Hyundai Says No, But Kia Could Say Yes to Trucks

Hmmmm..... interesting....
Don't expect Hyundai to step into the pickup truck segment anytime soon, as company President and CEO John Krafcik is not interested in repeating the same mistakes other automotive manufactuers have made.

"Our brand resonates best with families, but that's where we have the lowest market penetration. There's tremendous upside for us in crossovers. ... More seven-passenger crossover capacity is No. 1 on our priority list for the U.S," he said.

Phelan suggests this will likely mean Hyundai won't jump into the van (minivan or other) or pickup truck segment, and that makes sense. Hyundai has done a pretty good job lately of creating some buzz for its mainstream Genesis, Elantra, Sonata and eye-catching Veloster.

"When we looked at other companies in their growth phase, this (over-expansion) was where the train came off the track," and pressure to boost production led to quality snafus, Krafcik said. Our guess he's talking specfically about Toyota's multibillion-dollar endeavor in San Antonio.

Still, with a seven-passenger, rear-wheel-drive crossover in the works, a good amount of money already dedicated to rear-drive platforms and some new hybrid powertrain technologies, it would not be a stretch for Hyundai's "downmarket" player, Kia, to make a play in the pickup truck segment. The Kia Mojove concept was floated around about 10 years ago, and that was when the company wasn't doing nearly as well or had access to nearly as many resources.

Maybe Hyundai isn't ready to step into the realm of a small- or medium-sized pickup truck, but Kia certainly could, and it could likely have some interesting design and technology options at its disposal. In 2004, Kia played with the idea of a half-ton competitor for the U.S., called the KCV-4 Mojave, but the project was officially killed in 2008 because of unstable gas prices and shrinking interest in a small pickup. At that time, the vehicle was to be based off the new Kia Sorento (concept design by Stanley Ivan pictured).

Whether or not something new could be based off another larger or smaller SUV or crossover remains to be seen. (Remember the Soulster?) Regardless, it almost certainly would require a new assembly plant or some serious modifications to an existing facility. For now, it looks like we'll have to wait and see, but they do have options.

Source;
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2012/02/hyundai-says-no-but-kia-could-say-yes.html

2012: Better Looking than its Predecessor

The new Kia Rio will be available as wither a 5-door or a 3-door hatch back. The new car from Kia is likely to be 2 inches loner and one inch wider than its predecessor. Also, the height of the car will be about half-inch less than the 2011 version.

The wheelbase of the 2012 Kia Rio has been increased by about 3-inches which will help in improving the rear seat room. Even though the details of the US version of the car are not yet available, some details of the European version are available. The European version of the 2012 Kia Rio will either come with a 1.2 liter turbocharged gasoline direct-injection engine or a 69-hp 1.1 liter diesel engine. The turbo charged gasoline engine is likely to give a mileage of 50-mpg.

2011 Kia Sportage: Good car but launch delayed

Even though 2011 Kia Sportage was launched with much funfair at Geneva Motor Show in March 2010, the car is being launched in many countries this month. However, the positive review that it has received in many countries has made it one of the most awaited car in many countries.

The main reason for launching the new redesigned Sportage was to increase the market share of the car. However, this will not be easy as Hyundai Tucson is a market leader in the SUV segment in many countries and breaking its hold will not be easy.

Some of the positives of the car include spacious cabin, well-fitted interiors, easy to use controls and centrally located touch screen.

2012 Kia Cadenza: What to expect from the new model

Kia is planning to launch the 2012 Cadenza soon. Here are some features that we love in the 2011 Kia Cadenza and would love the company to include it in its upcoming model:

• The 2011 Kia Cadenza is the value for money car that has several features that are only available in expensive models.
• The look of the car is great, so we don't expect the company to make any major change in the new version of the car.
• Also, the car is spacious and ideal for people who are looking for a car that they can use when holidaying with their family.

However, the 2011 Kia Cadenza was not perfect and we expect the company to make changes in the 2012 Kia Cadenza.

• The steering is not smooth especially at high speeds.
• The handling of the 2011 Kia Cadenza is not easy especially on city roads.
• The noise of the wind when the car is driven at high speed is annoying.

2012 Kia Picanto: Compact yet Spacious

2012 Kia Picanto is a 1.2-litre 4 cylinder car that can generate 86 bhp of power and comes with a torque of 121Nm. The car gives you a mileage of 18.7 km/litre and comes with a 4-speed auto transmission and 5-speed manual transmission option.

The car is compact yet spacious and ideal for people who are looking for a small car that they can drive in the city. The fully loaded model of Kia Picanto comes with features like alloy wheels, leather wrapped steering wheels, fog lamps, MP3 compatible CD player with USB port, keyless entry, electric folding mirrors and many other features. Some of the features that are available in the new Kia Picanto that are not available in other small cars include Vehicle Stability Management and Hill Start Assist Control.

2012 Kia Rio Review

Fourth-generation Kia Rio, revealed at Geneva in 2011, has a bold and distinctive personality that brings the latest model in line with other Kia exclusive design portfolio.

In addition to appeal to consumer tastes, aesthetics, the new Kia Rio spearhead the company's efforts to significantly increase its global market share by offering prospective owners of industry-leading environmental credentials.

Measurements of CO2 emissions for the model of the area, only 85 g / km - the equivalent of a new industry wide and deep. This impressive figure places the segment B Kia Rio in front of all other models in its class and even all vehicles currently on sale in the European market.

The task is to work hard for the care of a large international commercial success of the previous generation model, Kia engineers and designers have created a new Rio, which combines the spicy Korean learn to use language to create a module that communicates with a Latin touches, and a truly global appeal.

"The Kia Rio has been a success, and with this new incarnation, we have a car that is very attractive with a sweet feeling of sportiness - a car that people want to buy for its looks and its environmental performance" of Benny Comments islands, Vice President Marketing and Product Planning, Kia Motors Europe.

Since its launch in 2005, worldwide sales of third-generation Kia Rio was more than 860 000 units. It was the vehicle of the company the third best selling in foreign markets in 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.

The new Kia Rio is longer (20 mm), wider (25 mm) and lowest (15 mm) and the properties of a 70 mm longer wheelbase (2570 mm) - will significantly expand the space for passengers and the ability to load. With a total height of 1455 mm, the new Kia Rio is one of the smallest in the European range of Kia cars.

First held with a choice of five doors and three-door body (in Europe), the new Kia Rio is completely redefine its position as one of the most competitive cars in one of the most competitive - the B-segment.

Market Research Kia expects the global demand for B-segment cars will grow substantially over the next two years.

Two styles of one sports body new Kia Rio - in addition to the already popular in Seoul and the models come to rely on people who want to stand out from the crowd or you need a spacious, versatile compact MPV - Kia is confident of capturing a greater share of this growth .

To reduce fuel consumption and help them achieve world-class Kia Rio, emissions, Kia engineers have carried out an extensive program to lose weight in a wide range of components. As a result, despite the new Kia Rio is a car much bigger than the third generation model with additional equipment, the weight gain was minimal.

5-door version of the new Kia Rio goes on sale in Europe in the third quarter of 2011 with the new 3-door Kia join B-segment line in the first quarter of 2012. Both versions are exclusively manufactured at the plant in Sohar Kia in Korea.

"Presence Premium" for new compact car

With the new Rio, Kia has created a car that meets consumer demand for more quality, more choice, and attractive design exciting.

This new car is no evolution of its predecessor, is a revolution. The bold and distinctive personality of the new Kia Rio is a complete break with his predecessor and fits perfectly into the family revived new range of Kia.

Seen from the front, the new Kia Rio has its own unique interpretation of the grid company of Kia, which is seamlessly integrated with lights to create a new twist to the search for the Kia family. In the latter form, now the Kia logo sits above the grid. Below the grid, again treating the front bumper and spoiler shows signs of design DNA for Kia, with its distinctive road presence. In profile, the ratio of body to glass, combined with the shape of the car hold strong, Kia Rio a dynamic and sporty attitude. While Rio is now a whole new personality that fits perfectly with his brothers and sisters Picanto and Venga.

Kia Rio to show its connection through the Sportage is also a strong and stable flows behind the C-pillar, the dominant shoulder high and fast rear screen angle. Coupe roof-line and strong contrasts dramatically static rear bumper, and to give strength and stability back to watch.

This bold and elegant look is reinforced by the line adds a special stress on the flanks and accentuating the car's dynamic position. The delicate balance of the viewport, the wheelbase and the overall proportion Kia Rio to refinement and the presence of the premium which is rare in the segment B.

To maximize the Kia Rio has a striking appearance is a fresh new palette of 10 exterior colors. Kia interior color and a team of researchers has developed a range of exclusive colors of Rio with its emphasis on sophistication and elegance. These include Wendy Brown, Graphite Grey, both colors of Classic Premium taste.

With the introduction of the new Rio, Kia's product portfolio just take the next important step to become a family vehicle that has an attractive style of the brand and coherent, but manages to retain the character of each product.

Spacious interior and sophisticated

Completing the look is very nice, Kia Rio interior design has changed, clean, elegant theme. The concept of corporate philosophy on the concept Kia, characterized by a horizontal instrument panel, and stressed the feeling of width and space. It 'a theme that skillfully combines sleek modernity with rationality and a timeless quality to get comfortable.

The quality and sophistication of the interior materials and attention to the details of fit and finish are the design priorities for the new Kia Rio

As with other recently launched Kia models, the interior design signature - the "three cylinder", precision instrument and equipment graphic LO - has been maintained. The new Rio is centrally located, however, toggle switches, which are perfectly integrated into the central heating system, and manage some of the secondary functions.

The sophistication of the interior concept is also reflected in the range of finishing options that give the car a top quality printing, finishing with three concepts available. Kia Rio customers can choose from a selection of two-tone interior with Cognac Brown or a combination of gray desert interior design and high quality. Print custom interior emphasizes the new direction for Kia Rio, as a mature and refined, a premium compact car.

The current trend towards downsizing of vehicles that are seen across Europe means that the B-segment cars has become more mature and refined as they are obliged to fulfill hopes prices more sophisticated client groups. More refinement, more features, higher quality, but also more choice and a distinctive design is in demand.

The radically new Kia Rio is the answer to these new market conditions and many "large car with comfort and convenience will be offered to consumers on a segment B, Kia for the first time when new Rio will be available in Europe.

Optional features available on new Kia Rio cars for the European market will include the Smart Entry system key with engine on / off button, RDS radio with MP3 compatible CD player and AUX connection, iPod and USB, Bluetooth ® Hands free (with speech recognition available from December 2011), cruise control, climate control air conditioning, heated front seats and heated steering wheel. In some contracts, the panel is pre-wired to accept the portable navigation system as options.

The cabin is more spacious and new Rio also feel more spacious. Low front moved forward 156 mm and up to 18 mm and 70 mm longer wheelbase and 25 mm wider than the body brings the benefits of space for all passengers, and cargo capacity. Front leg room has increased by 45 mm in front of the head space of 8 mm.

Luggage space is 100 mm wider, and now has a capacity of 288 liters - 7% improvement over the previous model. Rear seat backrest is split 60/40 as versatile. Users can fold down the backrest, creating a nearly flat, flat cargo floor.

Storage at hand includes a larger, 15-liter storage compartment, a larger center console 3 liters of excess capacity and pockets to keep the bottle in front doors of 1.5 liter and 0.5 liter bottle in the rear doors .

Four high-efficiency motors with people from 70 to 109 hp output in Europe, the new Kia Rio will offer customers a choice of four engines and three high-efficiency four-cylinder - with a range from 70 to 109 hp power - and an industry leading consumer-based CO2 rating of just 85 g / km, more fuel as low as 3.2 liters per 100 km.

In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of the power unit Kia 'U2' - both equipped with 16 valves and a WGT. The 1.4-liter makes 216 hp and 90 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-liter producing 70 hp and 162 Nm Both engines produce a maximum torque at just 1,750 rpm.

Buyers who prefer their new Kia Rio fuel can select from a range of 1.4 liters or 1.25 liters Kappa.

Proven a power unit in the range of Kia, the day of "Gamma" reduction of friction and changes of double CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), performing reactive performance and competitive fuel economy . With a maximum power of 109 hp and maximum torque of 136 Nm, the engine power of the river faster - accelerating to 100 km in 11.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 181 kph (112 mph).

Family "Kappa" Kia Motors advanced - also appeared in the New Picanto at the Geneva Motor Show - features dual CVVT, a block of cast aluminum, off-side of the crankshaft, maintenance-free timing chain and valves sources "beehive" low friction. These technologies significantly improve efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions. The engine develops 85 hp 1.25 liters Kia Rio and 117.8 Nm of torque, while achieving the fuel economy of 4.8 l/100 km.

Rio regular models will be a note of CO2 from 94 to 124 g / km. In Europe, these figures could be reduced further by specifying the option of GIS Kia fuel technologies stretching (stop-start, update progress control alternator starter and tires with low rolling resistance) - available all models.

Equipped with the ISG, the Kia Rio emissions range from 85 to 114 g / km, so the two diesel engines (less than 100 g / km) advance to the local economies emissions tax base as much as possible. For these models, the range of fuel economy from 3.2 to 4.8 liters per 100 km, which helps reduce operating costs.

The standard transmission for both diesel and petrol engines will be a six-speed manual transmission, while the 1.25 liter 85 hp has a five-speed transmission. A transmission four-speed automatic will be optional on the 1.4-liter 109 hp gasoline engine.

A more stable driving and refinement

Developed from the previous model, the suspension of the new Kia Rio and running gear were designed to support the handling while improving the stability of the popular car ride quality and refinement - in line with customer expectations.

The electric power steering rack and pinion management is now equipped with a combined torque / angle sensor to protect against side winds. It is suitable for application 2.82 turns (lock to lock) and the steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach.

Mounted on the subframe to isolate road shock, suspension MacPherson strut front is essentially unchanged, minor changes to reflect the new model a longer wheelbase, wider track and a different weight distribution.

The CTBA (axle with torsion bar) on the back is more rigid (reduces understeer) and the strength of the relationship between the tail of arms and the axis of the heel is doubled, improving stability. Wheel travel is increased by 10 mm and the geometry has been improved to reduce the blow direction and provide a more consistent behavior.

All brakes discs - with 256/262 mm (front / rear) disc diameter - is standard on all new Kia Rio models with ESC (Electronic Stability Control). The models are not equipped with ESC to feature 203 x 10 mm rear drum brakes. Brake system performance supported by ABS-lock, electronic brake force distribution and emergency "brake assist.

Extensive security "active" and "passive

For the new Kia Rio, a completely new body was created with a higher percentage of high strength steel than the third generation model, the greater strength and rigidity. Special attention was paid to strengthening the elements of the engine-bay longitudinal side, members of the side panel of the floor, at ground level between the B-pillars through the transverse wall and dashboards.

Kia's engineers are confident that the new Rio achieve a star rating up five in EuroNCAP crash tests, according to previous classifications marked with CEE'D, Come, Soul, Sportage and Sorento.

In Europe, the standard safety equipment includes six airbags up, "active" front head restraints of seats (for protection against neck injuries in case of rear-end collisions).

Available optional safety equipment includes electronic stability control (standard in some markets), Hill-Start Assist (to avoid roll-back away from the hill), a new front "cornering" lighting, variable speed control, sensors rear parking and Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

A new system called "ESS (Emergency stop signal) will be available for additional security. To warn drivers following the car slows rapidly, the sensors detect when the driver brakes suddenly and hard, and then automatically brake lights flash three times.

Night driving is made safer by the availability of xenon projection, new front "cornering lamps and LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights.

Measures to minimize NVH is to increase the rigidity of the body structure of the car more rigid steering column bracket support panels inside the C-pillars, strengthened rear fascia, and the increased stiffness of the leather interior and exterior of the rear door , in addition to the top of the chassis engine and hydraulic vibration transmission. Overall, believes that the new Kia Rio is a class leading refinement of B-segment.

2011 Kia Soulster Concept Review

Kia Motors America (KMA) arrives at the Salon of 2011 North American International Auto (NAIAS) in Detroit with outdoor Forester Kia Soul concept, a variation of the much awaited soul arrives in dealerships this spring Kia Motors. Budgets with young buyers in mind, before effective Rochester Kia Soul car based on the Kia Soul production, recently unveiled at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto.

"Kia Soulster offers something new, fascinating, and the importance of the buyers of today - convertible fun at affordable prices for active people who want to share good times with friends," said Tom Kearns, chief designer, KMA. "Defying classification, and providing the utility and practicality, Kia Soulster exhibits distinctive design suggestions, and meet the needs of different consumers."

 

Stylin 'design Soul'r yellow

A concept two-door roadster with roots, colored yellow Soul'r Soul Rochester projects a hip industrial look with borders screws, similar to a model of rivets found on a fighter plane. The windshield is reduced to a more athletic, hunkered down appearance. High in two parts allows passengers to reveal zones front and rear seats independently, using the technology of elbow grease. The roll-bar serves a dual purpose, and includes a place to track the cursor, while offering protection not found in traditional convertibles.

 

A face only, Kia Soulster is difficult, but the sophisticated nature. Hardness is expressed in detail, how to insert anodized skid pad, which corresponds to a fender vents, stabilizer bar header and wheels.

Kia Soul Forester line includes lighting that shines through with an orange glow in the headlights. The side-valve, track-side rotating mirror, unique LED headlamps, fog lamps and rear lamps incorporate blue tones.

Energetic, unique look to lead from front to back with dual chrome exhaust tailpipes, polished aluminum with carbon fiber inner sleeves. Large 19-inch five-spoke aluminum Soulster complete the look of Kia. Regardless Soulster seen from the front, rear or side, offers innovative perspectives derived from the original Seoul.

 

Inside Out

Once inside, the Kia Soulster more progressive variations in Seoul began designing a new four-passenger seating, away from the soul for five passengers provision giving a great versatility of a long summer weekend. Surprisingly flexible Soulster Kia offers a genuine fit two on the front with a nice ass for two adults behind. Folding rear seat passenger, in combination with a wide margin makes the car ideal for outdoor excursions and social beach with friends. Making the basic features of the heat, the crank-up led to the internal elements are the key dashboard integrated audio speakers.

 

Adding to the avant-garde design scheme, the floor is not mounted cantilevered seats project the illusion of being suspended in space, seen from the side of legroom in the back rise. Storage compartments in each seat are folded into the back room to the multiple needs of the load. Besides the spacious cargo area, two storage compartments can also be found on the back and below the cargo area.

 

All revved up

 

With younger buyers in mind, Kia offers a walk Soulstar agile, flexible and passionate. Like its cousin the soul, Soulstar can expect a variety of engine choices depending on the needs of each market. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which produces about 120 horsepower. For those seeking more power, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder is available with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission that produces 140 horsepower. Fuel economy of both engines is estimated at 30 miles per gallon or more. Other markets could choose the 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 124 horsepower or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine.

2011 Kia Sedona Review

In 2011, Kia Motors America (KMA) will present a brand new Kia Sedona minivan, which offers more power and is substantially greater than the length and width, which offers more passenger space and versatility than its predecessor. New features include all new Sedona Standard Folding-in-floor third-row and available power sliding doors and product divisions. The new Sedona is scheduled to go on sale in early 2011.

 

Using a new brand platform, the new Sedona's longer wheelbase and increased length and width contribute to a mini-bus to almost 15 percent improvement in the passenger hall of the previous Sedona. Styles fresh and more standard features and available is designed to enhance the security status of Sedona established and leading the highly competitive minivan market value.

The original Sedona for sale in the summer of 2001 and quickly gained recognition for its tremendous value and generous list of standard features for comfort, convenience and safety. In addition, the federal government to earn the highest safety rating - five stars - the driver and passengers front and rear and front and side impact crash tests, in Sedona has received quite an impressive list of awards, including:

 

AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Award Y - 2002

+ Sport Truck Connection Television for "Best Van" - 2002, 2003

+ Winner of Strategic Vision Total Index Value - 2002, 2004

Safety First

Serves as Kia's flagship safety, Sedona received the first Five Star rating company Original Crash for each seat in the U.S. government. The next generation of Sedona continue Kia's commitment to provide high security equipment including six standard airbags (dual front advanced airbags and front side seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats).

 

Sensors monitor the two ends restrictions supplemental front seat position to determine if the belt is buckled, whether the front passenger seat is occupied, and the severity of a frontal impact before deployment.

A four-channel, four sensor brakes anti-lock (ABS) are also standard. This system includes Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), which helps to distribute braking force to all four wheels in relation to weight change during cornering. The EBD adapts to individual wheel grip, which helps to improve both control and stability.

Other standard safety features include a system for monitoring tire pressure and active head restraints in front seats, while features like an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and traction control (TCS) with brake assist are also series.

 

Improved performance

Increased power and torque, all new Sedona offers class-leading power and performance of the minivan segment. Sedona is an all-new 3.8-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine is expected to produce over 240 horsepower - 25 percent increase from the previous center - and 253 Nm of torque. This is a new aluminum block engine is mated to a five-speed transmission Sportmatic ™.

 

Despite the increase in its size, the new Sedona should be significantly lighter than the previous model compared to a similarly equipped base. With more power, less weight and a new chassis with four-wheel independent, the next-generation Sedona is designed to be more fun to drive than its predecessor and its competitors.

The new Sedona four-wheel independent suspension system consisting of MacPherson struts with coil springs and stabilizer bar in front while the rear suspension design uses a multi-link with coil springs and a stabilizer bar.

 

Stopping power is increased by the addition of more four-wheel disc brake system with a larger diameter ventilated front disc brakes (11.7-in.) And the solid rear disc brakes (11.9 inches) ..

Sedona models come with new wheels and larger tires, including wheels and 225/70 R16 steel 16-inch tires and alloy wheels of 17 inches equipped with 235/60 R17.

Spacious, flexible and comfortable

Competitive dimensions, the new Sedona seven generously sized passengers and unibody construction to increase both passenger and cargo, and improved ride and handling. Adding space and versatility of Sedona, flip and fold second-row seats provide easy access to the third row of seats. A new, easy to use 60/40-jako-taitto-into-lattia third row seat is standard on all models to create a larger flat load space.

 

Available in two trim levels - LX and EX - The new Kia Sedona maintains a tradition of high quality, offering a generous list of standard features and services. In addition, ABS, six airbags and a five-speed transmission Sportmatic ™, Sedona LX comes with a Tri-zone air conditioning, sliding doors and power windows, power mirrors and locks, cruise control, AM / FM / CD player, captain chairs for the second row and keyless entry have an alarm system.

 

Sedona EX adds a chrome grille, fog lights, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, heated power mirrors, stereo AM/FM/Cassette/MP3/CD, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob , power rear glass quartz, compass, roof rack and wood trim.

 

In addition to the LX and EX standard features of the models', all-new Sedona offers several option packages for maximum convenience and enjoyment These options include:. Front leather seats with heaters, memory settings for driver's seat, exterior mirrors and adjustable pedals, backup warning system, power sliding doors, power products division, electrically adjustable pedals, power sunroof and 660-watt premium entertainment system with DVD player and 13 speakers.