Kia Dealer in Canada Announces Possible Picanto Sales in North America?

UPDATE: A Kia Canada representative kindly let us know today that the Picanto will NOT be available in the North American (and Australian) market. We repeat: the all-new 2012 Kia Picanto will NOT be coming over to the North American market. Sad truth indeed.

Unintended leak or just a product of your run-of-the-mill, uninformed car salesperson? It's probably the latter. But we're clinging to the post with the hopes that Kia bring the stylish Picanto minicar over to North American shores. According to a Canadian Kia dealer in Nanaimo, British Columbia, our wishes may come true? This is the bit that caught us off guard in their "press release":

"The all-new 2012 Kia Picanto will be available with four super-efficient 1.0L three-cylinder and 1.2L four-cylinder Kappa engines. It will soon be available at Nanaimo Kia dealer, Harris Kia."

"The 2012 Kia Picanto will soon be available at Harris Kia, the top Kia dealer in Nanaimo BC."

Are we coming off as too desperate to you guys? We think it's the perfect time period to bring the Picanto over. How about you? Leave us a comment after the jump.

[Source: Read the press release here]

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Hyundai Sonata Named 2011 International Car of the Year

Hyundai continues to break down barriers illustrating its consumer lifestyle compatibility with the 2011 International Car of the Year (ICOTY) win for the all-new Sonata. The award was presented at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The ICOTY Awards honor vehicles based on lifestyle compatibility and the emotional connection between car and consumer.


“With a completely new look for 2011, the Sonata really took us by surprise,” said Courtney Caldwell, ICOTY Executive Producer. “Hyundai laces the new Sonata with serious hardware including sporty suspension tuning and a strong powertrain that achieves best-in-class fuel economy scores. Combine that with a stunning shape and design, it truly is a complete package that will satisfy the emotional connection consumers seek when shopping for a mid-size sedan.”

“We’re delighted the ICOTY committee validated the choice of over 200,000 new Sonata owners in North America in 2010,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “The 2011 Sonata shows the power of Hyundai’s product recipe – industry-leading fuel economy, engaging design, and great quality – which we’ll continue to enhance with new models like the 2011 Elantra and the 2012 Veloster.”

[Source: Hyundai]

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Report: Hyundai Mulling Plug-In Sonata Hybrid

A report from PlugInCars.com suggests that Hyundai‘s endless march towards global domination isn’t letting up, and the next phase of their product strategy involves both a Prius competitor and a plug-in variant of the Sonata Hybrid.

According to Mike O’Brien, Hyundai’s head of product planning, the Sonata plug-in Hybrid would require little in the way of engineering to make it ready. “Other manufacturers’ hybrid systems were developed in such a way to not allow them to easily develop plug-in hybrids,” he said. “For the Sonata Hybrid to become a plug-in hybrid, really all we need are bigger batteries—the basic technology platform is already designed to support a plug-in variation.”

According to O’Brien, we’ll see something within the next 12 months at one of the major auto shows. Let the speculation games begin!

[Source: Plug-in Cars]

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Kia Unveils 2.0-liter Turbo Sportage SX in Montreal

Following the footsteps of Hyundai's surprise debut of the all-new Accent sedan and hatchback, Kia made an unexpected unveiling of the 2011 Sportage SX at the Montreal International Auto Show today, debuting a 2.0-litre turbo gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine that produces 256 horsepower (according to Motor Trend) and is projected to achieve four-cylinder like fuel economy. The new Sportage SX will start at $36,995 (Canadian dollar) and include Kia’s new UVO infotainment technology and additional standard equipment.


Kia has not released the full specs of the Sportage SX, but we do know that it will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It includes a new feature designed to improve fuel economy (Kia's take on start/stop technology) called Neutral Control that effectively shifts the car into neutral when stuck in traffic. The system is triggered when the transmission is in Drive and the brakes have been applied for more than two seconds. An integrated hill assist control prevents any vehicle rollback.

Standard features on the SX include push-button start, panoramic sunroof, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, ventilated driver’s seat, UVO infotainment system, seven-speaker premium sound system, rear spoiler, leather seating and auto-dimming mirror with Homelink.

The 2011 Sportage will be available in LX, EX and SX trim levels, with the LX and EX powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine.

[Source: CanadianDriver]

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2012 Hyundai Accent Gets Surprise Unveil at Montreal Auto Show

Hot on the heels of the debut of the Veloster at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Hyundai has unwrapped the all-new 2012 Accent at the Montreal Auto Show. This comes as a surprise as Hyundai Motor America had said the car wouldn’t break cover until the New York Auto Show in April.

More official images as well as official press release after the jump.

A vehicle that made its name in the industry as being a low cost option for those on a budget, Hyundai aims to keep that price structure while out-doing the competition in every other aspect.

Keeping the same styling seen on the Sonata and the new Elantra, the 2012 Accent is powered by a direct-injection 138-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that makes 123 ft-lbs of torque and according to the Canadian press release gets 4.7 L/100 km highway and 6.4 L/100 km regardless of whether you choose the 6-speed automatic or manual. That works out to an incredible 50-mpg highway and 37-mpg city ratings in America.

EDIT: Thanks conwelpic for the heads-up about our mistake in the fuel economy conversion! Believe it or not, the Accent will achieve an est. 50 MPG on the highway according to US ratings!

Having grown in size, the new Accent is now 70mm (2.7-inches) longer between the wheels and 5mm wider. This not only makes for added interior space, but the Accent also delivers a sizable amount of cargo volume with 14 cu-ft of trunk space with the sedan and 17.2 cu-ft with the hatch. Despite all this, weight was kept to a minimum, with the new Accent sedan weighing just 2,392 lbs, while the hatchback model is slightly heavier at 2,429 lbs.

Official Canadian market details can be found after the jump and details could change for U.S. market cars

[Source: Hyundai]



PRESS RELEASE:

HYUNDAI ACCENT: UNEXPECTED SAFETY, DESIGN, AND TECHNOLOGY

MONTREAL, Quebec (January 13, 2011) – Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. introduced the all-new 2012 Accent today at the Montreal International Auto Show. Available in four-door and five-door formats, Accent redefines expectations in the subcompact category by offering the company’s attractive “Fluidic Sculpture” design, best-in-class fuel economy, and a full complement of standard safety features. Despite surprising technology and a significant increase in safety features, Hyundai will hold the line on pricing from the prior generation to continue delivering unmistakable value to customers.

HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2012 ACCENT

§ All-new fourth generation of the Accent subcompact

§ First vehicle to receive all-new 1.6-litre GDI “Gamma” engine, paired with 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions

­ Estimated 4.7 L/100 km highway fuel consumption

­ Engine delivers power and fuel economy superior to competitors

§ A long list of standard safety features

­ VSM, ESC, TCS, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD

­ Four-wheel disc brakes

­ Six standard airbags

§ Class-above total interior volume

­ A subcompact car with the roominess of a compact

§ Hyundai’s signature “Fluidic Sculpture” design

§ Strong value – more content and best-in-class fuel economy without an increase in price

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY FOR SUPERIOR FUEL ECONOMY

The 2012 Accent’s all-aluminum 1.6-litre Gamma 4-cylinder engine utilizes the latest engine technology to deliver a class-leading 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque and an estimated best-in-class 4.7 L/100 km highway fuel economy rating.

The engine’s most notable feature is its use of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), a first for the subcompact category. By precisely controlling the injection of fuel, GDI allows for better fuel economy, increased power, and reduced emissions. The application of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts allows for further improvements in efficiency, fuel economy, and emissions. To optimize breathing at all engine speeds, a Variable Induction System (VIS) is employed. Other elements resulting in reduced fuel consumption include an Alternator Management System, an offset crankshaft design, and electronic throttle control. To reduce lifetime operation costs and increase reliability, the Gamma features a maintenance-free silent timing chain.

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Several other systems have been improved over the outgoing model, each contributing to increased fuel efficiency. All models feature 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions with well-spaced ratios for smooth and efficient power delivery. Low-rolling resistance silica tires and a slippery shape (0.30 cd) reduce friction with the road and the air. Finally, the ActiveECO function modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response. By turning on the ActiveECO function, drivers can realize up to a seven percent increase in real-world fuel economy. The real-world result of these efficiencies is an estimated highway driving range of 915 km.

Despite the additional content, safety features, and technology packed into the all-new Accent, Hyundai has avoided the typically associated penalty of increased weight. A lower curb weight corresponds to an improvement not only in fuel economy, but all other dynamic areas. In fact, Accent offers the best power-to-weight ratio in its class by far, providing drivers with both low fuel consumption and responsive performance.

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SAFETY AS STANDARD – BECAUSE IT JUST MAKES SENSE

Hyundai doesn’t believe that consumers should have to pay a premium for safety, so a long list of safety features are included as standard equipment on all 2012 Accent models. A total of six airbags protect occupants in the event of a collision, including two front impact airbags, two front seat-mounted side impact airbags, and curtain side-impact airbags for front and rear passengers. Active front head restraints and seatbelt pretensioners work in conjunction with the airbag system to aid in preventing injury.

The Accent’s underlying structure is engineered to protect occupants using a Collision Load Dispersion mechanism. The vehicle’s structure distributes the force of an impact in three ways to minimize floor deformation and maintain the integrity of the cabin.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control work together to help deliver confident handling in all conditions. Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) integrates control of the ESC and motor-driven power steering (MDPS) to provide handling assistance in slippery conditions or in sudden cornering scenarios. The system can deliver up to 8 Newton-meters of counter-steering effort when required to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle.

A key safety element for any vehicle is its braking system. Accent is the only car in the subcompact segment to offer four wheel disc brakes as standard. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) featuring Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) is also included. EBD examines the effect of vehicle load on weight distribution and apportions the braking force between front and rear axles so as to maximize stopping ability. In the event of a panic stop, BA ensures that maximum braking force is applied.

SMALL OUTSIDE, BIG INSIDE

Accent rides on a 2,570 mm wheelbase and is 1,700 mm in width, representing an increase of 70 mm and 5 mm respectively over the outgoing model. As a result, Accent enjoys superior interior volume and passenger space. Total length of the new model is 4,370 mm for 4-door versions and 4,115 mm for the 5-door. While the car’s exterior dimensions are consistent with those of traditional subcompacts, Accent is classified by Transport Canada as a compact sedan thanks to its interior volume. To provide perspective, Accent 4-door features more total interior volume than the Honda Civic.

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Convenient storage spaces are included throughout the cabin, including bottle holders in each door and a storage tray at the base of the centre console. A deluxe centre console is available, a feature not seen on Fit, Aveo, Fiesta, or Mazda2. Split and fold 60/40 rear seats are available for increased cargo flexibility when transporting longer items.

FEATURES AND AMENITIES WORTHY OF MORE EXPENSIVE VEHICLES

Choosing a subcompact sedan no longer means foregoing comfort and convenience features. A standard 6-way adjustable driver’s seat and standard tilt steering wheel work in conjunction to provide a comfortable driving position. Power door locks, standard on all Accent models, can be paired with the convenience of available power windows, remote keyless entry, and power heated mirrors. A 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with iPod / USB / AUX ports is standard equipment. Those seeking added listening enjoyment can opt for a 6-speaker, 172 watt AM/FM/XM/CD audio system featuring Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and steering wheel audio controls. Cruise control, air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and a power sunroof are all available.

CONFIDENT HANDLING CHARACTERISTICS

The first step toward confident handling dynamics is a rigid structure. To this end, the 2012 Accent employs high-tensile strength steel for a structure which is 22 percent stiffer than the previous generation and 38 percent stiffer than the Toyota Yaris. Increasing the stiffness of the structure allowed Hyundai engineers more flexibility in terms of suspension tuning. The end result is a better balance between handling precision and ride comfort. Accent employs a MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs, twin-tube gas shock absorbers, and a 21 mm stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is a torsion axle setup with coil springs and monotube shock absorbers.

ATTRACTIVE DESIGN

The 2012 Accent joins the Hyundai line-up sporting the company’s increasingly popular Fluidic Sculpture design. The vehicle’s exterior lines are intended to be futuristic, dynamic, and sleek. In a segment typically associated with staid designs, Accent stands out from the crowd. While the styling provides an attractive form, it’s also functional, featuring a slippery 0.30 coefficient of drag. Five-door models include a sporty trunk lid-mounted spoiler. For an assertive stance, 16” alloy wheels are available.

HYUNDAI AUTO CANADA CORP.

Hyundai Auto Canada, established in 1983 and headquartered in Markham, Ontario, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout Canada by Hyundai Auto Canada and are sold and serviced through more than 195 dealerships nationwide.

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Hyundai Unveils New Grandeur in Korea [w/VIDEO]

NOTE: More images will be added soon.

Hyundai has been advertising the all-new generation of its Grandeur for quite some time now, but today, the automaker officially launched the large sedan in its home market. The new Grandeur, which will be badged as the 2012 Azera in the States, arrives in the Korean market six years after its predecessor’s launch in May 2005.

Codenamed HG, the 2012 Grandeur is result of three-and-a-half years and 450 billion won (about US$415 million) of research, development and testing. Positioned between the Sonata and the Genesis sedan, the new Grandeur measures 4,910mm (193.3") long, 1,860mm (73.2") wide and 1,470mm (57.9") tall. It rides on a 2,845mm-long (112") wheelbase, which is 65mm (2.6") longer than the outgoing model.


The South Korean market model is offered with a choice of two gasoline engines, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder Theta II GDI with 201-horsepower and a new 3.0-liter V6 Lambda II GDI producing 270-horsepower. Both engines are linked to a standard six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.

The new Grandeur comes with a host of safety systems including VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), VSM (Vehicle Stability Management), TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) and ESS (Emergency Stop Signal), plus a standard nine-airbag system that includes a driver’s knee airbag.

Other notable features include Hyundai's Advanced Smart Cruise Control, which automatically keeps a safe distance from a car ahead and provides automatic stop and restart functions in response to traffic flow, and a Smart Parking Assist System that utilizes a sensor to measure parallel parking spaces, controlling the steering wheel to semi-automatically park the car.

Hyundai said it aims to sell 100,000 units of the Grandeur this year (80,000 in the domestic market and 20,000 outside of Korea) and 120,000 units in 2012 when the car arrives in more markets.

The South Korean automaker has not yet provided details on the North American market Azera.

Along with some new photos, Hyundai also released a video showing the evolution of the Grandeur / Azera from the presentation of the first generation in 1986 to the current fifth gen model.

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2012 Hyundai Veloster Officially Bows in Detroit

After a few rounds of preshow teasing, Hyundai has announced and unveiled the production version of the 2012 Veloster.

The first thing you'll notice about the Veloster (or second, depending on which side of the car you're standing) is the third door on the coupe's passenger side. Hyundai claims that by using two shorter doors on this side of the vehicle, it is able to both ease entrance into the Veloster's rear seat and ease parking by shortening what would be one longer door. It makes sense, but is a little odd. Fortunately, we like odd.

Under the Veloster's hood is a 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual gearbox or Hyundai's new six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Fuel economy is estimated at up to 40 highway mpg.

Hyundai's clearly proud of its little whatever-the-Veloster-is. The automaker took potshots at competing models, citing a lower curb weight than Mini's Cooper and better fuel efficiency than the Honda CR-Z (although to be fair, the CR-Z is a bit of an easy target). In the same breath, Hyundai admitted that the Veloster isn't an all out speed machine, stating that the hatchback is the sort of car you can "drive at 9/10th and not lose your license." If we can get at least a the Mazda Mazda2's level of handling and performance, we'd be pretty happy with the little Hyundai.

Settled behind the wheel, one notices that the Veloster is also equipped with the newest generation of Hyundai's infotainment and telematics technology. The vehicle features the standard array of Bluetooth (hands-free and audio streaming), USB, and iPod connectivity, but also features Pandora Internet Radio controls when paired to an iPhone, Android, or Blackberry device running the app. There's also Gracenote automatic playlisting, which can be used to verbally access media on a connected device and create similar music playlists with a spoken command. The unit also features a small amount of space for audio ripping (we're guessing it's only a gigabyte or two of flash memory, since Hyundai claims only 10 CDs will fit). Two audio systems are available, a standard 196-watt six-speaker rig and an eight-speaker (including a subwoofer and amplifier) Dimension Premium Audio system with 450-watts of power. Navigation is optional.

Also available is Hyundai's new Blue Link system, which connects the navigation, safety, and other systems to the outside world with a combination of voice recognition and operator assistance. You can learn more about Blue Link here.

Hyundai plans to sell the Veloster starting at about $17,000. We're looking forward to taking our turn behind the wheel when it hits showroom floors later this year.

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2011 Kia Optima Earns an Edmunds' InsideLine.com Editors' Most Wanted Award

Our friends over at Edmunds' InsideLine.com recently named the new 2011 Kia Optima as an "Editors' Most Wanted" Award winner. The Optima was one of six vehicles to receive the accolade and the only mid-size sedan to be honoured.

The 2011 Kia Optima has been receiving much adulation from the media since its unveiling and the editors of Inside Line were no different, praising the car for its "comfortable cabin, excellent mileage and plenty of features." In the review of the vehicle, Inside Line called the Optima "an affordable family car that looks, feels and drives a class higher."

The other five cars that received the recognition were the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon, Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Honda Odyssey, and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (which also won the 'Instant Classic' award).

"The Edmunds' Inside Line 'Editors' Most Wanted(SM)' Award winners are chosen for one simple reason: They're the cars, trucks, and vans that we like the best," said Ed Hellwig, Editor of InsideLine.com. "'Editors' Most Wanted' winners are the cars that we remember the most even after hundreds of test drives. These are cars that we'd buy for ourselves and highly recommend to our friends and family."

The Edmunds' InsideLine.com "Editors' Most Wanted(SM)" Awards are awarded annually to six vehicles based on the votes of 11 Edmunds' Inside Line editors. Every car and truck for sale in the United States is eligible for the "Editors' Most Wanted" award if tested by Edmunds' Inside Line by December 1st.

[Source: Edmunds.com/Image Source: Edmunds-Inside Line]

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Kia Releases Second Teaser of Detroit-Bound KV7 Concept

Having already released a computer rendering of its upcoming KV7 Concept, Kia released a new teaser for the MPV concept today with a small snippet of the actual car ahead of its debut at the Detroit Auto Show. The automaker however did not disclose any new details about the car.

According to Kia, the KV7 Concept is "conceived as a challenge to the industry's current interpretation of the van", and "incorporates several innovative lighting elements currently being evaluated for future Kia production vehicles."

The media preview day for the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit will be taking place on this coming Monday, January 10th. Stay tuned for more information as they become available.

[Source: Kia]

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Hyundai Curb Concept Teased Ahead of Detroit Debut

The Veloster will not be the only highlight for Hyundai at the forthcoming Detroit Auto Show taking place next week, as the Korean firm released two renderings of a new crossover concept called the Curb today.

Hyundai is mum on details of the Curb Concept, other than the fact that it was penned by the folks at the company's California Design Center. According to the company, the Curb's styling is an evolution of the "fluidic sculpture" design language seen on the latest Sonata and Elantra sedans.

The official unveiling of the Curb will take place on Monday, January 10th at Cobo Hall in Detroit. Stay tuned for more information as they become available.



[Source: Hyundai]

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Hyundai Debuts Its OnStar and SYNC Competitor: Blue Link

A couple of days ago Hyundai posted a teaser video of its highly awaited Veloster hatchback, mentioning several of its noteworthy features like direct-injection, dual-clutch transmission, and "Blue Link connectivity." The last one got many of our readers and enthusiasts across the web guessing at what it might be, from "a better version of Bluetooth?" to "Hyundai's answer to Ford's SYNC." Well today, Hyundai answered with the official introduction of the Blue Link system at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. And take our word, this is not your typical in-car gizmo.

With the Blue Link system, Hyundai is killing two birds with one stone, combining the many benefits of GM's OnStar system (soon to be compatible with non-GM cars) and seamless voice-activation capabilities of Ford's SYNC system into one platform. Much like GM’s OnStar, BlueLink can provide directions, schedule servicing, remotely lock or unlock the car doors, notify emergency services in case of a crash and remotely start the car, with the ability to pre-heat or cool the vehicle based on your preferences.

Other cool features include an automatic slowdown feature in case your vehicle is reported stolen and being pursued by the police, and a feature known as “geofencing” that sends the driver a text message of the vehicle strays outside of a demarcated area. Looks like breaking curfew will be a thing of the past for children of Hyundai owners.

The Blue Link system will first roll out in the Sonata and a "youth focused model" (anyone NOT thinking Veloster?) this summer, and will permeate through the entire Hyundai line-up by 2013.

Only four days remain until the Detroit Auto Show commences and the wraps come off the Veloster. Until then, can you guess what car's interior is featured in the press image above? Stay tuned for more information as they become available.

[Source: Hyundai]

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2012 Kia Morning/Picanto: First Official Images [UPDATE]

Kia pulled a surprise move today and released the first official images of the redesigned Picanto (Morning in the Korean market) hatchback today. The all-new minicar is set to go on sale in its home market of South Korea later this month, ahead of its European debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March.

Heading into its second-generation, the new Kia Picanto is a stylistically more aggressive evolution of its more mundane predecessor. The front end is definitely a tribute to the Venga MPV, but the most noteworthy element of the design is its protruding front bumper. The large air intakes that fill the bumper evoke thoughts of the Mazda2's controversial smiley face, and we don't know if that's necessarily a good association. The corporate grille could be a tad larger in our opinion, as it seems to have been dwarfed by what's going on below. The side and the rear fascia are easier on the eyes, and we especially like the unique treatment of the taillights (remember the Carens/Rondo?) as well as the protruding rear bumper design.

Spec-wise, Kia has not revealed much information for the new Picanto. The automaker did mention features like dual projection headlamps with LED positioning lights, a rarity for the subcompact segment the car plays in. As well, it will be powered by an all-new 1.0-liter Kappa engine that is expected to achieve impressive fuel economy.

Stay tuned for more information and images as they become available.

[Source: Kia]



PRESS RELEASE:

* New Picanto to be offered in two body styles with four all-new powertrains
* Production vehicle to be revealed at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

Kia Motors Corporation has released the first official photos of the next generation Picanto city car boasting a bolder, more mature and more self confident look.

Completely redesigned and re-engineered, the new car has grown in overall length and wheelbase and is set to redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in its segment.

Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, said, "In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance."

While the current Picanto is available only as a five-door hatchback, the next generation version will be offered as a five-door globally but a sportier three-door body style will also be made available in the UK and European markets.

The new Picanto will feature four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-litre displacements, all boasting class leading CO2 emissions levels. In addition to the standard petrol engines, LPG, bi-fuel and flex-fuel variations will be available depending on local market requirements.

The next generation Picanto will receive its official unveiling at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday March 1 2011.

The exact timing of the car's arrival in the UK market is yet to be decided.

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Kia Goes Full Force with Marketing for 2011 Optima

What do the Super Bowl, Times Square, and NBA arenas have in common? They are all places where you will find the 2011 Kia Optima. This New Years, look for the 40 foot by 20 foot digital billboard in Times Square advertising the all new Kia Optima. During the Super Bowl this year, look for the Kia Optima to be promoted in those famous ads which run during time outs and other station breaks. If you are a fan of the NBA, look for the Kia Optima in basketball arenas across the United States.

The Times Square billboard is expected to be seen by more than 1 million people every day. According to Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, "The Optima has been turning heads since its unveiling earlier this year, and its striking good looks will be right at home under the bright lights of Times Square beginning on New Year's Eve and continuing well into 2011."

[Source: Kia]

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