The press conference was interesting. Like most new-car reveals, there were speeches discussing the "all-American" nature of the product, scripted banter, and a handful of people who had something to do with the vehicle in question. There were also two employees from Kia's Georgia manufacturing facility. One of them was a sassy woman with a Southern accent who sang — not quite off-the-cuff, but close enough — Bonnie Raitt's "Somethin' To Talk About." It was a cute touch. (Talkin' bout Kiaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, indeed.)

Want to know more about the new Sorento? Press release below.

Though BMW and Toyota aren't the only major automaker to not make the list of 27 vehicles, they're the most notable considering Chrysler managed to get four vehicles on the list and Volvo managed the same despite having belts on their XC60 disengage in a side-crash.

Click on the thumbs in this gallery and you can see the full list of IIHS-ordained cars in each category. For the most part, it's a sign of the cars you're least likely to want to drive. For instance, they explicitly exclude the WRX and SI versions of the Impreza and Civic.

Large Cars:
Buick LaCrosse
Ford Taurus
Lincoln MKS
Volvo S80

Midsize Cars:
Audi A3
Chevrolet Malibu built after October 2009
Chrysler Sebring 4-door with optional electronic stability control
Dodge Avenger with optional electronic stability control
Mercedes C class
Subaru Legacy
Subaru Outback
Volkswagen Jetta sedan
Volkswagen Passat sedan
Volvo C30

Small Cars
Honda Civic 4-door models (except Si) with optional electronic stability control
Kia Soul
Nissan Cube
Subaru Impreza except WRX
Volkswagen Golf 4-door

Midsize SUVs
Dodge Journey
Subaru Tribeca
Volvo XC60
Volvo XC90

Small SUVs
Honda Element
Jeep Patriot with optional side torso airbags
Subaru Forester
Volkswagen Tiguan

Like the outgoing Amanti, the new Cadenza will be a FWD sedan powered by a fourbanger and, possibly a V6. Either way, it's a visual leap from the current Amanti even if it's not going to be an engineering one.

Kia Motors Corporation has taken the wraps off its new Cadenza, the production version of its VG concept car – an all-new saloon car designed to deliver refinement, safety and emotional satisfaction in an ‘ideal' driving package. 
The stylish luxury sedan, which is to be called ‘Cadenza' in markets outside of Korea, will make its overseas premiere at motor shows in the Middle East, towards the end of the year.
The Cadenza name is derived from an Italian musical term used to describe an elaborate, ornamental flourish for a concerto or aria. It perfectly symbolises the dynamic saloon's striking design philosophy and premium image.
Sporty and sleek in appearance, Cadenza features a bold headlamp design with attention-grabbing LED surrounds and a purposeful, athletic character line. The prominent front grille and stylish tail-lights emphasise the car's high-tech feel and are a continuing expression of Kia's dramatic design DNA.
On the inside, there is a futuristic ‘floating' dashboard that highlights Kia's uniquely innovative design approach. The welcome system turns on the exterior puddle and interior lights to ‘greet' the driver, while the interior mood lighting strip, which runs along the dashboard to the door trim, creates a warm atmosphere within the vehicle.
The Kia Cadenza's dynamic design and driving performance, allied with a raft of competitive passenger-friendly high-tech features, will make it a leader in the large, luxury sedan market segment.
Luxury features will include a heated steering wheel for winter driving in cold countries, powered extendable seat cushions to give extra thigh support, automatic defogging of the windscreen and ventilated front seats providing cool comfort in hot countries.
Soon-Nam Lee, Director of the Overseas Marketing Group, Kia Motors Corporation, said, "The new Cadenza will showcase the continuing evolution in Kia's striking design language through the harmonious blend of light and lines. It will also present a new concept in luxury sedans in terms of performance and technology."
Cadenza is positioned above the existing Magentis model in Kia's global line-up but currently there are no plans to bring to vehicle to the UK.
Kia Motors (UK) Limited Managing Director Michael Cole commented: "Despite its striking appearance and high-tech engineering I do not believe this is the right time to try and extend our range into a sector of the market that is dominated by German brands. But Cadenza shows clearly how Kia's design-led philosophy under Peter Schreyer is producing startling new products and it is clear from this car that our future new model programme – which starts next year with Venga and the all-new Sorento – is going to continue the dramatic development of our brand in the UK"

Hyundai finished the first two quarters with 2.153 million vehicles sold, compared to 2.145 for Ford. Of the ten biggest automakers, Ford took the biggest sales hit in the first half, dropping 30.6%.

This isn't the whole story. At the beginning of this year we were all worked up over Toyota knocking out GM as the world's largest automaker. According to the first-half numbers Toyota is ahead of GM by less than 12,000 vehicles — last year at this time, Toyota was ahead by over 200,000 units. Whereas GM sales are down 21.8%, Toyota's are down 26.0%. With six months to go GM is now increasing production at its Lordstown, Ohio and Ontario, Canada plants. Could we be in for a photo finish.

This isn't the whole story as sales don't directly correspond to profitability and Ford, like other automakers, partially prepared for this by drastically cutting back production. Still, the global ranking of manufacturers is a significant measurement for morale and this is yet another hit to the not-so-Big Three psyche.

[Kia via AutoBlog]

To earn a top safety pick a vehicle must get top ratings in front, side, and rear tests. They must also be equipped with electronic stability control. While none of these things make a car any more fun to drive, they certainly make them more comforting to crash. The Insight and Prius were sort of givens and we're not altogether surprised about the Soul as it competes with the Honda Fit and Scion XB, both of which won the award last year.

The IIHS was kind enough to include some Kia Soul and Honda Insight carnage, which you can view below.

<img src="http://cache.gawker.com/assets/stills/insight_front_jalopnik.flv.jpg"

VG isn't the official name just yet, but an internal name to be replaced when the car is officially unveiled at the next Detroit Auto Show. It's expected to compete in the "near luxury" segment and will sport a 2.4 liter direct injection four cylinder and a 3.8 liter V6. We're betting it won't be quite as wild as these images portray, but almost anything will be better than the Amanti.

KIA MOTORS RELEASES FIRST IMAGES OF ALL-NEW MODEL

Kia Motors has today released the first images of its new premium saloon due to go on sale in Korea at the end of the year.

The new model, currently known by its code name VG, was shown in concept form at the Seoul Motor Show earlier this year and is set to replace the existing Opirus model in Korean, North American and European markets.

"VG clearly demonstrates the next stage in Kia's design evolution and showcases our new design principle of 'sophistication by simplicity'. The exterior is a seamless blend of powerful front, sleek profile and sophisticated but simple rear lines to create an elegant and luxurious appearance," commented Hyoung Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President and COO of International Business Division at Kia Motors Corporation.

There are no current plans to bring this model to the UK market.

The ATHF'd Kia Soul is part of what we'd consider one of the most well thought out and executed marketing strategies we've seen in years. Considering Cartoon Network's late-night Adult Swim programming appeals to mid-twenties/early thirties n'er-do-wells with a sense for the hip and clever, they're hitting the Soul's target audience right in the gut with this ad buy. Of course, considering sales on past box-UV's like the Scion xB they'd be just as well-off purchasing time around Matlock marathons on the Hallmark Channel.

In any case, the little Soul has been properly festooned in urban-chic artwork by an Atlanta-based graffiti artist named Hense and will be given away by some method to be unveiled on June 1st. Not sure if it's as cool as a free Ford Fiesta with a no-limit gas card for six months, but we sure wouldn't turn it down. Details and more video can be found at Adult Swim.com.

The new Kia comes standard with the company's 2.0-liter DOHC fourbanger good for 156 HP and 144 lb-ft of torque, which is reasonable by today's standards. Those looking for more can upgarde to the SX and its larger 2.4-liter inline four putting out 173 HP and 168 lb-ft of torque. Either engine comes paired with either a five-speed auto or six-speed manual transmission.

With more power on tap than the Focus, non-SS Cobalt, and Civic coupes, Kia is clearly trying to out-muscle the established players. With a clean and modern interior, it's also hoping to outclass them — or is that outklass? Either way, lacking the SYNC system found in the Focus and the name recognition of the Civic we imagine value is going to be the winning component in the Kia Forte Koup calculation.

The Kia VG will be going on sale later this year in Korea with international distribution following thereafter, including the US. The possibility of production is revealed in its believable powertrain. The VG starts off with a 194.6 inch overall length over a front-wheel-drive platform motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 good for 277 HP, which is backed up by a manumatic six speed transmission. The car wears the now-familiar Kia grille flanked by some slightly surprised-looking headlights and and surprisingly sleek bodywork. Inside, there's a mix of concept car doo-dads and actual hardware. We're expecting the general layout to be the same in the production version, but the high tech center console and gauge cluster are not likely. Kia needs to start being more careful or they'll become a respectable car maker. [Kia World]

Ooooh hahahaha! Look, Kia worked up a HILARIOUS press release and images of a totally outlandish Kia Soul! They are sooooo hip and clever! Everyone, rush out at buy one of their new products because they are so with it. Photoshopping stupid body work onto an otherwise noteworthy, cheap, but utilitarian vehicle is a perfectly good way to spend man hours.

We'll just be in our boxers, standing on the proverbial porch of the internet shaking our fist at those damn kids on our lawn for the next two days.

Silly details below:

[Source: Kia]

The Kia Forte goes on sale in the US later this year as the replacement for the underwhelming Spectra. While our Forte will have a fourbanger, this Kia LPI Hybrid features a small electric motor and a Liquefied Petroleum Injected engine, capable of combining for 124 HP and 41 MPG US. The lithium polymer (li-poly) battery will be supplied by LG Chem, who is also supplying the same battery for the Chevy Volt.

In addition to launching their first production hybrid, Kia also announced their Eco-Dynamics brand, a sub-brand dedicated to green vehicles (we assume they mean ecological and not just neon Hulk green). It's unclear whether or not this brand will make it to the U.S., but the company has plans to bring the Eco-Dynamics-branded vehicles to the international market.

[via Kia World]

Hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, iPod/USB integration, satellite radio, ABS, disc brakes all around, A/C and a full suite of airbags are just some of the features standard on 95% of all Souls going to market.

The $13,300 base Kia Soul gets a 1.6-liter inline-four capable of putting out 122 HP and 115 lb-ft of torque, while the higher-end models get the 2.0-liter inline-four good for 142 HP and 137 lb-ft. All cars come standard with a five-speed manual and have the option of a four-speed automatic. The car's "+" trim adds 16-inch wheels and added control for $14,950, while the Sport and Exclaim go up to $16,950 and add 18-inch alloy wheels, more interior options and a larger six-speaker stereo.

The sportiest model is differentiated by a thicker anti roll bar, imperceptibly mild suspension tune and metal pedals. Even with the larger motor, the Kia Soul isn't about performance. With the five-speed, 2.0-liter fourbanger and a little luck or skill you can achieve a 0-to-60 MPH time in the low eight-second range.

To the average Kia buyer, what's going on inside the car is more important than performance. If space is a key component, the 53.4 cubic feet of interior cargo space with the rear seats down may be an issue (the xB has 69.9 cubic feet, the Cube 58.1), though the under-floor storage is a nice touch. For customers concerned with style and comfort, the Soul may actually win them over with its larger seats, reasonable space and funky-yet-intuitive dash complete with a crystal clear display.

The idea behind the Kia Soul is to separate the brand's future from a past marked by crappy products produced at a low cost. We have no problem claiming this is the best-designed Kia because, for the first time, it looks like someone has actually taken the time to design one. The brainchild of the company's California-based design center, this is one Kia that doesn't feel like a Korean cast-off.

It's hard to stand out in Miami given the abundance of partially undressed woman and white Lamborghinis, yet the Kia garnered a disproportionate amount of attention and not just because we were driving like tourists. It looks different. And for an economy car, with the stick shift and comically oversized 18-inch wheels, it actually drives like something just a little different, offering quicker-than-expected steering and less-than-expected lean when really pushing it.

If you're in the market for a fun compact car you'll love, the Soul isn't your best option. If you're in the market for a cheap Korean compact car you won't hate, the Soul may be your only option.

This heavily disguised Forte Coupe was spotted in a parking lot somewhere in South Korea and if the shape is any indication it might be a pretty nice little ride. Based on the headlights, shape of the nose, and the lower fascia divot revealed when the spy shooter lifted the camo a bit, this car will be getting a lot of elements from the sedan transferred directly. That's not a terrible thing considering for the segment and price point the Forte isn't a bad looking car to begin with. Mated to the 2.4-liter inline-four with 173 HP and the six speed manual out of the Forte SX, this could be a riot of a front-driver.

Word on the street is the Kia Forte Coupe will be in US dealers by next December, so watch out for a reveal between now and the end of the year. Until then, go HERE for the above image in full resolution, and head over to Kia-World for the whole gallery of images and a whopping batch of Kia love.

The new Sorento will be the first vehicle equipped with Kia's exciting R-Diesel engine. Displacing a scintillating 2.2-liters and making a fiery 200 HP, the four banger delivers a positively overwhelming 33 MPG. For less frugally minded Korean crossover enthusiasts, there'll also be a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine and the ubiquitous Hyundai/Kia 3.8-liter V6, although a 6-speed auto should ensure that you don't have too much fun.

Expect more earth shattering details from the official unveiling at next month's Seoul Auto Show. [via Kia World, Omnimoto, Autoblog]

We got to show you the Geneva Motor Show-bound Kia No 3 concept earlier this week, but that's not the only thing the South Koreans are letting out of the bag. These two teaser sketches of the 2010 Kia Sorento popped up on Kia-World late last night and they give us a pretty clear look at what's in store design wise for the upcoming small SUV.

Details on the upcoming SUV are scarce, but we do know that the next-gen Sorento will get slightly bigger overall due to a shared platform with the Hyundai Veracruz, making the SUV quieter, giving it a more compliant suspension and much better fuel economy. It's expected that the Sorento will carry on with the current model's 3.8 liter V6 and a collaborative effort with Hyundai will net a 3.0 liter diesel V6 with both engines swapping gears with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2010 Kia Sorento will make its official debut at the 2009 Seoul Auto Show in April and is expected to go on sale in the U.S. later this year.

(Hat Tip To Mike!)

[via kia-world]

Kia's No 3 Concept is a 13.1-foot-long stubby little commuter swathed in stylish Europeany-ness. A giant glass roof, enormous rims, and fancy HID headlights are all things which will be stripped away in the production version set to debut in Frankfurt in the fall as the Kia YN (yes-no?). It will keep the overall shape, the Kia Soul-inspired grille and front end, and the efficient five passenger packaging layout.

Also at the Kia stands will be an updated version of the Magentis, which we know as the Optima, a new production variant of the Kia C'eed equipped with a start/stop system with the 1.4-liter four cylinder and a Kia C'eed Hybrid which will see limited production for European fleet evaluation purposes. Guess they don't want the go too fast with this weird "hybrid" fad all the kids are talking about these days.

All-new MPV Concept heads Kia line-up at Geneva
Kia will be displaying an all-new MPV concept, a range of Idle Stop & Go cars and an innovative Hybrid at the 79th Salon International de l'Auto which opens in Geneva on 3 March. There will be a total of 18 vehicles on the Kia stand [Stand 5231, Hall 5] including three models making their first appearance in Switzerland – the Kia Soul, upgraded 2009 Kia Sportage compact SUV and upgraded, new-look 2009 Kia Magentis sedan.

Kia No 3 Concept Car
All-new, the Kia No 3 Concept Car redefines the small MPV genre by creating a beautiful car that is also fun-to-drive. The concept features a unique extended windscreen and panorama glass roof with a diagonal supporting bar, an automatic sun visor and the new 'face of Kia' displays the front grille, head lamps and brand logo in a new constellation. The 4045 mm long concept is finished in matt Titanium Grey with contrasting gloss-white accents.

Kia cee'd ISG
The new Kia cee'd ISG (Idle Stop & Go) models, which offer up to 15% fuel savings in city driving, are now on sale in many countries across Europe. Kia's innovative ISG system automatically switches the engine off when the car is stopped in traffic and restarts the engine instantly when the driver wishes to move off. Kia cee'd ISG cars are available with a choice of 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre gasoline engines and each of the three cee'd family bodystyles – five-door hatchback, five-door sporty wagon and three-door pro_cee'd. The 1.4-litre ISG models at Geneva have a 137 g/km CO2 rating.

Kia cee'd Hybrid
Kia Motors has produced a fleet of prototype Kia cee'd Hybrid cars especially for testing and evaluation in Europe. The cee'd Hybrid uses an upgraded powertrain with Kia's Gamma 1.6-litre gasoline engine, mated to a 15kW, 105 Nm AC synchronisedelectric motor, a CVT transmission and the new ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system. Kia
calculates that the cee'd Hybrid accelerates to 100 kph in 11.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 185 kph. The prototype achieves fuel consumption of 4.81 litres per 100 km and a CO2 figure of 109 g/km – down 25% compared to the standard 1.6-litre gasoline cee'd.

[Source: Kia, Kia-World]

With the 2010 Forte, Kia is continuing its makeover that started with the Kia C'eed and has continued with the Soul. No longer content to put out bare-bones, low budget transportation appliances, Kia is moving upscale (relatively speaking) and taking aim squarely at the head of the class; namely, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The interior materials are astoundingly tolerable, the list of standard features is long, and the amount of horsepower is high. Kia also revealed plans to build 50% of their cars in the United States by 2013. Take the badge off and you could have a respectable car.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA INTRODUCES ALL-NEW KIA FORTE

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – On the heels of announcing the widely acclaimed, all-new Kia Soul, Kia Motors America (KMA) today introduced the all-new 2010 Kia Forte (pronounced for-tay) compact sedan at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. Forte blends Kia's exciting new design direction under the tutelage of Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors' chief design officer, with a multitude of standard features. The 2010 Kia Forte will go on sale in North America in late spring or early summer of 2009.

"Kia Motors' product line is rapidly evolving and the Forte compact sedan is another head turner," said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, KMA and KMMG. "The Forte is an aggressively stylish blend of comfort and practicality – and with a host of standard features it provides the great quality and value that consumers have come to expect from Kia vehicles."

Style in Motion

Sporting stylish and aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. With a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a confident stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The sportier SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires and a rear spoiler.

Smooth and Comfortable Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers one of the roomiest interiors in its class with seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte better handling, smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on curvy roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, Forte utilizes an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the sporty essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Attractive and Practical Interior

Forte boasts a class-leading¹ 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte's trunk also offers an impressive 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, one of the largest in its class, perfect for luggage for weekend getaways.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte pampers its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX and SX models also include standard cruise control with an optional sunroof and leather-trimmed seats. Also standard on SX models is a telescoping steering column as well as sport cloth seats adorned with red stitching, further enhancing its energetic persona.

Peppy Performance

Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower – more than the most powerful versions of the Toyota Corolla¹ or even the 2010 Mazda3.

Two transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available with the 2.0-liter powerplant, will include the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering and low-rolling resistance tires with aero enhancements. These improvements result in class-leading combined fuel economy of 36 mpg (highway).

Music that Moves

Forte comes with a standard four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service². Standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages also add a standard six speaker surround audio system and steering wheel controls.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control (TCS), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

2009 Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

[Source: KIA]

Similar to the already debuted Korean 2009 Kia Forte, the new Forte was supposed to be the new Spectra. We're guessing the company decided to move away from the name, which didn't have much of a positive reputation in this country.

Available in LX, SX or EX trim, the Forte has a leg up on its predecessor in both the style and features departments. Both the LX and EX versions get a 2.0-liter DOHC fourbanger good for 156 HP and 144 lb-ft of torque featuring CVVT. The sporty SX gets a 2.4-liter inline-four delivering 173 HP, which they claim is more powerful than the most powerful versions of the Toyota Corolla and 2010 Mazda3. Ahem, 2010 Mazdaspeed3. Boasting aside, it's a lot of power for a small Kia. Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the Kia Spectra has some sleeper potential.

The list of options is fairly high for a small car, including standard Bluetooth and an audio input jack and USB port for iPod connectivity. Move up to the EX or SX packages and a six-speed system with steering wheel controls is also available. Full details in the press release below.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA INTRODUCES ALL-NEW KIA FORTE

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – On the heels of announcing the widely acclaimed, all-new Kia Soul, Kia Motors America (KMA) today introduced the all-new 2010 Kia Forte (pronounced for-tay) compact sedan at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. Forte blends Kia's exciting new design direction under the tutelage of Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors' chief design officer, with a multitude of standard features. The 2010 Kia Forte will go on sale in North America in late spring or early summer of 2009.

"Kia Motors' product line is rapidly evolving and the Forte compact sedan is another head turner," said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, KMA and KMMG. "The Forte is an aggressively stylish blend of comfort and practicality – and with a host of standard features it provides the great quality and value that consumers have come to expect from Kia vehicles."

Style in Motion

Sporting stylish and aggressive design cues, the new Forte firmly establishes itself as a strong contender in its segment. With a bold look set apart by crisp lines, swept-back headlamps and a sleek profile, Forte exudes a confident stance that conveys motion both while cruising the highway and parked in the driveway. Available in three trim levels (LX, EX and SX), Forte offers a sleek, sophisticated design. The sportier SX trim offers a more athletic profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires and a rear spoiler.

Smooth and Comfortable Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 178.3 inches, an overall width of 69.9 inches and overall height of 57.5 inches, Forte offers one of the roomiest interiors in its class with seating for up to five passengers. The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte better handling, smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors, with a specially tuned suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling on curvy roads. Additional refinements are fitted throughout Forte to help ensure a comfortable ride with good noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities.

Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, Forte utilizes an independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension with struts and coil springs. This combination helps provide the optimal balance of handling and comfort. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling by providing the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. In keeping with the sporty essence of the SX model line, a sport-tuned suspension gives the chassis a firmer feel and responsiveness resulting in a sportier and more spirited ride. The SX model also features larger front brakes for improved stopping capabilities.

Attractive and Practical Interior

Forte boasts a class-leading¹ 96.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 40.0 inches of headroom and 43.3 inches of legroom in the front seats and 37.8 inches of headroom and 35.0 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Forte's trunk also offers an impressive 14.7 cubic feet of cargo space, one of the largest in its class, perfect for luggage for weekend getaways.

Capitalizing on its spacious interior, Forte pampers its riders with a host of interior features, starting with comfortable, nicely appointed full cloth seats. A six-way adjustable driver's seat, tilt steering column, rear defroster and dual 12-volt power outlets in the center console are driver- and passenger-conscious luxuries standard on every vehicle.

EX and SX models offer a number of additional standard luxurious touches such as: power windows and door locks; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; map lamps; steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; dual front and rear cup holders; and floor mats. Forte EX and SX models also include standard cruise control with an optional sunroof and leather-trimmed seats. Also standard on SX models is a telescoping steering column as well as sport cloth seats adorned with red stitching, further enhancing its energetic persona.

Peppy Performance

Forte LX and EX are powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which provide for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower – more than the most powerful versions of the Toyota Corolla¹ or even the 2010 Mazda3.

Two transmission options are offered for the 2010 Forte: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission (LX and EX models). The SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic®.

The optional Fuel Economy Package, available with the 2.0-liter powerplant, will include the five-speed automatic transmission, Motor Drive Power Steering and low-rolling resistance tires with aero enhancements. These improvements result in class-leading combined fuel economy of 36 mpg (highway).

Music that Moves

Forte comes with a standard four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service². Standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players. Standard Bluetooth® connectivity enables hands-free operation for compatible cell phones. For true audiophiles, the EX and SX packages also add a standard six speaker surround audio system and steering wheel controls.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte offers a class-leading level of standard safety equipment, with features such as active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control (TCS), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

2009 Product Line

Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

[Source: KIA]

The Kia Soul'Ster is a nice looking, but ultimately useless concept car based on the well designed and totally functional four-door, segment-bending Kia Soul. Think of it as a smaller, front wheel drive, urban version of the Jeep Wrangler. The Soul'Ster gets the camino-treatment as the rear doors and roof are chopped off and a slanted roll top fabric roof with extremely limited head room. The styling is very common with the Soul, but the characteristics have been stretched or pinched for a more aggressive look with the concept.

It does get a set of rear seats which are cantilevered from the center console and a funky-fresh interior treatment the interior kids will like. It comes complete with all of todays expected in-car distractions like A set of beefier tires mounted on fancy one-off wheels finishes things off and squarely puts it into the California scenester target demo. They served us fish tacos and Corona after the press event was over, if that's any indication of where this concept is aimed at. Despite all that, what we have here is essentially a shrunken version of your friends old Ford Bronco with less space and none of the capabilities.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA SHOWCASES THE SOUL’STER CONCEPT AT
2009 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
Open-Air Concept Heats Up the Show

Distinctive design portrays style, practicality and efficiency
Kia Motors America design team delivers another high-style concept

DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2009 – Bringing a sunny beach feeling into Cobo Center on a cold day in January, Kia Motors America (KMA) arrives at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit with the Soul’ster open-air concept, a variation of the highly anticipated Soul, arriving at Kia Motors retailers this spring. With young buyers’ budgets in mind, the Soul’ster is an efficient front-drive car based on the production model Soul, recently introduced at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
“Soul’ster delivers something new, intriguing and relevant to today’s buyers – a fun, affordable convertible for active people who like to share good times with friends,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer, KMA. “Defying categorization and providing utility and practicality, the Soul’ster exhibits distinctive design cues and satisfies multiple consumer needs.”

Stylin’ Soul’r Yellow Design
A two-door concept with roadster roots, the brightly colored Soul’r yellow Soul’ster projects a hip industrial look with screw borders, reminiscent of a rivet design found on a fighter jet. The windshield is shortened for a sportier and hunkered down appearance. A two-piece top enables passengers to expose the front and back seating areas independently, using elbow-grease technology. The roll bar serves a dual purpose and includes a place for the slider tracks, while providing protection not found in traditional convertibles.

With a unique face, Soul’ster has a tough but refined character. The toughness is expressed through details like the anodized skid-pad insert, which matches the fender vents, roll bar header and wheels.

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Soul’ster’s attitude incorporates lighting that shines through with an amber glow under the headlamps. The side vents, side-mirror turn signals, unique LED headlamps, fog and tail lamps incorporate blue shades.

The energetic, distinctive look carries from front to rear with dual chrome exhaust and polished aluminum exhaust tips featuring carbon-fiber interior sleeves. The large 19-inch, five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels perfect the Soul’ster’s appearance. Regardless of Soul’ster being viewed from front, back or side, it offers innovative perspectives derived from the original Soul.

Inside Out
Once inside, Soul’ster takes even more progressive variations from Soul beginning with the new four-passenger seating design, a diversion from Soul’s five-passenger arrangement, lending spacious versatility for long summer weekends. The surprisingly flexible Soul’ster provides real seating for two in the front with comfortable seating for two more adults in the back. Fold-flat passenger and rear seats combined with ample headroom make this the perfect car for social outings outdoors and on the beach with friends. Making basic features hot, its crank-up windows are a purposefully key interior design element as are the dashboard-integrated audio speakers.

Adding to the edgy design scheme, the non-floor-mounted cantilevered seats project the illusion of being suspended in space when viewed from the side allowing for increased rear legroom. Storage compartments below each of the fold-flat rear seats, offer room for myriad cargo needs. In addition to the spacious cargo area, dual storage compartments also can be found in the rear and underneath the cargo hold area.

All Revved Up
With young buyers in mind, Soul’ster offers an agile, smooth and spirited ride. As with its Soul cousin, Soul’ster’s can be made available with a myriad of engine choices depending upon each market’s needs. A 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which produces approximately 120 horsepower. For those looking for a little more power, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available with either the five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, producing approximately 140 horsepower. Fuel economy for both engines is estimated at 30 or more miles per gallon. Other markets might choose the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 124 horsepower or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel.
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2009 Product Line
Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 11 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The 2009 vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full size sedan, purposeful Optima mid size sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the all-new and affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The Soul will further complement the lineup when it arrives in dealerships this spring.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2008, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of increased U.S. marketshare. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline “The Power to Surprise.”

Kia Motors America is the “Official Automotive Partner of the NBA.” Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.