent that stretches
through the C pillars to the sleek greenhouse and flared wheel arches, every
inch of the Optima projects a distinguished and refined style and extreme
attention to detail."

The all-new Optima also employs engine management systems like direct
injection and turbocharging to help bring performance to the brand without
sacrificing fuel efficiency. Its smooth-flowing lines speak of grace and
style and offer a strong hint of European luxury.

Sleek and Streamlined Exterior

The 2011 Optima projects a high-performance yet elegant image with its
unique silhouette and sleek stance that builds upon Kia Motors' philosophy
of creating high quality and dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The
striking face of Optima features Kia's signature bold tabbed grille that is
surrounded by projector headlamps. Longer, wider and lower than before,
Optima's coupe-like profile is enhanced by a sweeping chrome arc that flows
from the A through C pillars, a distinctive design motif that visually
lowers the car further and enhances its proportions. Optima's roofline
connects with its high and pronounced shoulder line that leads to its
sculpted flanks and extended wheelbase. Boldly flared wheel arches and a
raked cabin create a sedan with a graceful muscular stance.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, the 2011 Optima offers numerous
standard features. The LX includes dual exhaust with chrome tips, solar
glass, outside mirror turn signal indicators and 16-inch steel wheels fitted
with 205/65R16 tires. Upgrading to the EX offers standard fog lights, heated
outside mirrors, exterior chrome/body-color door handles along with 17-inch
alloy wheels with P215/55/R17 tires. Moving up to the athletic SX adds HID
headlights with auto leveling, LED rear combination lights, unique front
grille design, rear lip spoiler, sculpted side sills, aero wiper blades, red
brake calipers and 18-inch black machined finish alloy wheels furnished with
P225/45R18 tires, achieving a true performance look.


Luxuriously Equipped Interior


From the moment the door opens, Optima presents an immediate sense of a
driver's car. The instrument panel is contoured toward the driver to suggest
a cockpit feel with precise gauges and controls for an overall sport
performance experience without sacrificing comfort or roominess. Paddle
shifters behind the steering wheel convey that Optima is built for people
who are passionate about cars. A high console with a short shifter adds to
the cockpit perception while an available panoramic sunroof provides an
open-air feeling. Offering occupants both space and comfort with a number of
standard convenience features, the sedan's chic cabin unifies with the
exterior design by welcoming its passengers with lean and ergonomic seat
design and effective storage throughout. Modern standard features such as
six-way adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, illuminated
vanity mirrors and a trip computer further expand the cabin's luxurious
qualities.

In addition to offering a comfortable cabin, impressive technology features
also come standard throughout, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system
with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary
service. Also standard on all trims are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks
for connecting with MP3 players and Bluetooth® wireless technology
connectivity with steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to enable
hands-free operation for compatible mobile phones.

Additional standard interior features include a tilt/telescopic steering
column, power door locks, power windows, sun visor extension and an
air-conditioned glove box. Stylishly appointed cloth seats provide
comfortable seating while a 60/40 split-folding rear seat offers multiple
seating and cargo arrangements depending on driver and passenger needs.
Optima LX with automatic transmission features cruise control and an active
EcoMinder® indicator for optimal fuel efficient driving.

Optima EX comes well-equipped and offers premium standard features,
including the UVO powered by Microsoft® infotainment system with rear-view
camera, push button-start ignition with smart key, dual-zone automatic air
conditioning with rear vents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift
knob, auto-dimming rear view mirror with Homelink® and compass, auto light
control, driver and front passenger automatic window up/down and eight-way
power driver's seat, lighted glovebox, rear reading lamps, floor mats and
chrome door handles.

For consumers looking for even more sporty appeal, the Optima SX adds unique
black leather woven seat trim, black interior trim with carbon insert film
and metal accent, Supervision™ meter cluster with LCD display, center fascia
and meter housing, soft trim with French seams, steering wheel paddle
shifters, metal pedals and lighted metal door scuff plates.

Available upgrades for the Optima EX and SX trims include a power panoramic
sunroof, leather seat trim, memory driver's seat, heated and cooled front
seats, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel for additional interior
refinement. Luxuriously appointed features, including an Infinity® 5.1
surround sound audio system with HD Radio®, and eight speakers delivering in
excess of 500-watts of system power and voice-activated navigation system
with a seven-inch screen enhance the cabin for audiophiles or those who seek
the latest superior quality technology for a modern driving experience.

All-New Advanced Platform


The 2011 Optima is distinctive, right down to its all-new platform. Optima's
low, lean and powerful stance is assisted through its overall length of
190.7 inches, an increase of 1.7 inches over the previous model. Optima is
built on a platform with an overall width of 72 inches and wheelbase of 110
inches, an increase of 2.9 inches, and has a low ground clearance of 5.3
inches for enhanced aerodynamics. Optima's lightweight design uses
high-tensile-strength steel to enhance structural strength while also
achieving high torsional stiffness, benefiting handling, ride quality and
refinement. Additional measures to help ensure good noise vibration and
harshness (NVH) reduction qualities are fitted throughout the Optima.

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 both joined with coil springs
and front anti-roll bars to engage drivers with responsive handling and
provide the utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.

Class-Leading Efficient and Powerful Engines

The 2011 Optima is available in three all-new and fuel-efficient Theta II
powerplants, a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter GDI turbo engine or
a 2.4-liter hybrid. The 2.4-liter GDI engine produces 200 horsepower and
upgrading to the available 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine (SX model) delivers
V6-type power with a four-cylinder engine that produces 274 horsepower1,
while mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This represents Kia's
first application of GDI technology, while a 2.4-liter hybrid Optima will be
introduced in 2011. All automatics feature Sportmatic™ clutchless shifting.
A single six-speed manual transmission is available only with the LX
four-cylinder model.

Safety-Minded

The 2011 Optima is equipped with a high level of standard safety features,
as is the rest of the Kia line-up. 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). Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS),
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake
Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.

Competitive Warranty


The 2011 Optima is covered by Kia's 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 vehicle coverage.

Kia Motors America in 2010

Kia Motors is in the midst of a dramatic, design-led transformation, which
has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important
segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued
gains in U.S. market share. With three new vehicle introductions and several
other key initiatives planned for 2010, Kia is poised to continue its
momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation,
quality, value, safety features and with new technology such as the UVO
powered by Microsoft® advanced hands-free in-car communication and
entertainment system (to be available in select Kia models in the U.S.
beginning in summer 2010). The launch of the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the
official vehicle of the NBA and the first vehicle to be assembled at Kia's
first U.S.-based manufacturing facilities in West Point, Georgia, further
enhances the lineup, and is now in dealerships.

2011 Kia Optima Specifications


Exterior Dimensions

Overall Length: 190.7 inches

Width: 72.0 inches

Height: 57.3 inches

Wheel base: 110.0 inches

Interior Dimensions

Front Headroom: 40.0 inches

Rear Headroom: 37.6 inches

Front Legroom: 45.5 inches

Rear Legroom: 34.6 inches

Powertrain

2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder: 200 hp

2.0-liter GDI turbo four-cylinder (SX): 274 hp1

2.4-liter hybrid (early 2011 availability)

Transmission

6-speed Manual

6-speed Automatic w/ Sportmatic® shifting

Wheels & Tires

Wheels: 16-inch (LX), 17-inch (EX), 18-inch (Optional on EX, standard on SX)

Tires: 205/65R16, P215/55R17, 225/45R18

2010 New York Auto Show: New Kia Optima


The next stage of Kia's transformation from design also-ran to serious contender will kick off at the New York Auto Show in few weeks. After launching the Forte sedan and Koup, the new Sorento and, most recently, the Sportage, Kia's new design language is being applied to the Optima. The all-new 2011 Kia Optima is longer, wider and lower than the car it replaces although we don't know by how much. While it's not as aggressive as the sketches released a few weeks ago, this Optima is certainly a huge step forward.


  • Kia will formally unveil its new 2011 Optima at the 2010 New York Auto Show.
  • Only two photos of the future Optima have been released.
  • Pricing has not yet been announced, but is likely to be similar to the outgoing Optima.

The base 2010 Kia Optima LX starts at $18,690, including a $695 destination charge.
via:autoblog


Press Release

Next generation Kia Optima to showcase confident new design direction
World premiere to be held at 2010 New York Motor Show


(SEOUL) March 14, 2010 – The next generation Kia Optima (currently, also known as 'Magentis' in some markets) is set to make its world premiere next month at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.

"The next generation Optima possesses the power to surprise," says Peter Schreyer, Kia's Chief Design Officer. "It's a car that people will simply not expect from Kia – and that's exactly what we set out to achieve."

The Optima exudes an athletic confidence from every angle and shutline – its raked roofline, the high and pronounced shoulder line of its sculpted flanks and its extended wheelbase are complemented by boldly flared wheelarches and a shallow glasshouse that create a saloon with a muscular and self-assured stance.

The striking visage of the Optima features a new interpretation of Kia's bold 'tiger' family face that's edged by piercing projector headlamps.

Longer, wider and lower than before, the Kia's coupe-like profile is enhanced by the sweeping chrome arc that flows from A to C pillar, a distinctive design motif that visually lowers the car further still and enhances its cab-backwards proportions.

Spacious, and with class-leading levels of safety and luxury equipment, the Optima's intelligently configured and driver-oriented cabin underlines this newfound poise and presence.

"The Optima embodies Kia's confident new design direction," says Schreyer. "It's a global car with individual appeal."

The Kia Motors press conference for the New York International Auto Show will take place on April 1, 2010 from 10:10-10:35 a.m. at the Kia Stand on Level 1 of the 'Jacob Javits Center' located between 34-39 Streets on 11th Avenue in New York City.

WORLD DEBUT FOR NEXT KIA MAGENTIS AT NEW YORK


The next generation Kia Magentis will make its public world premiere at the New York International Auto Show on Friday 2 April 2010.

A fresh design from the ground up, Kia's all-new version of its popular mid-size saloon is completely transformed and embodies a bold, athletic and sporty visual energy.

Longer, lower and wider than the previous model, the new Magentis features a significantly longer wheelbase and will offer considerably more space for both people and luggage.


The new Magentis will go on sale in the USA and in non-European markets – where it is known as Optima - from autumn 2010, while sales in Europe are expected to begin in the Spring of 2011. No on-sale date for the UK has yet been announced – keep an eye on www.kia.co.uk for details in due course.


The world premiere of the next generation Magentis will take place at the Kia Stand on Level 1 of the 'Jacob Javits Center' located between 34-39 Streets on 11th Avenue in New York City.
More Photos

Geneva Preview:2011 Kia Sportage


We're still short on details about the engine range, but chances are that the 2011 Sportage will be offered with the same 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter four cylinder engines coupled to six-speed transmissions as the Tuscon in North America, while in Europe, it will most likely get the same 1.7-liter and 2.0 liter diesels, and 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline units as the iX35.

[2011-Kia-Sportage.jpg]

Penned under the guidance of former Audi designer Peter Schreyer, the new Sportage carries the new Kia family look as seen on the Soul, Cadenza sedan and Sorento SUV, but it appears to have a more European flavor to it, with extra attention given to details.

[2011-Kia-Sportage.jpg]

The five-door crossover shares its platform with the also new Hyundai Tucson, known as the ix35 in Europe. It is longer and wider than the outgoing Sportage, something that should translate to improved cabin space.

[2011-Kia-Sportage.jpg]

This handsome-looking compact crossover is the next generation 2011 Kia Sportage that will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the upcoming 2010 Geneva Motor Show in the beginning of March.
Source:carscoop

2010 Chicago Auto Show: Kia Ray Concept Headed


Kia just released this teaser shot of its Ray concept car that will debut at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. It was drawn up in Kia's American design studio and is intended to give some direction to the company's idea for a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Doesn't look half bad. We'll see the rest in a few weeks when the 2010 Chicago Auto Show opens for the press on Feb. 10th.
Via: Insideline

Spy Photos: European Registry pulls wraps off 2011 Kia Sportage?


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


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


More Photos

Detroit Auto Show: 2010 Kia Shadow Dragon Soul Special Editions


ALL-NEW SPECIAL EDITION 2010 KIA SHADOW DRAGON SOUL ARRIVES IN SHOWROOMS
  • Shadow Dragon Soul brings a new color scheme and adds leather-trimmed seating to the Soul lineup
  • Shadow Dragon Soul is the third special edition Soul to arrive in less than 12 months

IRVINE, Calif., January 12, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the arrival of the special edition Shadow Dragon Soul, the third of four planned special edition Soul models. Proudly showing design themes similar in nature to the Soul "Burner" concept that debuted in 2008 at the Geneva International Motor Show resulting in a slew of positive feedback from Soul forums and Internet chats, Shadow Dragon Soul wears black dragon graphics over its sinister black-on-black color scheme. Shadow Dragon Soul is the latest example the urban passenger vehicle's unique ability to morph and transform, and joins all other Soul models as a 2010 "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

"Soul is a unique vehicle in that it lends itself perfectly to personalization based on consumer needs and desires," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "With its one-of-a-kind paint and graphic treatments, the Shadow Dragon Soul could be the most distinctive special-edition Soul we've released so far, but still maintains the same value, convenience and safety features that consumers have come to know and expect from all Soul trim levels."

From afar, Shadow Dragon Soul's deep shadow black exterior color and matte black dragon graphics on the hood and tailgate give off a dark and menacing persona. Looking closer, the black-on-black theme continues with black 18-inch wheels and machined accents, a body-color wing-type spoiler and high-gloss black accents found on the front and rear bumper inserts. Inside, Shadow Dragon Soul features black leather-trimmed seats – the first leather seating available on any Soul model – and seat warmers for additional luxury and comfort. Like both previous special-edition Souls, Shadow Dragon Soul is based on the Soul+ model and is fully loaded with the Audio Upgrade Package (center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music), an iPod® connection cable for full functionality via the radio head unit and steering wheel controls, carpeted floor mats, moonroof, fog lights and fender vents with side marker repeaters. Shadow Dragon Soul starts at $18,195 with a five-speed manual transmission.

Building from the Soul+ model, Shadow Dragon Soul adds standard keyless remote entry, privacy glass on the rear and rear side windows, body-color door handles and dual body-color power side mirrors. Additional standard features such as cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth®² wireless technology with hands-free connectivity, dual 12-volt power outlets and tweeter speakers enhance creature comforts on the road, as do the covered upper storage bin, dual visor vanity mirrors with covers and dual map lights.


About the Kia Soul

The Soul has won numerous accolades since arriving in dealerships, including two "Top Safety Pick" awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a "2010 Automotive Excellence Award" from Popular Mechanics, a "Super Value Award" by The Active Network, Inc., being named to Ward's Autoworld's "Interior of the Year" list for "Grooviest Interior, named to 2009 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 list by Kelley Blue Book's Kbb.com," among several others.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,300¹ for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950¹. Enhancing to the Soul! or Soul sport offers a price beginning at $16,950¹. For additional value Soul also offers impressive fuel economy, with the 1.6-liter manual coming in at 26/31 mpg (city/highway) while the 2.0-liter offers a thrifty, fuel-sipping 24/30 mpg for both the automatic and manual transmissions³, better than the Scion xB.


Standard Kia Safety Features

Soul continues to offer the same high level of standard safety equipment as all new Kia vehicles, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags. An Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) also are standard. Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard on all Soul models, making for a wide-ranging list of standard safety features.


Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all new Kia models, Soul is covered by a 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 antiperforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive coverage program.


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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

1 MSRPs exclude $695 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
2 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Kia is under license.
3 2010 EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
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