Kia – Page 2 – Latino Traffic Report

Expect More Trucks and Green Vehicles in 2016

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Feb 232016

What brings journalists en masse to Chicago in the middle of winter? The largest auto show in the country, the Chicago Auto Show, that’s what, and this year’s reveals reflected a truck and big SUV resurgence, while at the same time, new green car initiatives.

Gasoline prices remain at an all-time low and that’s good news for truck and SUV buyers. Nissan brought forth two big bruisers, the all-new Titan half-ton and the 2017 Armada.

Last year Nissan introduced the award-winning 2016 Titan XD, powered by an all-new 5.0-liter V8 Cummins turbo diesel engine. This year the gasoline-powered version of the Titan (above) took center stage in Chicago. Powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine and built on a separate chassis from the TITAN XD, it’s also 14.7 inches shorter.

2017 Nissan Armada

Similarly, the all-new Armada will be powered by the new 5.6-liter V8 engine and matched to a seven-speed automatic transmission for better fuel economy.

The handsome full-size SUV will come with an extensive list of available safety and convenience features, like Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Backup Collision Intervention, Blind Spot Intervention and Blind Spot Warning, among other features. An eight-inch display, navigation, and heated front seats will be standard. Both the Titan half-ton and Armada will go on sale this summer.

The 2017 Ram Power Wagon.

Ram followed suit with its off-road monster, the Power Wagon. Based on the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4×4 Crew Cab, the 2017 Power Wagon receives all-new exterior and interior design elements. Seeking its own design statement, Ram abandons the crosshatch grille on the new Power Wagon for the one featured on its half-ton off-road sibling, the Ram Rebel.

Pacifica Hybrid.

FCA also showed the hybrid version of its all-new Chrysler Pacifica minivan. Revealed last month in Detroit, the Pacifica replaces the Town & Country. A segment first, the hybrid will deliver an estimated range of 30 miles solely on zero-emissions electric power. New available technology will also include a Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum cleaner.

While the Pacifica goes on sale this spring, the hybrid version should go on sale in the second half of 2016.

Available in dealerships now, the 2017 Hyundai Tucson receives a fresh exterior design and LED lighting signatures, plus additional infotainment, convenience and safety technologies, including Drive Mode selection with Sport, Eco and Normal settings. Brandon Ramirez, senior product manager, unveiled the refreshed versions of the 2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport.

Kia Niro.

Expanding its green vehicle line-up, Kia introduced the 2017 Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle. The all-new Niro hopes to find a niche between the hybrid-electric vehicle and CUV segments, achieving a combined fuel efficiency rating of 50 mpg. It joins Kia’s green car line-up that includes the Soul EV, Optima Hybrid and 2017 Optima Plug-in Hybrid that also made its global debut in Chicago.

Volvo XC90.

Finally, Volvo’s all-new XC90 continues to collect accolades winning MotorWeek’s 2016 Drivers’ Choice Best of the Year award. It’s the first utility vehicle to win the top honor in the 34-year history of the awards. To date, the XC90 has been named the 2016 North American Truck of the Year, the CUV of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association, and the Family Car of the Year by the Midwest Automotive Media Association.

“The XC90 brings Volvo firmly into the luxury space and fully represents the company’s new direction,” said Dean Shaw, vice president, Corporate Communications, Volvo Car USA.

Redesigned 2016 Kia Optima Scales New Heights in Aspen

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Feb 042016

2016 Kia Optima SXL

With so many advances in the industry, it’s hard to find a dud on a new car lot these days. The launch of the all-new Kia Optima midsize sedan improves the selection even further.

The brand’s bestseller for the last three years, Kia ramps up the 2016 version with a more refined exterior design, new technology, and creature comforts offered at the same starting price as the outgoing model.

At the launch in Aspen, Colorado, the longer, wider and stiffer Optima hugged the road nicely. Its increased dimensions also translate into a roomier and more comfortable cabin with more head, shoulder, and rear seat legroom. Plus the trunk expands to 15.9 cu. ft. and the 60/40 split rear seat also folds flat for even more room.

There will be three available four-cylinder engines to power the Optima distributed among five trim levels. We drove the top-of-the-line SX and SXL trims powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic simulated manual shifting. This is not the most fuel efficient of the three engines but it is the most powerful with 245 horses and 260 lb.–ft. of torque. The sport-tuned suspension and paddle shifters improved performance on the launch models, though the throttle response on the turbo was a little hesitant.

The lower level trims will come with a 2.4-liter or an all-new 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, matched to a six-speed automatic or seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission, respectively. While all three engines include the Active Eco System and Driver Mode Select with an Eco option to conserve gas, the most fuel-efficient will be the 1.6-liter earning an EPA estimated combined fuel economy of 32 miles per gallon. Plug-in and hybrid models will also be introduced this year.

The sleeker and contoured European-inspired exterior is matched to a super plush interior on the SX and SXL that included diamond-quilted and heated leather seats plus metallic accents. The base model will come with cloth seats.

Standard features include chrome accent door handles, air conditioning, cruise control, an AM/FM/MP3 audio unit with satellite radio, a five-inch LCD rear-camera display, three USB jacks, Bluetooth, and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Push button start, a rear spoiler, heated steering wheel, dual-zone air conditioning, and Bi-Function Xenon HID headlamps with a self-leveling feature are standard on the SX. The SXL adds a panoramic sunroof with power shade, advanced smart cruise control, Harman/Kardon Quantum Logic Surround

Premium Audio System, and ventilated front driver and passenger seats, among other features. The major advantage of the SXL, however, is a suite of standard safety features that includes a rear parking sensor, blind spot and rear cross traffic detectors, and front collision warning system.

For the digitally astute, Kia’s UVO connectivity system comes standard with four additional eServices not previously available on the Optima, it’s also Kia’s pilot vehicle for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (late availability) that connects drivers to functions on their smartphones.

Packing more content at a lower price has helped establish the Korean carmaker in the United States. Competing in one of the most competitive and crowded segments, the 2016 Optima should remain a top-seller.

Built at Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia, the Optima’s pricing starts at $22,840 while the SX and SXL start at $30,640 and $36,740, respectively.

2016 Kia Optima SX

Review: 2016 Kia Sorento SX

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Oct 152015

Offering the versatility of a minivan, the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) gives shoppers a jazzier option for the family vehicle. First introduced in 2002, the Sorento represents Kia’s larger entry in this segment. On a recent test drive for Latino Traffic Report, I drove the newly redesigned 2016 model, specifically the Kia Sorento SX. Sporting a more refined exterior, the dapper CUV provides more versatility, technology, and value.

With a choice of five trim levels—L, LX, EX, SX and SXL, the third generation Sorento maximizes bang for the buck, starting with a nicely equipped base model. Driving the model just shy of the top-of-the-line SXL offered even more stuff.

Families will appreciate the choice of seating for five or seven, with two- and three-row configurations respectively; both versions include split seats that can be folded flat, expanding cargo room to 73.5 cubic feet.

The test model came with the available all-wheel drive (AWD) system and the 3.3-liter V6. According to EPA estimates, the V6 should achieve 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. I averaged 21.8 mpg.

The V6 produces 290 horses giving it an increased towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. when equipped with the AWD system that automatically routes power to the wheel with the most traction.

Two other engine options include and a new 2.0-liter inline-four turbo and a gasoline direct injection (GDI) 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder. The most fuel-efficient of the mix will be the front-wheel drive 2.4-liter with an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

All three engines are matched to an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic simulated manual shifting. The standard Driver Mode Select allows drivers to choose among sport, normal, and eco modes, further improving driving performance on all models. I gravitate toward eco just to enhance fuel economy but a quick flick to sport does add oomph.

While standard safety features include traction and electronic stability control, the SX model did come with the optional rear-parking sensor, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot detection. Happily, the Sorento received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 5-star overall safety rating.

Oddly, the around view monitor, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning are unavailable on most trim levels and optional, even on the top-of-the-line model.

While the base model starts with cloth seats treated with Yes Essentials for easier maintenance, the SX included leather seating and heated seats for the driver and front passenger. Cruise control, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with a CD player and MP3 connectivity, Sirius Satellite radio, Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, and a fuel economy indicator, are also standard.

The SX added dual-zone air conditioning, push button start, a panoramic sunroof, navigation with an eight-inch display screen, and a smart, hands-free power liftgate.

Although I didn’t get to test it, the all-new Kia App Store offers apps that can be downloaded for free from iTunes or Google Play.

Built in the United States at the plant in West Point, Georgia and on sale now, the 2016 Kia Sorento has a starting price of $25,795. The as-tested price came to $40,595.

Sí: The Sorento is an elegant CUV from Kia with a good list of standard features.

No: Safety features like lane departure warning, and forward collision warning should be available on more than just the top-of-the-line model.

Kia Sedona-Long-term Review Pt. 1

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Oct 012015

When it comes to versatility and convenience, minivans remain outmatched as a family vehicle. While the segment may not be the sexiest, it has attracted some new players, namely, the Kia Sedona. All new for 2015, the Sedona combines a handsome exterior with roominess and flexibility on the inside. I received the Sedona SX Limited (SX-L) in August for a six-month long-term loan. After only a few months on the road, the Sedona has impressed me with its elegance, comfort, and handling.

The beauty of a long-term loan is the chance it affords to explore all aspects of the vehicle in day-to-day driving conditions. This real world experience got a little too real, however, when the Sedona was vandalized while parked at the local post office, only weeks into the loan. The driver’s side window was broken and certain contents were stolen from inside, all in broad daylight and in a matter of seconds. The test drive was suspended for about a month until the window could be repaired.

Once back on the road, the Sedona has been quite a pleasure to drive. As with all Kias, it packs more features than normally associated with its segment, like ventilated as well as heated front seats, heated second-row cushions, a dual sunroof, and a driver mode select button (Eco, Normal, or Comfort), that helps improve the ride and handling as well as fuel economy.

I’ve only taken a few quick road trips but the miles per gallon have remained above the EPA estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, averaging above 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. All Sedonas come with a 3.3-liter V6 engine matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sport-matic simulated manual shifting.

The keyless system with burglar and panic alarm, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite stereo system, back-up warning, Bluetooth wireless technology, and cruise control are also standard.

As the top-of-the-line model, the SX-L offers another unique feature, first class lounge chairs in the second row that give it seating for seven. Equipped with footrests, they recline as well as slide forward to improve access to the third row. They don’t however fold flat for extra cargo room and the manual levers can be a bit clunky to deploy. The third row, however, folds flat easily and quickly, expanding cargo room behind the second row to 78.4 cubic feet. The lower trims do include a second-row bench or traditional captain’s chairs.

Christmas is approaching and I look forward to testing the Sedona’s tree carrying ability. The loan ends in February. Stay tuned for updates on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Pricing for the 2015 Sedona starts at $26,995 but you won’t be able to get features like a power liftgate or sliding doors or upgrade it with any option packages. The as-tested price, with $2,700 of additional equipment like lane departure warning and a surround view monitor, came to $43,295.

Kia Unveils the 2016 Sorento

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Feb 112015

2016 Kia Sorento launch, driving with Enrique Kogan.

First introduced in 2002, the Kia Sorento welcomes its third generation for 2016. Sporting a more refined exterior, the dapper crossover utility vehicle (CUV) offers more versatility, technology, and value. At the recent launch in Lake Tahoe, it grabbed the road, as well as attention.

Car buyers appreciate choices when car shopping, maximizing bang for the buck. Kia has complied with the new Sorento, offering customers a choice of five trim levels– L, LX, EX, SX and SXL.

Available with seating for five or seven, with two- and three-row configurations respectively, both versions include split seats that can be folded flat. With both rows folded, cargo room expands to 73.5 cubic feet. The new Sorento adds interior volume as well with a wheelbase that’s 3.1 inches longer than the previous model. KiaSorentoWave2-90

Offered with all-wheel drive (AWD) capability, the Sorento includes a choice of three gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines: a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder, a 3.3-liter V6, and a new 2.0-liter inline-four turbo. The most fuel-efficient of the mix will be the front-wheel drive 2.4-liter with an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

The V6 produces 290 horses giving it an increased towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. when equipped with the AWD system that automatically routes power to the wheel with the most traction.

All three engines are matched to an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmaticsimulated manual shifting. The standard Driver Mode Select allows drivers to choose among sport, normal and eco modes, further improving driving performance on all models.

While standard safety features include traction and electronic stability control, it would be nice if one of the following optional features were also standard: Back-up Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a Around View Monitor.

At the launch in Lake Tahoe, the driving route included slushy weather with snow flurries and rain, but the Sorento held the road with confidence. However, the inclement weather did obstruct the BSD. A warning message in the center screen on the instrument cluster lets drivers know not to rely on the BSD if this happens.

Not only is the Sorento new on the outside, inside the CUV includes more technology as well as creature comforts.

The base model starts with cloth seats treated with Yes Essentials for easier maintenance. Cruise control, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with a CD player and MP3 connectivity, Sirius Satellite radio, Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, and fuel economy indicator, are also standard. Available features include a panoramic sunroof, navigation, and Infinity surround sound with ten speakers.

The all-new Kia App Store offers apps that can be downloaded for free from iTunes or Google Play.

Built in the United States at the plant in West Point, Georgia and on sale now, the 2016 Kia Sorento has a starting price of $25,795.

Reviews–2014 Kia Soul !

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Jan 072015

Kia Soul in front of carriage house in Mary Tyler Moore Show.

Some vehicles hit the mark so directly with a singular design that subsequent redesigns focus on what’s under the hood rather than the outside. Such is the all-new 2014 Kia Soul, a compact five-door hatchback that has captured its segment with the right combination of utility and fun, prompting Kia designers to tread lightly.

At the recent launch in Minneapolis, it was clear that they opted to keep the same bug-like front fascia as well as the silhouette. The most notable exterior changes include a trapezoidal air intake at the front, new oversized tail lamps and a more contoured liftgate, plus the blinkers on the old model that gave the headlamps a baggy-eyed look, are gone. More substantive changes include a stiffer chassis that is longer and wider, adding interior room and an improved ride vis-à-vis heavily revised front and rear suspension systems.

Also adding to the Soul’s upgrades is the standard Flex Steer system that allows the driver to select from three distinct steering settings: Comfort, Normal and Sport for added oomph in certain situations, e.g. entering a freeway.

Kia Soul at the Mall of America.

After the launch, I clocked extra seat time in the Soul by way of an extended stay in Minneapolis. I retraced many of the steps ostensibly taken by one of my favorite television characters, Mary Richards (Mary Tyler Moore). I saw the Victorian mansion used in exterior shots for her apartment, the building that contained the WJM television station, and the downtown bronze statue that marks the spot where she flings her hat in the air during the opening of the show.

No trip to Minneapolis is complete without a trip to the Mall of America, located adjacent to the beautiful Radisson Blu where I stayed. Despite the Soul’s slight size increase, I still managed to squeeze into the tiniest of parking spaces in the parking garage.

There were moments that involved the navigation system supplied by the Sun and Sound Package ($2,600). The navigation (with XM/Sirius Traffic) remained on target plus, it allowed for a passenger to program directions while the car is moving. I understand why other systems freeze once the vehicle moves, namely to avoid driver distraction, but if you do have a front-seat passenger, the Kia method is also nice.

Available in three trim levels, Base, Plus, and Exclaim, I drove the latter that not only included additional standard equipment, but also more than $5,000 of added features—the previously mentioned Sun and Sound Package also included a panoramic sunroof and automatic climate control. The Whole Shebang Package ($2,500) came with push button start, leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Visiting in early October, I was able to appreciate the fall colors and a slight crispness in the air, as well as those heated seats.

The base model receives the 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline direct injection (GDI) with 130-horsepower and 118 lbs.–ft. of torque. The Exclaim, however, comes with a new, more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 164 horses and mated to the six-speed automatic that’s optional on the base model. Unfortunately, a six-speed manual is only available on the base model.

EPA estimated fuel economy on the Exclaim is 23 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. I averaged 18.7 mpg.

Seeking to upgrade the interior, designers incorporated circular cues along the door panels, the power windows, and door lock, a round gear shift knob, and push-button start (its location is exclusive to Soul in the Kia lineup). More new features include an improved UVO infotainment system with a high-definition capacitive touch screen and access to Pandora Internet radio.

Power windows, door locks and heated outside mirrors, a telescoping steering wheel, and a six-speaker AM/FM/MP3 audio unit are all standard on the base model. Bluetooth hands-free wireless technology, SiriusXM satellite radio with three months complimentary service, and USB/AUX inputs round out the Base Soul’s audio/infotainment equipment. A CD player is unavailable.

The Exclaim adds a high-gloss piano-black center console, cooled glove box, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

While the Soul’s redesign may not be radical, it is refined, which is further accentuated on the Soul Exclaim.

Pricing for the 2014 Soul starts at $15,495. The as-tested price for the 2014 Soul Exclaim came to $26,195.