“The idea was to make the Track’ster tough looking, like a bulldog,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer for KMA. “But the car had to be approachable as well. We wanted to base the car in reality so people instantly knew it was a Soul, but with a lot of attitude. It had to be a bold interpretation that would change people’s conceptions of what a sporty Kia could be.”

“Mission accomplished,” Kia says – and mission accomplished indeed.

Besides its bold and aggressive looks with an eye-catching White and Inferno Orange exterior, Kia Track’ster features a grille with air intake slit trimmed in lightweight carbon fiber.  It also gets LED driving lights with aluminum surrounds, 14-inch Brembo brakes, a ‘backpack’ panel that accentuates the Track’ster’s 75.5-inch width, which is more than 5-inches wider than a production Soul.

Check out more news on the Kia Soul.

Power for the Kia Track’ster comes from a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 250-hp – 66 percent more than the production model. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission which helps transfer power to all four wheels.

Kia says that it has no current plans to produce the Track’ster. “Concept cars are icing on the cake,” said Kearns. “They allow KMA’s design team to dream about what could be. Whether that dream becomes a reality or not is a separate question.”

However, if you make a lot of noise Kia will hear you.

- By: Omar Rana

Later this week, Kia will take the wraps off of its Track’ster Concept that will debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The concept was teased earlier this month.

Check out the original teaser here.

Kia says that the Track’ster Concept is based on the Soul city car  and ‘displays the distinctive design direction that the Korean manufacturer is taking.’

The Kia Track’ster will hint at a performance version of the Kia Soul.

- By: Omar Rana

A three year old concept Kia released at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show has been dusted off and scheduled for production.

The Track’ster Concept is the model that will be making its debut next week at the Chicago Auto Show. In the press statement on the release, Kia noted that the Soul’ster convertible is “currently under final assessment for production”.

No details have been given on the upcoming model, but if it is in the final assessment stage, expect to seen the model on showroom floors in the near future.

If the production model is anything like the original concept, expect a convertible-pick up blend, with a roll bar hidden beneath a two-piece removable roof, and room for four.

Power is likely to be shared with the five-door Soul.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: CarScoop

Usually, the Chicago Auto Show is quite a dull show in terms of press day debuts – however, this year it seems to be turning out quite nicely. Kia has confirmed that it will be debuting a new concept based on its Soul city car model at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show next week.

Known as the Kia Track’ster, the concept was designed by California studio Chief Designer Tom Kearns and his team.

“Powerful and dynamic, Kia’s new concept car displays yet again the distinctive design direction that the Korean manufacturer is taking,” Kia said in a statement. “Track’ster is intended to be the ultimate performance-inspired representation of Kia’s Soul B- segment SUV.

Kia sold more than 102,000 Soul units last year in the United States.

- By: Omar Rana

And we’re not just talking about the hottest selling products in the automotive industry. According to Advertising Age, the Chevrolet Cruze, Kia Soul and Jeep Wrangler are generating a lot of buzz and posting strong sales – so much so that they are among America’s hottest products in 2011, joining Dove soap, Goldfish crackers and Arizona Tea.

The publication says that the three models have been succeeding in the country with savvy marketing and a steady rebound in the U.S. light vehicle market.

Chevrolet Cruze: GM has sold more than 200,000 units of the Cruze during the first 10 months of 2011, making it GM’s hottest selling car after the Malibu, of which it sold 181,000 units in the same period.

Kia Soul: Through October, Kia sold 405,095 vehicles, with the Soul accounting for more than 85,000 of those.

Jeep Wrangler: Jeep‘s overall sales have jumped a nice 44 percent this year through October to 339,526 units. The Wrangler is Jeep’s best selling model in the U.S. this year accounting for 101,820 units sold through October.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

While attending her classes at Stanford University, Wie shuttles herself around in a Soul the same ‘So Blue’ exterior paint scheme and 5-spoke 20-inch wheels as shown in the picture. All of the designs also incorporate her original artwork. Additionally, Wie’s artwork and personal logo are integrated into the Soul’s ‘Snow White’ leather headrests, which gets a baby blue painted dash and pink headliner and seating.

Click here for more news on the Kia Soul.

To further emphasize her love for the sport, if Wie ever feels like she’s missing the golf course, the “Hole in One” Soul also offers artificial grass flooring, a virtual driving range and a 26-inch LED TV monitor mounted into the rear hatch and a Microsoft X-Box 360 video game console with Microsoft’s Kinect system to play golf out of the back of the vehicle. So basically, it’s a pro-shop on wheels. For her passengers, the “Hole in One” Soul features TV mounted in headrests and 8-inch speakers and a subwoofer.

- By: Omar Rana

The Hamsters are back! And no, I don’t mean Richard Hammond multiplied like bunny rabbits. I mean, Kia’s hip advertising icons are back to showcase the refreshed and mechanically revised 2012 Kia Soul.

“The success and popularity of the Soul continues to grow and attract new customers to the Kia brand, and with music playing an important role in our marketing efforts it is the perfect time for the hamsters to return for a third installment featuring the infectious sounds of LMFAO’s ‘Party Rock Anthem’ to highlight the 2012 Soul’s new attributes,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.

Check out more news on the Kia Soul.

The new 60-second spot will debut for the first time during MTV’s Video Music Awards this Sunday, when we’re all holed up inside for Hurricane Irene.

For those who want to check it out before the power and Internet goes out, have a look at the video after the jump.

2012 Kia Soul:

2012 Kia Soul:

- By: Chris Chin

Kia has announced pricing details on the new 2012 Kia Soul, which is currently on its way to dealerships. The new 2012 Kia Soul starts at $13,900 for the base model and $15,700 for the Kia Soul A/T. Kia no longer offers the Kia Soul Sport model.

Power for the 2012 Kia Soul comes from a 1.6 liter engine making 138-hp (up 16-hp from the outgoing model) and is available with a 6-speed manual and an automatic transmission, which helps it deliver 35 mpg on the highway. Also offered is a new 2.0 liter engine making 164-hp, which can achieve 27/33 (city/highway) mpg.

Click here for more news on the Kia Soul.

Check out the press release after the jump for more details.

2012 Kia Soul:

Press Release:

Popular Urban Passenger Vehicle Builds on Successful Formula with More Power and Improved Fuel Economy, New Technologies and Updated Styling

• New six-speed transmissions and gasoline direct injection (GDI) help Soul deliver fun-to-drive performance and up to 35 miles per gallon¹
• Award-winning Soul receives enhancements and new technologies such as LED lighting and a new Infinity^® audio system

SEOUL, Korea, August 17, 2011 - The product that began Kia Motors America’s (KMA) design-led transformation returns to the Kia lineup with a fresh and updated look, more power, and the same funky “outside of the box” demeanor consumers have come to love from the segment-leading compact crossover. Fine-tuned-for-2012 with a significant number of technology and powertrain enhancements, Kia’s iconic urban passenger vehicle now delivers class-leading horsepower² and significantly improved fuel efficiency of up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway. Since its debut in Spring 2009, Soul has enjoyed soaring popularity and earned a trophy case full of prestigious awards, including: a 2009 “Top Safety Pick” honors from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), being named a Consumers Digest “Best Buy” for 2010, achieving a “Top Recommended^℠ Vehicle for 2011″ by Edmunds.com, receiving the “Best Family Cars for 2010″ designation by Edmunds.com and Parents Magazine, and being recognized as “Best Hatchback of 2010″ by Cars.com.

Building on the Soul’s already solid foundation, the 2012 model’s mid-cycle refresh adds even more style and fun-to-drive performance while also improving fuel economy by 10 percent. The 2012 Soul now delivers a class-leading 164 horsepower² (up 22 horsepower) with a new 2.0-liter engine, and 138 horsepower (up 16 horsepower) with a 1.6-liter engine that adds GDI technology; both are now available with new efficient six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The 1.6-liter delivers an impressive 35 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway (up four mpg), surpassing all of the competition. Later this model year, Soul will be the first among its competitors to offer the fuel saving Idle Stop and Go (ISG) technology, that turns off the engine when the vehicle is not in motion, such as at a stop light or in traffic. The engine restarts automatically when the driver releases the brake pedal, resulting in lower levels of fuel consumption.

The Soul’s exterior design has been updated with subtle changes to front and rear fascias to project a wider stance, while new headlamps, taillights, side mirrors and wheels project a more modern look.

The Soul! (exclaim) is easily distinguishable from the other models with exclusive projector headlamps with front LED accents and LED taillights complemented by stunning new 18-inch alloy wheels. Not only does the Soul! have a striking design, it also offers class-leading features like standard UVO powered by Microsoft^®3 voice-activated infotainment system (expected to be available this fall) with a 4.3-inch color touch screen and rear camera display matched to an all-new 350-watt seven-speaker Infinity audio system (also optional on Soul+). Navigation with SiriusXM^™traffic also will be available.

All Soul models are improved with redesigned and upgraded interiors, significantly better noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities, a more refined ride and many new standard features, including a tilt and telescoping steering column, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). The 2012 Soul remains a class-leading value⁴ with the lowest price of its competitive set starting at $13,900 MSRP⁵ while the Soul A/T starts at $15,700. The Soul sport model is no longer offered.

- By: Omar Rana

Kia has just announced a special edition 2011 Kia Hamster Soul, which will be available to order later this spring. The 2011 Kia Hamster Soul celebrates the successful ‘This or That’ commercial and features the following:

• Body colored bumpers.
• Sport rear spoiler.
• Black 18-inch alloy wheels.
• Black fender vents w/ side marker repeater.
• Rear bumper applique.
• Matte black alloy fuel-door.
• Hamster exterior graphics.
• Black leather seat trim.
• Heated front seats.
• Leather wrapped steering wheel, shift knob.
• Hamster floor mats.
• Push button start w/ smart key.
• Automatic climate control.
• Front fog lamps.

Click here for more news on the Kia Soul.

2011 Kia Hamster Soul:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Kia

2011 New York: 2012 Kia Soul

The funky Kia Soul has been with us for about three years now and as a result, Kia debuted the mid-cycle refresh of its hip Scion xB competitor next to 2012 Rio and Rio5 hatch earlier today at the 2011 New York Auto Show.

Other than the usual visual cues such as new LED projector headlamps and two new available paint options, the Soul receives new engine options that help make the Soul more powerful and fuel-efficient. In addition, a new six-speed transmission will help the new Soul achieve an EPA-guesstimated 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

Click here for more news on the Kia Soul.

The engine is an all new 1.6L direct-injected four-banger good for 135 hp and 121 lb-ft of torque, 11 more hp over the original. The new six-speeds can be either manual or automatic, which both replace the old five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The new engine is guesstimated to return 28/34 city/highway mpg.

The more powerful 2.0L four-pot is still available but was upped 18 hp to 160 and when mated to either six-speeds, can achieve 27/33 city/highway mpg.

Check out the high-res gallery and press release after the jump.

2011 New York: 2012 Kia Soul:

All Photos Copyright © 2011 Nikolina Kostrevski - egmCarTech.

2012 Kia Soul:

Press Release:

MORE POWERFUL AND FUEL EFFICIENT 2012 KIA SOUL DEBUTS AT THE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

- Popular Urban Passenger Vehicle Builds on Successful Formula with Updated Styling, New Technologies, More Power and Improved Fuel Economy
- New six-speed transmissions and direct injection help Soul deliver up to 34 miles per gallon
- Award-winning Soul receives stylish updates and new technologies such as gasoline direct injection and a new Infinity premium audio system

NEW YORK, April 21, 2011 – The product that began Kia Motors’ design-led transformation returns to New York with a fresh and updated look, more power, and the same funky demeanor consumers have come to love from the compact crossover. Kia Motors America (KMA) today pulled the cover off the mid-cycle update to its iconic Soul urban passenger vehicle at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). The wildly successful Soul is fine-tuned for 2012 with a significant number of technology and powertrain enhancements with an emphasis on delivering more power and improved fuel efficiency.

“After just two model years, we’ve given the 2012 Soul significant improvements in power, style and fuel economy, making this iconic vehicle the perfect package for consumers looking for something a little outside the box,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “The Soul has always stood out from the crowd and is responsible for bringing new customers to the Kia brand and positioning the company for a series of record-breaking successes. With gas prices on the rise, this mid-cycle refresh adds even more style and fun-to-drive performance to the vehicle that started our design-led transformation while also improving fuel economy by 10 percent.”

Since debuting in Spring 2009, Soul has earned a trophy case full of prestigious awards, including earning a 2009, 2010 and 2011 “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), being named a Consumers Digest “Best Buy,” achieving a “Top RecommendedSM Vehicle for 2011″ by Edmunds.com, being a recipient of the “Best Family Cars for 2010″ designation by Edmunds.com and Parents Magazine, recognized as “Best Hatchback of 2010″ by Cars.com and being named to TopSpeed.com’s “Top Ten Small Cars For Under $20K.”

More Power, Less Fuel
The 2012 Soul will amplify the fun-to-drive factor with significant horsepower and fuel economy increases with new six-speed transmissions and the ability to deliver up to 34 miles per gallon on the highway. A new 1.6-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission produces 135 horsepower (an 11 percent increase in horsepower from the previous engine) and 121 pound-feet of torque. For those looking for a boost in power, a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available with either the six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The latter engine produces 160 horsepower (a 13 percent increase in horsepower from the previous engine) and 143 pound-feet of torque, and is standard on Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport models. Fuel economy for the 1.6-liter comes in at an impressive 28/34 mpg1 (city/highway), three miles per gallon more than the previous engine while the 2.0-liter offers a fuel-sipping 27/33 mpg for both the automatic and manual transmissions2.

More Style & Refinement
In addition to the 2012 Soul’s performance upgrades, the mid-cycle refresh also introduces a number of significant design and performance improvements. On the outside, Soul is freshened with subtle changes that its legion of fans will instantly recognize from new projector headlamps with LED daytime running lights that are slightly bulged, to a redesigned hood and new front and rear bumpers. New and modern LED rear light clusters enhance the Soul’s unique design while the overall shape of the vehicle was finessed to give Soul a smoother and more streamlined silhouette. New for 2012, Soul buyers can choose from two new, exotic exterior paint colors – Canyon and Moss – that complement a wide palette of existing colors. Inside and new for 2012, an Infinity premium audio system is available on Soul+ models and standard on Soul! and Soul sport models for a more robust listening experience. Also new for 2012 on Soul! and Soul sport models is UVO powered by Microsoft®3 in-car hands-free communication and infotainment system and available premium package that includes heated front seats, leather seat trim, automatic climate control, navigation system (in lieu of UVO system) and push-button start for added upscale comforts.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, the base trim, offering standard convenience features, including air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, available SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with three months complimentary service4 and MP3 connectivity.

Edgy and Confident Exterior
Lauded for its standout design, the versatile five-door’s low, wide stance is complemented by an angled window line and rounded nose. The beltline rises from the front wheel arch to create a gentle wedge shape that continues under and around the rear side window.
Offering plenty of standard features, the Soul trim features a chrome-accented grille, clear lens auto-off headlamps, body color door handles and side mirrors, black body side molding, rear wiper/washer, variable intermittent windshield wipers, front and rear disc brakes and 15-inch steel wheels fitted with P195/65R15 tires.

Upgrading to the Soul+ the 2.0-liter engine adds keyless remote entry with flip key, Bluetooth®5 hands-free phone connectivity, privacy glass on the hatch and rear side windows, body-color door handles and dual body-color power side mirrors with integrated turn signals, along with 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55R16 tires. Soul+ also comes with optional front fog lamps and a power sunroof.

The Soul! adds a power sunroof, new LED projector headlamps, LED tail lamps and fog lamps, body-colored bumper and 18-inch alloy wheels paired with P235/45R18 tires standard. The dynamic Soul sport builds off of the Soul+ trim and adds an Infinity audio system, UVO powered by Microsoft®, rear camera display6, Supervision™ meter cluster, unique body color front and rear fascias, side sills, rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated outside mirrors, and fog lamps wholly personifying the athletic, urban look Soul embodies.

Adding to the distinctiveness of Soul, buyers can choose from a wide palate of exotic exterior paint colors, including: Canyon and Moss (new for 2012), Dune and Clear White; metallic tones of Shadow, Titanium and Bright Silver; red-hot Molten; Alien green and Denim blue. Further adding to Soul’s stylish and funky appeal, KMA will continue offering Special Edition Souls7 in the 2012 model year.

Spacious, State-of-the-Art Interior
Inside, Soul envelopes its passengers with a more high-tech, futuristic cabin featuring a well-equipped blend of technology features at a tremendous overall value. Soul is a recipient of the Ward’s AutoWorld “Grooviest Interior” award for 2010, making the cabin the perfect personal lounge on wheels or an efficient cargo carrier with 14 storage zones. Passengers will find comfort in the roomy cabin that offers 40.2/39.6 inches of headroom (front/rear), shoulder room of 55.2/55.1 inches, 42.1/39.0 inches of legroom and a passenger volume of 102.3 cubic feet.

Soul’s interior design is decidedly influenced by the car’s highly specified audio system. An uncluttered dashboard with a three-dial instrument cluster, LCD illumination and floating center stack design is the key visual feature and offers enticing access to the AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio and three months complimentary service. Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks can also be found in the center console with full iPod®8 and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel-mounted controls achieved with an optional accessory iPod cable.

Additional standard interior features that make the Soul stand out from the rest include air conditioning, power door locks, illuminated window switches, power windows with driver’s side auto-down, external temperature display and digital clock in the radio, an upper storage bin, dual-level glove box, 12-volt power outlet, rear window defroster, cargo area light and a dome light with delay out. Soul is stylishly appointed with black cloth seats, adding to its comfortable interior. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat with headrest height adjustment offers multiple seating and cargo arrangements depending on driver and passenger needs.

Soul+ with manual transmission offers additional standard features, including telescoping steering column, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, steering wheel-mounted controls, cruise control (on automatic transmission models only) hands-free Bluetooth® wireless technology connectivity, dual 12-volt power outlets and tweeter speakers, all enhancing creature comforts on the road. Standard on the Soul+ is a covered upper storage bin, dual visor vanity mirrors with covers and dual map lights, while black cloth seats are adorned with Soul logo inserts. An optional Audio Upgrade Package also is available for Soul+ featuring an Infinity audio system with UVO technology that enhances the sound with a center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights in a rainbow of colors that pulse to the beat of the music or add mood lighting. A rear camera display is part of the audio upgrade package for enhanced visibility.

Advancing to the Soul! adds carpeted floor mats, combined with sand-black cloth interior trim with houndstooth inserts for a distinguishing Soul style. The Soul! also includes an Infinity audio system standard, UVO technology and a rear camera display, for a high-tech in-cabin experience.

For those with more active lifestyles looking for even more exhilaration, the Soul sport offers a sport-tuned suspension, prominent and bold red-black interior trim with red-trimmed cloth seats and metal-finish interior accents. For 2012, Soul! and Soul sport models offer available premium package items like heated leather seats, automatic climate control, navigation system (in lieu of UVO system) and push-button start for added upscale comforts.

Unique Platform/Chassis
Soul is different, right down to its platform. With its own distinguished style, Soul features front-wheel drive, a high roofline and a wide, distinctive stance. Built with a wheelbase of 100.4 inches, an overall length of 161.6 inches, an overall width of 70.3 inches and overall height of 63.4 inches, the Soul offers a comfortable interior with roomy seating for up to five passengers. Constructed with more than 70 percent high-tensile-strength steel to enhance structural strength without adding a lot of weight, the Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness, benefiting handling, ride quality and refinement.

Additional measures to help ensure good noise vibration and harshness (NVH) reduction qualities also are fitted throughout the Soul, including a thicker dash insulation panel, an A-pillar noise-absorber pad and an optimized exhaust silencer, a vibration-damper, a center floor anti-vibration pad, and vinyl sealing on door trim. All Soul+, Soul! and Soul sport trims also receive an added sub-frame dynamic damper and a heavy engine support dynamic damper, which help lessen transfer of NVH into the cabin.

Soul features a fully independent, sub-frame mounted front suspension system with MacPherson struts, coil springs, rear monotube gas shock absorbers and stabilizer bar designed to maximize the friction between the tires and the road, providing steering stability with responsive handling to offer passengers optimal comfort. At the rear, Soul’s suspension is sub-frame mounted with a transverse torsion beam axle with trailing arms, coil springs and gas shock absorbers for a smooth ride and minimum intrusion into the cargo space. Soul sport models feature a sport-tuned suspension that includes firmer springs, re-tuned shock absorbers and a larger front stabilizer bar resulting in a lively, more energetic ride.

Standard Kia Safety Features
All Soul models continue to offer the same high level of standard safety equipment as all Kia vehicles, offering a comprehensive list of safety features, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags9. An Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) also are standard, as are front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, impact-absorbing steering column and a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).

Industry-Leading Warranty
The 2012 Soul is covered by Kia’s warranty program, which offers consumer protection at an exceptional value. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage.

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line
Kia’s model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

1 2011 EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
2 Based on manufacturer’s fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
3 Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
4 SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries. SIRIUS Radio requires a subscription, sold separately after 3-month trial subscription included with vehicle purchase. Prices and programming are provided by SIRIUS and are subject to change. Subscriptions governed by SIRIUS Terms & Conditions available at sirius.com. SIRIUS Radio U.S. service available only to those at least 18 years of age in the 48 contiguous United States,
D.C. and Puerto Rico (with coverage limitations).
5 A compatible Bluetooth® wireless technology-enabled cell phone is required to use Bluetooth® wireless technology. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Kia is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
6 The rear-view backup camera is not a substitute for proper and safe backing-up procedures. Always drive safely and use caution when backing up.
7 Special Edition Soul vehicles will have limited availability while supplies last. Vehicles will not be available in all regions. See dealers for details.
8 Optional Kia accessory cable required for iPod® mobile digital device connectivity; both sold separately. iPod® is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc.
9 For maximum protection, always wear your seat belt.

- By: Chris Chin

2012 Kia Soul

With seven new product launches within the past two years, Kia is experiencing some significant growth. At the 2011 New York Auto Show next week, Kia will build on that momentum with two world debut of new and fuel-efficient 2012 model year vehicles.

The first will be the 2012 Kia Rio sedan and Rio5 hatchback, which we told you about earlier this month.

The second debut will be new 2012 Kia Soul, which receives a series of updates for the model year “with significant power and fuel efficiency upgrades under the hood.”

Click here for more news on the Kia Soul.

Kia says that the new 2012 Soul will get a new 6-speed transmission that will help it achieve nearly 35 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2012 Kia Soul will also get some updated exterior features including new LED projector headlamps.

We’ll be covering the 2011 New York Auto Show live starting the night of April 19 – make sure you join us for a live 2 days coverage.

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Audi Q5

Are you in the market for a new car but have no idea what you want? NADAguides is here to help with their annual Must Consider List for 2011.

“The annual NADAguides Must Consider List provides consumers with unique vehicles that may not necessarily be at the top of consumers’ minds, but have definitely earned their moment in the spotlight for consideration and should not be overlooked,” NADAguides said in a statement.

The Must Consider List vehicles are selected by analysts at NADAguides depending on a combination of factors including quality engineering, design and features, performance and fuel-efficiency.

NADAguides Must Consider List for 2011

• 2011 Audi Q5
• 2012 Fiat 500
• 2011 Ford Taurus Limited
• 2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring
• 2011 Kia Soul
• 2011 Toyota 4Runner Trail
• 2011 VW Golf

Hit the jump for a more details description of each vehicle.

2011 Audi Q5 – With its sporty design, premium interior, 8 speed tiptronic automatic transmission, class-leading fuel economy and top crash scores, the 2011 Audi Q5 definitely earns its place on the NADAguides Must Consider List. The Audi Q5 offers a three-zone climate control, providing comfort to all passengers in tow, along with premium plush interior leather seats. Available features include Audi’s intuitive MMI® operating system, panoramic sunroof, Bluetooth, heated seats and Premium Audio upgrades. It not only proves its stand out quality with an estimated 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, but it was also named the “2011 Top Safety Pick” by IIHS for outstanding safety features such as Audi’s impact protection, which includes reinforced high-strength steel/aluminum cross members, reinforced bumpers and rigid occupant cell. MSRP for the 2011 Audi Q5 starts at $35,200 and comes with 4-year, 50,000 mile drivetrain warranty and 4-year, unlimited miles roadside assistance.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “Sporty luxury combined with fuel efficiency and top notch safety ratings all for a reasonable starting price of $35,200, there’s no reason this vehicle should not be at the top of consumers’ minds.”

2012 Fiat 500 – The 2012 Fiat 500 is the first U.S. product offering in 27 years and drives right onto the NADAguides Must Consider List. With a successful combination of unique Euro styling, custom options, and amazing estimated fuel economy of 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway, the Fiat cannot be overlooked. This vehicle comes standard with features such as remote keyless entry, a tire-pressure monitoring system, electric power steering and cruise control. However, what makes the Fiat 500 truly unique is that consumers have more than 500,000 possible custom configurations to choose from, customizing and personalizing their Fiat to their likeness. Available features include leather wrapped steering wheel with Blue&Me hands-free communications, Bose Premium Auto Package with SIRIUS radio, and power sunroof. Starting at an MSRP of only $15,500, and including a 5-year, 100,000 mile drivetrain warranty, the 2012 Fiat 500 is an excellent contender for consumers to consider.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “The Fiat 500 has style, personality, appeal and an amazing 38 MPG on the highway. With fuel prices as high as they are, you not only save money at the dealership starting at $15,500 but you will also save at the pump.”

2011 Ford Taurus Limited – A handsome and quiet cabin, vast storage space, comfortable ride and industry leading technology such as the Ford SYNC® Voice-activated Communications and Entertainment System make the 2011 Ford Taurus Limited a great vehicle for consumer consideration. The 2011 Ford Taurus Limited received the top crash test score from the IIHS with a “Good” rating. With an estimated 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, The 2011 Ford Taurus Limited starts with an MSRP of $31,955.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “The Ford Taurus has made leaps and bounds with its sporty new look, and the addition of advanced technology such as the Ford SYNC. It not only impresses the eye but its safety features are top notch ranked. It has earned its place in the spotlight.”

2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring – The 2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring avails itself as a fierce wagon contender with classy appeal for a sensible list price. The Elantra Touring combines fuel efficiency (estimated 23 MPG city and 31 MPG highway) with noteworthy standard features such as a 172-watt satellite radio audio system with six speakers and iPod®/USB/Auxiliary input jacks, remote keyless entry with alarm, panic and hatch unlock and the first of its kind to offer Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control System. The 2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring has a lot to offer the consumer at a great starting MSRP price of $15,995.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “Hyundai continues to impress with the Elantra Touring, offering luxury class appeal and features at a very attainable price. This vehicle proves you can have it all AND be cost savvy.”

2011 Kia Soul – Recently named to the NADAguides Most Economical and Practical List, the 2011 Kia Soul achieves an estimated 24 MPG city and 30 MPG highway with a base price of just $13,300. However, the Soul makes the Must Consider List for more than its practicality as it also offers a variety of features and the ability to customize both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Optional features include sport-tuned suspension, fog lights, auto-off headlights, heated power mirrors, rear wiper, privacy glass, satellite radio, USB, remote entry, steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth and more. With advanced driver, passenger and full length side curtain airbags, the 2011 Kia Soul was also named a “2011 Top Safety Pick” by IIHS.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “Named Most Economical and Practical by our analysts, Top Safety Pick by IIHS, noteworthy optional features, plus a base price of just $13,300, it’s the whole package!”

2011 Toyota 4Runner Trail - The 2011 Toyota 4Runner Trail is a unique sport utility vehicle that is at home on- and off-road. Loaded with features to make it a fully capable off-road vehicle, the 2011 Toyota 4Runner Trail offers Multi-terrain Select and Crawl Control. Additionally, the 4Runner Trail comes standard with an eight speaker XM® radio, USB port with iPod® connectivity, handsfree phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. With Toyota’s Star Safety System™ the 2011 Toyota 4Runner scored a perfect five on government crash tests and has been awarded a rating of “Good” by IIHS. The 2011 Toyota 4Runner Trail offers an estimated 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway and MSRP starts at $35,955.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “The Toyota 4Runner Trail is built for and can handle even in the toughest of driving conditions. Fully equipped with everything you need to take the adventure off-road, this SUV does not disappoint at all and successfully fulfills its purpose on and off the road.”

2011 Volkswagen Golf- The 2011 Volkswagen Golf offers a versatile hatchback body style with refined driving dynamics, a stylish look both inside and out and excellence in material quality. An estimated 22 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, along with standard features such as an eight speaker sound system with MP3 and MMA compatibility, AUX-in for portable audio players and a 2.5L, 170-hp, in-line 5-cylinder engine, the Volkswagen Golf offers a great option for consumers. Additionally, with Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) and Side Curtain Protection® head airbags on both the front and rear, the 2011 Volkswagen Golf received a “Good” rating in frontal offset and side impact from the IIHS 2011. MSRP for the 2011 Volkswagen Golf starts at $17,995.

Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development – “The Volkswagen Golf knows how to impress with a well-rounded combination of style, performance, safety, full efficiency and features.”

- By: Omar Rana

Michelle Wie in new Kia Soul commercial

Earlier this year, Kia announced that it has chosen golfer Michelle Wie, 20, as its brand”s official ambassador and spokeswoman. Here is Wie’s first commercial with Kia and the Soul and well… we think we have to spend more time watching golf.

Hit the jump for the commercial.

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Kia Sorento

Apparently Kia takes recalls a lot more seriously than Toyota and Akio Toyoda. The Korean automaker announced today that its top executive, Chung Sung-eun, has resigned after the company recalled more than 100,000 vehicles worldwide over defective wiring.

Chung, who was vice chairman and CEO of Kia, stepped down from his position on Friday, said company spokesman Michael Choo. Chung was one of Kia’s two CEOs.

“His resignation comes in the light of the recent global recall issued by Kia Motors,” Choo said. Kia’s former president, Lee Hyoung-keun, was named to succeed Chung.

The recall of more than 100,000 vehicles worldwide consists of 35,000 Sorento and Soul models in the United States.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: MSNBC

2011 Kia Sorento

Kia Motors America announced today that it will be issuing a recall of about 35,000 Sorento and Soul models due to a faulty wiring harness issue that could potentially cause fires. The bulk of the recalled vehicles includes about 23,972 2010 Soul compact crossovers equipped with a feature which illuminates speakers in the door panel, and 11,213 Sorento crossovers with the “˜Limited” trim package are also effected, as they possess the same feature.

The NHTSA has received four complaints of fires relevant to the recall issued, though no crashes were reported. Kia said that it was not aware of any accidents or injuries caused by the issue, and advised that owners of equipped vehicles should turn off the illuminated speaker option to prevent damage until they can take the car to a dealer for repair.

Kia says that a limited number of wiring harnesses supplied by a company called Johnson Controls Inc. may have been improperly soldered, and that is suspected to be the root of the issue.

2011 Kia Sorento:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

2010 Kia Soul

The Kia Soul is going through a really hard time right now with the NHTSA opening a preliminary inquiry into possible steering loss on the compact car. Kia said that it is actively cooperating with NHTSA and is working with its supply base to track down what caused a driver to lose all steering ability in a single incident.

Either way, here is some good news for the Soul that should sooth its soul. The 2010 Kia Soul was named to the “Top Vehicle Picks for Dog Owners” list by AAA, North America”s largest motoring and leisure travel organization.

“The versatile and uniquely styled Soul offers dog owners the complete package of style, value and numerous safety features that keep both drivers and their canine companions safe and comfortable on the road,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “We are happy that the Soul is able to offer owners a little extra piece of mind while they are transporting their dogs.”

“The uniquely styled vehicle was selected as a good choice for transporting smaller and mid-size breeds, and recognized by AAA for its roomy interior, handling, fuel economy and variety of available accessories that offer ease and comfort for both dogs and owners,” AAA said in a statement.

- By: Omar Rana

2010 Kia Soul

It was reported yesterday that the NHTSA has opened a preliminary inquiry into possible steering loss on the 2010 Kia Soul. The move came after a single incident involving a 2-month old Soul had steering failure without warning.

Kia Motors America said that it is working with its supply base and is reviewing the manufacturing process to track down what caused the driver to lose all steering ability. NHTSA said that the investigation could affect more than 51,000 Soul vehicles on the road.

“Kia Motors America has been actively cooperating with NHTSA”s Office of Defects Investigation since being advised by the Acting Director late last week that an investigation was being opened regarding the 2010 Kia Soul,” said John Crowe, Kia’s vice president of service. “Although the investigation is based on a single incident that did not result in an accident or injury, the entire Kia Motors organization — including our supplier base — is reviewing manufacturing processes with the goal of quickly determining if there is a manufacturing cause and preventing the issue from reoccurring,” Crowe said in his statement.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

2010 Kia Soul

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that it has opened a preliminary inquiry into possible steering loss on the 2010 Kia Soul. Surprisingly the NHTSA has received just one complaint on the vehicle that claims “the steering shaft de-coupled from the hand wheel resulting in a complete loss of steering capability.” The complaint goes on to say that “the de-coupled steering shaft reportedly fell into a position that interfered with brake pedal application.”

The NHTSA says it is concerned about the steering failure occurred without warning on a 2-month old vehicle. A “preliminary evaluation” is NHTSA’s first step in a process that may or may not lead to a recall.

There are currently 50,000 units of the Kia Soul on the roads and we personally don’t think there is much to be concerned about until 5 more similar complaints come in.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: USAToday