Kia is set to unveil the hybrid version of their 2011 Optima at the upcoming LA Auto Show, which will be held between November 19 and 28. For your info, the 2011 Optima hybrid will use a 169 hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder Theta II engine coupled to an electric motor which is capable of producing an extra 30 hp. The car will also come with a wide range of safety features including six airbags, three-point seatbelts for all passengers, side-impact door beams, ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), TCS (Traction Control System), BAS (Brake Assist System), Hill Assist Control and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The car itself is scheduled to hit US showrooms next year. [Autoevolution]
KIA will introduce a new all-electric mini car concept called the “POP” at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. This concept car boasts zero-emissions and provides a three seat layout that brings innovative design chic and dramatic styling to the city car segment. It seems that the Pop will be able to seat two passengers in the front and one at the back. The 2010 Paris Motor Show runs from the 30th September 2010 to the 17th October 2010. [CarScoop]
KIA has finally unveiled the pricing for the all-new 2011 KIA Sportage. The compact crossover goes on sale in the U.S. at the end of the July 2010 with a starting price of $18,990, which includes a $695 destination and handling fee. The 2011 KIA Sportage comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 176HP, while returning 22mpg in the city and 31mpg on the highway. A far more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI petrol engine with 270+ horsepower will join the range next year. The Sportage will be offered in both front-wheel- and all-wheel-drive configurations paired to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission. Additional features include an air conditioner, power windows, door locks and mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels matched with 215/70R16 low-rolling resistance tires, SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service, MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth wireless technology. [CarScoop]
The KIA Soul Edition Irmscher 001 features two-tone leather seats with red or graphite-colored diamond quilting pattern on the cushions and backrests, and black carbon-fiber-style leather on the outside areas. The same black-carbon-style leather is also found on the car’s steering wheel and gearbox. The KIA Soul Irmscher 001 Edition is currently available with all powerplants including a 126HP 1.6-liter petrol and a 128HP 1.6-liter diesel with a manual or automatic transmission, and trim levels. [AutoMotorBlog]
KIA Motors Corporation has debuted the all-new Optima midsize sedan at the New York International Auto Show. Designed at KIA’s studios in Frankfurt and Irvine, California, the all-new Optima is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor. The new model employs engine management systems such as direct injection, multi-point 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. The all-new KIA Optima will be released in North America and non-European markets in the final quarter of this year and Europe next Spring. [AVING]
KIA has debuted the KIA Forte five-door hatchback in the New York Auto Show. Dubbed as the “Cerato”, this model will be available in North America later this year. The new KIA Forte Five-Door Hatchback will be available in a choice of the 2.0 and 2.4-liter engines, while customers in other markets will be able to choose from the 1.6 and 2.0-liter powerplants. [Autoblog]
