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Nobody remembers the 2010 Kia Optima, but just like that, the 2011 model may be the mainstream sedan to beat. While some consumers – the uninformed and brand-bigoted – might remain skeptical, the 2011 Kia Optima is the new benchmark. How could the Optima go from warmed-over also-ran to the segment’s latest front-runner?

The 2011 Kia Optima is at once classy and striking. There’s just enough detailing to keep it interesting without looking gaudy. Kia sent us an Optima EX with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents on the door handles, body color mirrors and chrome exhaust tips added to the crisp bodywork. The windshield header’s echo of the “tabbed” grille is the designer’s way of saying “Hey, we thought about this.” Clean and inoffensive, there’s virtually nothing to criticize about the 2011 Optima’s styling.

The nuts and bolts of body assembly appear carefully attended to with tight panel gaps and good fit and finish all around. A stretched-out, long-wheelbase look underscores the increased size over the old Optima, and passenger volume is boosted to 102 cubic feet, near the top of its class. A 15.4-cubic-foot trunk is also larger than several of the Optima’s peers.

On the inside, there’s not as much flair as the outside, perhaps, but the dashboard has a whiff of Saab-ness to it. French stitching, the latest way to say “I’m upscale!” appears on the padded material ringing the instrument panel and center stack. The EX trim level we tested carried the $2,000 Technology Package, which also rolls in the $2,500 Premium Package. All of this translates to a panoramic moonroof and heated and cooled power-adjustable front seats with memory for the driver’s side and heated rear seats. A metal bezel around the shifter and wood trim on the center console and door panels is there to reinforce the message of fancy tailoring. Materials, design and quality are as good or better than anyone else. You’ll have to step up to a luxury brand to find anything better.

Knobs and stalks also feel tight and precise. The big LCD screen, automobiledom’s equivalent of the ostentatious flat screen, is clear and easy to use, but we found it too bright for night driving, even at its minimum illumination setting. Fortunately, the screen is easily switched off to minimize nighttime distraction. We did occasionally hunt for buttons, and even though Bluetooth is standard, there’s no voice command system for anything other than paired phones. Uvo, developed with Microsoft, does offer some voice recognition control and communication and device integration, but it’s rolling out gradually and not offered on Optimas that have navigation like our EX.

The Optima is a mainstream sedan, so ease-of-use is a priority. The chunky leather-wrapped steering wheel is sporty-feeling, even if the electrically-assisted rack and pinion is too light and not much of a talker. With a roomy cabin, the Optima is comfortable front and rear, though the class-leading 44.5 inches of front leg room comes at the expense of rear legroom – at just 34.6 inches, it’s about three inches shy of its segment peers. Rear seat passengers are also shortchanged on shoulder room relative to the rest of the class, though rear headroom isn’t bitten by the raked C pillar like you might expect.

Kia says the 2011 Optima rides on an all-new platform. That’s true, and the underpinnings were co-developed with the all-new Hyundai Sonata. The Optima’s suspension is firmer, giving sharp responses at the expense of some ride comfort. Kia’s modus operandi of stiffly tuned standard suspensions makes even the basic 2011 Optima stern enough over bumps. It’s more supple than some of its overly-harsh siblings that bounce and clunk over bad pavement, capable of tight body control and impact absorption. The multi-link rear and MacPherson strut front setups allow the Optima to corner with discipline. Brakes are firm and easily modulated, as well. The bottom line for drivers is that the 2011 Optima follows orders eagerly and can actually be fun to drive.

The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that our EX carried is among the smoothest engines of its type. Its 200 horsepower is made possible by direct injection that also boosts efficiency. A six-speed manual transmission is available in the entry Optima LX trim and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine can also be had, but not together. Optional turbo aside, the 2.4-liter’s no slouch on its own. Teamed with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic, this powertrain is quiet and refined, capable of great fuel economy. The EPA estimates you’ll get 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. We scored a solid 27 combined.

Perhaps it’s not much of a surprise that the newest mainstream sedan appears to trump all the established players. After all, competitors like the Nissan Altima, Toyota’s evergreen Camry, Ford’s lauded Fusion and the Chevrolet Malibu that debuted to much fanfare are all years-old veterans by now. Refreshes are coming and this battle will wear on. Soon, we’ll know if the 2011 Kia Optima is forged from the right stuff to continue proving the company’s “The Power to Surprise” tagline. For the moment, it’s got what it takes, but our advice would be to not rest on its newfound success. It’s brutal out there.

[Source: autoblog]

Kia has released new images of its POP Concept, the three-seater compact electric vehicle created by the company's European design team and characterized by the asymmetrical layout, futuristic interior and original door opening system.



First previewed back in August, the Kia POP concept was designed by Kia's European design team under the direction of Peter Schreyer, Kia's Chief Design Officer, and Gregory Guillaume, Kia Europe's Chief Designer.



The design study has a futuristic interior that mixes organic shapes with simple lines. The exterior is characterized by the almost-triangular silhouette, with the side windows shaped like tilted rounded rectangles.



The original door opening system features an asymmetrial side-hinged rear door, while the side doors swing diagonally - a middle way between scissors and gullwing doors.



"A concept car like the POP could only have come from us," has commented Gregory Guillaume. "Designers very rarely have the opportunity to start from a clean sheet of paper and it's great to be in a position to operate with such freedom."

Minivans don’t grab many headlines when a new version is released and Kia is not a brand that constantly attracts attention within the car industry. However Kia is silently pushing their minivans into the market with a remarkable response thanks to the vans capabilities and price range. The 2011 Kia Sedona is an average-priced minivan with impressive features.



The 2011 version of Kia Sedona features 3.5L V6 engine. With this engine, the minivan can produce up to 271hp and 248 of torque. There is only one setting for control: six-speed automatic but this is regarded as an improvement, as the 2010 version was only fitted with a five-speed automatic gear box. The minivan also averages 21mpg in fuel efficiency.



One disadvantage about the Kia Sedona is its interior. Although it contains all the features expected from a good minivan, its upholstery and design is not on par with many other minivan manufacturers. However this is a small inconvenience as many electronic add-ons are already included within the base price. Another disadvantage is that the lack of optional third row seating in the back. Although often used for baggage, it is a needed feature for customers with big families.



Even with the dull design, the 2011 Kia Sedona offers something uncommon in minivans – increased traction control. Although other minivans handle the road as expected, the latest Sedona has significantly improved maneuverability. This allows better steering control which would be helpful in unexpected terrains.



Base price for the 2011 Kia Sedona is at $24,595. The minivan is offered in LX and EX versions.

The name Naimo is Korean for “square,” and the new Kia EV concept certainly fits its name. But we’re not talking about a total box, as you can see from the photo above. The B-segment vehicle, which will debut this week at the Seoul Motor Show, looks primed to take on all comers in the emerging small car segment, with interesting lines, plenty of LEDs all around and a touch of Korean heritage. The Naimo has no B-pillars, and the rear doors open up clamshell-style, an auto show staple that almost never makes it to production. The concept also features massive 20-inch wheels, which almost look comical on such a small vehicle, and the square-themed wheels are wrapped in low rolling resistance rubber.

On the inside, Kia designers were looking for a tranquil feel, with Korean oak covering the concept’s floor and adorning the trim. A transparent organic LED display instrument panel and full connectivity gives the Naimo that futuristic concept interior look without going too Buck Rogers.

And since the Naimo is a 21st century concept, an electric powertrain is a near must. The permanent magnet synchronous motor provides a maximum output of 80 kW (107 horsepower). Battery power comes from a 27 kWh lithium ion polymer twin battery pack, giving the little concept a range of 124 miles on a charge. Speaking of charges, Kia says the Naimo features a special rapid charge mode that enables the driver to charge the battery to 80 percent capacity in a scant 25 minutes. A full charge will reportedly take five and a half hours.

[Source: Kia]

PRESS RELEASE:

* Striking all-electric concept car makes world debut at Seoul Motor Show
* Naimo expresses sophistication through simplicity of design
* B-segment electric utility vehicle combines Korean heritage with high-tech innovations

Making its world premiere at the Seoul Motor Show today (Thursday), the Kia Naimo electric concept car combines Korean heritage with innovative modern features.

Taking its name from the Korean word “Ne-mo”, (pronounced ‘Neh-mo’, meaning ’square shape’), the Naimo electric crossover utility vehicle (CUV) was conceived by Kia’s international design team in Seoul, and is characterised principally by its simple lines and solid, muscular stance.

The simple overall design is accentuated by a number of striking key details, such as the wrap-around windscreen and asymmetric sunroof, and the front and rear dot-style LED head- and positioning-lamps. This mix of simple and complex is a common trait of many traditional Korean arts and crafts.

Kia’s design team also made use of innovative technology to give the car a premium feel and to ensure the car’s exterior remained uncluttered. For example, Naimo has no traditional wiper blade on the windscreen – instead it employs a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an ‘air wiper’ function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars.

Naimo’s interior was designed to evoke a strong sense of tranquility and features hand-crafted materials throughout. Korean oak is used to trim the interior door panels and the entire interior floor, Korean “Han-ji” paper is used for the head lining. Alongside these traditional elements sit modern features such as a transparent organic light emitting diode display instrument panel and full connectivity.

“Naimo is a perfect balance of innovation, high-tech and Korean tradition. It was heavily inspired by the purity and grace of traditional Korean arts and crafts, but combines this with cutting edge technologies to deliver a truly premium experience,” commented Kia Motors’ Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

The third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year, the 3.9-metre long Naimo concept explores the practicalities of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into a future niche market.

Measuring 3,890 mm in length, the Naimo’s generous wheelbase, width and height (2,647, 1,844 and 1,589 mm respectively) – plus the short overhangs which place a wheel at each corner – ensure that the cabin provides exceptional head, leg and shoulder room for the occupants.

The concept car has no B-pillars and features rear-hinged rear doors to maximise easy access to the cabin, and a three-way split opening boot-lid, allows versatile access to the load bay for varying luggage sizes.

Power comes from a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor with a maximum output of 80 kW (109 ps) and maximum torque of 280 Nm, enabling Naimo to reach a top speed of 150 kph (93 mph).

A twin-pack 27 kWh battery is located under the boot floor and uses innovative Lithium Ion Polymer technology that offers numerous advantages over other battery types. Equipped with this battery, Naimo provides a driving range of 200 km (124 miles) on a single charge. To enhance range, the showcar is fitted with special low-drag 20-inch diameter alloy wheels.

Under the quick recharging cycle (50 kW) the Naimo’s battery can be recharged to 80 percent of its capacity within 25 minutes. Under the normal cycle (3.3 kW), 100 percent power is attained after five and a half hours.

Naimo will join Kia’s growing test fleet of hybrid, electric and fuel-cell vehicles being extensively driven in widely varying conditions to develop future production models with zero or significantly reduced emissions.

Kia Motors Corporation has revealed the first official photos of the forthcoming next generation Rio, which boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the newcomer in line with the rest of Kia's striking design-led model range.



Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, the new Rio will be available in three body styles (with 3-, 4- or 5-doors, depending on market), and has been designed to appeal to customers all around the world.



New Rio has its own interpretation of Kia's signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look. In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic sporty stance. The balance of the window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportions generates a 'premium presence' which is rare in this segment. Overall, new Rio combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair.



The new model features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2570 mm) and promises greater passenger space and comfort, together with increased cargo capacity to 292 litres (hatchback) and 390 litres (sedan). Exterior dimensions changes include: +55 mm (overall length), -15 mm (height) and +25 mm (overall width) to enhance the feeling of sportiness.



Inside, the new model will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models - together with a wide selection of trim options.



Kia's B-segment newcomer will be manufactured with an extensive range of six fuel-efficient and low-CO2 engines - from a 1.1-litre diesel unit generating 51.5 kW in Europe, up to a 1.6-litre GDI gasoline engine producing 103 kW for North America - with the powertrain selection tailored to best suit individual markets and local consumer preferences. An all-new, high-performance 1.2-litre Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) will also be available in Europe from 2012.



Soon-Nam Lee, Director of Overseas Marketing, Kia Motors Corporation, added: "This new model is a big step forward. The Kia Reeo has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car which is extremely attractive, that people will want to buy for its looks."



Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the current-generation Kia Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the company's third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.



The world premiere of the new Kia Rio will be celebrated at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 - alongside another all-new product for Kia, the next generation Picanto city car. Also being displayed at Geneva, and making its European debut, is the innovative hybrid version of Kia's stunning Optima sedan.





REVOLUTIONARY KIA RIO TO MAKE GENEVA MOTOR SHOW DEBUT

01/03/11



Kia's all-new fourth-generation Rio, revealed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the latest model into line with the rest of Kia's striking design-led product range.



Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the international sales success of the previous generation model, Kia's engineers and designers have created a new Rio which appeals to consumers' aesthetic tastes. However, new 2012 Kia Rio will also drive sales through its low running costs and class-leading CO2 emissions – with target figures for the model range starting at just 85 g/km.



Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the third-generation Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the company's third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units, sales in the UK total 52,626 units.



The new Rio model is longer by 20 mm, wider by 25 mm, and lower by -15 mm and features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm to 2,570 mm – greatly enhancing passenger space and cargo capacity.



Manufactured for the first time with a choice of 5-door and 3-door bodystyles, the new Rio is set to completely redefine its position and Kia is confident of capturing a larger share of the growing B-market segment.



To lower fuel consumption and help achieve Rio's class-leading emissions, Kia engineers have carried out an extensive programme to shed weight across a broad range of components. As a result, although new Rio is a significantly larger car than the third-generation model with extra equipment, its weight-gain has been kept to a minimum.



The 5-door version of new 2012 Kia Rio will go on sale in the UK from September with the all-new 3-door model on sale from early 2012. Both versions will be manufactured exclusively at Kia's Sohari plant in Korea.



'Premium presence' for compact new car



This new car is no evolution of its predecessor, it is a revolution. The bold and distinctive personality of the new Rio represents a complete departure from its predecessor and fits perfectly into the revitalised new family of Kia products.



Viewed head on, new Rio has its own unique interpretation of the Kia corporate grille which is integrated with the front lamps to create a new twist on the Kia family look. In this latest form, the Kia logo now sits above the grille. Below the grille, the treatment of the front bumper and spoiler again shows signs of the Kia design DNA. In profile, the ratio of body to glass and the car's strong wedge form give Rio a dynamic stance.



The Rio shows its connection with the Sportage, too, through its strong and stable rear, flowing C-pillar and dominant high shoulder. The coupe-like roof-line contrasts dramatically with the rear bumper and gives a power and solidity to the rear view.



This bold but elegant appearance is strengthened by the distinctive feature line which adds tension to the flanks and accentuates the dynamic stance of the car. The careful balance of window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportion give Rio a refined and premium presence.



To maximise the impact of Rio´s striking appearance is a fresh new palette of 10 body colours. Kia's colour and trim team have developed a spectrum of exclusive colours for Rio which underline its stylish character.



With the introduction of the new Rio, the Kia product portfolio has just taken the next important step towards becoming a family of vehicles which has an attractive and coherent brand style but still manages to retain individual product character.



Sophisticated and spacious interior



To complement the striking exterior, Rio's interior design has also been transformed, with a clean sophisticated theme. The concept follows the corporate Kia interior philosophy with the characteristic horizontal instrument panel, accentuating the feeling of width and space.



As in other recently-launched Kia models, the signature interior architecture – with its 'three cylinder' instrument cluster, precise instrument graphics and clear functionality – has been retained. New for Rio, however, are the centrally-located toggle switches, which are neatly integrated into the central heater unit, and control some of the secondary functions.



The sophistication of this interior concept is also reflected in the breadth of trim options which give the car a genuine premium feel. The bespoke feel of the interior underlines the new focus for Rio as a mature and compact premium car.



The current trend towards downsizing of vehicles which is being seen across Europe means that cars in the B-segment require more refinement, more features and higher quality but above all more choice and distinctive design is in demand.



The radically-new Rio is Kia´s answer to these new market conditions, and numerous 'big car' comfort and convenience features will be offered to consumers when new Rio goes on sale in Europe.



Optional features available on new Rio cars for the UK market will include smart-key entry system, RDS radio CD player with MP3 compatibility plus AUX, iPod and USB connections, Bluetooth® handsfree (with voice recognition available from December 2011), climate-control air-conditioning, heated front seats and LED daytime running lights.



The new Rio's cabin is more spacious. The base of the windscreen is moved forwards by 156 mm and up by 18 mm, while the 70 mm longer wheelbase and 25 mm wider bodyshell bring space benefits for all occupants and luggage capacity. Front legroom is increased by 45 mm, front headroom by 8 mm.



The boot space is 100 mm wider and the capacity is now 288 litres – a 7% improvement over the previous model. The backrest of the rear seat is split 60/40 for maximum versatility. Users can fold the backrest down, to create an almost flat-floored load area.



Cabin storage includes a larger, 15-litre glove box, a larger centre console with 3-litres of extra capacity and pockets to hold a 1.5-litre bottle in the front doors and a 0.5-litre bottle in the rear doors.



Four highly efficient engines with 70-to-109 ps output



In the UK the new Rio will offer customers a choice of four highly efficient three- and four-cylinder engines – with a 70-to-109 ps power range – and a CO2 base-line rating from just 85 g/km, plus fuel consumption as high as 88.3 mpg.



In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of Kia's 'U2' power unit – both fitted with 16-valves and a Waste Gate Turbo. The 1.4-litre generates 90 ps and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre produces 70 ps and 162 Nm. Both engines deliver maximum torque from just 1,750 rpm.



Buyers who prefer their new Rio powered by petrol can select from a 1.4-litre Gamma or 1.25-litre Kappa engine.



A well-proven power unit in the Kia line-up, the updated 'Gamma' has friction-reducing modifications and dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, to achieve a responsive performance and competitively modest fuel consumption. With maximum output of 109 ps and peak torque of 136 Nm, this engine powers the fastest Rio – accelerating to 100 kph (62 mph) in 11.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 181 kph (112 mph).



Kia's advanced 'Kappa' family of engines – also appearing in the New Picanto at the Geneva Show – features dual CVVT, a cast aluminium block, off-set crankshaft, maintenance-free timing chain and low-friction 'beehive' valve springs. These technologies significantly improve efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions. The 1.25-litre engine in Rio delivers 85 ps and 117.8 Nm of torque, while achieving fuel economy of 58.8 mpg.



Rio models will have a CO2 rating of 94-to-124 g/km. In the UK, these figures can be further reduced by specifying Kia's optional fuel-stretching ISG technologies (automatic stop-start, advanced alternator control, upgraded starter motor and low-rolling resistance tyres) – available on selected UK models.



Equipped with ISG, Rio's emissions will range from 85-to-114 g/km, so the two diesel models (under 100 g/km) qualify for local emissions-based tax savings, where available. For these models, fuel economy will range from 88.3 to 58.8 mpg, contributing to lower running costs.



Standard transmission for both diesels and the larger petrol engine will be a six-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.25-litre 85 ps petrol engine has a five-speed box. A four-speed automatic gearbox will be available as an option on the 1.4-litre 109 ps petrol engine.



Improved stability, ride and refinement



Developed from the previous model, the New Rio's suspension and running gear has been engineered to carry over that popular car's responsive handling while improving stability, ride quality and refinement – in line with heightened customer expectations.



The electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering now features a combined torque/angle sensor to protect against side wind gusts. It is geared to require 2.8 turns (lock-to-lock) and the steering wheel is adjustable for both height and reach.



Mounted on a sub-frame to isolate road shocks, the MacPherson strut front suspension is largely unchanged, with small alterations to accommodate the new model's longer wheelbase, wider track and different weight distribution.



The Coupled Torsion Beam Axle at the rear is stiffer therefore reducing under-steer and the strength of the connection between the trailing-arms and the stub-axles is doubled, improving stability. Wheel travel is increased by 10 mm and the geometry is improved to reduce bump-steer and deliver a more compliant ride.



An all-disc braking system – with 256 / 262 mm (front / rear) diameter discs – is standard on all new Rio models fitted with Electronic Stability Control. The performance of the braking system is supported by ABS anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution and emergency 'brake assist' systems.



Comprehensive 'active' and 'passive' safety



For new Rio, an all-new bodyshell was created using a higher percentage of high-strength steel than the third-generation model, enhancing strength and rigidity. Special attention was given to strengthening the engine-bay longitudinal side members, floor panel side members, floor level cross-member between the B-pillars and the transverse dashboard bulkhead.



Kia's engineers are confident that new Rio will achieve a 5-Star safety rating in EuroNCAP crash tests, following the top ratings scored by cee'd, Venga, Soul, Sportage and Sorento.



In the UK, standard safety equipment will include electronic stability control, six airbags and 'active' front seat head restraints, to protect against whiplash injury in a rear impact. A new system called Emergency Stop Signal will be available for additional safety. To alert following drivers that the car is slowing rapidly, sensors detect when the driver is braking suddenly and hard, and then automatically flash the brake lights three times.



Measures to minimise NVH include increasing the rigidity of the car's bodyshell structure with a stiffer steering column support bracket, reinforced panels within the C-pillar, strengthened rear fascia and increased stiffness for the inner and outer skins of the tailgate, plus larger hydraulic mountings for the engine and transmission to dampen vibrations.

The Rio and the RioS both have a wheelbase that is 98.4-inch in length. These two models have the same height and width. The sedan model is slightly longer than these two models by a mere 10 inches.

Bluetooth connectivity is also available as an optional feature in the LX value package. In the 2010 Rio, all models had a standard manual transmission. In the 2011 Rio, manual transmission is only offered in the base model.

The exterior of the 2011 Rio looks great but it does not have the expensive design touches which are expected for a car that sells at such an inexpensive price. The new Rio has standard 14-inch wheels.

Standard features for the interior of the Rio are air conditioning, dual power sockets and audio system with four speakers. It also has power door locks and adjustable armrests for the rear seats. The sedan models also have an optional 60/40 split foldable rear seat.

Safety features include dual airbags for the front seats, side airbags, side curtain airbags and drum brakes. The base model has a fuel economy of 28 mpg for city and 34 mpg for highway.

The Rio is the smallest vehicle made by Kia and it is also their most affordable. It comes in two body styles: a sedan or a hatchback. The available trim levels are base, LX and SX. The hatchback body style is available in LX and SSX trims only. All the models of the Rio have a 1.6-liter engine with 110-horsepower and five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

Compared to the 2010 model the 2011 Rio received a minor upgrade. The latest models now have bumpers and side moldings with the same color as that of the body. It also has new black bezels for the headlamps. The exhaust tip also has a new design and the side mirrors now have built-in turn signals. The interior of the 2011 Rio also has a new EcoMinder light. Another new addition to the new 2011 Kia Rio is the cruise control feature. The grilles of the Kia have been modified to match the look of the other vehicles of Kia.

The Rio and the RioS both have a wheelbase that is 98.4-inch in length. These two models have the same height and width. The sedan model is slightly longer than these two models by a mere 10 inches.

Making its world premiere at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show, the Naimo electric concept car combines Korean heritage with innovative modern features.



Taking its name from the Korean word "Ne-mo", (pronounced 'Neh-mo', meaning 'square shape'), the Ne-mo electric crossover utility vehicle (CUV) was conceived by Kia's international design team in Seoul, and is characterised principally by its simple lines and solid, muscular stance.



The simple overall design is accentuated by a number of striking key details, such as the wrap-around windscreen and asymmetric sunroof, and the front and rear dot-style LED head- and positioning-lamps. This mix of simple and complex is a common trait of many traditional Korean arts and crafts.



Kia's design team also made use of innovative technology to give the car a premium feel and to ensure the car's exterior remained uncluttered. For example, Kia Ne-mo has no traditional wiper blade on the windscreen - instead it employs a high-intensity air jet at the base of the windscreen that performs an 'air wiper' function. Conventional door mirrors have also been replaced with miniature cameras installed in the A-pillars.



Naimo's interior was designed to evoke a strong sense of tranquility and features hand-crafted materials throughout. Korean oak is used to trim the interior door panels and the entire interior floor, Korean "Han-ji" paper is used for the head lining. Alongside these traditional elements sit modern features such as a transparent organic light emitting diode display instrument panel and full connectivity.



"Naimo is a perfect balance of innovation, high-tech and Korean tradition. It was heavily inspired by the purity and grace of traditional Korean arts and crafts, but combines this with cutting edge technologies to deliver a truly premium experience," commented Kia Motors' Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

The third electric vehicle design to be unveiled by Kia Motors Corporation in a year, the 3.9-metre long Naimo concept explores the practicalities of introducing a zero-emissions, five-door, four-seater city car into a future niche market.



Measuring 3,890 mm in length, the Kia Naimo's generous wheelbase, width and height (2,647, 1,844 and 1,589 mm respectively) - plus the short overhangs which place a wheel at each corner - ensure that the cabin provides exceptional head, leg and shoulder room for the occupants.



The concept car has no B-pillars and features rear-hinged rear doors to maximise easy access to the cabin, and a three-way split opening boot-lid, allows versatile access to the load bay for varying luggage sizes.

Power comes from a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor with a maximum output of 80 kW (109 ps) and maximum torque of 280 Nm, enabling Kia cc to reach a top speed of 150 kph (93 mph).



A twin-pack 27 kWh battery is located under the boot floor and uses innovative Lithium Ion Polymer technology that offers numerous advantages over other battery types. Equipped with this battery, Kia Naimo provides a driving range of 200 km (124 miles) on a single charge. To enhance range, the showcar is fitted with special low-drag 20-inch diameter alloy wheels.



Under the quick recharging cycle (50 kW) the Naimo's battery can be recharged to 80 percent of its capacity within 25 minutes. Under the normal cycle (3.3 kW), 100 percent power is attained after five and a half hours.



Naimo will join Kia's growing test fleet of hybrid, electric and fuel-cell vehicles being extensively driven in widely varying conditions to develop future production models with zero or significantly reduced emissions.

Kia has dropped all the juicy details on its 2011 Sportage SX Turbo. The vehicle will hit the streets with a 256-horsepower, turbocharged 2. 0-liter four-cylinder engine that's also good for 264 pound-feet of torque. That makes the Sportage the second vehicle in the Kia lineup to take advantage of the automaker's all-new direct-injection engine, the first being the 2011 Optima. The forced-induction four-pot will come bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission, which should help the Sportage SX nab 27 miles per gallon on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise.

The 67 year old company is doing wonders from a nutshell and it's a fact that over the times KIA has been observed by giving the toughest of competition to other brands in the market. And it is clear with the fact that the annual revenue of the company goes to around $14.6 billion USD.

The Americans over whelmed with the class and charm of the company when the first Kia-branded vehicles in the United States were sold from four dealerships in Portland, Oregon in February 1994. The journey began with the introduction of Sephia, and a few years later the United States line expanded with the addition of the Sportage.

KIA is the oldest car manufacturer in South Korea. At its inception in 1944, this company actually did not produce the vehicles, but produced bicycles and steel pipes. At first, this company called Kyungsung Precision Industry, and in 1952 changed to be KIA Motors when they begun to produce cars, motorcycles and trucks.

2012 Kia-Picanto Lounched in South Korea

Many people are under the impression that they cannot afford a car, let alone a brand new car. However, it is possible for anyone with almost any budget to be able to afford a brand new Cheap Kia. These vehicles are cheap in price only, not in quality or safety features. It is possible to find a brand new car at thousands less than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price.

2012 The Kia-Picanto

The list of styling updates does not end here and also includes a set of redesigned, five-spoke alloy wheels, similar to those found on the Soul crossover. Attractively stylized alloys are wrapped into 15-inch rubber and provide Picanto a sportier exterior appearance. The facelifted Picanto also receives chrome fuel-door, body-color side moldings and side mirrors with turn signals.

the facelifted 2011 Kia Picanto gets a sportier