Kia Motors has unveiled the Ray EV, which is claimed to be the first electric vehicle in South Korea. This city car features a range of up to 86 miles (139 km) on a single charge. The Ray EV accelerates from 0-62 mph (100km) in 15.9 seconds with a top speed of 81 mph. The Ray EV’s battery can be fully recharged in six hours using a regular 220V household outlet. Additional specs include a Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS), a regenerative braking system and a 7-inch display for a GPS navigation system. No word on pricing or availability at this time. [Press Release]
The all new 2012 Kia Rio sedan has just been priced in the US market. This four-door sedan comes in three different trim levels including LX, EX and SX, and is equipped with a 1.6-liter GDI engine that is paired to either a manual or automatic gearbox. Price starts at $14,150 for the manual gearbox version or $15,250 for the automatic gearbox version. [Autoevolution]
The all new 2012 Kia Soul has just been priced in the US. This fuel-efficient crossover will be sold for starting price of $13,900 MSRP, while the Soul A/T at $15,700. To refresh your memory, the 2012 Kia Soul will come in two different engine options including a 1.6-liter direct-injected petrol unit (GDI) with 138 hp and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol unit with 164 hp. [GlobalMotors]
The three-door version of the new Kia Picanto has just been revealed. Set to make its international sales debut in September, the three-door version comes with longer doors, a dramatic crease line cutting through the door handle, a black rear bumper insert and twin chrome exhaust pipes. Under the hood, power comes from either a 1.0-liter three cylinder petrol engine with 51kW and 95Nm of torque or 1.25-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 63kW and 121Nm of torque. Pricing info is still unknown at the moment. [Car Advice]
Here’s a glance at another upcoming concept car from Kia, the Kia Coupe Concept V8. Based on the Kia K9 luxury sedan, the Kia Coupe Concept V8 will feature a rear-wheel drive layout and a powerful V8 engine. The car itself is scheduled to be showcased at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September. [Car Advice]
The 2012 Kia Soul has just been introduced at this year’s New York Auto Show. This new crossover will come in two different engine options including a 1.6-liter direct-injected petrol engine (GDI) with 140PS and 163Nm and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 162PS and 193Nm (US Only), along with two different transmission options: a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. The 2012 Kia Soul will become available in the UK in Autumn, however, there’s no word on pricing yet. [AR]
