The Kia Rio then and Now – A Design Evolution

Sit down, buckle up and let’s take a trip down memory lane to explore a magical makeover story that would make Oprah Winfrey cry (well maybe not Oprah). Today on Kia Buzz, we’re going to outline the design evolution of the Kia Rio and how it went from an ordinary subcompact to a top selling vehicle that has won multiple prestigious design awards.

1987 (Pride)

The Rio’s origin dates back to an earlier model which was known as the Kia Pride in 1987. This mini hatchback was sold in Korea from 1987-1997 and was a joint project between Kia, Ford and Mazda. It was sold in the US as the Ford Festiva.

1994 (Avella)

The Pride became the Kia Avella in domestic Korea and was sold as the Ford Aspire in the US. All Avellas came standard with 13 inch wheels, a four-speaker stereo, heated rear glass, anti-lock brakes (ABS), driver’s side airbag, and door impact beams. It was also the first South Korean car in its class to offer dual airbags and ABS-brakes.

1999 (Rio)

The Avella was discontinued in 1999 and both it and the Pride (first generation Ford Festiva) were transformed to the Kia Rio (except it still goes by Pride in Korea). The Rio was now available in both hatchback and 4-door sedan body styles and featured a 96 horsepower, 1.5-litre DOHC 14 gasoline engine from 2001-2002.

Yes, these name changes might be confusing, but simply think of it as the classic tomato saying, “You say ‘tomayto,’ I say ‘tomahto.’Sometimes a car model goes by different names in various markets and regions.

2002

A few years later, the Rio received a slight redesign with new exterior and interior styling along with engine, suspension and brake upgrades.

2006

A fairy godmother transformed Cinderella’s pumpkin into a stunning horse carriage, and in a similar fashion, bringing Peter Schreyer on board as Kia’s Chief Designer Officer was indeed magical. He dramatically introduced new design improvements and our engineers were inspired to match looks with performance with a 110 horsepower 1.6-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine.

In 2010 the Rio embraced Kia’s distinctive tiger nose grille and added some modern and high-tech features such as Bluetooth hands-free phone operation and a new gauge cluster.

2011 – Present

And after 25 years of enhanced design, performance, safety, features and fuel efficiency – we arrive at the present day All-New Rio. It has both style and performance with a choices of 1.2 and 1.4 GDI engines, multiple trims, colors and options to meet the needs of drivers from all walks of life. Talk about the power to surprise!

What do you think?

What are your thoughts on the Rio’s design transformation? If you’d like to know the history of any other Kia models, let us know in the comments section.

Article and images courtesy of Kia Buzz.

A big thanks to the author of this 5-star review on Google Maps!

"My family and I purchased 2 Sorento's within the past year from Executive Kia. John and his staff went above and beyond our expectations from a dealership. We dealt with Jeremy on our first purchase and Chin with our second and both gentlemen were extremely knowledgeable about the the vehicles we purchased. My family and I would like to again, thank Executive Kia for the great car buying experience not only once but twice. We look forward to doing business again in the future and would gladly recommend friends and family to Executive Kia!" - Kie

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Many thanks to Charles for this stellar review on Google Maps!

"I am so excited to let you know that I went back to KIA of Wallingford and purchased a 2012 Sorento. It is just beautiful and great. I went back to Jeremy Carroll and he was fantastic!!! He explaned everything to me and in no time I was behind the wheel driving my new vehicle. I had all the options that I wanted and again when I was introduced to the service dept they were the best. I would never go anywhere else and I have always told everyone that I talk to how great KIA is and what great service I have gotten and what a special sales person that Jeremy is. I would never go anywhere else or go through anyone else. Very, very satisfied." - Chuck

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2012 Kia Soul - Review

It's a compact car that could arguably be called a wagon, but the 2012 Kia Soul's styling, attitude, and options lists position it as something far, far different--not to mention the music-loving hamsters who appears in its TV ads.

The compact "small box" hatchback is roomy, inexpensive, and relatively frugal on gasoline. Its funky sheetmetal is wrapped around a tall cabin that positions the driver high enough to feel like he or she is piloting a small-ish crossover. There's superb headroom, though front-seat occupants may find the wide console trims a bit too much room off their ability to sit with a wide stance.

In the rear, the tall doors make entry and exit much easier than for compact sedans, especially those with fashionably drooping rooflines. The rear bench seat will hold a pair of adults or three kids--and with the rear seat folded forward, there's a substantial 53 cubic feet of cargo space. The load floor is low, and the only drawback to the Soul style is the thick rear roof pillars, which drastically limit rear-quarter vision.

The based engine is a 1.6-liter four whose power has risen to 135 horsepower this year. It's not a particularly speedy set of wheels, but with either the six-speed manual gearbox that comes standard or the optional automatic transmission, it's rated at 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, giving a combined 30 mpg. If you fit the optional Eco package, consisting of one of the first start-stop systems sold in the U.S. (only offered with the automatic), those numbers rise incrementally, to 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway--or 32 mpg combined.

The more powerful engine is a 164-hp 2.0-liter four, which can be fitted either with the six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Either variant is rated at 26 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, for a combined 29-mpg rating. Add the start-stop system, and ratings rise to 27 city, 35 highway, for a combined 30 mpg. The larger engine gives the Soul a bit more pep in urban-combat driving, and a slightly more relaxed feel for highway cruising.

The 2012 Kia Soul has been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and it comes with six airbags standard, along with the usual array of electronic safety systems, including stability control and antilock brakes. Laudably on a car this inexpensive, a rear-view camera is now an option. The NHTSA, however, gives the 2012 Soul four stars out of five overall, with four-star ratings for frontal crash and rollover results, but five stars in side-crash testing.

Befitting its young and digital target audience, a USB port is standard on the Kia Soul. So are power windows, locks, and mirrors, and satellite radio. Optional fittings include HD radio, a navigation system, and Kia's voice-activated control system, known as UVO, which lets drivers run certain features of the navigation, audio, and mobile phone systems via voice recognition and steering-wheel controls.

Against the other boxy hatchbacks--including the aging Scion xB, the Nissan Cube, and others--the Kia Soul stands out as the most practical and versatile of the bunch. We think its optional Eco start-stop system sets it apart as well.

Article courtesy of Green Car Reports.

A big shout-out to Maria for this 5-star review on Google Maps!

"John was excellent to work with. My husband and I had the best experience buying our car at KIA. I would only recommend this dealership to friends and family. John made the process so smooth and easy and really worked with us and listened to what we wanted. I love my car and look forward to buyinig my future cars at Kia and working with John. Very impressed all around THANK YOU!!!!" - Maria

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Get a great deal on a brand new 2012 Kia Fort Koup for just $17,347! That's $1,948 under the MSRP!

This is a brand new 2012 Kia Forte Koup EX with standard features such as Bluetooth, Sirius Radio, Power Door Locks and Windows, and much more!

Must take delivery by March 31, 2012. Does not include tax, title, fees.

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A huge thanks Joshua for this stellar review on Google Maps! Great job, team!

"John and Jeremy are amazing. I bought 2 cars from them and they catered to what I needed. When I had a third child they went hard to work to find me a new vehicle to fit everyone in. WHen I went there they were so nice. The sales department is top notch and they know what they are talking about. I will definately be going back when I buy my wife her new car. The only dealership you need to go to is Executive Kia." - Joshua

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Kia and LPGA star Michelle Wie donate $50,000 to Camp Pendleton's Armed Services YMCA Operation Hero program

Donation Honors Michelle Wie's College Graduation and the Kia Classic LPGA Golf Tournament's Return to La Costa Resort and Spa

• Operation Hero provides after school tutoring and mentoring assistance to kindergarten and elementary students of military families stationed at Camp Pendleton
• Wie is Kia Motors' official golf ambassador and drives a Kia Soul

On the eve of the third annual Kia Classic Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) golf tournament at La Costa Resort and Spa, Kia Motors America (KMA) and two-time LPGA winner Michelle Wie paired up today to donate $50,000 to Operation Hero, one of the keystone programs of the nearby Camp Pendleton Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA). The funds, which are intended to help Operation Hero maintain staff and provide equipment and supplies to more than 375 kindergarten and elementary students at Camp Pendleton, commemorate Michelle Wie's graduation from Stanford University. Operation Hero provides free mentoring and tutoring to at-risk elementary-aged children of military families living at Camp Pendleton, which is home to more than 100,000 men and women of the armed forces and their families.

"As a Southern California-based company and one of the fastest growing auto brands in the U.S., Kia Motors is deeply committed to supporting the local communities in which we do business," said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales, KMA. "Operation Hope delivers much needed services and assistance to the children of our military service men and women and it is our privilege to make a contribution in partnership with Michelle Wie and celebrate her college graduation in a special and meaningful way."

"Our after school program, Operation Hero, is our most critical program for the young military children attending the five elementary schools on Camp Pendleton," said George Brown, Executive Director, Camp Pendleton Armed Services YMCA. "While reducing their stress levels, the program provides the children skills to be successful socially and academically at both home and school."

The donation comes prior to Michelle Wie's participation in the third annual Kia Classic, from March 19-25 at La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, Calif., in which a strong field of the LPGA players from around the world will compete for a $1.7 million purse with the winner taking home a first-place check for $255,000 and one of the first range-topping Optima Limited sedans¹ to roll off the production line at Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia.

Article courtesy of Kia Media.

Many thanks to Anna for her 5-star review on City Search!

"I recently leased a Kia Optima from Executive Kia. It was a no hassle experience. Negotiated price over phone. Joe got me an unbelievalbe price. Better than I was expecting. Everything went very smoothly. I reccomend this dealership to everyone." - Anna Dina

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Reminder: Our $750 Cash Incentive College Grad Program!

Eligible customers receive rebate towards purchase of 2011 Kias and 2012 Kias.

Must graduate or will graduate with a masters, bachelors or associates degree for a US accredited college or registered nursing school. Eligibility period covers 6 months prior to graduation and up to 2 years after graduation. No adverse credit history. Proof of employment with a start date of 90 days from the date of the finance contract. Copy of transcripts must be provided.

Offer expires April 2, 2012.

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Chalk up two more red dot design awards for Kia

Kia has been awarded two top honors for our Picanto and Rio models in the 2012 red dot design competition.

In case you’re wondering –The red dot product design award is one of the world’s major design contests and has been held by the Design Centre of North Rhine-Westphalia since 1955.

The five-door versions of Kia’s Picanto and Rio were both winners in the internationally-acclaimed ‘Product Design’ category, in a competition that saw more than 4,500 products entered by 1,800 manufacturers from 58 countries across a variety of product sectors.

Judging was carried out by an international jury of highly respected design experts, who scrutinized and tested the products in detail, with winners selected on the basis of their level of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, durability, ecological compatibility and intuitive handling.

Only products featuring the highest standards of design are eligible for the coveted red dot.

6 total red dot wins for Kia over the past 4 years

These two latest wins bring Kia’s red dot total to six:

• 2012 Picanto five door
• 2012 Rio five door
• 2011 Sportage compact SUV
• 2011 Optima sedan
• 2009 Soul crossover
• 2010 Venga compact MPV

Thoughts from Kia Chief Officers: Thomas Oh & Peter Schreyer

“These coveted red dot awards are another endorsement of Kia’s commitment to high quality and striking design combined with minimal environmental impact and excellent value.” Thomas Oh Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

“We are very proud of the red dot awards for the Picanto and the Rio. They are a great tribute to our entire global design team, because all three Kia design centers were involved in the development of both vehicles – and the results are absolutely harmonious models with a strong presence.” Peter Schreyer Chief Design Officer

When’s the big awards night?

The 2012 awards will be presented to winners at a gala event at the Alvar Aalto-designed opera house in Essen, Germany, on July 2 2012.

Which other 2012 Kia models do you feel deserved a red dot?

Article and images courtesy of Kia Buzz.

Get a great deal on a used 2012 Kia Sedona LX!

Are you ready for a new family hauler? Well, then take this handsome 2012 Kia Sedona home and load it up! With just one previous customer, this vehicle has been treated with kid gloves, and it shows. It is nicely equipped with features such as Back up warning system, ABS brakes, Electronic Stability Control, Front dual zone AC, Low tire pressure warning, Remote keyless entry, and Traction control.

Kia-certified and with up to 100,000 miles of factory warranty, this Sedona LX is sure to go quickly so call our sales team at 888.875.7491 to schedule your test drive today! Or, click here for more details.

Kia Motors posts largest gains in fuel economy and co2 reduction among all automakers in the U.S., according to 2011 EPA fuel economy trends

Fleetwide Miles Per Gallon Increased 11.6 Percent from 2009 to 2010

• Kia's most recent overall fuel economy ties for top spot among all OEMs
• Fast-growing brand cuts CO2 emissions by an industry-leading 10.1 percent from 2009 to 2010

In its commitment to produce sustainable and fuel-efficient vehicles, Kia Motors America (KMA) has "had the biggest improvement in adjusted CO2 and fuel economy performance from MY 2009 to MY 2010" of any automaker, according to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) latest fuel economy trends reporttitled, "Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends: 1975 Through 2011." Kia's fuel economy gain from 2009 to 2010 was 11.6 percent, while its reduction in CO2 emissions was 10.1 percent, beating all other major manufacturers by considerable margins based on the EPA's most recent data. In addition, the report shows Kia as tied for the highest Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) at 27.0 miles-per-gallon for MY 2010. Kia is ranked number two for MY 2010 CO2 values, ahead of traditional leaders such as Honda and Toyota.

"As an industry leader in fuel economy, Kia is committed to providing safe, high-quality vehicles that are socially relevant to consumers," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Our goal is to stay ahead of the industry by applying innovative technologies such as direct-injection and turbo charged engines to advance our efforts and continue improving on the benchmarks Kia has set in the sustainability realm."

Kia Motors' EcoDynamics philosophy has created a global alternative fuel and powertrain research program to develop advanced fuel-stretching and emissions-cutting technologies. In 2011, Kia introduced the brand's first-ever hybrid vehicle in the U.S., and the 2013 Rio and Rio 5-door will be the first vehicles in the subcompact segment to offer fuel-saving Idle Stop and Go technology.

The EPA report summarizes key trends in CO2 emissions and fuel economy for gasoline- and diesel-fueled personal vehicles sold in the United States, beginning MY 1975. Overall, the automotive industry's fleetwide average real world MY 2010 CO2 emissions and fuel economy have marked slight improvements over MY 2009 and the most favorable levels since this analysis began in 1975.

To review the EPA's full 2011 fuel economy trends report, please visit the EPA's Trends webpage.

Article courtesy of Kia Media.

A huge thanks to Tim for his 5-star review on Google Maps! Great job, team!

"I had some issues with a vehicle and had to give it up. I went to Executive Kia and they had the same vehicle 3 years newer! It took less than a day to get all the paperwork done and the entire staff was friendly and warm. This is now the second vehicle I have purchased through Executive Kia and as long as they have what I'm looking for in the future, I will definitely buy again. Everyone from the receptionist, to the sale consultants,to the service department and the manager too! All of them give a smile and a "Hello" everytime I come in. If you're looking for a dealership that treats you like family, this is the place! Thanks to Todd and Jeremy for helping me into my new truck!" - Tim

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Our $750 Cash Incentive College Grad Program!

Eligible customers receive rebate towards purchase of 2011 Kias and 2012 Kias.

Must graduate or will graduate with a masters, bachelors or associates degree for a US accredited college or registered nursing school. Eligibility period covers 6 months prior to graduation and up to 2 years after graduation. No adverse credit history. Proof of employment with a start date of 90 days from the date of the finance contract. Copy of transcripts must be provided.

Offer expires April 2, 2012.

Contact us at 888.875.7491 for more details!

A big shout-out to Robin for this five-star review on City Search!

"We recently purchased a 2012 Kia Sorrento from the wonderful people at Kia. We looked at the great selection of used vehicles first, but decided to buy new. Everyone was very helpful- Tucker in service and Chin in sales and everyone else that we spoke to during our visits to the showroom. We highly recommend this dealership." - Robin Wallingford

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Kia Motors' "Kia Rio Windows Down" playlist on Spotify gains momentum!

Music Enthusiasts Propose Top Songs for the Ultimate "Sing at the Top of Your Lungs" Online Playlist

• Kia is the first U.S. auto manufacturer to create a one-of-a-kind playlist on Spotify music streaming service
• Songs can be nominated through April 15 on the Kia Rio Facebook page and shared across social networks

In an automotive first, Kia Motors America (KMA) and music-loving Facebook users are creating a one-of-a-kind online playlist, titled "Kia Rio Windows Down," through Spotify, the award-winning digital music service that embraces sharing music and hearing tracks instantly by hitting play on any music post or posting tracks on Facebook and Twitter. Since the submission period began on the Kia Rio Facebook page in February, more than 1,100 songs have been submitted for inclusion on the playlist on Spotify, with song selections totaling 15 hours of music and an average of 24 minutes of time spent per user listening to the playlist, which provides an environment for users to listen, discover, and share the unique playlist with their friends. To create the perfect playlist for a joyride in the all-new Kia Rio subcompact, songs from Spotify's library of more than 15 million tracks can be submitted for the playlist until April 15, and will remain on the Spotify platform indefinitely.

"From our 'Share Some Soul' ad featuring LMFAO's 'Party Rock Anthem' to Mötley Crüe belting out 'Kickstart My Heart' in last month's Super Bowl commercial, music plays an important role in Kia's marketing efforts and being the first in the auto industry to partner with Spotify continues that trend," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Spotify is an innovative music service, and aligning with a new platform that embraces the sharing of music was a natural fit for Kia to extend our Rio launch. Being the first to create a car-centric playlist on Spotify in the U.S. increases Kia's interaction with our target audiences that are passionate about music and social media."

About the Kia Rio 5-Door and Rio Sedan

Available in a sedan or hatchback configuration, the eco-friendly Rio and Rio 5-door offer three trims – LX, EX and SX – and are equipped with a 1.6-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) four-cylinder with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission (LX only) or efficient six-speed automatic. One of only two vehicles in the segment to offer a GDI engine, the 2012 Rio provides an inviting combination of power and fuel efficiency, achieving standard class-leading 138 horsepower1 while maintaining a standard class-leading fuel economy rating of 30/40 mpg (city/highway)2.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality3 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking4. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan5. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

1 Class-leading horsepower claim for 1.6L GDI engine based on comparison of 2012 subcompacts as of February 2012
2 Class-leading fuel economy claim for 1.6L GDI engine based on comparison of 2012 subcompacts as of February 2012. 2012 EPA fuel economy estimates are 30 mpg/city and 40 mpg/hwy with 1.6L GDI engine. Actual mileage will vary.
3 Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study.
4 Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis.
5 The Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are built at KMMG

Article courtesy of Kia Media.

Introducing, convenient and easy online scheduling for your service appointments!

Now at Executive Kia you can schedule your next services appointment online in just a few easy steps without ever having to pick up the phone! Kia’s factory trained technicians and state-of-the-art equipment help provide peace-of-mind for you and whatever your Kia vehicle needs.

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First Look at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show!

This past Tuesday was a big day for Kia at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show. For those who missed the live stream, we're posting the Kia press conference footage here, as Hall 6 was buzzing with anticipation for the first public unveiling and premiere of the all-new cee’d.

Thomas Oh, Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Kia Motors Corporation along with Paul Philpott, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Motors Europe, kicked off the press conference with opening remarks and aspirations for the all-new cee’d.

Article and video courtesy of Kia Buzz.

$14.95 Oil Change eCoupon!

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Kia Motors America announces Kia classic winner to receive new range-topping Optima Limited

All-New Kia Performance Awards to Honor Outstanding Achievements of Ladies of Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Players

• Kia Motors is the Official Automotive Partner of the LPGA
• Four recipients of end-of-the-year Kia Performance Awards to receive Optima Limited

The third annual Kia Classic, from March 19-25, is attracting a strong field of LPGA players who will compete for a $1.7 million purse with the winner taking home a first-place check for $255,000 and one of the first range-topping 2012 Optima Limited midsize sedans to roll off the production line at Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia.

"Kia is one of the fastest growing auto brands in the U.S., and sports marketing initiatives such as our involvement with the LPGA have significantly raised awareness and consideration for the brand and our vehicles," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "We are pleased to offer an enhanced prize package for the winner of this year's Kia Classic. The Optima Limited is Kia's most refined and premium product offering to date, and we are excited to showcase the vehicle to golf fans at the Kia Classic and reward some of the tour's best players for their outstanding performances."

In addition to the Kia Classic winner, Kia will honor the outstanding achievements of LPGA players this season by presenting the winners of the Kia Performance Award with an Optima Limited. The awards, which will be presented at the CME Group Titleholders event in November, include:

• Kia Power Drive – Awarded to the player with the longest average driving distance
• Kia Drive to the Top – Awarded to the player with the most Top 10 finishes
• Kia Most Compelling Performance – Recognizing a player with exceptional performances throughout the year; this award is chosen by fans through an online vote
• Kia Community Assist – Recognizing a player who makes exceptional contributions to charity organizations or community programs

Following strong event-attendance and TV-ratings growth in the tournament's second year, Kia signed on as the "Official Automaker of the LPGA." Kia also serves as the "Official Tournament Vehicle" of eight LPGA events.

New 2012 Optima Limited
Produced at Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia¹, the new 2012 Optima Limited is motivated by a 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine delivering a class-leading 274 horsepower² and achieving 22/34 mpg³ (city/hwy). Offered exclusively in Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Metallic exterior colors, the Optima Limited is equipped with sporty red front brake calipers and uniquely designed 18-inch chrome wheels. Other premium-level features include LED daytime running lights, chrome-accented rear spoiler and lower door sills. Interior appointments and amenities include rich wood trim, high-grade Nappa leather seats, a panoramic sunroof and an Infinity^®4 audio system.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality⁵ and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking⁶. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan⁷. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association)
The LPGA is the world's leading professional golf organization for women. Founded in 1950, the association celebrates a diverse and storied membership with more than 1,700 members representing 29 different countries. With a Vision to inspire, empower, educate and entertain by showcasing the very best of women's golf, LPGA Tour Professionals compete across the globe, while dedicated LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals (T&CP) directly impact the game through teaching, coaching and management. The LPGA Futures Tour serves as the official developmental tour of the LPGA, consistently producing a pipeline of talent ready for the world stage.

Article and image courtesy of Kia Media.

No credit or bad credit: Guaranteed approval!

Having credit challenges doesn’t mean you should be treated differently than customers with a strong credit history. The Executive Auto Group believes that everyone who enters one of our showrooms should experience a level of service and commitment like none other in the industry. For more than 34 years, the Executive Auto Group has lived up to this principle by meeting and exceeding the expectations of the more than 100,000 customers we have been honored to serve.

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A huge thanks to Fran for her stellar review! Great job, team!

"<y last new car purchase was so terrible, I waited 16 years before buying my next car. I was very impressed with the service I received at Executive Kia. The saleman, Chin, was extremely knowledgeable and very patient. Everyone there was very helpful. I rather enjoyed the experience. I love my new car and after exploring pricing on the internet, I found I got a good deal. I would hightly recommend Executive Kia to my friends. I look forward to my next car purchase there.. " - Fran

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Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia Produces 500,000th Vehicle

This morning, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Inc. (KMMG) celebrated production of the 500,000th vehicle at the West Point, Ga. automobile manufacturing facility.

KMMG began mass production of the Kia Sorento CUV on Nov. 16, 2009, a vehicle that quickly became the brand's best-selling product in the U.S. Then, on Sept. 2, 2011, KMMG began production of the Kia Optima mid-size sedan, a vehicle that led the brand's U.S. sales in December 2011 and January.

Since opening, KMMG has added two additional shifts of production with more than 3,000 team members hired by the plant to date. In 2011, KMMG completed a $100 million expansion that pushed the plant's total capacity to 360,000 units per year.

"Building 500,000 vehicles in just over two years is quite a milestone for our first U.S. manufacturing plant to accomplish," said Byung Mo Ahn, Group President and CEO for Kia Motors America and KMMG. "The commitment from each one of our team members is a big reason we've been able to achieve 17 consecutive months of record sales. Their dedication to building world class, high quality vehicles is apparent in each vehicle we produce."

Vehicle number 500,000 was a snow white pearl Optima SX and will now be allocated to one of KMA's more than 755 dealerships nationwide.

Article and image courtesy of Kia Media.