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]
Kia has just showcased the three-door version of its Rio hatchback at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Designed primarily for the European market, this new model will come with the same range of powertrains (a choice of four highly efficient three – and four cylinder engines – with a 75 to 109 ps power range), equipment and options as the five-door model. The car itself is set to go on sale from early 2012. [AR]
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]
