Mazda Preps for 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon

Good luck at the show, Mazda!

Mazda will showcase a full range of customized cars, including special editions of the new CX-5, roadster and RX-8, at the upcoming 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon.

The annual custom-car show (January 13-15) is Japan's equivalent to the fall SEMA show in the U.S.

Mazda plans to display two versions of the new CX-5 crossover, which made its global debut this fall at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show and arrives at U.S. dealers in February. In addition to the standard production model, Mazda will unveil a special-edition CX-5 with lower ride height, matte-black alloy wheels and red exterior paint.

An updated version of the Mazda Roadster Black Tuned is fitted with BBS wheels, Bilstein height-adjustable shocks, Brembo brakes with gold-painted front calipers and Recaro seats.

The customized Roadster will be joined by the RX-8 Spirit R, the final edition of this rotary-powered sports car that ends production next June. The RX-8 Spirit R gets 20-inch BBS rims, Brembo brakes and lower ride height.

There will be two versions of the Demio (sold as the Mazda 2 in the U.S.), including the Demio 13-Skyactiv Smart Stylish with M'z Custom front under-spoiler, side skirts and rear underskirt; the Axela (Mazda 3) Sport 20S-Skyactiv with front airdam skirt, rear bumper and rear roof spoiler; and the Premacy (Mazda 5) 20S Prestige Style with 19-inch alloy rims, rear underskirt and chrome trim.

Inside Line says: All in all, a pretty modest showing from a small, but well-regarded brand.

Read more http://www.insideline.com/mazda/cx-5/mazda-preps-for-2012-tokyo-auto-salon.html

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Leaked Look? 2013 Kia Forte Sedan Sketches Emerge

I hope these sketches are for real because this car looks NICE.

Sketches that have leaked online purport to provide an early look at the 2013 Kia Forte. According to Kia World, the sketches show a redesign for the Forte sedan that will be officially revealed sometime in 2012.

The leaked photo reveals a Forte sedan that is much more rounded and modern than the current model. In the profile sketch, the Kia appears to have a sloping roofline similar to the Hyundai Elantra, and is vaguely reminiscent of the Kia Ray concept from 2010. The front grille, headlights, and taillights are all in tune with the latest Kia designs, like those seen on the Optima sedan.

The current Forte sedan was launched in 2009; the car also is available as a two-door coupe and four-door hatchback. Regardless of body style, power comes either from a 156-hp 2.0-liter inline-four, or a 173-hp 2.4-liter inline-four engine.

The Kia Forte is currently built on the same platform that underpinned the prior-generation (through model-year 2010) Hyundai Elantra, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Forte once again adopted the Elantra’s underpinnings. If so, it could mean a bump in the Forte’s fuel economy ratings. The new Elantra uses a 148-hp, 1.8-liter inline-four engine that returns 29/40 mpg (city/highway) whether mated to a manual or automatic transmission.

We reached out to Kia to see whether a 2013 Forte is indeed on the way, but did not receive a response before deadline. If a Forte makeover is nigh, we imagine it will debut at a major auto show some time in the next six months.

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/leaked-look-2013-kia-forte-sedan-sketches-emerge-147165.html#ixzz1gz6l1d7C

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Driving on Snow and Ice: 10 Safety Tips

Great advice on how to prevent a crash!

The best tip for winter driving: Sometimes it's best to stay home, or at least remain where you are until snow plows and sanding crews have done their work. If you crash on a snowy or icy road, you'll certainly be late — or worse. But since you can't always call in to work claiming a "snow day," it's better to learn how to correctly deal with driving in the snow.

I've battled snow- and ice-covered highways in two-dozen states behind the wheel of both passenger vehicles and 18-wheelers. I've performed hundreds of tire tests on snow-covered roads, attended snow-driving schools and done precision (translation: "barely in control") driving in the snow for videos and still photos. From this experience, here are some snow driving tips the average driver can follow to reduce the chances of a crash.

1. Get a grip. To have adequate snow traction, a tire requires at least 6/32-inch deep tread, according to The Tire Rack. (New passenger-car tires usually have 10/32-inch of tread.) Ultrahigh-performance "summer" tires have little or no grip in snow. Even "all-season" tires don't necessarily have great snow traction: Some do, some don't. If you live where the roads are regularly covered with snow, use snow tires (sometimes called "winter tires" by tiremakers). They have a "snowflake on the mountain" symbol on the sidewall, meaning they meet a tire-industry standard for snow traction.
2. Make sure you can see. Replace windshield wiper blades. Clean the inside of your windows thoroughly. Apply a water-shedding material (such as Rain-X) to the outside of all windows, including the mirrors. Make sure your windshield washer system works and is full of an anti-icing fluid. Drain older fluid by running the washers until new fluid appears: Switching fluid colors makes this easy.
3. Run the air-conditioner. In order to remove condensation and frost from the interior of windows, engage your air-conditioner and select the fresh air option: It's fine to set the temperature on "hot." Many cars automatically do this when you choose the defrost setting.
4. Check your lights. Use your headlights so that others will see you and, we hope, not pull out in front of you. Make sure your headlights and taillights are clear of snow. If you have an older car with sand-pitted headlights, get a new set of lenses. To prevent future pitting, cover the new lens with a clear tape like that used to protect the leading edge of helicopter rotor blades and racecar wings. It's available from auto-racing supply sites.
5. Give yourself a brake. Learn how to get maximum efficiency from your brakes before an emergency. It's easy to properly use antilock brakes: Stomp, stay and steer. Stomp on the pedal as if you were trying to snap it off. Stay hard on the pedal. Steer around the obstacle. (A warning: A little bit of steering goes a very long way in an emergency. See Tip 8.) If you drive on icy roads or roads that are covered with snow, modify your ABS technique: After you "Stomp" and the ABS begins cycling — you will feel pulses in the pedal or hear the system working — ease up slightly on the pedal until the pulsing happens only once a second.
   For vehicles without ABS, you'll have to rely on the old-fashioned system: You. For non-ABS on a mixed-surface road, push the brake pedal hard until the wheels stop rolling, then immediately release the brake enough to allow the wheels to begin turning again. Repeat this sequence rapidly. This is not the same as "pumping the brake." Your goal is to have the tires producing maximum grip regardless of whether the surface is snow, ice or damp pavement. Use the tips in"How To Survive the Top 10 Driving Emergencies" to practice before the emergency.
6. Watch carefully for "black ice." If the road looks slick, it probably is. This is especially true with one of winter's worst hazards: "black ice." Also called "glare ice," this is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. Test the traction with a smooth brake application or slight turn of the wheel.
7. Remember the tough spots. Race drivers must memorize the nuances of every track, so they can alter their path for changing track conditions. You must remember where icy roads tend to occur. Bridges and intersections are common places. Also: wherever water runs across the road. I know people who lost control on ice caused by homeowners draining above-ground pools and by an automatic lawn sprinkler that sprayed water onto a street in freezing temperatures.
8. Too much steering is bad. If a slick section in a turn causes your front tires to lose grip, the common — but incorrect — reaction is to continue turning the steering wheel. That's like writing checks on an overdrawn account: It won't improve the situation and may make things worse. If the icy conditions end and the front tires regain grip, your car will dart whichever way the wheels are pointed. That may be into oncoming traffic or a telephone pole. Something very similar happens if you steer too much while braking with ABS. Sadly, there are situations where nothing will prevent a crash, but turning the steering too much never helps.
9. Avoid rear-tire slides. First, choose a car with electronic stability control. Fortunately, ESC will be mandatory on all 2012 models. Next, make sure your rear tires have at least as much tread as your front tires. Finally, if you buy winter tires, get four.
10. Technology offers no miracles. All-wheel drive and electronic stability control can get you into trouble by offering a false sense of security. AWD can only help a vehicle accelerate or keep moving: It can't help you go around a snow-covered turn, much less stop at an icy intersection. ESC can prevent a spinout, but it can't clear ice from the roads or give your tires more traction. Don't let these lull you into overestimating the available traction.

Regardless of your driving skill or vehicle preparation, there are some winter conditions that can't be conquered. But these tips may help prevent snowy and icy roads from ruining your day.

Read more http://www.edmunds.com/car-safety/driving-on-snow-and-ice-10-safety-tips.html

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Mazda Reveals i-ELOOP

Interesting news from Mazda!

Batteries aren't the only technology mankind has invented to store electricity, and Mazda is working on a solution to the energy storage needs of electrified vehicles with a new system it's calling i-ELOOP. While we wish it didn't have such a cumbersome moniker, the technology behind i-ELOOP is intriguing.
Mazda claims that its i-ELOOP system will be featured in the first production passenger vehicle with recaptured energy from regenerative braking stored in a capacitor. The rest of the bits and pieces behind the tech include a variable voltage alternator and a DC/DC converter that sends energy otherwise lost to heat in the brakes at up to 25 volts to the Electric Double Layer Capacitor, where it's stored for later use.
There's no electric motor in the i-ELOOP drivetrain, so the capacitor releases its energy to recharge the car's battery and to help power electric components like the heating and air conditioning systems. All in, Mazda promises fuel savings of up to 10 percent over cars not equipped with regenerative braking.

Read more: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/mazda-reveals-i-eloop-capacitor-based-regenerative-braking-syste/

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The Kia Soul, Jeep Wrangler and Chevy Cruze are among America’s hottest products in 2011

Have you heard the news? The Kia Soul is one of the HOTTEST products of 2011! But of course we knew that already…

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.

I’d say that’s something to dance about:

Read more http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/11/29/the-kia-soul-jeep-wrangler-and-chevy-cruze-are-among-americas-hottest-products-in-2011/

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Kia Optima hybrid rocks with fuel economy, value and styling

Check out this excellent review of the Kia Optima in the Phoenix Business Journal:

If you are in the market for a midsize hybrid, the Kia Optima is a must for your test-drive list.

New for 2011, the Optima benefits from its all-gas twin’s redesign, which made the Kia a player in the sedan wars with snazzy design and bang for the buck. But while the family sedan market is extremely competitive, there are only a handful of hybrids in this class.

Ford Fusion and its sibling from Lincoln have strong pull with gas mileage of 41 in the city, 36 on the highway. But the Kia checks in at 35/40 -- a little thriftier on the highway, along with its Sonata cousin over at Hyundai. And while Toyota Camry’s hybrid has fallen short in the past, its 2012 remake is expected to reach 43/39. Of course, those are only estimates, and it takes a light touch to hit the high marks.

The Optima hybrid starts at $27,250 (2011 price), including delivery fee, compared with $19,600 for the all-gas sedan, which is rated at 24/35 equipped with the 200-horsepower engine. The Fusion goes for about $1,000 more, and Toyota says the Camry will start at $27,810. Sorry, if you're thinking about federal incentives, that program for hybrids ended at the start of 2011.

Staying true to Kia’s roots, the Optima hybrid is packed with features. It comes with a full lineup of safety features, dual-zone climate control, power driver’s seat, three months of satellite radio, a push-button starter, cruise control, backup camera, fog lamps and Kia’s UVO voice-activated system.

A long chime signals when the car turns on and off – otherwise a very quiet affair. It would be nice if you could change that sound, just like with ring tones.

Our tester added the $5,000 premium technology package, making the Optima quite a swanky ride. It adds goodies such as a panoramic sunroof, navigation, and heated and cooled leather seats.

Either way, though, the interior has a neat upscale look thanks to the model’s 2011 redesign. And the new exterior lines drew lots of compliments, with the hybrid adding a few unique touches.

Optima falls on the smaller end of midsize market, but both front and backseats are comfortable with roomy surrounds. The hybrid’s batteries, however, eat up a good chunk of trunk space.

A 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine combines with an electric motor to deliver a combined 206 horsepower. The Optima isn’t particularly fast or sporty, but it does the job and you can watch your miles per gallon hover in the 30-40 range. Designers even copied Ford’s leafy display, which grows with economical driving.

Options for boosting fuel economy outside the hybrid world include the new clean-diesel cars, but the Volkswagen Passat is the only midsize entry unless you move up to luxury brands.

Or, if you downsize a bit, a number of new models -- such as the Hyundai Elantra and Ford Focus -- are hitting the 40 mpg mark for highway driving. Then there is the mileage king among hybrids: the Toyota Prius, at 51/48.

Kia Optima hybrid

Midsize gas-electric sedan

Base price: $27,250

MPG range: 35/40

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: 5 of 5 stars from front crash; 5 for side impact; 5 for rollover resistance; www.safercar.gov

Web: www.kia.com

Competitors: Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Civic, Hyundai Sonata, Lincoln MKZ, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry and Prius

Bottom line: A knockout in premium trim and a top contender no matter how it’s dressed.

Read more http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/blog/motor_mondays/2011/11/kia-optima-hybrid-rocks-with-fuel.html 

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How to Save Money with Car Maintenance

Great tips from KiaBuzz!

It’s no secret that the golden rule of saving money with your car is to increase fuel efficiency. Follow these tips on car maintenance and you will be able to save your budget.

Lighten Your Car (Force = Mass * Acceleration)

It’s all made clear in one simple physics equation: force = mass * acceleration. One of the most important things when it comes to fuel efficiency is the weight of a car. In the manufacturing process, carmakers put a lot of efforts on reducing weight of car to achieve better fuel efficiency. See if there are any unnecessary objects inside your car that need to be taken out.

Know Your Tires

Another simple physics rule is applicable here. The higher the resistance, the lower the speed of the object. If your tires’ air pressure is too low, it creates high rotational resistance, which increases the engine’s RPM for rolling the tires. Increased RPM requires more fuel consumption. Thus, it’s important to regularly check your tires’ air pressure and make sure they have proper air pressure. To make your job easier, we suggest you to use eco tires. Eco tires are lighter than conventional tires and have lower rotational resistance. As their name implies, they are also environmentally friendly.

Besides the tire air pressure, it is also important to keep an eye on your tire condition. If you drive on cement-paved highways often, it is very likely that your tires will wear out quickly. You should take a look at your tires from time-to-time and check whether your car is ready for new ones. As a reference, you should look at the tire wear bar, which is made up of small raised blocks between the tire treads. If the surface of the tires is close to touching this tire wear bar, it means your tires are worn out. It is recommended that you change your tires in every three years or 20,000km~30,000km (Editor’s note: The replacement timing might differ depending on your driving style and road condition). Taking good care of your tires will enhance fuel efficiency! For more information on tire maintenance, check out our other blog post here.

Clean and change your air filter regularly

An air filter does exactly what it sounds like – it filters the air flowing in to the engine. If the filter is covered with dust, the amount of air flowing into the engine decreases and it makes your engine’s fuel efficiency lower. Clean your air filter regularly and replace it once a year. (Editor’s note: The official period of parts replacement might be different depending on your country. Please refer to your owner’s manual or contact close local Kia dealership.)

Clean your fuel injector

Regardless of car types, gasoline or diesel, most automobiles nowadays have a fuel injector. As fuel goes through the injector, carbon gradually gets stuck at the tip, which reduces fuel efficiency. How much it worsens the efficiency depends on the quality of the fuel, so regular check-up is necessary. For gasoline vehicles, it is good to clean the fuel injector every three years or in every 60,000 km. (Editor’s note: The official period of checking parts might be different depending on your country. Please refer to your owner’s manual or contact close local Kia dealership.)

Use eco mode, wisely

Eco mode in your car follows an Electric Control Unit program, which controls the engine and other devices. If you turn on the eco mode, the acceleration speed of your car may decrease. However, it is a good way to increase fuel efficiency if you use it wisely. If you often drive on a very crowded road, it can be very efficient to turn on the eco mode to save your money.

As you probably have noticed form the aforementioned tips, maintaining higher fuel efficiency is the key in saving your money. I hope these tips help you with your car management skills and lessen the burden on your wallet.

Read more http://kia-buzz.com/?p=8360

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Pennsylvania joins states with texting-while-driving bans

Glad to see that Pennsylvania now bans this too. Hopefully this will help keep everyone safer on the roads.

Pennsylvania on Wednesday became the 35th state to ban text messaging while driving.

Governor Tom Corbett signed legislation into law giving police the authority to charge someone caught texting while driving with a primary offense and a $50 fine.

"The urge to keep the conversation going online can cloud judgment, can make it impossible to focus on what (drivers) should be focusing on," said Corbett, who signed the bill into law at an AT&T mobile telephone store in suburban Harrisburg.

Corbett said 13,790 crashes in Pennsylvania were caused in 2010 by distracted driving, which includes more than texting. He said 1,100 of those accidents involved drivers using a handheld cell phone, and 66 people died because they were not paying attention to how they were driving.

"It's hard to argue against the fact that the most distracting thing that you can do behind the wheel is to be texting...and not paying attention to what you should be paying attention to," he said.

Pennsylvania's new law takes effect in 120 days.

It specifically prohibits all drivers from using an interactive wireless communication device to send, read or write a text-based message. Such messages include text messages, instant messages, email or other written communication, it says.

The law institutes a $50 fine for convictions.

Read more http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/11/09/us-texting-pennsylvania-idUSTRE7A86KB20111109

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2011 SEMA: Hyundai and Kia’s Top Five Coolest Cars

Best in the bunch: the Kia Forte 5-Door Antenna Hockey Hatch. Yes, the hockey hatch. Perfect for you die-hard Pens fans…

It wasn’t too long ago when it was pretty much unimaginable that the Koreans could make a cool car – let alone a good car. Times have changed though, and both Hyundai and Kia have brought some of the most unique and original customs of this year’s SEMA show.

5. Kia Rio 5-Door Antenna Retro Surf

Kia focused on regional sports at this year’s SEMA show. Repping the West Coast is the Kia Rio 5-Door Antenna Retro Surf (my, is that a mouthful). The Rio5 Surf was designed for what Kia calls, “The original hipster,” surfers. As such, the Rio5 Surf features a West Coast take on the Rio. It gets a woody-themed exterior complete with a surfboard rack, and gold wheels. Inside, the surfer themed Rio gets awesome-looking plaid upholstery, and yes, even suntan lotion and sex wax holders.

4. ARK Hyundai Veloster

The ARK Hyundai Veloster is cool because it takes off-road rally racing style, to the street. ARK Performance starts with the already aggressive looking Veloster and adds an aggressive body kit, and performance decals that make it look as if this Veloster could eat you alive. Backing up the aggressive looks is a twin-scroll turbocharger bolted to the direct-injected 1.6-liter four-banger. While power is modest, at 210-hp, there’s no denying that the only thing that could make this Veloster more intimidating is a velociraptor paint job.

3. Hyundai RM500 Genesis Coupe

When Rhys Millen asks Hyundai to jump, they ask, “How high?” Two years ago Rhys Millen and his racing team, Rhys Millen Racing built a mid-engined Genesis Coupe. This year, they followed up with the RM500 Genesis Coupe. Though a bit more conservative than the mid-engined Genesis Coupe of SEMA shows past, the RM500 packs a 450-hp 5.0-liter “Tau” V-8 where one normally finds a 3.8-liter V-6. Being a race team, RMR knew it best to fit massive (15.5-inch front, 15.0-inch rear) carbon ceramic Brembo brakes to haul all that power down. To shed weight, the RMR500 also gets RMR built carbon fiber accents, trim, and diffuser.

2. Hyundai RMR 2WD Global Rally Cross Veloster

It’s hard not to love a rally car. Insanely fast, tossable, and built from a real stock car, rally cars hold a special place in an enthusiast’s heart. The Hyundai RMR 2WD Global Rally Cross Veloster is no different, even if its front wheels are tasked with turning and dragging the rest of the car along. While identical looking to the 500-hp all-wheel drive RMR Rally Cross Veloster that Hyundai debuted at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show, the 2WD Veloster shown here produces a more modest 300-hp and 300 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4. Rather interestingly, the RMR 2WD Global Rally Cross Veloster features a six-speed automatic transmission, instead of a sequential box normally found in a rally car. Never the less, there’s no denying the RMR 2WD Global Rally Cross Veloster is a cool ride, and one we’d love to drive.

1. Kia Forte 5-Door Antenna Hockey Hatch

The Kia Forte 5-Door Antenna Hockey Hatch might not be the fastest, or baddest ride on this list, but without a doubt it’s the most original, and the coolest. The polar opposite of the Kia Rio5 Surf, the Forte Hockey Hatch reps the Beast coast and one of its most loved sports, hockey. Having both grown up on the East Coast, and played hockey for most of my life, this was an easy choice for the number one slot. The Forte Hockey Hatch sports features that any hockey player could appreciate. For starters, inside the trunk area, the Forte Hockey Hatch gets its own locker room, with space for all your pads (save hockey pants, shoulder pads, and jock; those were conspicuously absent). The trunk also has a special pass-through for hockey sticks. Inside the cabin, the Forte Hockey hatch has water bottle, and puck holders, as well as a dry erase board, and rubber flooring so hockey dads can coach their already-dressed sons or daughters on the way to a 6 am practice. Outside, the Forte Hockey Hatch gets an aviator grey paint job, and ice blue wheels. And just in case other drivers didn’t know you were expressing your love for the world’s greatest winter sport, the Forte Hockey Hatch has hockey stick-shaped LED lights so there’s no doubt.

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/2011-sema-hyundai-and-kias-top-five-coolest-cars-132321.html#ixzz1clS90Rxm

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Kia teaches EcoDynamics

It's awesome to see how hard Kia is working for environmental innovation.

In 2009 a new word entered the Kia lexicon: EcoDynamics. In just 11 characters it sums up Kia’s intention to continue to make cars which are fun to drive, practical, appealing and good value while reducing their impact on the environment. And with the all-new Rio it will reach a remarkable high.

EcoDynamics is a green umbrella for a wide range of technologies. Ultimately it will lead to alternative-fuel cars with zero tailpipe emissions, a process that is already well advanced. Kias with electrified drive trains will be emerging as early as 2012 and already the company has its first hybrid on sale in some markets, based on the new Optima.

But the biggest impact will come about through radical improvements to the economy and emissions of cars with petrol and diesel engines, which will continue to be the dominant power source for at least the next two decades.

More fuel-efficient cars do not come about by accident. They require huge investment in new engines, transmissions, materials and technologies. Efficiency has to be designed in from the start, so it is with the new Rio featuring an advanced three-cylinder diesel delivering up to 88.3 mpg whilst being the cleanest internal combustion engine in the world, emitting just 85g/km of CO2.

In 2008-09, when the world was reeling in the aftermath of the global banking collapse, Kia made the decision to invest heavily in a range of sleeker, lighter cars with advanced new powertrains and state-of-the-art fuel-saving technologies.

Soon afterwards the revised cee’d appeared with an Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) system to stop the engine when the car is stationary in traffic and restart it again when the driver is ready to move off. Manual versions also advise the driver of the most fuel-efficient points to upshift. These features have appeared on selected versions of almost every Kia launched since. Together, they can achieve fuel savings of 10-15%.

Every new model seems to be accompanied by the introduction of smaller and more fuel-efficient engines. The 2009 Sorento saw the arrival of the R family of turbo diesels, plus a world-class six-speed automatic transmission; the Venga featured a smaller, 1.4-litre version of Kia’s European-made U2 diesel; for the Sportage, a 1.7-litre U2 diesel was added plus Kia’s first direct-injection petrol engine – a 1.6 belonging to the Gamma family; and the latest Picanto has new 1.0- and 1.25-litre Kappa family engines. A turbocharged version of the 1.0 was displayed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, and is scheduled to start appearing in various models in 2012.  And the all-new Rio has a 1.1 CRDi engine capable of 85g/km CO2. In every case, lower CO2 emissions have been achieved at the same time as greater performance.

Gasoline direct-injection (GDi) petrol engines will continue this process. The recently launched Soul facelift has a 1.6 GDi engine with increased power output and better emissions. The Optima, a car which has yet to come to the UK, was introduced in the USA with a 2.0-litre GDi turbo engine delivering V6 performance without the fuel penalty. It is only a start to what Kia has in mind.

Kia is also working on a double-clutch transmission to deliver the convenience of an automatic with even better fuel economy than a manual. And it has developed its own continuously variable transmission for hybrid vehicles, which is cutting fuel consumption by 7% compared with a conventional automatic.

The company has set itself the target of making its entire range 10% lighter by 2015, which would bring about a 3.2% reduction in fuel consumption. Lightweight materials will replace steel where it is feasible, and the number of parts will be reduced. The kind of detailed thinking that Kia designers are applying is seen to good effect in the case for the air conditioning unit in the Optima. It is made of glass bubbles rather than polypropylene and is therefore 10% lighter.

An Active Eco system that deters unnecessary acceleration by restricting engine torque in certain circumstances is under development, as is a Smart Cruise Control that can brake and accelerate the car as well as maintain a set speed. Both are showing promising fuel consumption improvements.

And just to show that fuel-saving need not be po-faced, Kia’s engineers have developed a system that rates how efficiently you are driving on a scale of zero to eight. Reach eight and a flower symbol appears on the dashboard. Maintain that over a period of time and the flower becomes a bouquet.

Read more http://motoring.iafrica.com/features/759280.html 

Photo from http://www.kiamotors.com/experience-kia/environment/eco-dynamics.aspx

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Fact or Fiction? 10 Car Myths Debunked

Does turning on your car’s heater really lower engine temperature? Do you really save fuel by letting your engine idle? Read on for the answers to these questions and more!

“Automotive myths have been around since the days of Henry Ford and the Model T. Some have a splinter of truth in them, but most are pure nonsense. The editors of MSN Autos have assembled 10 gems and shot them down like clay pigeons at a professional skeet-shooting exhibition.

Myth 1: Red cars get more speeding tickets.

Debunked: While they're radiant and retina-shocking, red cars are not more likely to get a speeding ticket, according to the Insurance Information Institute and Insurance Trade Association. This myth is based on an optical illusion: a red car looks as if it is going faster than it is because red is an aggressive color. But a radar gun is color-blind. The only way to avoid a speeding ticket is not to speed. If you have no self-control (we don't either), here are a couple of nifty tips to avoid being nailed by Smokey on your next trip: (1) Travel in a pack of cars to avoid being singled out — let a rabbit speed ahead of you and get the ticket instead; (2) Stay in the right lane whenever possible, because many officers look to the fast lane for speeders.

Myth 2: Driving with the windows open to stay cool saves gas.

Debunked: According to Ford's Driving Skills for Life Web site, the power-robbing effect of air-conditioning compressors is less hurtful than the aerodynamic drag created by speeding down the road with the windows open, especially at highway speeds. Running the air conditioner will sacrifice a few ponies, but the turbulence caused by open windows will require more horsepower, and thus cause the vehicle to consume more fuel to maintain a steady speed. Ford's Web site recommends using the recirculation feature because it is more efficient to cool already cool air from the cabin than outside air. Another nifty tip is to run the vent/fan setting once the cabin cools down.

Myth 3: Letting an engine idle saves fuel.

Debunked: This one may have rung true when carburetors ruled the roost, but not now that fuel injection is the norm. Start-up in most modern vehicles is lean and efficient, and the longer the interval between shutdown and start-up, the greater the fuel savings. Engine-off strategies are prevalent in hybrids for a reason: they improve mileage. Even the all-gasoline 2012 Maserati Quattroporte will be using start-stop technology to improve its fuel efficiency.

Myth 4: Hybrid batteries won’t last.

Debunked: Doubters were quick to question the longevity of hybrid battery cells and cite their substantial replacement cost to scare people away from these green machines. Check the warranty card. Manufacturers are offering warranties that start at 80,000 miles and go up from there. Furthermore, the federal government tested battery packs up to 160,000 miles and experienced no issues. Hybrid taxicabs have reported 200,000-plus miles without the need for a battery replacement.

Myth 5: Engine warm-up is important to longevity.

Debunked: There is no need to sit in the garage or driveway and let your engine warm to normal operating temperature before venturing on your way. Sure, a short warm-up period is smart — about as long as it takes to secure your seat belt, check your mirrors and adjust the stereo — then put it in gear and go. The idea is to warm up the engine on the road by driving conservatively until the temperature dial is in the normal range; then you can lean on the throttle as needed.”

Read about the other 5 myths at http://editorial.autos.msn.com/listarticle.aspx?cp-documentid=1155168

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Market Analysis Shows Hyundai, Kia Lead in Brand Loyalty

Thank you to all of our great customers for choosing Kia! We wouldn’t be here without you!

“Auto market analyst group Experian Automotive released its second-quarter 2011 market analysis report, and the results show Hyundai Motor America came out on top in corporate loyalty – a U.S.-market first for the Korean company. Experian reports that Hyundai’s corporate loyalty rate held steady at 49.6 percent, enough to oust General Motors and Ford from the top spots, which scored 48.1 percent and 47.6 percent, respectively.

Hyundai Motor America’s Kia brand had the highest brand loyalty ranking of any individual marque, at 47.9 percent. The Hyundai brand also performed well in brand loyalty, and was fourth highest in the rankings at 40.5 percent. In addition to being among the top brands in corporate loyalty, Kia had three models in Experian’s top 10 vehicles. According to Experian, the Kia Forte was the top model for customer loyalty at 68 percent, while the Kia Soul ranked fifth at 59 percent and the Forte Koup eighth at 57 percent.  GM had the second best-performing model in brand loyalty, with the Chevy Cruze coming in a number two with 64 percent. Ford models rounded out the remainder of the top 10, with the Fiesta coming in third at 63 percent and the Fusion right behind in fourth at 57 percent.

“…Hyundai has been making strides in customer loyalty for several years,” said Jeffrey Anderson, director of consulting and analytics for Experian automotive. “The company’s innovation, 100,000-mile warranty program, and improvements in vehicle styling and quality among both brands have clearly helped them gain and maintain a strong and loyal customer base.”

According to Experian, Hyundai’s increase in corporate loyalty is also helping it gain market share. Experian reports that Hyundai saw the greatest year-to-date percentage increase of any brand, with the Korean automaker shooting from 7.9 percent in Q2 2010 to 9.2 percent in Q2 2011 for a gain of 1.3 percent. To put that in perspective, GM experienced the second largest market share gain with an increase of 0.5 percent in the same period, rising from 19.1 percent in Q2 2010 to 19.6 percent in Q2 2011.”

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/market-analysis-shows-hyundai-kia-lead-in-brand-loyalty-125693.html#ixzz1afQVKTsn

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2012 Kia Soul from $16,595

Looking for a good car for city driving? The 2012 Kia Soul may be for you!

“For the 2012 model year, Kia decided to add a couple horses to the Soul’s stable, increase its fuel efficiency and to add even more doo-dads to the already generous list of equipment.

Great news if you’re looking for a city roundabout, as you’ll get even more bang for your buck. As before, two four-cylinder mills will be in charge of hustling the Soul along.

The 2.0-litre, 164-hp (up 22 hp) engine will sip 7.9 litres per 100 km in town and 5.8 litres on the highway, while the 1.6-litre, direct injection power plant will generate 138 hp (up 16) and burn 7.4 and 5.6 litres per 100 clicks in town and on the highway, respectively.

A six-speed manual or automatic transmission will be available in both cases.

The Soul will now feature a standard start/stop system that temporarily shuts the engine down when the car comes to a full stop, such as at a red light or in a traffic jam. That little extra ensures even greater fuel economy and eco-friendliness than the outgoing model.

Style-wise, the 2012 Soul will be tweaked in front and back for a more muscular stance.

Inside, all versions benefit from a redesigned, modernized and quieter cabin and offer a more refined driving experience.

Kia is dropping several new standard features into the mix this time around, including a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC).

Buyers will have a choice between seven variants: 1.6. 1.6 ECO, 2U, 4U, 4U Retro, 4U Burner and 4U Luxury.

The base Soul will start at $16,595 and include power locks and windows, heated front seats, air conditioning and 15-inch steel wheels. The 4U Luxury will pamper its occupants with such refinements as leather seats, automatic climate control, navigation, push-button start and a smart key.”

Read more: http://www.auto123.com/en/news/car-news/2012-kia-soul-from-16595?artid=136270

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2012 Kia Rio brings 'start-stop' technology to masses

Ready for a wave of start-stop engine technology? Kia’s on the ball.

“The drumbeat of idling engines at stoplights is starting to be replaced by dead silence.

It's the result of more use of "start-stop" engine technology that shuts off the engine when the car is stopped for more than few seconds, then restarts it, in most systems, when the driver releases the brake.

Commonly used in hybrids, it's just now coming to conventional vehicles in the U.S. market -- mostly high-end vehicles. Though it requires some tricky electronic controls, in a conventional car, a start-stop system requires only a beefed-up battery and starter and a few other parts.

Enter the 2012 Kia Rio subcompact, due in showrooms next month. The most inexpensive car in Kia's lineup -- today, Kia will announce a Rio starting price of $14,350 with shipping -- will offer start-stop as the centerpiece of a $400 "Eco" option on the redesigned 2012.

Kia -- at a price for the masses -- joins BMW and Porsche, which offer start-stop in the U.S. on several new models.

“This could be the start of a start-stop wave,” says John O'Dell, a senior editor Edmunds.com, who sees it on more than half of all models within five years. "It's going to be very popular. It's a fairly inexpensive way to get a 3% to 5% fuel-economy increase."

That's a big deal as automakers race to find the cost-effective technology to raise average fuel economy to the required 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016.

Why don't more cars have it? It's partly because of how the Environmental Protection Agency conducts its tests.

With only about six parts, start-stop was a fairly simple addition to save gas in the Rio, says Kia product planner Steve Kosowski. He says Rio owners will gain, even though they won't see it reflected in the window-sticker mileage rating because of the EPA's test procedures.

The non-start-stop Rio will be rated the same as its sibling, the 2012 Hyundai Accent, which doesn't have stop-start. But because the EPA test cycle used few stops long enough for the engine to shut off, Kia estimates that a Rio with start-stop would rate just .1 or .2 mpg higher for city driving, But Kia says it will have much more impact in the real world for owners who choose the option.”

Read more: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2011/09/kia-rio-priced-at-14350-brings-start-stop-tech-to-masses/1

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Kia to build the GT sports sedan?

 

Thanks to the strong public approval expressed at the Frankfurt Auto Show last week, it looks like Kia may be moving forward with producing their stylish GT concept car.

“While not officially confirming it, Kia's European boss Paul Philpott, during an interview with Autocar, said: "Almost everyone has accepted the GT as being the right kind of car for Kia, and that says we're ready to stretch the brand further. If we can get the same reaction globally as we did in Frankfurt then the GT can play a key role in moving the whole brand forward."

Autocar also stated that the GT is expected to see the light of day in 2013, after the brand has finished renewing its normal range of cars. Our bet is that a somewhat more subtle looking large sedan, with styling elements influenced by the GT concept, will be what Kia finally builds for the public.

The company already has the technical ingredients to produce such a car without incurring huge costs if it uses the rear-wheel drive platform of the Hyundai Genesis sedan and its range of V6 and V8 petrol engines.

The concept itself is powered by a 294kW 3.3-litre turbocharged direct injection V6 linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission. If Hyundai invests in producing such an engine by the time the GT is due for production then perhaps a V8 would not even be necessary.

Regardless of what happens, it seems Kia is at least intent on building more desirable, high-end cars to supplement its increasingly appealing range of budget beaters.”

Read more: http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/kia-to-build-the-gt-sports-sedan-1.1142189

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Mazda set to unveil Skyactiv technology

 

Greater torque? Increased fuel economy? Yes, please!

“Mazda has often thought outside of the box when it comes to power.

Consider its adaptation of the Wankel rotary engine. Designed by German engineer Felix Wankel, Mazda began experimenting with Wankel-style rotary engines in 1961, finally offering a rotary equipped vehicle in 1967.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s Mazda stuck with the more conventional internal combustion piston engine in the bulk of its vehicles, but it did continue with the rotary in the legendary RX-7 sports car. By 1993, in Canada the rotary-powered RX-7 had been dropped, but the company came back in 2003 with the Renesis rotary in the RX-8.

As mentioned, though, the bulk of Mazda's powerplants were and still are internal combustion piston units - and will continue to be for the foreseeable future.

However, Mazda has been hard at work developing a more efficient kind of internal combustion engine. What it has arrived at is its brand new Skyactiv technology.

According to Mazda, even though the internal combustion engine has been undergoing constant development for more than 120 years, the units are ineffectively using a large amount of the volatile energy found in fuel.

In a recently published technology paper regarding the new Skyactiv technology, Mazda wrote that most of the energy loss in an internal combustion engine is primarily thermal in nature. The losses could be attributed to the exhaust, cooling system, and engine and transmission surfaces.

To rectify the situation, Mazda's research and development team focused on improving the engine's thermal efficiency, and also worked to reduce internal engine friction and overall weight.

Mazda set out to optimize six engine factors, including compression ratio, air-to-fuel ratio and combustion timing. Mazda decided that compression ratio would be the most important factor of all - and with Skyactiv developed an engine to run with a much higher 14: 1 compression ratio (in North America, where it has been tuned to run on 87 octane fuel, it's 13: 1) than would normally be found in an everyday automobile.

How Mazda has effectively engineered a high-compression engine intended for the daily grind becomes a slightly technical discussion. Basically, Mazda reduced combustion duration, reduced weight and internal engine friction and designed pistons with special crowns.

Those initiatives, together with an intriguing new 4-2-1 exhaust manifold designed to quickly move hot waste gases away from the engine - preventing it from being forced back into the combustion chamber - greatly increase thermal efficiency.

What does this mean for drivers? There will be greater torque over a wide range of revs, and fuel economy should improve by 15 per cent.

In the technology paper, Mazda Motor Corporation's executive vice-president Seita Kanai said: "Our mass production development division worked together to engineer the best possible architecture with incredible efficiency, dramatic performance and the best quality we've ever had.

"We could then, for example, make the cylinder larger, smaller, multiply it by three, four, six, etc. (and) create a range of engines for any future application."

In Canada, the newest Skyactiv-G (G is for gasoline, there is also a D for a diesel) engine will debut in the refreshed 2012 Mazda3, arriving here in October.

Mazda has designed all new lightweight bodies and chassis to accommodate the new and larger 4-2-1 manifold, but in the 2012 Mazda3, the Skyactiv-G engine will only have a compression ratio of 12: 1 - and not the touted 13: 1.

Mazda Canada's national manager of public relations Sandra Lemaitre said in an e-mail to me: "The reason for this is due to packaging constraints on the exhaust manifold when this engine is used in the Mazda3 legacy platform (and not with the new Skyactiv body and chassis).

"The 2012 Mazda3 will have the Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre gasoline engine with the Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission (or) the Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual transmission mounted onto a current vehicle platform in order to make Mazda's latest technologies available to customers as quickly as possible."

The next vehicle to get Skyactiv will be the all-new 2013 CX-5, which will be launched in the first quarter of 2012. Lemaitre confirmed the Mazda CX-5 will be the first of Mazda's new generation of vehicles to adopt the full range of Skyactiv technologies, including the new platform.”

Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/cars/Mazda+unveil+Skyactiv+technology/5411921/story.html#ixzz1Y9A4LXXk

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Edmunds.com Names Mazda3, CX-9 Number 1 by Consumers

Edmunds.com names Mazda3, CX-9 number 1 by consumers.

A popular online destination for today’s vehicle shoppers, the website develops its annual list of top customer satisfiers by relying on reviews submitted directly by current owners themselves, making Mazda’s performance particularly notable.

“A longtime favorite among the Edmunds editors,” the Mazda3 earned its top spot in the “Sedan under $20,000” category for its “combination of sporty handling, great value and extensive list of standard features,” as well as its “stylish interior” and standard manual transmission. Significantly, the latter was called out for “its smooth shifting” and “the way it reinforces the Mazda3’s sporty feel.”

This latest honor also represents an Edmunds hat trick for the Mazda3—earlier this year, it outperformed all rivals to win the 2011 Edmunds Best Retained Value award in its segment and also was named to Edmunds’ own Top Recommended list. And that’s in addition to garnering 2011 Top Safety Pick status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and being recognized with a spot among this year’s “Coolest under $18,000” vehicles, as determined by Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com

“Adding a little spice to a class of otherwise sedate vehicles” in the “SUV $25,000-$35,000” segment of the Edmunds.com list was the CX-9, which is “actually fun to drive and feels more nimble than its practical silhouette suggests.” As a result, consumer reviews of the Mazda crossover included comments like:

“The CX-9 balances room (which it has plenty of) with a car that you enjoy driving.”

“Nothing compares to the Mazda’s driving dynamics or what you get for the money.”

“It’s nice having extra room and all these cool options (rearview camera, blind-spot monitor, power liftgate, Bose audio, GPS).”

And the CX-9, much like the Mazda3, has been a strong performer in other third-party studies, too, including the 2011 Kiplinger’s Personal Finance vehicle ratings. The CX-9 was named “Best in Class” in the Midsize and Large Crossovers segment in the publication’s annual survey of the industry’s top products.

Which is a further reason your local Mazda dealership should be a top stop on your way to buying a new vehicle this year.

Read more: http://www.mazdainthenews.com/mazda3-cx-9-rated-no-1-by-edmunds-com-consumers/

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Is texting while driving really worse than drunk driving?

Is texting while driving really worse than drunk driving? That’s the question that  Christopher Neiger from “How Stuff Works” asked. Read more to find out his conclusion. 

Texting, or short message service(SMS), is a quick form of communication that allows users to send 160 characters or less to and from their cell phones and smartphones. A study by the Pew Research group in 2009 and 2010 reported that out of the number of Americans who have cell phones, 58 percent of adults and 66 percent of teens use them to text [source:Motavalli]. With these high percentages of Americans using text messaging every year, many are bringing the habit along with them when they drive. The same Pew study showed that 34 percent of teens who use their phone for texting said they've done it while driving, and 47 percent of adults who texted said they had done it while driving, too [source: Motavalli].

In 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that almost 6,000 fatalities and over half of a million injuries were due to accidents caused by drivers who were distracted [source: Motavalli]. The study wasn't focused on texting, but it does show the seriousness of driving while distracted. Like many other driving distractions, texting involves a certain amount of mental attention as well as physical application which may be why 28 states have banned drivers from texting while operating a vehicle [source: Motavalli].

But is there really proof that texting while driving is more dangerous than drunk driving? Even though research is just now being done to measure the effects of texting while driving, some in the automotive industry and others in research circles say that texting is definitely more dangerous than drunk driving. Mainly because taking a driver's eyes off the road significantly cuts down on his or her ability to react to changes.

In 2009, Car and Driver conducted a driving test with their editor-in-chief and an intern to prove or disprove that texting while driving was more dangerous than drunk driving. The first step of their experiment was to test and measure the reaction times of both drivers while driving sober with no distractions, and then while reading and sending text messages on their cell phones. A light mounted to the front windshield simulated a car braking in front of them [source:Austin].

As they read and sent text messages, their response time was measured based on the time it took between when the brake light came on and when the driver applied the brakes at both 35 miles per hour (56.3 kilometers per hour) and at 70 miles per hour (112.7 kilometers per hour) [source: Chang]. Both drivers had a longer response time while reading and sending the text messages when compared to driving without any distractions. After the initial test, both drivers then consumed alcohol and reached the legal driving limit for intoxication in their state. After running the same test again while driving drunk, response times for both drivers were better when the driver was drunk, compared to when they were reading or sending text messages while sober. Car and Driver writers mentioned that the test was performed on a closed airport runway, with no road signs and no turns. Although this test was performed on a closed course, slow response times due to texting could result in serious consequences in real-world driving situations.

Another test conducted by the Transport Research Laboratory in London took it a step further. It found that drivers who texted had slower response times, were more likely to drift in and out of lanes and even drove worse than those who were driving while high on marijuana [source: Nugent]. The study found that reaction times for those who texted while driving were 35 percent worse than when they drove without any distractions at all. When driving while intoxicated, the reaction time was only 12 percent worse than when the driver was sober and driving without any texting distractions [source: Nugent]. The researchers also found that there was a significant decrease in ability to maintain a safe driving distance between vehicles while texting and steering control dropped by 91 percent compared to driving without distraction [source: Nugent]. One of the study's commissioners eventually concluded that texting while driving is one of the most dangerous things a driver could do while behind the wheel of a car.

Read the full article: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/texting-while-driving-worse-than-drunk-driving.htm

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National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) Names 3 Kia Vehicles “2011 Best Car Buys”

The National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) names 3 Kia vehicles “2011 Best Car Buys.”

The group’s annual NADAguides Best Car Buys Report analyzed criteria like price, depreciation, fuel efficiency, warranty coverage and safety ratings to determine which vehicles are the country’s true customer satisfiers, and among them were:

Kia Soul—The funky-fresh urban passenger vehicle has become one of the most popular subcompacts on the road today, selling in record numbers in 2011 thanks to its unique mix of bold styling, notable fuel efficiency and starting price of just $13,300. The Soul also earned “Top Safety Pick” status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Kia Sorento—The first Kia vehicle to go into production at the automaker’s U.S. manufacturing facility in West Point, Ga., the 2011 Sorento also is an IIHS “Top Safety Pick,” and it’s also achieved record sales this year. In fact, the stylish and fuel-efficient crossover has been Kia’s top seller every month since its introduction.

Kia Sedona—Building on its recognition as “The Best Minivan for the Money” byU.S. News & World Report, the Sedona is packed with the kind of safety content today’s families look for, including six standard airbags (with dual advanced front and front seat-mounted side airbags and full-length side-curtain airbags for all three rows), active front headrests, and four-channel, four-sensor anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution for optimum stopping capabilities.

“Our design-led transformation has fundamentally changed consumer perception of the Kia brand, and the inclusion of three of our vehicles in NADAguides’ Annual ‘Best Car Buys’ report is further validation that Kia’s commitment to bringing a comprehensive lineup to consumers that feature a compelling combination of design, performance, safety, fuel economy and value is resonating with more and more new car shoppers,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, Marketing & Communications, KMA. “With year-to-date sales up more than 40 percent over 2010, interest in the Kia brand has never been higher as consumers turn to our fresh new products like the Sorento CUV and Soul that not only offer class-leading features but are backed, like the entire Kia lineup, by our industry leading 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty.”

Read more: http://www.kiainthenews.com/kia-trio-nabs-nadaguide-honors/#more-429

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The Mazda Total Advantage Program

Exciting news!

The company best known for its dynamic lineup of driver-friendly vehicles has now made owning one of those vehicles an even friendlier experience: Mazda recently introduced its first-ever pre-paid maintenance service—the Mazda Total Advantage Program—to provide owners with a more affordable way to ensure their vehicles get the factory-certified routine maintenance they deserve.

The new program was designed specifically to meet customer needs, bundling together typical maintenance services at one low price that delivers a notable cost advantage as compared to paying for the services separately. Plans are available for both Mazda’s Schedule I and Schedule II maintenance regimens, and can be purchased in 1- to 5-year increments. Customers can even roll the cost of the Mazda Total Advantage Program into their new-vehicle financing when a purchase is made through Mazda Capital Services. The entire award-winning Mazda roster is covered, too, including the MX-5 Miata and the Mazda3.

The former was the highest-ranked Compact Sporty Car in this summer’s 2011 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study, beating out rivals like the VW GTI, while the Mazda3 recently was named to KBB.com annual list of “Coolest Cars unders $18,000” for the eighth consecutive year. That’s a feat that prompted Jack R. Nerad, executive director and executive market analyst for the site, to say: “At some point we’re going to have to give Mazda3 a lifetime achievement award for its unequaled streak of appearances on our annual list of coolest cars. For the 8th year in a row—every year of the car’s existence, in fact—the Mazda3 has earned a spot on our list for its standout sheet metal, excellent interior and exceptional driving dynamics.”

But keep in mind that the innovative Mazda Total Advantage Program isn’t just limited to new vehicles—used and certified pre-owned Mazdas from the 2007 model year or newer can be covered as well.

Read more: http://www.mazdainthenews.com/mazda-introduces-pre-paid-maintenance-program/#more-987

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Hybrid Version Of Mazda6 Sedan Coming In 2013 or 2014

A hybrid version of the Mazda6 sedan will be out in 2013 or 2014.

In March of last year, Mazda signed a deal to license Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, which Toyota is also licensing to Subaru. With access to this unique hybrid system, the automaker is expected to launch a hybrid version of its Mazda6 sedan as either a 2013 or 2014 model.

Based on spy photos of a Mazda6 development mule from InsideLine and Car and Driver, the Mazda6 hybrid will feature driver-selectable Eco/Power/EV modes, similar to the Toyota Prius. And, mileage is expected to reach close to the Prius’  ratings of 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway.

Mazda is eager to improve the efficiency of its lineup overall, but hybrids won’t be the primary method of achieving its goals. The company’s SKYACTIV gasoline engines are expected to return the fuel efficiency of today’s clean diesels. The first car in the U.S. to feature the SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine will be the 2012 Mazda3 compact, which arrives this fall.

Read more: http://www.mazdainthenews.com/mazda-to-launch-mazda6-hybrid-sedan/#more-979

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Kia Sportage Named “2011 Northwest Affordable SUV of the Year”

The Kia Sportage was name the “2011 Northwest Affordable SUV of the Year” by the Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA).

The award was given during the NWAPA’s annual “Mudfest,” a unique one-day event in which the year’s top SUVs and crossovers are gathered for a comprehensive, hands-on evaluation of their performance, both on and off the road. This includes off-road tests of low-range handling, ride comfort, and hill-climbing and descent abilities, as well as on-road comparisons of stability, handling, emergency-braking maneuvers, and more. In addition, versatility and overall value are scored separately to provide a comprehensive picture of each vehicle’s attributes.

Taking home this new honor is one of a long list of Sportage accomplishments, which also include:

• Being named “Best New Crossover Vehicle” in the About.com 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards
• Earning the title of “International Truck of the Year” as part of the International Car of the Year Awards
• Achieving “Top Safety Pick” status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), reflecting the fact that the
• Sportage offers standard electronic stability control and received the highest possible scores in the group’s front, rear, side and rollover crash testing

“The latest award for Sportage from NWAPA underscores Kia Motors’ ongoing commitment to delivering high-value, high-quality vehicles that combine outstanding fuel economy and safety with world-class design, cutting-edge technology and fun-to-drive performance,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America (KMA). “Demand for the 2011 Sportage has outpaced supply since arriving in dealerships, and the Sportage has played a significant role in the increased consumer awareness and consideration of the Kia brand that has resulted in record sales for the company.”

Read more: http://www.kiainthenews.com/the-northwest-sportage-kias-crossover-is-mudfest-champ/#more-413

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2012 Mazda3 Expected To Get 40 MPG

The all-new 2012 Mazda3 is expected to get 40 mpg. It is expected to be available in October.

The refreshed 2012 Mazda3 will arrive in showrooms this fall. With it will be the first application of Mazda’s new SKYACTIV powertrain technology in the United States. And, thanks to this new tech, the latest Mazda3 is expected to deliver dramatically better fuel economy compared to the outgoing model.

The new SKYACTIV 2.0 direct-injection gasoline engine and SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission is expected to help the 2012 Mazda3 achieved 40 miles per gallon on the highway. With a six-speed manual, it’s expected to achieve an impressive 39 mpg highway. City mileage ratings will be 28 mpg with the automatic, 27 mpg with the manual.

Not only will SKYACTIV help the Mazda3 get better mileage than before, but the new powertrain components are also expected to help the compact deliver plenty of power. SKYACTIV 2.0 is rated at 155 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.

The current model’s 148 horsepower 2.0-liter engine will also be available for the 2012 model year. Buyers can also opt for the more powerful 167 horsepower 2.5-liter unit.

Read more: http://www.mazdainthenews.com/2012-mazda3-to-join-40-mpg-club/#more-971

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Top 10 Car Maintenance Tips

10: Check Your Tires

Tires are one of the most overlooked parts of a car. According the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), only one out of 10 drivers checks his or her tire pressure correctly, compared with almost seven out of 10 who wash their cars regularly [source: RMA]. But the truth is that an under-inflated, over-inflated, worn down or misaligned tire can be extremely dangerous, particularly in hot summer weather.

9: Change Oil and Oil Filter

Oil is the lifeblood of your car. It keeps hardworking engine parts running clean, smooth and cool. Most owner's manuals suggest that you change your oil and oil filter every 7,500 miles (12,070 kilometers). Oil change specialists suggest every 3,000 miles (4,828 kilometers) or three months. The fact is, most of us do a lot of heavy driving during the summer when an engine is more likely to overheat. So at least check your oil before you head out on that road trip with the family.

8: De-Winterize Your Car

If you haven't driven your car very much during the winter, or if you've had it in storage, then you need to check all of the fluid levels -- coolant, transmission,differential, power steering and brake fluid -- to make sure there weren't any leaks. You'll also want to change the oil, since oil gets thick and collects condensation if it sits in the engine all winter. If you haven't used your battery in a while, you might need a recharge or a replacement. It's also important to really clean the undercarriage of the car after a long winter, especially if you live in a snowy climate.

7: Check Hoses and Belts

The key to summer driving is keeping the engine cool. We're going to talk about the radiator and coolant soon, but first you need to check the hoses and belts. The hoses connected to the radiator help pump coolant to and from the engine block, and the belts run the fan that helps cool the system further [source: CBS News]. If the hoses crack or the belts snap, the radiator will quickly overheat, leaving you stranded.

6: Change the Air Filter

Over the winter, your car's air filter can get clogged with salt and other thick debris. A clogged air filter can really lower your fuel efficiency. Replacing a dirty or clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent

5: Replace Your Windshield Wipers

Winter can be tough on windshield wipers. Ice, snow, salt and extreme temperatures make cracks and tears in the rubber that lower the effectiveness of the wipers. If your wipers are leaving visible streaks or take several passes to clear away light rain, they need to be replaced.

4: Check Your Brakes

Brakes need to be replaced when the lining on your brake pad or brake shoe is worn down past the minimum thickness specified by the car manufacturer or state law [source: Yahoo! Autos]. You can have your brake linings checked at any normal service shop or at a brake specialist.

3: Check the Coolant and Radiator

Cars are designed to run hot, but there's a limit to how hot they should run. A combustion engine is most efficient at around 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius). But if an engine is allowed to get too hot, moving metal parts can actually start to melt and fuse together, causing a variety of internal problems for your engine -- and, you guessed it, a hefty repair bill.

2: Clean Your Battery

Wintertime is notorious for dead batteries and early morning jumpstarts. But the truth is that hot weather is even tougher on your battery. Summer heat can speed up the chemical reaction inside a battery, causing the battery to be overcharged [source: CBS News]. This can dramatically shorten the lifespan of your battery. Heat can also damage the battery by evaporating internal battery fluid [source: Car Care Council]. The best way to keep your battery running smoothly is to keep it clean.

1: Maintain Your Air Conditioning

The most common cause of a malfunctioning air conditioning unit is a low level of refrigerant. This could be caused buy a leak somewhere in the system. Since modern air conditioning systems are complicated creatures, it's best to have a professional check out the problem.

Tips courtesy of: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/summer-car-maintenance10.htm

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Child Safety Seat Inspection Station Locator

While installing and using child safety seats may appear to be easy enough, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated that close to 3 out of 4 parents do not properly use child restraints ... and if you are one of them, that child safety seat may not protect your child the way it should. Use this locator to find a child safety seat inspection station nearest you. Certified technicians will inspect your child safety seat and show you how to correctly install and use it.

Child Safety Seat Inspection Station Locator

You can filter results by State/Zip Code as well as with Spanish-speaking technicians, and/or having local Child Passenger Safety events.

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Kia Optima Beats Honda Accord in Consumer Reports Showdown

The new Kia Optima beat the Honda Accord in a recent series of tests conducted by a team of experts at Consumer Reports.

The Kia won based on performance in five areas: Handling, Transmission, Controls, Fuel Economy, and Safety. For more information on the tests visit the Kia in the News article!

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Keeping Your New Car Clean

 Everyone wants to keep their new Kia or Mazda clean, so we thought we'd share these tips for washing your car!

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Stop in before August 1st for a 2011 Kia Sorento!

We are running a special on the new 2011 Kia Sorento until August 1, 2011! Stop in today and get the Sorento for just $17,988 with 1.9% APR. This crossover SUV is completely redesigned from the 2010 version and is big enough for the family, but sleek enough for a professional look!

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Boredom Busters for your Summer Road Trip!

Summer vacation also means summer road trips, and for your kids, it can mean hours of boredom. Make the atmosphere in your Kia or Mazda a pleasant one with some of these road trip boredom busters!

Family Contest: Try having a family spelling bee or trivia quiz. Have the passenger be the host, and have the kids participate in an educational quiz or spelling bee!

Classic Car Games: 20 Questions and I Spy can seem like tired, old games, but on a six hour road trip, they are great!

Journals: Have your kids write down what they did on each day of the trip. It will be a great way to reflect on family trips as your children get older.

While these are fun ways to keep your kids entertained, sometimes the best entertainment is something you and your family make up! Don't be afraid to get creative, but if you need more ideas, click here for more boredom busters!

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New and Improved 2012 Kia Soul

Kia decided it was time for a change with the Soul, and redesigned the popular model adding more power, fuel economy, and lots of style. The 2012 Soul has increased horse power, but also gives you more miles per gallon, saving you gas money.

The engine is not the only improvement to the 2012 Soul.  New headlights and a reshaped hood give the front of the car a bold look.  Its redesigned front and rear bumpers give the Soul a more streamlined look than its predecessor. For more information on the 2012 Soul click here!

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10 Most Annoying Things Other Drivers Do

What driving habits annoy you the most?  Tell us!  Or just check out this Top Ten list created by Car Talk radio personalities Click and Clack:

It's a known fact that everyone reading this is an above-average driver — and that each of us always displays deep and abiding civility toward our fellow travelers. So we're sure you won't recognize yourself in any of the items listed below.

But what about all those other jerks on the road?

What things do other drivers do that annoy you most? Here's our list, with an invitation to share your pet peeves below.

Yours in Pounding the Steering Wheel,

Tom and Ray Magliozzi, Car Talk
Click and Clack, the Tappet Brothers

1. Talking on a cell phone

When you're talking on your cell phone, you're as likely to cause an accident as when you're legally drunk. Now, what's your excuse? What's more annoying than a driver who's willing to riskyour life so he can pick up his General Tso's chicken without waiting? Even when distracted drivers don't cause a wreck, they weave from lane to lane, create confusion in intersections and generally drive slower than other drivers around them while they're trying to do two things at once, leaving a gang of irate drivers in their wake.

Don't Be a Jerk: Put the phone down while you drive. You know about voice mail, right?

2. Driving too fast for road conditions

Just because a speed limit is 65 mph doesn't mean that's always the right speed. Snow, ice or rain can dramatically reduce your car's braking and handling abilities, as well as limit visibility. The right top speed for those conditions is that at which you feel safe and in control and able to react in time to anything that happens up ahead. That could be 40 mph. Or zero mph.

Drivers who fly past you at 50 mph when conditions call for 15 mph are not just risking their own lives — they might take you with them. If they lose control, they could easily spin into you, knocking you off the road and down an embankment. Or, at the very least, they could cover your windshield with a thick film of slush or rain, leaving you temporarily blinded. Annoying? We'd say so.

Check out the full top ten at Cars.com

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Happy 4th of July!

 

I love to see the starry flag
That floats above my head.
I love to see its waving folds
With stripes of white and red.
“Be brave,” say the red stripes.
“Be pure,” say the white.
“Be true,” say the bright stars.
“And stand for the right.”

Author Unknown

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Don’t Forget Dad!

 

Father’s Day is this Sunday, June 19th.   What was the best advice you ever received from your Father?  Share it with us!  We’d love to hear it.

Or just enjoy some of these pithy quotes about our favorite dads:

"A new father quickly learns that his child invariably comes to the bathroom at precisely the times when he's in there, as if he needed company. The only way for this father to be certain of bathroom privacy is to shave at the gas station." -- Bill Cosby

"A father is always making his baby into a little woman. And when she is a woman he turns her back again." -- Enid Bagnold

"A father is a guy who has snapshots in his wallet where his money used to be." – Unknown

"My father always told me, 'Find a job you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life.' " -- Jim Fox

"A father is a banker provided by nature." -- French Proverb

"My father said, 'Politics asks the question: Is it expedient? Vanity asks: Is it popular? But conscience asks: Is it right?'" -- Dexter Scott King

"When I was a kid, I said to my father one afternoon, 'Daddy, will you take me to the zoo?' He answered, 'If the zoo wants you, let them come and get you.'" -- Jerry Lewis

"Small boy's definition of Father's Day: It's just like Mother's Day only you don't spend so much." – Unknown

"By the time a man realizes that maybe his father was right, he usually has a son who thinks he's wrong." -- Charles Wadsworth

Check out more quotations here. 

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Kia Sportage is About.com’s Reader’s Choice

The 2011 Kia Sportage is About.com’s Reader’s Choice.

About.com, one of the country’s leading online information providers, recently asked its millions of readers to pick their favorite rides of 2011, and in the Best New Crossover Vehicle category, the votes were all about the new Kia Sportage. In fact, the dynamically designed Sportage dominated the rankings with 64 percent of the votes—no other rival received more than 15 percent.

It’s yet another impressive honor for the Kia crossover, which also was recently named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

“Launched as part of Kia’s ongoing design-led transformation, the 2011 Sportage continues Kia’s commitment to offering consumers unmatched levels of styling, technology, performance and overall value,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America. “The Sportage continues to add to its list of industry and consumer awards and accolades, and as the second Kia vehicle to offer a turbocharged engine in the U.S., we are confident consumer consideration for Sportage and the entire Kia lineup will continue to grow.”

Read more:http://www.kiainthenews.com/kia-sportage-is-the-readers-choice-at-about-com/#more-348

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Mazda2 Named “2011 Best Overall Value on Fuel-Efficient Vehicles”

 

The Mazda2 was named the “2011 Best Overall Value on Fuel-Efficient Vehicles” by TrueCar.com.  This is especially impressive because the Mazda2 has only been on the market for a year.

The list took into account both a vehicle’s purchase price and its average annual fuel costs, and included only those with seating for four or more occupants. MSRPs were for the least-expensive model configured with an automatic transmission, and, per TrueCar, the study “did not include pure electric vehicles because there is no cost associated with filling up a tank.”

For the nimble and responsive Mazda2, that means EPA fuel-economy ratings of 27 mpg city/33 mpg highway/29 mpg combined, to go with a base starting price of just $14,980. Of course, the Mazda2 offers a surprisingly high level of content for that low outlay, including air conditioning, halogen headlights, power windows and locks, 60/40-split folding rear seats, power side mirrors, Mazda’s Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control System, and a full suite of air bags, with advanced front air bags, front side-impact air bags and side-impact curtain air bags.

The highly regarded hatchback also delivers Mazda’s hallmark zoom-zoom driving dynamics, thanks to a peppy 1.5-liter I4 engine and an enthusiast-oriented suspension with MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion-beam axle at the rear.

The bottom line: The Mazda2 is a fuel-sipping, fun-to-drive bargain that gives its owners more than they bargained for.

Read more: http://www.mazdainthenews.com/mazda2-showcases-value-fuel-efficiency-and-fun/#more-742

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