Showing posts with label kia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kia. Show all posts
Saturday, October 12, 2013
2014 Kia Optima Release Date and Price
2014 Kia Optima Release Date and Price, the new 2014 kia optima on the market in lx, ex, sx and sx-limited trim levels, the optima competes with everything coming from the honda accord and toyota camry towards the ford fusion and volkswagen passat — to actually name a couple of during this expansive category. for 2014, we see proof that kia is smartly tweaking the presentation, while not messing a lot of along with the optima’s enticing wrapper, and that is still a standout in its category of mid-size sedans even with rakish models much like the new ford fusion and 2014 mazda6 around.
When was new optima released,and how about its price ?
Meanwhile a few rumors told that 2014 kia optima unleash date will just be in late this year. pricing will just be announced closer to firmly the 2014 optima’s launch. we expect minimal, if any, changes except for our new sx restricted, that ought to slot in somewhere higher than the 2013 optima sx when using the restricted package ( $34, 500 ). we promise that we both can update soon once kia announces 2014 kia optima value.
How about powertain ?
kia created no changes to actually the optima’s choice of powerplants. the bottom engine continues to be the 200-hp 2. 4-liter naturally aspirated i-4, whereas the 2. 0-liter turbo-four, offered no more than within the whole sx model, still produces 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. the sx, in spite of this, can currently feature kia’s drive mode choose ( dms ) system, that allows the driver to actually modify steering heft and therefore the transmission’s shift points. the hybrid’s powertrain too carries over and includes a 2. 4-liter gas engine supplemented by an electrical motor.
Exterior
Front and rear styling are updated, with led positioning lights and new clear led taillights offered as commonplace equipment. the 2014 optima lx has redesigned 16-inch aluminum wheels. optima ex adds leather seats, 8-way power driver seat, illuminated cupholders, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. the 2014 optima sx gets a brand new polished 18-inch wheel style while a new drive mode choose system allowing the driver to firmly tailor the car’s electrical steering and powertrain calibration to firmly individual preferences. new for 2014, the optima sx-t adds hid headlights additionally to the turbocharged engine. the optima sx-l continues with chrome wheels, chrome trim, red brake calipers, premium nappa leather seats, and new led fog lights.
How about interior ?
The cabin boasts modern lines along utilizing a center stack that cants toward the driver to actually build a cockpit feel. there’s masses of legroom for those passengers, though rear headroom is slightly compromised via the dramatic roofline. material quality is above-average regarding the segment, with nicely-grained plastics and well-placed soft-touch parts.
Most optima models come back customary with kia’s uvo eservices infotainment system, that provides bluetooth-based smartphone integration, streaming audio and voice command functionality for everything from inserting calls to actually changing radio stations. it too includes vehicle diagnostics info and care reminders, and lets users send purpose of interest info from google maps searches upon their smarphone to actually the sorento’s nav system.
When was new optima released,and how about its price ?
Meanwhile a few rumors told that 2014 kia optima unleash date will just be in late this year. pricing will just be announced closer to firmly the 2014 optima’s launch. we expect minimal, if any, changes except for our new sx restricted, that ought to slot in somewhere higher than the 2013 optima sx when using the restricted package ( $34, 500 ). we promise that we both can update soon once kia announces 2014 kia optima value.
How about powertain ?
kia created no changes to actually the optima’s choice of powerplants. the bottom engine continues to be the 200-hp 2. 4-liter naturally aspirated i-4, whereas the 2. 0-liter turbo-four, offered no more than within the whole sx model, still produces 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. the sx, in spite of this, can currently feature kia’s drive mode choose ( dms ) system, that allows the driver to actually modify steering heft and therefore the transmission’s shift points. the hybrid’s powertrain too carries over and includes a 2. 4-liter gas engine supplemented by an electrical motor.
Exterior
Front and rear styling are updated, with led positioning lights and new clear led taillights offered as commonplace equipment. the 2014 optima lx has redesigned 16-inch aluminum wheels. optima ex adds leather seats, 8-way power driver seat, illuminated cupholders, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. the 2014 optima sx gets a brand new polished 18-inch wheel style while a new drive mode choose system allowing the driver to firmly tailor the car’s electrical steering and powertrain calibration to firmly individual preferences. new for 2014, the optima sx-t adds hid headlights additionally to the turbocharged engine. the optima sx-l continues with chrome wheels, chrome trim, red brake calipers, premium nappa leather seats, and new led fog lights.
How about interior ?
The cabin boasts modern lines along utilizing a center stack that cants toward the driver to actually build a cockpit feel. there’s masses of legroom for those passengers, though rear headroom is slightly compromised via the dramatic roofline. material quality is above-average regarding the segment, with nicely-grained plastics and well-placed soft-touch parts.
Most optima models come back customary with kia’s uvo eservices infotainment system, that provides bluetooth-based smartphone integration, streaming audio and voice command functionality for everything from inserting calls to actually changing radio stations. it too includes vehicle diagnostics info and care reminders, and lets users send purpose of interest info from google maps searches upon their smarphone to actually the sorento’s nav system.
Monday, October 7, 2013
2007 2009 Kia Rondo
Second review of the day...another Kia.
Introduction: The Kia Rondo is whats considered a small MPV(multi-purpose vehicle). Essentially its a small minivan. The vehicle is called the Carens in South Korea, the original car was made in 1999. The Rondo is the 2nd generation of this car and was released for the 2007 model year. It initially sold well, but it was later discontinued for the US market in 2010 with Kia hoping Rondo buyers would instead go for the newly designed 2011 Sportage.
Like most Kias it doesnt have a big history, my opinion of Kia wasnt very good when I began to drive them.
Performance: The Kia Rondo comes with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine found in the Sonata and the Magentis, it also has the 2.7L V6 also found in the Magentis. For this review Ill only look at the 4-cylinder. Like the Magentis this engine produces 162 hp for earlier cars, 175 hp for later ones and 164 lbs.ft of torque for earlier cars and 168 lb.ft for later cars. Unlike the Magentis, due to the taller shape and its overall bigger heavier body with this engine the Rondo is not very quick. Its acceleration time from 0-100 km/h is about 9.5 seconds. Its only marginally quicker with the V6. Considering the Rondo can be fully loaded with 7 passengers, Id highly recommend the V6 mainly since its already slow without passengers and with significant weight added with a fully loaded car its ridiculous. Like the other cars that use this engine it can be a bit noisy with a annoying drone. Another downside to the 4-cylinder is if the Rondo gets stuck in snow its unable to rescue itself on its own power.
My Score: 3/10 - Underpowered considering its application, noisy and not all that refined.
Handling: With its intention being a MPV, driving dynamics also suffer. Its high center of gravity along with its soft suspension make it not a very good choice for cornering. Fortunately it does ride reasonably well. The lack of agility however makes it just as poor as a regular minivan. I just dont really see the point if it loses the car agility. The light wheel makes it easy to turn the wheel but it lacks feel. This car just doesnt like changing directions quickly.
My Score: 4/10 - Rides alright, unfortunately its handling is as bad as a bigger minivan
Interior: The Rondo is one of the nicer Kia interiors from this time. Not a great interior but at least one that doesnt look extremely dull and grey. Once again the interior is full of plastic but you can tell a few of the touches are at least better than a standard Kia of this time. The best thing about the Rondo is it has the optional 7-seater configuration. Getting to the 3rd row of seats is done by moving the 2nd row forward and then folding it. There is enough room for children in the 3rd row and if the 2nd row passengers arent very tall there can be reasonable amount room for both 2nd and 3rd row passengers. I like how its not difficult or confusing to use and its operation is solid. As for problems, the D-pillar is rather thick so seeing out of it isnt that great from inside. When using the 3rd row, tailgate space is sacrificed meaning you cant carry many extra things. The build quality in these vehicles appear to be pretty good, these vehicles come from Hwasung, South Korea.
My Score: 6/10 - Build well, a mostly usable 3rd row, built with average materials
Styling: Kia didnt really try to make the Rondo look different. Its a rather generic MPV or crossover, its the same shape as everyone else and the front is pretty generic. I just dont see the effort. Its not ugly, but its totally forgettable.
My Score: 2/10 - Looks like any generic MPV, no real effort put into it.
Value for money: The idea of the Rondo is to save you money from buying a minivan. Unfortunately I just dont see the point in having a Rondo over say a Sedona. Its just too slow and weak, also when using the 7 seat configuration it loses a lot of trunk space. Its more difficult to park the Rondo due to its size than the Mazda5 which I think is even more clever and more agile than the Rondo. The Rondo is quite cheap even with the 7 seats but a minivan is not that much more but is more comfortable for 7 passengers. If you rarely carry 7, just get a normal sedan and rent a minivan when you need that capacity.
My Score: 4/10 - Yes its cheap and its not all that terrible, but the vehicle is sort of pointless. I just dont see the value in buying it.
Overall: 19/50 - Kia did some things right, but sadly its a rather pointless car. Its not as good as a minivan for capacity and driving position, yet its not as efficient or as good to drive as a regular car. It doesnt have the prestige of a SUV either(I admit I dont get it myself). If you somehow want a car thats not very good at anything that sits right in the middle between car and minivan I guess you could then want one.
Introduction: The Kia Rondo is whats considered a small MPV(multi-purpose vehicle). Essentially its a small minivan. The vehicle is called the Carens in South Korea, the original car was made in 1999. The Rondo is the 2nd generation of this car and was released for the 2007 model year. It initially sold well, but it was later discontinued for the US market in 2010 with Kia hoping Rondo buyers would instead go for the newly designed 2011 Sportage.
Like most Kias it doesnt have a big history, my opinion of Kia wasnt very good when I began to drive them.
Performance: The Kia Rondo comes with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine found in the Sonata and the Magentis, it also has the 2.7L V6 also found in the Magentis. For this review Ill only look at the 4-cylinder. Like the Magentis this engine produces 162 hp for earlier cars, 175 hp for later ones and 164 lbs.ft of torque for earlier cars and 168 lb.ft for later cars. Unlike the Magentis, due to the taller shape and its overall bigger heavier body with this engine the Rondo is not very quick. Its acceleration time from 0-100 km/h is about 9.5 seconds. Its only marginally quicker with the V6. Considering the Rondo can be fully loaded with 7 passengers, Id highly recommend the V6 mainly since its already slow without passengers and with significant weight added with a fully loaded car its ridiculous. Like the other cars that use this engine it can be a bit noisy with a annoying drone. Another downside to the 4-cylinder is if the Rondo gets stuck in snow its unable to rescue itself on its own power.
My Score: 3/10 - Underpowered considering its application, noisy and not all that refined.
Handling: With its intention being a MPV, driving dynamics also suffer. Its high center of gravity along with its soft suspension make it not a very good choice for cornering. Fortunately it does ride reasonably well. The lack of agility however makes it just as poor as a regular minivan. I just dont really see the point if it loses the car agility. The light wheel makes it easy to turn the wheel but it lacks feel. This car just doesnt like changing directions quickly.
My Score: 4/10 - Rides alright, unfortunately its handling is as bad as a bigger minivan
Interior: The Rondo is one of the nicer Kia interiors from this time. Not a great interior but at least one that doesnt look extremely dull and grey. Once again the interior is full of plastic but you can tell a few of the touches are at least better than a standard Kia of this time. The best thing about the Rondo is it has the optional 7-seater configuration. Getting to the 3rd row of seats is done by moving the 2nd row forward and then folding it. There is enough room for children in the 3rd row and if the 2nd row passengers arent very tall there can be reasonable amount room for both 2nd and 3rd row passengers. I like how its not difficult or confusing to use and its operation is solid. As for problems, the D-pillar is rather thick so seeing out of it isnt that great from inside. When using the 3rd row, tailgate space is sacrificed meaning you cant carry many extra things. The build quality in these vehicles appear to be pretty good, these vehicles come from Hwasung, South Korea.
My Score: 6/10 - Build well, a mostly usable 3rd row, built with average materials
Styling: Kia didnt really try to make the Rondo look different. Its a rather generic MPV or crossover, its the same shape as everyone else and the front is pretty generic. I just dont see the effort. Its not ugly, but its totally forgettable.
My Score: 2/10 - Looks like any generic MPV, no real effort put into it.
Value for money: The idea of the Rondo is to save you money from buying a minivan. Unfortunately I just dont see the point in having a Rondo over say a Sedona. Its just too slow and weak, also when using the 7 seat configuration it loses a lot of trunk space. Its more difficult to park the Rondo due to its size than the Mazda5 which I think is even more clever and more agile than the Rondo. The Rondo is quite cheap even with the 7 seats but a minivan is not that much more but is more comfortable for 7 passengers. If you rarely carry 7, just get a normal sedan and rent a minivan when you need that capacity.
My Score: 4/10 - Yes its cheap and its not all that terrible, but the vehicle is sort of pointless. I just dont see the value in buying it.
Overall: 19/50 - Kia did some things right, but sadly its a rather pointless car. Its not as good as a minivan for capacity and driving position, yet its not as efficient or as good to drive as a regular car. It doesnt have the prestige of a SUV either(I admit I dont get it myself). If you somehow want a car thats not very good at anything that sits right in the middle between car and minivan I guess you could then want one.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
2013 Kia Sorento
Kia has since 2009 built second-generation Sorento SUV revised. At first glance, much tidier acting front is visible. The pentagonal shape of a black screen with previously stored in the front bumper air intakes are only hinted at yet. Instead of the round fog lamps are now installed nearly rectangular. The turn signals are not completely colored yellow, thus the headlights look almost white throughout. Kia has redesigned the rear light lenses, they now seem not so flat. The rear bumper was also redesigned.
More economical with better suspension
The Engines terminate the Kia Sorento best in class in terms of consumption and pollutant emissions. Details on the engines - currently, the SUV with a 174-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine or a 2.2-liter turbo diesel with 197 hp available - has not yet mirgeteilt the manufacturer. In addition, handling and comfort to be better than the pre-facelift model. Also, new security features to provide the revamped model. For the future, larger Sorento aluminum wheels, 19-inch model, available.
Sorentos interior is high quality
The interior of the deliverable as a five-or seven-seat SUV is expected to improve quality through more soft-touch surfaces. In addition, the Sorento, the center console with the seven-inch LCD monitor has been redesigned. The gear selector lever of the automatic version comes with a leather cover in the future. The 2013 Kia Sorento can be ordered with black or beige leather, depending on the model version may be let in through a panoramic glass roof, the sun.
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| 2013 kia sorento |
More economical with better suspension
The Engines terminate the Kia Sorento best in class in terms of consumption and pollutant emissions. Details on the engines - currently, the SUV with a 174-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine or a 2.2-liter turbo diesel with 197 hp available - has not yet mirgeteilt the manufacturer. In addition, handling and comfort to be better than the pre-facelift model. Also, new security features to provide the revamped model. For the future, larger Sorento aluminum wheels, 19-inch model, available.
Sorentos interior is high quality
The interior of the deliverable as a five-or seven-seat SUV is expected to improve quality through more soft-touch surfaces. In addition, the Sorento, the center console with the seven-inch LCD monitor has been redesigned. The gear selector lever of the automatic version comes with a leather cover in the future. The 2013 Kia Sorento can be ordered with black or beige leather, depending on the model version may be let in through a panoramic glass roof, the sun.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
2012 Kia Optima Review
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| Kia Optima |
Kia Optima five-passenger, front-drive, midsize sedan in which the correct place in the most competitive car class there. The all-new Optima projects a sporty image is elegant with a sleek silhouette and unique behavior. Optima offer many packages for each trim LX, EX and SX. The Optima Hybrid is reviewed separately.
Exterior
Kia Optima surface features signature bold grille tab, which is surrounded by a projector lamp. The sophistication of the outside of the Optima is not seen in many family sedans. Optima features new faces we see on models like the Sorento and Sportage crossover. Its basically a black mesh grille that is limited by the angle of light, and improves the aggressiveness of car design. Placement of Kia badge on the grille is a bit odd looking, though.
Interior
Five cabins feature front bucket seats and seat back seat. The 2012 Optima interior has a driver-oriented design, with a central control panel tilted toward the rider. Premium Package includes an optional Infinity stereo, Kia UVO hands-free entertainment and communication systems, and HD Radio.
Performance
2012 Kia Optima is one of the cars that perform better in class. This is not a delay to the drive and the base four-cylinder engine and equipped with EX power. LX naturally-aspirated 200-hp 2.4-liter DOHC four-cylinder. EX and SX Turbo using a 274-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the LX; while the 6-speed automatic is available spermatic in LX and standard on all other trim.
Safety
2012 Kia Optima score of five out of five stars in every test conducted by the federal government, including front and side crash tests and rollover tests, which means also received five stars overall. Although the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not yet tested the 2012 Optima, very-similar models 2011 Top Safety Pick. This means receiving a top score of good in front, side rear, and roof strength tests and have standard electronic stability control standard.
Competitors
Kia Optima compete with cars like the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Kia released crossover concept
Crossovers, we can not deny it anymore. More and more brands steps into the boat from the small elevated but hip carts and also the Kia is going to have to car.
The as yet unnamed device has the famous tiger-nose of the hand of Peter Schreyer, Kia nowadays on each can be found.
Kia has made a racy and provocative new model . In March, the fabric of the pilot balloon pulled off. The first images may in any case.
Friday, June 21, 2013
New Car Review 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
As impressed as we were with the 2011 Kia Optima just a month ago, nothing could have prepared us for the Kia Optima Hybrid.
Heres the recipe: Take everything that makes the Optima a winner, and add a hybrid powerplant. But make it a hybrid powerplant that delivers the mileage. 24 mpg city/34 highway in the gasoline Optima becomes 35 city/40 highway in the Optima Hybrid...good enough to vault into 7th place on TireKickers Top 10 Fuel Savers, ahead of smaller, lesser-performing cars like the Honda CR-Z and Lexus HS 250h.
Best part of it all? The price spread between gasoline and hybrid is small as such things go...$4,005. Now, admittedly, thats the difference between $22,495 and $26,500. But if your priorities include using less gasoline and putting fewer pollutants into the air, there are higher prices to pay.
Much like the gasoline version from a month ago, this Optima Hybrid was loaded. You might remember the $22,495 wound up being $27,440. Well, in this case, a single option, the $5,000 Premium Technology Package (Nav system with backup camera, Sirius Traffic, an Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, upgraded 17-inch tires with alloy wheels, auto-leveling HID headlamps, leather seat trim, drivers seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated outboard rear seats, a heated steering wheel and power front passengers seat) ran the price with $750 freight and handling to $32,250.
Yeah, thats a pricey Kia. But again, its less than five grand above the loaded gasoline version.
So...the big question: Hows the mileage? Well, we did 225 miles of purely city street driving over the course of a week, and got 31.0 miles per gallon. Yes, the EPA estimate is 35 city, but the small print under that number says "expected range for most drivers 29 to 41 mpg". So were in the ballpark. As always, your mileage may vary. Id bet on having hit 35 had we done our usual amount of freeway driving...and on a roadtrip, 40s probably realistic.
Bottom line: Kias on a roll, and the Optima is a contender not just among family sedans, but among alternative-energy vehicles as well.
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
Base price: $26,500
As tested: $32,250
Likes: Styling, smooth power, impressive mileage for its size.
Dislikes: Overly sensitive tire pressure monitoring system.
EPA estimates: 35 mpg city/40 mpg highway.
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| The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid. |
As impressed as we were with the 2011 Kia Optima just a month ago, nothing could have prepared us for the Kia Optima Hybrid.
Heres the recipe: Take everything that makes the Optima a winner, and add a hybrid powerplant. But make it a hybrid powerplant that delivers the mileage. 24 mpg city/34 highway in the gasoline Optima becomes 35 city/40 highway in the Optima Hybrid...good enough to vault into 7th place on TireKickers Top 10 Fuel Savers, ahead of smaller, lesser-performing cars like the Honda CR-Z and Lexus HS 250h.
 |
| The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid rear view. |
Best part of it all? The price spread between gasoline and hybrid is small as such things go...$4,005. Now, admittedly, thats the difference between $22,495 and $26,500. But if your priorities include using less gasoline and putting fewer pollutants into the air, there are higher prices to pay.
Much like the gasoline version from a month ago, this Optima Hybrid was loaded. You might remember the $22,495 wound up being $27,440. Well, in this case, a single option, the $5,000 Premium Technology Package (Nav system with backup camera, Sirius Traffic, an Infinity audio system, panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, upgraded 17-inch tires with alloy wheels, auto-leveling HID headlamps, leather seat trim, drivers seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated outboard rear seats, a heated steering wheel and power front passengers seat) ran the price with $750 freight and handling to $32,250.
Yeah, thats a pricey Kia. But again, its less than five grand above the loaded gasoline version.
 |
| The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid gauge cluster. |
So...the big question: Hows the mileage? Well, we did 225 miles of purely city street driving over the course of a week, and got 31.0 miles per gallon. Yes, the EPA estimate is 35 city, but the small print under that number says "expected range for most drivers 29 to 41 mpg". So were in the ballpark. As always, your mileage may vary. Id bet on having hit 35 had we done our usual amount of freeway driving...and on a roadtrip, 40s probably realistic.
Bottom line: Kias on a roll, and the Optima is a contender not just among family sedans, but among alternative-energy vehicles as well.
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
Base price: $26,500
As tested: $32,250
Likes: Styling, smooth power, impressive mileage for its size.
Dislikes: Overly sensitive tire pressure monitoring system.
EPA estimates: 35 mpg city/40 mpg highway.
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