2012 Kia Optima and Soul ranked highest in class in J.D. Power & Associates Study

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the fastest-growing car company in the U.S. and two of its best-selling vehicles – the Optima and Soul – were awarded the highest ranking scores in their respective segments within the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.^℠ The Optima ranked highest in a tie in the "Midsize Car" category, while the Soul claimed the highest ranking in the "Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)" grouping. The APEAL study measures new-vehicle buyers' gratification with the design, content, layout and performance of their newly-purchased vehicles.

"As key entries in Kia's design-led transformation, the Optima and Soul have attracted new customers to our showrooms, and the results of the J.D. Power and Associates' APEAL Study illustrates just how delighted these new buyers are with the purchase of their new Kia vehicles," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. "Both of these popular models, along with the rest of the Kia vehicle line, continue to deliver on a promise to offer U.S. consumers high-quality vehicles with an impressive combination of design, performance, comfort, safety and technology. All of this while still maintaining the brand's unmatched value proposition."

This year's study emphasizes the point that although buyers are continuing to downsize, they are looking for vehicles that are as appealing and well-contented as the larger ones they previously owned. Both the Optima and the Soul allow consumers to shop for a smaller, more affordable vehicle without having to make sacrifices in quality and amenities.

The 2012 APEAL Study is based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. Responses were gathered between February and May 2012 from more than 74,000 new car and light truck owners who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is 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 quality¹ and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking². 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 two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*. Kia's value and technology-laden 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, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

Article courtesy of Kia News.

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Seal a leaky radiator

Save the high expense of a new radiator by trying to seal a leak with a radiator sealer, such as Alumaseal from Gold Eagle Co. Available in powder or liquid form, the product circulates in the radiator until it gets to the hole, where it sets up and fills the hole upon contact with the air. Alumaseal may be used to stop heater core leaks as well.

Your Monday Maintenance Tip courtesy of Reader's Digest.

Check out this testimonial from a happy Executive Kia customer from our follow-up survey!

Check out this testimonial from a happy Executive Kia customer: "Every aspect of my visit was great, everyone was courteous and I received great service all around.  I will definitely come back for my next service visit."

[VIDEO]: 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited Commercial Video Ad

Introducing the 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited with 18" chrome wheels, LED lighting, Nappa leather-trimmed seats, an electronic parking brake and sport-tuned suspension.

Video courtesy of Kia's Youtube channel.

Kia Optima Hybrid "World Record" Commercial

Kia built a midsize sedan that set a world record. The Optima Hybrid traveled almost 8,000 miles through the contiguous 48 states on less than 123 gallons (64.5 MPG).

Video courtesy of Kia's Youtube channel.

Special thanks to Mary for this 5-star review on Google!

"The people who work there are always friendly. They finish what needs to be done on schedule and try to find me the best discounts. I've been bringing my Kia to them for every car need because I believe and trust in their quality of service." - Mary G.

Click here to read more reviews on Google.

 

Two-Door Coupe Evokes Passion with Eye-Catching Design and Fun-to-Drive Performance

Kia Motors America's (KMA) resident two-door coupe returns to the lineup for 2013 with the same combination of sleek styling, spirited performance and long list of standard comfort and convenience features that have become synonymous with the Kia brand. Also back for 2013, Kia's U.S. motorsports program is once again campaigning two Forte Koups in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge (CTSCC) in the Street Tuner (ST) class, having brought home the 2012 Team and Driver Championships in its sophomore season thanks in part to the Forte Koup's responsive and dynamic driving capabilities.

The 2013 Forte Koup is back with minor styling enhancements and added features, including a new design for the 16-inch alloy wheels (EX) and power-folding side mirrors for added convenience. The performance-inspired coupe also benefits from higher-quality leather materials on the steering wheel for a more comfortable and luxurious feel, while both trims now include a standard washer fluid warning lamp, illuminated glove box, and improvements in the areas of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) through added sound-deadening materials.

Available in EX and SX trims, Forte Koup starts at $17,400¹ for the EX trim while SX starts at $18,800. Both trims come standard with convenience features including air conditioning, SiruisXM^™ Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service², MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth^® wireless technology³ and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Plethora of Standard Technology and Connectivity Features
All Forte Koup models surround occupants with the latest in must-have technology with Bluetooth^®4 wireless connectivity and steering wheel-mounted controls that enable voice-activated hands-free operation for compatible cell phones. For listening convenience, USB and auxiliary input jacks offer full iPod^®5 and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit or the standard steering wheel-mounted audio controls. A six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SiriusXM^™ Satellite Radio capability with three months complimentary service⁶ also comes standard on all models, while speaker lights that can either pulse to the beat of the music or simply add mood lighting further enhance the personal lounge feeling of the interior.

Striking Design
Forte Koup's fluid lines and balanced proportions offer a refined and athletic stance with sweeping wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile. Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design, and even from behind, the two-door coupe exudes attitude with slim, wrapped tail lamps, dual exhaust outlets and a racing-inspired rear diffuser.

Standard exterior features are plentiful throughout the Forte Koup EX, including power heated and folding outside mirrors with LED integrated turn-signal indicators, dual chrome exhaust outlets, body-color bumpers and 16-inch alloy wheels (new design for 2013) outfitted with 205/55R16 tires and five-spoke alloy wheels. The SX trim offers an even more sporty profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with 215/45R17-sized premium tires, grey-colored 10-spoke alloy wheels, LED taillights, and gloss-black front fascia accents. Buyers can choose from an exciting array of exterior colors, including Titanium, Corsa Blue and Racing Red.

Refined and Lively Ride
Riding on the same 104.3-inch wheelbase as its sedan and hatchback siblings, Forte Koup provides comfortable seating for up to five passengers with an overall length of 176.4 inches, an overall width of 69.5 inches and overall height of 55.1 inches, making it 2.4 inches lower, 2.0 inches shorter and 0.4 inches narrower than the sedan. Koup is equipped with a front lip spoiler, under-floor airflow deflectors ahead of all four wheels, an engine bay cover, and a lowered stance which contributes to a highly competitive coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.31 and an aerodynamic lift coefficient (Ci) of just 0.21, enhancing stability and providing a smoother ride at higher speeds.

The two-door's high torsional stiffness gives Forte Koup responsive handling, a smoother ride and improved refinement over the competition. Tuned in the U.S. to appeal to more spirited driving preferences, the Koup is built on a lightweight, hydro-formed subframe, featuring a front suspension that employs MacPherson struts similar to the sedan and hatchback, while high-speed stability has been enhanced by lowering the ride height and widening the wheel track. The SX trim also comes with sport-tuned suspension designed to provide a firmer ride with reduced body roll and improved handling.

An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system and smart front suspension design add the finishing touches to the robust, finely tuned steering and suspension package and provides a highly competitive turning circle of just 33.9 feet.

For 2013, additional improvements have been made throughout the vehicle to significantly reduce NVH and help ensure a comfortable ride. Additionally, noise-inhibiting materials are used in the engine bay bulkhead and rear parcel shelf, including the injection of sound-dampening foam into hollow sections of the bodyshell at strategic noise-transference points, as well as improved door and window seals.

Refined Performance
The Koup is powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque⁷ that features Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which allow 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 and 168 pound-feet of torque⁸. Expanding upon the dynamic look and feel, Forte Koup benefits from a dual-outlet exhaust outfitted on both trims.

Two transmission options are available for 2013 Forte Koup models: an efficient standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.

Fuel economy is not sacrificed for performance with Forte Koup as both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway). The 2.0-liter engine offers 24/33 mpg⁹ (city/highway) when paired with the six-speed manual transmission and 25/34 mpg⁹ (city/highway) when mated with the optional six-speed automatic. Those opting for the more powerful 2.4-liter engine can expect an economical 22/32 mpg⁹ (city/highway) with the six-speed manual and 23/31 mpg⁹ (city/highway) with the six-speed automatic transmission.

Impressive Interior
Forte Koup provides a spacious 90.7 cubic feet of interior volume, a surprisingly roomy interior for a two-door coupe. Driver and passengers have an impressive 38.7 inches of headroom and 43.6 inches of legroom in the front seats and 35.3 inches of headroom and 33.9 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Trips to the beach and weekend getaways are a breeze with ample cargo space of 12.6 cubic feet while 60/40-split folding rear seats that fold nearly flat extend the available amount of cargo space even further to 53.4 cubic feet.

Forte Koup continues to impress with a host of standard interior features, beginning with supportive sport seats outfitted with more aggressive bolsters on the seat cushion and seat back. Additional standard equipment on all Forte Koup models includes air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, a driver's seat height adjuster, adjustable rear seat headrests, a tilt and telescopic steering column, rear defroster, center console with dual cup holders and storage area, dual map lamps with ceiling-mounted, drop-down sunglasses holder and variable intermittent windshield wipers.

Progressing to the SX trim offers additional standard touches such as: paddle shifters, auto headlamps, unique cloth seats with vibrant red stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob with a more luxurious material for 2013, metal pedals and metal finish trim. Both EX and SX trims also offer a host of options, including a navigation system, automatic climate control, push button start with smart key, and power sunroof with tilt.

An optional Leather Package is available on the SX trim that includes leather and heated seats in addition to the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

A Supervision^™ gauge cluster with trip computer, optional on EX models and standard on SX models, further enhances Koup's energetic personality with its red-hued glow and message display shown at the bottom of the cluster. This display includes information such as outside temperature, distance to empty, engine coolant temperature, elapsed time, door-open alerts, fuel consumption, average and instantaneous miles-per-gallon readings.

Article courtesy of Kia News.