Kia Fan Reporter - Geneva Motor Show 2012

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

We've Redesigned Our Website

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

We’ve redesigned our website!  Click on the link to check out our snazzy new look: http://www.rentonkia.com/

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]

Kia Motors America and LPGA Star Michelle Wie Donate $50,000 to Camp Pendelton’s Armed Services YMCA ‘Operation Hero’ Program

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.

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

Kudos to our Team for Receiving this Outstanding Review!

"I leased my car from Renton Kia and found them very helpful and accommodating, They are professional, appreciate their customers and will work with you even through some challenging issues (not related to them)." - Lilli Ann C.

Get Awesome Deals on Pre-Owned Vehicles

Not sure there's a Kia that's right for you? Our pre-owned inventory is full of great cars like this 2011 Hyundai Elantra GLS that may suit your needs. Take a look at the full list by clicking this link: http://bit.ly/uh9Dom

Kia Rio and Picanto win European design awards

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

The five-door versions of Kia’s striking A-segment Picanto and B-segment Rio were both winners in red dot’s 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.

These two latest wins bring Kia’s red dot total to six, with the Soul crossover winning in 2009, Venga compact MPV in 2010, and both Sportage compact SUV and Optima sedan claiming top spots in 2011. Optima was also named ‘best of the best’ in 2011 – the red dot competition’s highest accolade for groundbreaking design, for which only the best products in each category are eligible.

“We are very proud of the red dot awards for the Picanto and the Rio,” comments Kia’s Chief Officer Peter Schreyer.

“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. I am particularly happy about this thoroughly creative and successful collaboration between our teams in Korea, Europe and America.”

Thomas Oh, Kia Senior Executive Vice President and COO, added, “As global buyers increasingly switch to smaller cars, design is becoming an ever more important factor in the A- and B-segments. Rio and Picanto are key volume models for us and are already in great demand around the world.

“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 for money in its products. Our impressive sales growth across the globe, at a time when the wider automotive industry is experiencing a drop in sales, is testament to this strategy and its successful implementation.”

The wins closely follow a number of other awards for Rio and Picanto, including Rio being named best in the ‘Exterieur’ class at the Automotive Brand Contest in 2011, and Picanto three-door honoured with an iF product design award 2012 – the fourth Kia model to receive this award.

The red dot product design awards are one of the world’s major design contests and have been held by the Design Centre of North Rhine-Westphalia since 1955. 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.

Kia Motors Corporation (www.kia.com) -- a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart -- was founded in 1944 and is Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Over 2.5 million Kia vehicles a year are produced in 15 manufacturing and assembly operations in ten countries which are then sold and serviced through a network of distributors and dealers covering 172 countries. Kia today has over 47,000 employees worldwide and annual revenues of US$39 billion. It is the major sponsor of the Australian Open and an official automotive partner of FIFA -- the governing body of the FIFA World Cup™. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan -- "The Power to Surprise" -- represents the company's global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

*Article Courtesy of Kia Motors America - Media

We Want to Buy Your Car

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

Trying to sell your car?  We’ll buy it!  Follow the link to get in contact with us: http://bit.ly/GCpK9u

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 REPORT

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.

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

Our Prices on New Vehicles are Almost Too Good to be True

Our prices on new Kia vehicles are so low that some people may find them hard to believe.  Luckily, the truth is out there and you can see all our prices on new vehicles by clicking this link: http://bit.ly/mbdf9N

2012 Kia Soul Clay Pigeons Video

Our Internet Direct Pricing System Ensures You Get a Fair Deal

Our Internet Direct Pricing system compares pre-owned vehicle prices on over 20,000 different automotive websites every day to be sure that you get a great deal on all our quality used vehicles.  Click the link to see our latest offers on outstanding cars like this 2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class:  http://bit.ly/uh9Dom

 

First Drive: 2012 Kia Optima Limited

The Kia brand's bold design language, under styling chief -- and Automobile Magazine Man of the Year -- Peter Schreyer, is perhaps most impressive on the Optima mid-size sedan, which was unveiled at the 2010 New York auto show. Consumers took note, snapping up 84,590 Optimas in 2011, nearly doubling the nameplate's previous best year. (That number, however, still puts the model far behind class leaders such as the Toyota Camry, the Nissan Altima, and the Honda Accord, all of which sold more than 250,000 copies last year.) Kia officials expect to move even more Optimas in 2012, as production at the company's two-year-old factory in West Point, Georgia, ramps up fully.

The Optima is currently the largest and most expensive sedan in Kia's U.S. lineup. That will remain the case for at least the next several months, as Kia won't yet confirm whether the larger Cadenza (a.k.a. the K7) will be sold here. Expect an announcement on this front sometime this summer, when we will likely also learn if we'll get the rear-wheel-drive Kia K9, which is just making its debut at the Geneva show.

In the meantime, Kia has added the top-of-the-line Limited to the Optima lineup. The "Drive the Dream" Super Bowl commercial with Adriana Lima, Moetley Cruee, and Chuck Liddell actually marked the debut of the Limited, although you might have missed that nuance while watching the overstimulating ninety-second ad.

The Limited itself is a bit of a nuance, too, since it's not a trim level but merely a $3300 option package for the top-of-the-line SX models equipped with the $4350 "SX Technology & Premium Package." Making your Optima a Limited adds only cosmetic touches: softer leather upholstery, LED daytime running lights, chrome wheels, red-painted front brake calipers, chrome-accented side sills and a similarly finished rear spoiler, subtle wood interior trim, nicer material for the headliner, and, yes, a first-aid kit. Also, a blue "L" badge is installed next to the "SX" lettering on the trunk lid, so you could actually call it the Optima SXL.

The $34,900 Limited is as fancy as you can build an Optima; the required technology/premium package means that it also includes navigation, a cool panoramic sunroof, an upgraded stereo, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear seat cushions. Kia's head product planner, Ralph Tjoa, says that the Limited is designed to appeal to buyers who previously owned luxury cars such as the Lexus ES, the Nissan Maxima, the Toyota Avalon, and the Volkswagen CC. "These buyers expect more," Tjoa says, pointing out that they're able to pay for more, as 27 percent of Optima buyers have an annual household income of more than $100,000.

A base Optima -- still a very nice car -- starts at $21,750. About half of Optima buyers so far have sprung for the upper EX, EX Turbo, or SX trim levels, so Kia figures that about ten percent will opt for the Optima Limited.

Those customers should be quite happy with their purchase, as the feature-filled car drives exactly like any other turbocharged Optima. It rides smoothly (more smoothly, in fact, than pretty much every other Korean car on the market), it handles better than most mid-size-car buyers will ever require, it steers pretty well, and it accelerates quickly and unobtrusively. We drove the Optima mostly on Florida interstates, and we considered driving it all the way north to Michigan rather than catch our flight early the next morning. Snowbirds who often make the I-75 trek would adore this car, as would style-conscious people who seek moderate driving satisfaction.

Our only complaints about the Limited trim level are that the chrome wheels and the red brake calipers look decidedly aftermarket (and not in a good way) and that the tack-on rear spoiler looks like it was pulled off another car.

Optimas with the Limited package will reach dealers in the next few weeks bearing, as previously noted, an MSRP of $34,900. In other Optima sales news, the hybrid model, which went on sale last summer on the coasts, will be rolled out in the rest of the country by early May, but won't get the Limited package.

 

**  Courtesy of Automobile Magazine

Build Your Kia the Way You Want

Buying a car is all about getting what's best for you. Luckily Renton Kia allows you to build the car you want from scratch. Check out our "Build a Kia" feature by clicking the link: http://bit.ly/wLUF0W

2012 Optima - "Technically" Commercial

Get Approved in just 30 Seconds

Financing can be confusing, but our team of experts can get you approved and on the road in no time without the hassle. Try out our 30-second credit application by clicking the link:  http://bit.ly/yYgUwl

Kia Motors America Announces Kia Classic Winner to Receive New Range-topping 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

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.

 

**  Courtesy of SYS-CON Media

This Warranty is More Than Worthwhile

Kia's 10-year, 100,000 mile warranty is the perfect way to ensure that you will enjoy driving your vehicle for a long time to come. Learn more about this fantastic offer on our dealership website: http://bit.ly/l2mHHU

2012 Optima "Socially" - Kia Commercial

Want a Faster, Easier way to do Research on Cars?

Looking for a quick, easy way to do some in-depth research Kia's outstanding lineup of vehicles? These cool digital brochures are exactly what you're looking for: http://bit.ly/sGUshZ

Kia Optima Dunks Over Blake Griffin

We're Giving Out Coupons to all our Facebook Fans

We love giving back to our fans and one way we do is by giving out coupons on our Facebook page (link: http://on.fb.me/wml4L9). ; All you have to do is like our page and print out your copy!

Optima Check "Technically" TV Spot

Get Great Value With a Pre-Owned Car from Renton Kia

Can't find a Kia that fits your needs? Our pre-owned inventory is full of great cars like this 2011 CR-V that may be more to your liking. Take a look at the full list via this link: http://bit.ly/uh9Dom

Spyshots: 2013 Kia Sorento Facelift

Kia is getting ready to take the fight to the Germans on every front, and the Sorento SUV, which should debut towards the end of the year, should prove very valuable. The vehicle you see here is a mid-life facelift of their popular vehicle, spotted undergoing winter testing.

The most important change to the exterior will be made to the headlights, which are being completely overhauled. Expect it to get a look that’s not too distant to the new cee’d hatchback for the European market.
Our photographers say the Sorento was being tested together with the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLK, suggesting is being compared to some very strong benchmarks.

The current generation of the Sorento SUV was first previewed at the New York Auto Show in March 2009. This new generation uses a unistructure body and is Kia's first model built in the United States.

 

**  Courtesy of AutoEvolution

Get Monumental Savings at Renton Kia this Weekend

Don't forget about our Monumental Sale this weekend!  Stop by to take advantage of sensational savings and outstanding offers like this financing special for the 2012 Kia Sedona.  Get all the details on our website:  http://www.rentonkia.com/

Sorento Icons :30 TV Spot

Come Check Out Our Monumental Sale!

Our "Monumental Sale" is going on right now at Renton Kia! Stop in to see our awesome selection of quality vehicles, or click the link to browse our specials from the comfort of your own home:  http://bit.ly/mbdf9N

2012 Drivers' Choice Awards Recognize Fast Growing Brands' Subcompact and Midsize Sedans as Tops in Respective Segments

MotorWeek, one of television's longest-running and most respected automotive programs, today announced its 2012 Drivers' Choice Awards at the Chicago Auto Show with the all-new 2012 Rio subcompact and 2012 Optima midsize sedan topping the Subcompact Car and Best Family Sedan categories, respectively. Recognized by MotorWeek's editors for their performance, fuel efficiency and overall value, Rio and Optima bring a multitude of convenience features to their respective segments, including Bluetooth^®3 wireless technology with steering wheel-mounted controls, USB and auxiliary input jacks and SiriusXM satellite radio capabilities with three months complimentary service⁴.

"The 2012 Rio and Optima are prime examples of Kia's commitment to offering consumers tremendous value with world-class design, cutting-edge technologies, outstanding fuel efficiency and modern amenities," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "These awards from MotorWeek, which reflect what today's car shoppers are looking for in their vehicles, are a testament to the quality and features Kia vehicles provide as they continue to attract more and more people to our showrooms."

The annual MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Awards represent the editors' best automotive picks for a range of lifestyles. This year, a team of 15 judges comprised of MotorWeek's editorial staff, evaluated more than 150 cars, trucks and utility vehicles. Decisions are based on performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency and dollar value. The winners represent what MotorWeek considers to be the best in each class.

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

2012 Kia Optima Blake Griffin Commercial "Easy to Fold"

Kia Track’ster Photo Released: Chicago Auto Show Preview

Kia‘s new Track’ster concept is set to be debuted at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, and Kia is building more hype today as the Korean brand released a new photo of the sporty crossover.

While it is only a picture of the back end of the car,  it shows some interesting design elements, namely the “C” shaped tail lights, dual exhaust pipes and flared rear fenders which look like sports car style air intakes on the bottom corners of the car.

The Track’ster is based on the Kia soul platform, although it will take on an image of its own sporting two doors, a chopped roof line and we can only assume a turbo charged engine, probably the 1.6L four cylinder found in the Veloster Turbo.

 

**  Courtesy of AutoGuide

You'll Fall in Love With Our New Inventory

Kia has a stellar lineup of vehicle this year and the best part is that you can get cars like this 2012 Forte LX for super-low prices at Renton Kia. Check out our new inventory by clicking on this link: http://bit.ly/mbdf9N

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]

"A Dream Car. For Real Life." -- 2012 Kia Optima Big Game Full Commercial

2012 Kia Optima Blake Griffin Commercial "Impressive"

Special Financing is Available on the 2012 Kia Soul

Right now qualified buyers can get special 0.9% APR financing for 36 months on the 2012 Kia Soul.  For more details and to see other offers check out our website:  http://www.rentonkia.com/

The Kia Sportage Cross-over Turn Heads into 2012

When we transition directly into 2012, just one car to check out once again is the 2012 Kia Sportage. It absolutely was entirely refurbished, and so the 2012 Kia Sportage design provides just a few modifications. For that matter, the only real new components for that forthcoming year are definitely the suspensions and some additional audio insulation. In any other case, there are several new additional in some of the trims. The Competition involves the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV, both providing a little more cargo space. Other competitors are the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Chevrolet Equinox, and that is generally companies to companies within this comparability.

Features of the Kia Sportage incorporate snazzy cabin and outlook appearance which will make heads turn. Additionally, there are top quality found inside the Kia Sportage that could improve the value in some other manufacturers.

The Kia Sportage has 5 seats and is presented in the basic foundation, EX and LX trim levels, along with the modified turbocompresseur SX trim.

The base provides specifications like 16inch cast aluminum wheels, all-power accessories, air-conditioning, pull back on steering wheel together with audio and phone features. It arrives with material furniture, but theres a premium package deal you may get with all the top grade EX for a leather alternative.

The Kia Sportage LX provides you with convert signals on the outlook mirrors, keyless entry and also tinted rear windows. Together with the Kia Sportage EX you will have LED daytime running lights, chrome exterior features, 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler, dual-zone automatic hvac, a leather-wrapped controls, roof rails and also telescopes, a power driver seats, and, fully grasp this, a chilled glove-box.

Obviously, you can also find deals such as the EX Premium-package that not only present leather-based covers, but additionally heated up front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a ventilated driver seat, rear parking sensors, and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. With the EX and LX models you can also find the choices of a modified sound system and a voice-controlled navigation system with a backup camera.

Underneath the hoods, the EX and LX are all 2.4 liter inline 4 engines applying 168 pound-feet of torque and 176 Hp. You will get the base using a 6-speed of manual transmissions. The EX and also LX features a 6-speed automated, as well, however, you can easily select front or perhaps all wheel drive or even the turbo-charged with 2.0 liter engine SX trim, which with front-wheel-drive has been examination automobile for this car reviews.

The Kia Sportage precautionary features incorporate front side and also full-length side window curtain safety bags, active front head rests, anti lock disc brakes with brake support, tractions control, balance control, and mountain lineage and also mountain start control.

Inside the Kia Sportage, the actual top-of-the-line cabin turns on the EX trim with many different shapes and user-friendly controls which are well-placed and simple to locate and use.

The seats inside all the trims are stand apart, with more comfortable shaping to the entire body, there are lots of leg-room and head-room for adults. Even just in the rear seat, 2 adults can fit in effortlessly. A third passenger in the rear seat will make this a bit of a confined, except if the 3 passengers are rather little.

To get an effortless to drive and a pleasurable around town car, evaluate the SX if you would like more power when driving. However, the ability from the four-cylinder engine is sufficient and the automatic transmitting can make it a simple drive throughout. Without requiring the maximum amount of cargo space as some of the competition cross-overs, there is 26.1 cubic feet at the rear of the back seats and 54.6 cubes using the 60/40-split-folding seats laid toned.

 

**  Courtesy of "Managed Speed"

Thanks for the Great Feedback

"So far I'm loving the car, the follow-up from the staff, and my new lower car payment. YAY Renton Kia! We would definitely buy another car from them." - Julie S.

KIA MOTORS DREAMS UP SUPER BOWL COMMERCIAL STARRING SUPERMODEL ADRIANA LIMA, ROCK LEGENDS MÖTLEY CRÜE AND MMA FIGHTER CHUCK LIDDELL

 Dreams have been a topic of speculation and interest throughout history, and Kia Motors America (KMA) is tapping into the idea of dreams revealing true desires in a new 60-second commercial set to air during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVI. In the spot, titled “Drive the Dream,” the new 2012 Optima Limited races through a Gen X couple’s wildest thoughts as they sleep, including: Victoria’s Secret® Angel Adriana Lima waving the checkered flag at a speedway; an in-your-face Mötley Crüe concert; mixed martial arts legend Chuck Liddell battling in the ring; a heroine and hunk on horseback in a romance novel setting; champion bull rider Judd Leffew taming a bucking rhinoceros; and a fairy tale ending.

Kia returns to the big game for the third straight year with a fully integrated marketing campaign incorporating TV, cinema, digital, print, social media and in-dealership components. In a Super Bowl advertising first, the complete “Drive the Dream” ad will premiere on February 2 on more than 18,000 movie screens nationwide in National CineMedia’s FirstLook pre-show program before airing in the game. Kia also will run 15-second teaser ads featuring Adriana Lima on TV and in cinema beginning on January 27, while also leveraging the Twitter and Facebook channels of the spot's celebrity cast. A special expanded version of the ad will be available at YouTube.com/Kia beginning on February 2.

“With more than 100 million people watching the Super Bowl broadcast and millions more viewing content online around the world, Kia will once again deliver a memorable, one-of-a-kind campaign that entertains people before, during and after the game and leaves them wanting to see the Optima Limited fantasy again and again,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “We selected an eclectic group of celebrities and personalities for ‘Drive the Dream’ to enable us to tap into a diverse body of fan bases and leverage each talent’s expansive social media footprint.”

Created by David&Goliath, “Drive the Dream” opens with the familiar notes of The Chordettes’ “Mr. Sandman” as a real-life Mr. Sandman enters the bedroom of an unsuspecting young couple who are asleep. After being sprinkled with “Sweet Dreams” dust, the woman smiles and envisions herself on a horse with a romance novel-like hunk in a beautiful green meadow. Meanwhile, Mr. Sandman accidentally stumbles and spills his entire night’s dust supply on the man, launching an extreme dream sequence that begins with the roaring guitars of Mötley Crüe’s “Kickstart My Heart” and Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag as he blasts around a race track at night in a Snow White Pearl Optima Limited with thousands of bikini-clad fans cheering him on from the stands.

As he circles the track with Lima looking on adoringly, the dreaming driver receives nods of approval from the band as bursts of flames and fireworks surround their stage as well as Chuck Liddell, champion bull rider Judd Leffew, and a pair of lumberjacks sawing a massive submarine sandwich.

“Mötley Crüe had a blast doing the Kia commercial,” said bassist Nikki Sixx. “A hot model, a fast car, a pro fighter, pyrotechnics and rock n' roll...What's not to love?”

Much to the disbelief of Lima and drummer Tommy Lee, the high-octane dream turns into a fairy tale when the husband makes a conscious decision to drive the Optima Limited off the race track and into his wife’s fantasy to win her back from Prince Charming.

“After working with Kia for the Super Bowl last year I was drawn to work with the fast-growing brand again by the idea of exploring people’s ultimate fantasies in a fun and lighthearted way, and I am certain we have created a spot people will be talking about after the game,” said director, Noam Murro.

As part of the “Drive the Dream” campaign, beginning on Thursday, February 2 consumers can download a $25 pre-paid test drive voucher¹ at Kia.com that is redeemable after eligible consumers visit a Kia dealership and complete a test drive of any Optima model.

New for 2012², the Optima Limited adds a new level refinement to the premium technology, convenience and performance features found on Kia’s award-winning turbocharged Optima SX. In addition to head-turning design, class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency and a class-exclusive panoramic sunroof, the Optima Limited offers elegant touches that modern drivers would expect to find in the car of their dreams, such as: unique design 18-inch wheels, high-grade Nappa leather seating, LED accent lights, chrome exterior accents and sporty red brake calipers.

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.

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

Kia Motors 2011 earnings up 30.4%; targets double-digit sales growth

Kia Motors, the maker of the Optima sedan and Rio compact on Friday reported record-high earnings last year on the back of its upgraded brand image and robust sales growth in overseas markets.

Net profit reached 3.5 trillion won (US$3.1 billion) last year, up 30.4 percent from a year earlier, the company said in a regulatory filing.

Sales jumped 20.6 percent on-year to 43.2 trillion won in 2011, and operating profit also shot up 41.6 percent to 3.5 trillion won.

The company sold 2.48 million vehicles in 2011. It sold some 485,000 vehicles in the U.S. market, up 36.3 percent from a year earlier, while sales in China, now the worlds largest market for automobiles, jumped 29.9 percent to 433,000 cars. Sales in other regions rose 18.4 percent to 778,000.

The South Korea automaker, in which Hyundai Motor Co. owns a nearly 40% stake, expects overall sales for 2012 to grow 9.5% to 2.71 million units, slowing from a 19% rise to 2.48 million units last year.

Reuters reports that in Europe, Kia aims to boost sales by 23 percent to 356,000 vehicles - while in U.S. the maker of Optima plans to boost sales by 10 percent to 534,000 vehicles this year.

 

**  Courtesy of Auto News

Thanks to our Customers for the Awesome Feedback!

"Great experience. Easy, stress free, and we saved thousands. Highly recommended and we love our Optima Hybrid.  We definitely will buy another vehicle from them." - Andrew W.

Rogelio Polesello's Artwork in Kia Summer 2012

Coupons for Accessories are Good for Your "Soul"

The Kia Soul is a vehicle built to show off your unique style.  To help you express yourself via your vehicle we're offering a coupon for 15% off on accessories for the Soul.  You can get your copy by clicking this link: http://on.fb.me/wml4L9

Offering Great Deals is our Forte

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE We have special pricing available on lots of new 2012 Kia Forte models.  The Forte offers great fuel efficiency at a great price and they're great fun too!  Just click the link for details:  http://bit.ly/AibvDZ

Kia Motors America Renews NBA Team Partnerships and Establishes new Relationship with Golden State Warriors

Kia Motors America (KMA), the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA and one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.¹, has added a new team to its National Basketball Association (NBA) team partnerships by becoming the "Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors." Beginning with the 2011-2012 basketball season, KMA also has renewed relationships with the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Miami HEAT, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs, while the Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic and Portland Trail Blazers remain on Kia Motors' roster in 2011-2012 as part of multi-year agreements.

Kia's U.S. sales have increased 78 percent since 2008 and the company's unprecedented growth is the direct result of expanded brand visibility through high-profile partnerships, including involvement on- and off-the-court in professional basketball. Kia is currently in its fifth year as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA, which is the brand's largest U.S. sports marketing initiative. After he leaped over an Optima midsize sedan to become the 2011 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest champion, NBA All-Star Blake Griffin became a global brand ambassador for Kia. The brand also serves as the Official Automotive Partner of NBA All-Star, title partner of the Kia NBA Performance Awards, and an Official Automotive Partner of NBA Cares. Kia also is the title sponsor of ESPN's "Kia NBA Countdown."

"Kia's involvement with the NBA and nearly half of the league's teams has driven dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand and was a major factor in our best-ever sales total in 2011," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "All of our team partnerships leverage the excitement of the game and increase Kia's interaction with the passionate fan bases in each market, and we are proud to add the Golden State Warriors to our roster and establish a relationship with Bay Area basketball fans."

Kia's 13 NBA team designations are as follows:

• Official Vehicle of the Chicago Bulls
• Official Vehicle of the Denver Nuggets
• Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors
• Official Vehicle of the Los Angeles Clippers
• Official Vehicle of the Miami HEAT; Exclusive Vehicle of the Miami HEAT
• Official Vehicle of the Orlando Magic
• Official Automotive Partner of the New York Knicks; Official Vehicle of the New York Knicks
• Official Automotive Partner of the Boston Celtics; Official Partner of the Boston Celtics
• Official Partner of the San Antonio Spurs
• Proud Partner of the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Proud Partner of the Philadelphia 76ers
• Proud Partner of the Phoenix Suns
• Proud Partner of the Portland Trail Blazers

Kia's growing roster of sports initiatives includes basketball, women's professional golf and motorsports and is designed to increase brand awareness among a new and more affluent group of consumers. Michelle Wie is the brand's official golf ambassador and Kia was recently named the Official Automotive Partner of the LPGA in addition to its role as title sponsor of the annual Kia Classic tournament in Southern California. In just its second year, Kia's U.S. racing program captured the company's first-ever championships in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, and it will expand to include the Pirelli World Challenge in 2012. With several key initiatives planned for 2012, Kia Motors is poised to continue driving increased consumer interest and expanding its brand presence with new and enhanced partnerships while continuing to deliver world-class design, cutting-edge technology, modern conveniences and amenities, and outstanding safety features in all its vehicles.

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

There's a lot to love about the feature-packed new Kia Rio

Build Your Kia from the Ground up

Buying a car is all about getting what's best for you.  Luckily Renton Kia allows you to build the car you want from scratch.  Check out our "Build a Kia" feature by clicking the link: http://bit.ly/wLUF0W

2012 Kia Rio 5-Door Named "Subcompact Car of the Year" by FAMA's Mujeres al Volante

Adding another feather to its cap, Kia Motors America's (KMA) all-new 2012 Rio 5-door has been named one of the top five cars of the year by FAMA's "Mujeres Al Volante." FAMA is a leading modern lifestyle magazine in Spanish, and the Mujeres Al Volante awards honor vehicles that meet the priorities of U.S. Hispanic women when considering a new vehicle. The Rio 5-door was recognized for its long list of standard safety features, modern amenities, outstanding fuel economy, strong family appeal and world-class design.

Michael Sprague, vice-president of marketing & communication, KMA accepts the Mujeres Al Volante award on behalf of Kia Motors America

"The 'Subcompact of the Year' award for the all-new Rio 5-door from Mujeres Al Volante is the latest example of the impact the Kia brand is having in the U.S. market with unprecedented growth and an exciting lineup of vehicles that deliver cutting-edge technology, eye-catching design and class-leading fuel economy," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "Kia is one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.³, and vehicles such as the Rio 5-door continue to raise awareness, perception and consideration for the brand by attracting new, style-conscious consumers to our showrooms."

The Rio 5-door's innovative green technology and features also impressed the Mujeres Al Volante editors. In addition to being the first in the segment to offer the fuel-saving Idle Stop and Go (ISG) technology (available later this year), the Rio 5-door's seat foam material is made from 100-percent biodegradable and non-toxic castor oil, which reduces the use of petroleum-based products. At the end of its lifespan, 85 percent of the all-new Rio's materials are recyclable.

"The Rio 5-door has exceeded our expectations, and we think it's in the top of its class when it comes to appealing to Hispanic women," said Ileana Muniz, editor-in-chief of FAMA's Autos Mujeres Al Volante. "On top of its outstanding design, the Rio 5-door handles well and is environmentally friendly with 40 MPG and ISG technology."

About the 2012 Rio
Available in three trims – LX, EX and SX – the eco-friendly 2012 Rio is available 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 horsepower⁴ while maintaining a standard class-leading⁵ fuel economy rating of 30/40 mpg (city/highway).

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

Our Winter White Sale is in Full Swing

All the snow outside means this is the perfect time to remind you of our Winter White Sale!  We're offering extremely low prices on a huge variety of quality vehicles, so don't wait until later to take a look.  Click here for our new inventory listings: http://bit.ly/mbdf9N

We've Got a Fantastic Warranty for You

Kia's 10-year, 100,000 mile warranty is the perfect way to ensure that you will enjoy driving your vehicle for a long time to come. Learn more about this fantastic offer on our dealership website: http://bit.ly/l2mHHU

Kia Naimo Electric Vehicle Video from CES 2012

CES 2012: Kia Unveils UVO2 Next-Generation Infotainment Platform

Kia has been aggressively building brand awareness the last few years with a slew of new vehicle introductions and innovations including UVO, the company's in-vehicle infotainment platform.

Today at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Kia unveiled its future direction in infotainment with the introduction of UVO2, showcased in an Optima Hybrid sedan. It's really no surprise that the latest iteration of UVO (an acronym that stands for "Your Voice"), now features a new layer of smartphone-enabled services, but what definitely got our attention is the extensive suite of capabilities UVO2 promises.

The list of features reads like a greatest hits of telematics services: automatic crash notification, geo-fencing, roadside assistance and parked vehicle locator. The new features are powered by a free smartphone app which enables the system with a whole new level of connected-vehicle management functions in addition to utilizing many of the features of a driver's smartphone or tablet.

Dubbed eServices, the new telematics suite is the game-changer here, putting UVO2 on the same playing field with more mature systems such as OnStar and Ford Sync -- if the automaker doesn't drag its feet getting the system on the road, as it did with the first-generation of the technology.

Essentially, everything an owner will need is now onboard including navigation, diagnostics and convenience features like parking assist. As with other OE solutions, the telematics suite is used most for safety and maintenance functions like crash notification and scheduled vehicle diagnostics. And if the user gets stumped or needs and assist, the system, powered by Microsoft, also features an eServices Guide that navigates the user experience via voice or touch.

As in the earlier version, UVO2 is managed with voice control and touch screen, and still gives users hands-free management of mobile phone connectivity and music from multiple sources including CD, radio, USB, media player and a Digital Jukebox. But the upgrade means users can also control navigation features with voice prompts.

Kia also used the occasion to announce its In-Vehicle Infotainment Concept at the show, which offered a glimpse at the automaker?s future connected car plans, which look big. The new IVI concept boasts an 11.6-inch multi-touch screen designed to deliver navigation, media playback and networked computer functions all from a single unit.

Bell-ringers here include wireless connectivity with smartphones and tablets, an integrated app store, user-recognition feature and augmented reality navigation that will work in conjunction with exterior vehicle cameras. And put that very large screen to the test, no doubt.

 

**  Courtesy of Edmunds Inside Line Straightline

These Brochures are the Best

Searching for a hassle-free way to learn all about Kia's superb lineup? These nifty digital brochures make car-buying research simple and expedient: http://bit.ly/sGUshZ

Kia Optima Named Autobytel 2012 Sedan of the Year

Following a year in which Kia Motors America (KMA) received more vehicle awards and accolades than ever before, the brand's stylish Optima mid-size sedan kicked the New Year off in high gear by being named "2012 Sedan of the Year" by Autobytel. Recognized by the automotive research website's editors as "setting the bar" in the sedan category, the Optima took top honors against tough competition with its head-turning design, roomy interior and outstanding fuel economy.

"Since its introduction, the Optima has been attracting new customers to the brand with the right balance of performance, modern amenities and fuel economy that consumers are looking for," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. "The mid-size sedan segment is more competitive than ever, and Autobytel's recognition of the Optima continues to keep Kia's momentum going into 2012."

Autobytel is an automotive research website providing consumers with the information they need to purchase new and used cars. Over their 75 years of combined experience, Autobytel editors have driven hundreds of vehicles and have chosen the 2012 Sedan of the Year based on the Optima's game-changing market potential, advances in design and overall performance and efficiency options.

About the 2012 Optima
The 2012 Kia Optima stands apart from the crowd with its head-turning design, fun-to-drive performance, modern amenities and long list of standard safety features. Kia's second U.S.-built¹ vehicle offers drivers cutting-edge technologies, including a standard eight-speaker Infinity^®2 audio system, HD Radio^™3, and Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft^®4 voice-activated infotainment and communications system with a starting MSRP of $19,500⁵.

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 17^th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality⁶ and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking⁷. 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 sedan⁸. 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.

 

**  Courtesy of Kia Media

Kia is Offering Special Pricing on Leased 2012 Sorentos

Right now you can lease a 2012 Kia Sorento at $239 per month for 39 months, with $2999 due at lease signing.  Some restrictions may apply, so contact us for more info!

Come See Our Exciting New Models

Kia has a stellar lineup of vehicle this year and the best part is that you can get cars like this Kia Forte LX for super-low prices at Renton Kia.  Check out our new inventory by clicking on this link: http://bit.ly/mbdf9N

Kia GT Concept to Enter Production in 2013

With the company's current shift towards inspired design, Kia motors will produce the GT concept which was first shown at the Frankfurt auto show in 2011. The GT’s slick design is clearly aimed at competing with European luxury brands such as Audi.

Kia is saying that the introduction of the GT will not be a one off model but will be followed possibly by a two-door coupe and even a station wagon thus adding a new family of vehicles to the already growing brands ranks. The GT shown at the Frankfurt show was presented with a 390 horsepower turbocharged V6 which seems like part of the ploy to convert a few Audi and BMW owners over to the Korean brand. Kia wants to present the GT as a cheaper alternative to those interested in buying a luxury car at a cheaper than luxury price.

Peter Schreyer, Chief designer for Kia has even hinted that he would like to design a budget sports car for the brand that would compete with the Mazda MX-5. Although the general direction of the company as of late would suggest that this could be a reality, there is nothing concrete to say that it is.

 

**  Courtesy of AutoGuide.com