Kia Forte to come in sedan and coupe guises

Well, it's confirmed. The name change that the Korean Kia Spectra - named Cerato in the aforementioned market - will undergo will apply to the American version of the car as well. Automotive News has reported that Kia will rename the Spectra compact sedan to Forte, come spring of 2009.

Automotive News has also confirmed that Kia will remove the 5-door Spectra5 from its line-up. Instead, a 2-door coupe variant will be added in 2009. We already have a good indication of how the coupe will shape up with the Kia KOUP Concept - unveiled at last year's New York Auto Show. The Forte Coupe is expected to arrive a couple of months after the sedan rolls into showrooms next year.

[Source: Autoblog]

Hot News: Skoda MPVs

Skoda is about to go head-to-head with parent company VW. The Czech brand will expand its range to include a pair of practical new models.
First up is the Mini-Van, which arrives in 2010. It shares its platform with VW’s forthcoming up! city car, but true to Skoda form, will stand out from class rivals with its distinctive design.
There’s a high-set grille and van-like flanks, which will help it take the fight to models such as the new Vauxhall Meriva.
Meanwhile, the larger Skoda Van marks the firm’s debut in the proper MPV market – something which has been a long time coming.
When it arrives in 2010, this model will go up against the likes of the Ford S-MAX and Vauxhall Zafira. And as with its little brother, the Van has flared wheelarches as well as sharp, aggressive headlights to provide a dramatic, purposeful look.
A Skoda insider refused to be drawn on the plans, but told Auto Express: “When we do produce an MPV, it will be different to everything else that’s currently on the market.”

New Car: 2009 Volkswagen Golf Electric

Volkswagen has revealed an all-electric version of the VW Golf. This isn’t a production car, but VW admits its an important step on the way to developing a fully dedicated electric car.
Unveiled by VW CEO Martin Winterkorn and Germany’s environment minister Sigmar Gabriel, the new Volkswagen Golf uses a small internal combustion engine to keep the battery charged; the same principle as GM’s eFlex system. VW is calling it Twin Drive. It can also be recharged from the mains. Powered by electricity alone it has a range of 50km.
The driver can monitor energy usage from the car’s infotainment screen. A red kill switch in the centre console acts as an emergency cut out. The lithium ion battery is located in the boot.
The car is part of a larger project initiated by the German government to explore alternatives to traditional energy sources; the long term aim is “to provide a zero emission platform for the use of renewable energy in future mobility.” (Thanks to Autocar for News and Pictures)

Spied: 2010 Mazda 3

Could 3 really be the magic number for Mazda? If these latest spy shots are anything to go by, the answer is almost certain to be yes.
Behind the disguise of the cars in our pictures is the next instalment of the company’s product renaissance: its Ford Focus-rivalling 3.
The newcomer is far more distinctive than the current car, and follows the precedent set by the recently launched 2 supermini and 6 family model. Good looks are put at the top of the agenda, with large headlamps, angled tail-lights and a sporty profile. Our spy photographers snapped a saloon, but the hatchback version will account for the majority of sales in the UK.
Inside, the 3 is again inspired by its 6 bigger brother with a cabin that’s expected to have a much higher-quality finish. There will be steering wheel-mounted controls for the stereo and sat-nav, and possibly a hard drive for storing mp3 music tracks. However, the car will weigh less than it does at the moment for better economy, emissions and handling. As it shares underpinnings with the latest Focus, the 3 should be agile, with 2.0 and 2.5-litre engines and a six-speed box giving plenty of pace. In addition, the current 1.6 diesel will also be carried over to the new model, which is due on sale towards the end of 2009.
Mazda has also revealed an all-new sketch previewing the design direction for a forthcoming SUV, which will be unveiled at the Moscow Motor Show in August. The sleek crossover will debut in concept form before providing the basis for an SUV. It’s set to be called the CX-5, and is on sale in Eastern Europe in 2009.
But the stylish newcomer is also heading west, arriving in showrooms here in 2010, when it will take on the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai.
The CX-5 is the latest model to follow Mazda’s current styling direction. This is called Nagare – Japanese for flow – and is said to capture the firm’s philosophy of expressing movement in car design.

USA: Kia plans to add more small cars

Bloomberg has reported that Kia Motors is planning to add more compact cars into its U.S. lineup, as gas prices have been steadily escalating in the recent months.

"We'll have more small cars. We have an advantage in small cars," Chung Eui-Sun, president of Kia Motors, stated at the grand opening ceremony of the automaker's new U.S. headquarters in Irvine, California. This move came as demand for sport-utility vehicles and trucks has seen plunges as of late.

[Source: Trading Markets]

Hot News: Audi A1 Cabriolet

It’s mid-summer, and Audi is celebrating in style with this: the new A1 Cabriolet.

The German supermini first broke cover last October as the Metroproject Quattro – a concept designed to showcase both the A1 and Audi’s clever electric-hybrid powertrain.

Auto Express revealed sketches of the model in Issue 981, and ever since then, the baby Audi has been casting a shadow over the car that’s set to be its main rival: the MINI.

Audi has never been one to hold back its engineers when it comes to new challenges, and it sees the premium supermini class dominated by the baby BMW as a lucrative market.

So, with an eye on the biggest possible slice of the cake, the A1 will aim to steal sales from the popular Mini Convertible. Our exclusive pictures reveal exactly how the drop-top will look when it debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009, before hitting dealers the following year.

The roof mechanism is more sophisticated than that of the MINI. It’s a powered hood which folds down electrically and is swallowed into the boot, rather than sitting on top of the car behind the rear bulkhead.

Audi bosses have put form over function with the two-seater, although as there is no rear bench the car should offer enough load space to take the weekly shopping.

This approach means it’s vital that the drop-top looks the part – and as you can see, it doesn’t disappoint. It gets a strong family shape, throwing in few surprises but oozing class thanks to clean lines and the trademark Audi grille. A sharp crease which runs from the shoulder line and around the rim of the bonnet emphasises the shape of the nose, while the flared wheelarches are reminiscent of the firm’s TT Cabriolet.

At the rear, twin integrated exhaust pipes straddle a trapezoidal bumper insert, and a strong line splits the tailgate above the lights.

Expect the cabin to be Audi’s usual array of well damped, orderly switchgear, although details such as unique interior colour and trim combinations will distinguish the A1 from the brand’s other small models. The latest Multi Media Interface (MMI) will appear, too.

A heavy quattro four-wheel-drive system was deemed unnecessary, particularly as the cabrio has extra torsional rigidity to make up for losing the roof. Under the bonnet, the cabrio will more than match the Mini, as it will be able to take its pick from the VW Group’s engine line-up. Most intriguing is the inclusion of both 140bhp and 170bhp 1.4 TSI turbo and supercharged units currently found in the Golf GT Sport. These will use a six-speed double-clutch gearbox powering the front wheels.

TSI versions are set to be sales leaders, due to their appealing combination of refinement, performance and economy. A 150bhp 1.8 turbo engine will line up alongside the clever TSI unit, and the range will also include an entry-level 1.6 with 102bhp. Two 2.0-litre TDI oil-burners will feature, rated at 140bhp and 170bhp.

Even though some of these motors creep close to MINI Cooper S territory, Audi’s trump card will be a hot S1. This gets the same engine as the 261bhp S3 when it arrives in 2011.

Chassis
Borrowing heavily from construction techniques mastered on the A2 – the car the A1 hatch replaces – the Cabriolet will be produced using steel and aluminium. This method has already been used in the TT, and helps to keep weight down.

Engines
Much is being made of the new 1.4-litre TSI unit that debuted in the VW Golf. It’s fitted with a supercharger and turbo, and also features in the Scirocco. But the A1 could get a petrol-electric motor, too – making it the world’s first hybrid cabriolet.

Roof
the electrically operated fabric top will be cut from the same cloth as that which features on the A3 and A4 cabrios. There is no chance the car will be a metal-roofed coupé-cabriolet, because the mechanism would be too bulky and heavy to fit beneath the bodywork.

Thailand: Strong demand for Kia K2900 light truck

Yontrakit Kia Motor Co. of Thailand has increased its sales targets for the Kia K2900 light truck due to strong demand. In the face of escalating diesel prices, the K2900 has become popular due to its price and payload capacity.

The Kia K2900 was received well at the Bangkok International Motor Show. Thus, it prompted Yontrakit Kia to raise its sales targets for the vehicle from 800 units to 1200 units. Yontrakit Kia has urged the automaker to increase production of the K2900 - assembled in South Korea - to meet demand. So far, 500 units have been delivered.

The Kia K2900 is powered by a 125 horsepower 2.9-liter turbocharged common rail diesel engine. It is priced at 632 000 baht (USD$18 832).

[Source: Bangkok Post]

New Car: 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Following the recent refresh of the rear-wheel-drive Porsche Carrera and Carrera S, Porsche has announced a refresh for both the coupe and Cabriolet models of the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S, as well.
Most importantly, the refreshed Carrera 4 and 4S lose the old multi-plate, viscous all-wheel-drive system in favor of the electronically controlled system from the 911 Turbo. The old system could send between 5 and 40 percent of engine torque to the front wheels once it had detected wheelspin. The new electronic system can anticipate traction losses and shift up to 100 percent of engine torque fore or aft.
Porsche says the new AWD system reacts faster to traction changes, and doesn’t make the Carrera 4 significantly heavier.
The all-wheel-drive models receive many of the same updates as their rear-drive brethren. For 2009, the base Carrera’s 3.6-liter flat-six engine is tuned to produce 345 horsepower, an increase of 20 horses, and the 3.8-liter unit in the Carrera S jumps from 355 to 385 hp. Both engines are now direct-injection, and either can be coupled to a six-speed manual transmission or Porsche’s PDK seven-speed, double-clutch gearbox.
Like the two-wheel-drive models, the Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S receive abundant visual changes, as well. The cars sport new LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, and a touch-screen infotainment system. Look for the new Carreras at dealerships this October, ranging in price from $81,700 to $102,900.

First Sketch: Pininfarina Hyperion

Pininfarina has released a teaser image of a new special project it will reveal at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance this August.
Called the Hyperion, the car is based on a Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe and is homage to the great pre-war cars. According to the famed Italian coachbuilder, 'the new car's style, size and overall presence is truly unique in modern day car production, firmly rooted in the history and heritage of the two brands at the core of the project.' It was commissioned by a private client.
Pininfarina will also be unveiling a much anticipated electric car concept at the Paris Motor Show in October.

Spied: 2010 Kia Forte caught testing in US

Leftlane has posted several spyshots of the Kia Forte/Spectra undergoing testing in the U.S. for the first time. This indicates that it is entering the final stages of its testing. Designed by Peter Schreyer - the genius who also penned the Audi TT MKI and the Volkswagen New Beetle - the Forte will replace the Spectra later this year.

Speculations point to the Forte being nearly identical to the Hyundai Elantra in features. The Forte is also expected to be propelled by the same 138 horsepower 2.0L Beta 4-cylinder engine. However, we might see a higher horsepower rating in the Forte as Kia pursues to differentiate itself from Hyundai. Unlike the current generation Spectra, the Forte will only be available in a four-door guise initially. The KOUP Concept acts as the precursor to a possible two-door variant in the near future.

The Korean-market Forte will be officially unveiled on August 21st, according to Kia. The USDM Forte is slated to debut later in the year, with sales following early 2009. Head to Leftlane by clicking the source to view the images in full glory.

[Source: Leftlane]

Hot News: New Land Rover

Autocar has learned that Land Rover will be boosting its range with the addition of a new seven-seat model, coming in 2012.
Insiders at Land Rover know the seven-seater as ‘Project L486’ and the new model is based on the Freelander platform. The car will have unique bodywork, styling and interior to mark it out as being more than a Freelander variant.
The standard Freelander platform will need to be heavily modified, with an extended wheelbase to make room for the seven-seat configuration. The new model is likely to be closer in size to the Discovery than the Freelander.
The seven-seater fits in to Land Rover’s range as a more road-focused car than the Discovery, with a lower kerbweight, sharper chassis, better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.
It will have the Freelander’s front-biased four-wheel drive system with a centre diff to send torque to the slipping wheels. Other off-road aids will include hill descent control, traction control and stability control, all operated via the Terrain Response switch in the cabin.
Engines and transmission will shared with the Freelander, Land Rover having secured powertrain supply from Ford as part of the deal under which it was sold to Tata. The key engines from a UK perspective are likely to be 2.0-litre and 2.2-litre diesels with a choice of manual, automatic and twin-clutch transmissions. Land Rover is expected to use the same Getrag twin-clutch system that Ford and Volvo are using – a ‘micro-hybrid’ soft-start system will also be available.
The styling, represented in our artist’s impression, is said to be a mix of the Freelander and forthcoming LRX. “But with its own distinct look,” according to a source.
We have drawn it with a distinctive ‘stepped-roof’, a feature that increases head-room for rear-seat passengers.
The company is in the process of choosing a name for the seven-seater with one possibility, among several under consideration, being ‘Ventura’. It’s a name that’s been mooted before at Land Rover for previous new models.
Land Rover plans to build the L486 alongside the LRX at Halewood, current home of the Freelander and X-Type. Both Land Rover hopes to build up to 70,000 of each model a year, which will boost production at the Merseyside plant to 210,000 units year – a much more profitable level than the current 100,000 units. (Thanks to Autocar for News and Pictures)

EXCLUSIVE: Kia Forte (TD) teaser

A lone teaser image of the Kia Forte - the successor to the Kia Spectra/Cerato - has begun to make its rounds across the web. What TheCarBlogger brings you exclusively is a second teaser that reveals more than the aforementioned image. This one shows the front 3/4 view of Kia's upcoming compact sedan sans disguise. We can decipher from this image that Kia has stayed true to the KOUP Concept, unveiled at the recent New York Autoshow, which previewed the Forte. While the Forte features a less aggressive front bumper, it strays away from the KOUP's criticized Civic-wannabe look that makes up for the loss.

Kia officials stated that the Forte will roll into Korean showrooms this August. The Forte is expected to make its show debut at the Paris Motor Show this September. It is unknown whether Kia will drop the Spectra moniker in the US.

Continue reading to view the full image.

Korea: Ford releases S-MAX 7-seater

Ford Korea began sales of the sport multi-purpose vehicle S-MAX on the 22nd of June. The automaker recently released another European-catered model - Mondeo - in the Korean market. Featuring the famed Kinetic Design, the S-MAX packs items that were previously unheard of in MPVs such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Human Machine Interface.

The S-MAX is powered by a 130 horsepower 2.0L Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. It comes with Ford's Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission. The S-MAX packs a plethora of premium goodies including bi-xenon front lighting system, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Hill-Launch Assist, seven airbags, and panorama glass roof. It also comes with Ford's Fold Flat System, which enables both the second and third-row seats to fold flat for optimum load capabilities. Also a Ford first is the Human Machine Interface (HMI), which allows the driver to manoeuvre audio controls at the flick of a thumb on the steering wheel.

The S-MAX has no direct rivals in the market yet. It is priced at 42.5 million Won ($41 279USD).

[Source: Bobaedream]

TheCarBlogger is redesigned

I marked the genesis of TheCarBlogger on January 14th, 2007. That was when I was in Grade 7 and hardly knew the intricate HTML language. Today is June 22, 2008. While it does not mark any anniversaries, it does the mark the beginning of a new face for TheCarBlogger. I promised you last year that we were planning a full redesign of the website. The promise has been delivered. Along with the new design, I renew my commitment to deliver you with the latest news on Korean cars.

Now that the new design is here, I'm clamoring to unearth new ideas for improvements to the website. While I enjoy doing challenges on my own, I would like to ask you for ideas and suggestions as well. Whether it be the new design or anything else regarding TheCarBlogger, please send me an e-mail at thecarblogger@hotmail.com or post a comment right here. Thanks everyone.

Smart forTwo Cabrio Widebody by Konigseder

If you are told about a widebody kit for the Smart forTwo Cabrio, you could be forgiven for having that quick glance over to the calendar checking if it is April 1^st, but we have to say the experts over at Austrian tuner Konigseder have pulled it off with a great deal of success.

The kit widens the model by an additional 30mm in each direction and consists of wheel arches housing new 17 inch wheels, side skirts and a restyled front bumper with larger air intakes and an additional lower spoiler.

The rear stays largely unchanged but the rear wheel arches get extra air intakes for additional cooling for the brakes, the look is completed with a flowery (yes, that's flowery) exterior body artwork on its white livery. Beneath the bodywork, the forTwo has been left alone apart from a set Eibach sport springs which lower the overall ride height of the vehicle thus improving the driving dynamics.

Lexus IS-F by Wald

The Lexus IS F was recently launched in Europe and the States following the successful introduction to its native Japan last year where it is going head to head with the likes of the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG. Despite a pretty formidable package under the hood where you will find the 417bhp 5.0-litre V8 engine mated to an eight-speed paddleshift transmission, the exterior styling does not show the aggression to match.

This is where renowned Japanese tuner Wald International comes in with this new tuning program for the high performance machine. The most notable feature on these newly surfaced photos is the addition of a new huge rear diffuser which optimizes air flow under the car, other features on the rear include additional air vents on the sides of the apron and a new rear wing. The front fascia gets small modifications with the a new front spoiler lowering the ride height and additional air-intakes on the sides.

9ff Cayman CT-78 E85 Wins SportAuto Readers Award

Back in April, Porsche tuning specialist, 9ff , made a world record attempt for the fastest production car with their 987bhp GT9 but came up a bit short at 409 km/h. Currently the record to beat is the SSC Ultimate Aero TT with 412.28 km/h ( 256.18 mph). However, it seems 9ff's work with combining high performance Porsche's with alternative fuel, as displayed with their E85 bio-ethanol fuel 9ff Porsche Cayman CT-78 with 780 hp could be a more successful road worth traveling for the Dortmund based tuner. German car magazine SportAuto conducted a readers polls which contained 14 categories for series-production vehicles and 11 tuning classes. With more than 10,000 readers taking part, they awarded the CT-78 as the sportiest tuned coupe beyond EUR 80,000. In times of the CO2 discussion, this is a particularly valuable distinction.

Hot News: Renault Megane Coupe

Watch out Volkswagen! This is the car that Renault bosses are promising will end the Golf GTI’s dominance of the competitive hot hatch market.

Meet the high-performance Mégane Coupé, which despite the name will have a three-door hatch bodystyle. Insiders have reported is to be badged R28.

Auto Express has already published barely disguised images of the car, but this is the first time our spies have spotted any version of it out on the road.

The successor to the Mégane R26 is likely to be fitted with a 225bhp evolution of that model’s turbocharged 2.0-litre engine.

It sits on the same platform as the current Nissan Qashqai, so the appearance of an all-wheel-drive model is a very real possibility. All previous high-performance Méganes have been front-wheel drive.

The new coupé is expected to hit the road early in 2009, when it’s set to cost from £20,000. And it’s already being heralded as the most driver-oriented car of its type ever built by Renault.

But the story of the new Mégane line-up is not all about pace. Space will be an equally important part of its appeal.

So, as well as the three-door coupé and five-door hatchback, there will be saloon, convertible and estate bodystyles.

A crossover model is under consideration, too. This will offer increased practicality in a body smaller than the next Scenic MPV’s. And the forthcoming people carrier has also been snapped by our spies. The Scenic is due to be unveiled at October’s Paris Motor Show, before appearing on dealer forecourts early next year.

In our picture, it is wearing only the lightest of disguises, so its styling is clear to see. The car takes cues from the next Mégane, and its shape is sharper and more aggressive than that of the current Scenic. But engineers have ensured this doesn’t come at the expense of practicality, and it will continue to be one of the most flexible MPVs around.

From launch, two versions of the new Scenic will be available: a standard mid-size five-seater and a Grand Scenic, complete with an extended wheelbase and seven seats. Both will focus on maximising interior space, and come with an array of storage cubbyholes, while the rear seats will fold to give an enormous, flat load bay.

Standard equipment will be generous, with keyless start and automatic windscreen wipers and headlamps, while prices are set to start at around £15,000.

Hot News: More Trouble for Ford and GM

Ford has announced that it is further reducing production of large SUVs and pick up trucks at its American plants as demand dwindles in the face of soaring fuel prices.

GM has also admitted that it will be extending the production life of its “full-size” pick-up and SUV platform, and it is also seriously considering the future of the Hummer brand.

Ford will delay the introduction of the revised 2009 F-150 to ensure it doesn’t become overwhelmed by stocks of the unsold current version. Company bosses in the US have also confirmed that more European models will be brought to America, potentially good news for plants and workers on this side of the Atlantic.

America will be getting the next generation Fiesta - and Ford CEO Alan Mulally has confirmed that four- and five-door versions of the current European Ford Focus will be produced in the USA from 2010 with direct injection petrol engines.

Both Ford and GM are struggling to reduce their cost base in the face of sliding sales and collapsing consumer confidence. Ford is planning to produce just 475,000 vehicles in the US in the third quarter this year, 25 per cent less than the same period last year. The company has also said that its 2008 financial results will be worse than 2007’s. GM has also announced today that over 18,500 of its hourly-paid American employees have applied for early retirement.

USA: Kia Soul to appear "disguised" during Vans Warped Tour

Kia announced that it will display a disguised pre-production Soul at the 2008 Vans Warped Tour this summer. As part of an exclusive vehicle sponsorship between the automaker and the group, the specially-designed Soul will make appearances at the "Soul Lounge" in every 46 tour stops.

The Soul will be be adorned with camouflage masks at the front and rear, portraying the signature Vans' checkerboard pattern. Special red-spoked wheels and red mirrors highlight the various embellishments added onto the car. Darkened windows will ensure the interior will be kept unseen from prying eyes until the Soul makes its official unveiling at the Paris Motor Show this September.

Kia stated in its press release that the Soul will go on sale in spring 2009. The Soul's primary rival will be the Scion xB and the upcoming Nissan Cube.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading for the official press release and one more image.



PRESS RELEASE: KIA SOUL GOES UNDERCOVER AT THE 2008 VANS WARPED TOUR®

Sneak Peek of Unreleased Preproduction Kia at all 46 Tour Stops

IRVINE, Calif., June 19, 2008 – The eagerly awaited Kia Soul will tease concertgoers this summer with a sneak-peek appearance during the 2008 Vans Warped Tour®. As part of Kia Motors’ exclusive vehicle sponsorship of the tour, a specially-designed lightly camouflaged preproduction Soul will be on display at the Kia Soul Lounge at every Vans Warped Tour stop. This will be the public’s first opportunity to see the Soul up close before the production vehicle makes its world debut later this year at the Paris Motor Show. The Soul will go on sale in the United States spring 2009.

The Kia Soul is not ready to bare all just quite yet. While much of the car will be on display for all to see, its dress leaves much to the imagination. The Soul will feature a "pair of Vans" in the form of partial front and rear masks bearing Vans’ signature checkerboard pattern. Red wheel spokes and side mirrors tease out its fun and naughty side, while darkened windows help Soul maintain its mysterious allure until its Parisian debut. Kia and Vans Warped Tour badges on the front and rear with Vans logos running down each side scream that this vehicle is ready for action.

Prior to the tour launch, Kia is offering fans the opportunity to enter the "Experience Warped" online sweepstakes to win a "Fly Away" trip to the grand finale tour stop in Los Angeles on August 17.

During each stop, concertgoers will have the opportunity to visit the Kia "Soul Lounge," an interactive, air conditioned tent featuring information displays about the new Kia Soul and other Kia vehicles, a DJ, an airbrush tattoo artist and the chance to enter to win either a new Kia Sportage or Kia Spectra SX in the "Keys to the Ride" sweepstakes. The Soul Lounge offers concertgoers photo opportunities and a poster to be signed during Kia’s exclusive artist autograph sessions. Each tour venue will have a Kia VIP section, a raised area near the main stage accessible only to those wearing customized Kia VIP wristbands. Online, fans can view Kia Vans Warped Tour content at fuse.tv/kiawarped, including the Warped Word of Steve concert blog, which will give fans an insider’s look at each tour stop including photos and specially created, first-hand video.

In addition, Kia will be on stage as the presenting sponsor of the popular Kevin Says Stage, a forum for local bands to rock out at each tour stop. A part of the Warped Eco-Initiatives, this solar powered stage is just one of the eco-friendly actions Kia will be part of during the tour. Kia Motors also is proud to be part of the post-concert clean up and recycling efforts.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2007, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of record U.S. sales. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Next Car: 2010 Ferrari Millechili

What it is: A lightweight two-seater (2200 pounds or even less) loaded with Formula 1 technology. In many ways it will be a successor to the Enzo, but instead of adding power, Ferrari will add lightness. Don’t worry—the Millechili name won’t be making it to production.

Why it’s important: F1 goodies make their way onto a road car. The technology and light weight will make this car spectacularly quick but also fuel efficient.

Platform: A derivative of the F430’s aluminum space frame on a slightly longer, 104.3-inch wheelbase. The mid-engine layout will carry a new V-10 of unknown displacement making upwards of 600 horsepower.

Noteworthy technology: Active aerodynamics will manage airflow over the vehicle, thus reducing drag.

Competition: Not much in sight as the current crop of supercars (Bugatti Veyron, Lamborghini Murciélago, Mercedes SLR McLaren) are either too heavy or expensive to be considered worthy competitors.

What might go wrong: Not much. The idea of an ultra-lightweight Ferrari sounds plenty good to us.

Estimated arrival and cost: Production is set to begin in 2010. An estimated 300 cars will be built over a couple years. Start saving your Benjamin Franklins as the successor to the Ferrari Enzo will be at least $500,000.

Spied: 2010 BMW 5-Series

New-look 5-series caught out on the town in most revealing costume yet. These exclusive shots captured by our spies in Europe show BMW’s class-leading saloon, carrying out some preliminary tests in the run up to its 2009 release.

Codenamed the “F10”, BMW’s E-Class rival can be seen here with softer lines than the current model and much more conventional-looking headlights with an all-round cleaner front-end design.

New European pedestrian safety standards are expected to drastically alter the design of many European cars for the worse, but BMW have managed to maintain its classic twin-kidney grille and these images begin to reveal the German manufacturers latest interpretation of the popular design.

A typical trait in recent BMW redesigns has been to widen the car between the wheels, this 5-series is no exception, extending the wheelbase by nearly 100mm. The overall length will grow by less than 20mm, while its height will be reduced slightly too. And the luxury saloon will include 17-inch alloys as standard with 18- and 19-inch optional extras.

Under the hood, this 5-series is expected to use variations of existing engines in BMW's line-up. Base power will likely come from a 2.5-litre straight-6 while top-range models will use the current 4.8-litre V8. A wild card could be thrown into the mix if BMW attempts to combine its latest turbo technology with a V8 of slightly smaller displacement. And there’s also a more powerful version of the M5's 5.0-litre V10 in the works.

Spied: 2010 Saab 9-4x

After unsuccessful attempts by its GM masters to repackage vehicles in the form of the 9-7X (upscale Chevy TrailBlazer) and 9-2X (Subaru WRX clone), Saab is attempting to re-focus its brand's cachet by drawing on its core principles of quirky yet attractive styling, highly efficient turbocharged powertrains, and its distinct aerospace heritage.

With the recent introduction of the well-received Turbo X, the coming 9-4X crossover (pictured recently undergoing testing on the Nurburgring) and a badly-needed remake of the 9-5 sedan, along with concepts like the 9-X BioHybrid, the Swedish automaker has serious future plans to reserve itself a seat at the premium-brand table.

This week, Saab USA held a press session outlining the "state of Saab" at one of its revamped dealerships in southern California. While there, we were given some interesting tidbits regarding the latest news from Saab by U.S general manager Steve Shannon and communications manager Jan-Willem Vester.

Korea: GMDAT releases Winstorm MAXX

GM Daewoo unveiled the compact crossover, Winstorm MAXX, yesterday and commenced sales of the car. The MAXX is a rebadged variant of the Opel/Vauxhall Antara, which is sold in Europe. The Saturn Vue and Holden Captiva MAXX are also badge-engineered versions of the Antara. Alongside the Winstorm MAXX, GMDAT also began sales of the Winstorm 2.4L gasoline model.

The Winstorm MAXX is feature-laden with items such as 3-level heated driver's seat, automatic climate control, auto lighting control, front and rear parking sensors, headlight washers, and cooled glovebox. It is powered by a 150 horsepower 2.0L common-rail turbodiesel engine (VCDi). The engine meets Euro 4 emission standards. It is mated to a 5-speed automatic and boasts a fuel economy of 11.3km/liter.

The Winstorm MAXX, which goes on sale today in South Korea, is priced at 28.83 million Won ($27 543USD) to 29.96 million Won ($29 127USD).

Canada: Hyundai prices Genesis from $37 995

Hyundai Auto Canada has announced that its all-new premium sedan, the 2009 Genesis, will start at $37,995 with a V6 engine and $43,995 for a V8.

“This is a luxury car without a luxury price,” said John Vernile, vice-president, sales and marketing. “With the 2009 Genesis, we wanted to demonstrate that Hyundai can offer all the quality consumers demand from a vehicle today, all the equipment they deserve, and all the power they could want. We are proud to offer a vehicle with the amenities, driving character and performance people would expect from Japanese or European luxury vehicles at a more motivating price. With this pricing, the Genesis will make a premium driving experience accessible to a wide range of deserving customers.”

The Azera, which serves as the automaker's flagship sedan until the Genesis' arrival, tops out at $39 195 for the Limited. In other words, the Genesis is priced fairly competitively as it packs more features than that car. The Genesis is slated to go on sale this July.

[Source: Hyundai Canada]

Unofficial Pictures: 2010 Audi S4

We’ve already spotted prototypes of the next-generation Audi S4 undergoing tests at the Nurburgring, but now first pictures of the finished production model have been snapped by our spies.

This new-generation Audi S4 will make its debut at the Paris motor show in October. Exterior changes seem slight and subtle compared with the standard A4, mostly based around more aggressive front and rear.

Quad exhaust pipes are the biggest giveaway of the S4’s performance potential, but it also gets polished aluminium-effect wing mirrors, plus a deeper S-Line style front bumper and LED lights front and rear. It’s clear that, in design terms, plenty of ‘headroom’ has been left for a more visually forceful RS4.

Thanks to a leaked Audi document we know that the S4 will get a 333bhp, supercharged 3.0-litre V6 under the bonnet in place of the previous generation’s 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8. The move is part of Audi’s drive to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Insiders tell us that Audi has also reduced the weight of the new S4 to further improve fuel economy and boost performance.

Audi sees the new S4 as a rival for the likes of BMW’s 335i while the next RS4 will take the fight to the M3. (Thanks to Autocar for News and Pictures)

India: Hyundai Santro #1 in Vehicle Dependability Study by J.D. Power

The Hyundai Santro has been adjudged the the number one position in compact car segment in the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) by JD Power Asia Pacific 2008. The JD Power Vehicle Dependability Study, conducted for the first time in India, ranks vehicles within eight market segments. Only original owners of cars that had been on the road for 30 to 42 across various segments were evaluated under the study.

Hyundai Motor India Managing Director H S Lheem said, "This is deeply satisfying, especially as the JD Power Asia-Pacific study is one of the most esteemed and reliable studies, renowned for its total objectivity. The Santro's success in being ranked as the best compact car only confirms our commitment to quality.'

The 2008 India Vehicle Dependability Study is based on evaluations from nearly 4,700 owners who purchased a new vehicle between July 2004 and September 2005. The Hyundai Santro has sold over 1.3 million units both in the domestic as well as the overseas market. The Santro has been exported to around 70 countries. Note that the above image depicts the Santro's successor - Santro Xing.

Spied: 2010 Mercedes CLK

This is Mercedes’ brand new CLK, caught preparing for battle against stylish competitors like the Audi A5 and BMW's 3-Series Coupe. It’s only been five years since the current CLK was launched, but in a market as competitive as the premium coupe segment Mercedes can’t afford to rest on its laurels. So, as well as raising the bar for luxury, the new CLK will take styling cues from the attractive new C-Class saloon. However, unlike the 3-Series coupe, the CLK will not be pitched as a two-door version of the saloon, but a completely unique model aimed further upmarket. The new coupe will sit on a modified C-Class chassis, but like the current CLK it will feature a cabin distinct from the saloon in order to distinguish it as the more premium product. A wide range of engines will be available when the car is launched early next year, starting with two diesels – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit generating 204bhp and a 252bhp 3.0-litre V6. Petrol power will come courtesy of a trio of V6 engines producing 300bhp, 354bhp and 428bhp, the latter pair featuring twin-turbochargers. Mercedes’ 4Matic four-wheel drive system will be available on higher-powered models, whereas more lowly variants will be front wheel drive. Mercedes’ tuning arm AMG will be let loose on CLK to produce a high-performance flagship too – the 481bhp CLK63 AMG. Insiders suggest AMG will also unveil a Black Series version with a mighty 525bhp powering all four wheels. A convertible version will appear in 2010 featuring a folding cloth top, as well as Mercedes’ ‘Airscarf’ neck-warming system for maximum open-air comfort. Prices for the new Mercedes CLK will start at around £30,000.

Next Car: 2010 Audi R8 Roadster

What it is: Audi will launch two variations of the two-seat supercar. First up is a more powerful 5.2-liter V-10, followed by a roadster R8.

Why it’s important: A powerful V-10 moves the R8 into the stratosphere where the other big mid-engined players, the Lamborghini Gallardo and Ferrari F430, reside. As far as the roadster version goes, most of the R8’s competition already offer an open-air option.

Platform: Lightly modified version of the R8’s aluminum architecture to deal with the extra power and lack of a roof.

Noteworthy technology: Audi’s V-10, although similar in every way to the Gallardo’s 5.2-liter V-10, will not be developed by Lamborghini. The R8’s Audi-engineered V-10 will have fewer horses than the Lambo’s 552 but more torque.

Competition: BMW M6, Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes-Benz SL-class, Porsche 911 Turbo.

Estimated arrival and cost: Production of the V-10–powered R8 begins in March 2009. The R8 roadster will debut that fall at the Frankfurt auto show and will go on sale in the spring of 2010. The V-10 should command $150,000, and the roadster will come in at $130,000.

Spied: 2010 Acura NSX

Our spy photographers have caught a glimpse of what looks to be the next Acura NSX testing near Germany’s Nürburgring.

The spied car bears a striking resemblance to the Acura Advanced Sports Car concept that we’ve seen at several auto shows. But Honda claimed the ASCC was just a design study, and rumor was that its icy reception necessitated a return to the drawing table. This spied car looks ready for production, though, having missed its original 2008 target.

Honda has already confirmed that the new NSX will be a front-engine supercar. The first-generation NSX, sold in the U.S. until 2005, had a mid-mounted 3.2-liter V-6.

Given their visual similarity, we expect the new NSX will use the same powertrain as the ASCC, which would mean a 5.0-liter V-10 engine paired with the automaker’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. That could put the NSX on par with the likes of the Nissan GT-R.

Although it shares the same basic shape as the concept car, the NSX sports a higher roofline to allow more space in the cockpit, as well as smoother lines over the rear. The tiny headlamp slits from the concept have given way to real, normal-size headlights and there’s an extra center grille to help feed air to the engine.

At the rear, a pronounced trunklid spoiler and rear splitter look set to keep the NSX planted. LED taillights that spanned the entire rear of the concept car have been replaced by more conservative, production-ready LED housings. The concept’s dual stacked exhaust tips remain.

All this adds up to a car that doesn’t appear to be far from production while looking far more aggressive and track-ready than the concept car. We can’t wait to get our hands—and test gear—on one.

New Car: 2009 Subaru Exiga

This is the new Subaru Exiga people carrier, which uses Impreza underpinnings but gets a stretched wheelbase to accomodate seven seats.

The Exiga is Zafira-like contender for Japanese domestic sales, and is aimed at the country's booming minivan market.

Subaru sold a rebadged version of the first-generation Zafira in Japan when it was linked with GM but the exercise was not a commercial success. So now it's decided to do its own version and the Subaru Exiga is the result.

At 4740 mm long and 1775 mm wide, the Subaru Exiga is closer to the size of a Forester than an Impreza. It also gets a stretched 2750 mm wheelbase to match.

Engines are 1994cc flat-fours, either naturally aspirated (146bhp) or turbocharged (222bhp). The 2.0GT Turbo comes with standard symmetrical 4WD and a five-speed auto 'box. Naturally aspirated models have a four-speed auto and either front or four-wheel drive.

Another key feature of the Subaru Exiga - its name is a mix of Exciting and Active - is the long, flat 1660mm roofline with optional panoramic roof. Big sunroofs are very much in vogue in Japan at the moment.

As it stands, the Exiga is not headed for Europe although some local Subaru distributors have apparently expressed interest. If comes here, it would need Subaru's 2.0-litre diesel and the first shipments would be at least 18 months away.

Next car: 2010 Acura TL

What it is: The TL remains a very powerful front-drive, Accord-based sports sedan from Acura.

Why it’s important: Acura’s player in 3-series territory offers value, practicality, and front-wheel drive, for those who want it.

Platform: Built off the 2008 Accord architecture.

Powertrain: The 300-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 from the 2009 RL will pulverize the front tires in the Type-S, the base model should get the 3.5-liter V-6.

Competition: BMW 3-series, Cadillac CTS, Dodge Charger, Hyundai Genesis, Infiniti G35, Mercedes-Benz C-class, Pontiac G8.

What might go wrong: Buyers may be turned off by the new styling—particularly the grille—or the idea of 300 horsepower going through the front wheels.

Estimated arrival and cost: When the TL goes on sale this fall, it will start at $35,000.

New Car: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

The concept of positive reinforcement—when at first you succeed, do it some more—is not lost on Mitsubishi Motors. Hence, the company is poised to unveil a five-door variant of its handsome and successful entry-level model, the Lancer, to be called the Lancer Sportback, at the 2008 Paris auto show this fall. To help pass the time until September, Mitsubishi has released some advanced information and photos, which we in turn pass on to you.

If this looks familiar, it’s because the very first new-gen Lancer concept car, at the 2005 Frankfurt auto show, was a sexy slantback. And, more recently, at the 2008 Geneva auto show in March, the Sportback was previewed in the form of the Prototype S concept.

The Prototype S also previewed the upcoming Ralliart powertrain, equipped as it was with a zesty, 235-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and four-wheel drive. The Ralliart sedan goes on sale in September.

Hot News: Peugeot 608

The Lion king is ready to return... meet the stunning replacement for the Peugeot 607. The range-topping saloon promises to set new standards of style and sophistication for the French brand, and is tipped to be one of the stars of the Paris Motor Show in October. Likely to be called the 608, it aims to establish Peugeot as a major player in the large family car market across Europe – a goal which the outgoing 607 failed to achieve. Our exclusive image reveals some of the ideas the company is currently considering to help ensure the model’s chances of success. And as you can see, the 608’s rakish profile is a huge improvement over that of its dreary predecessor. Peugeot’s recently appointed head of design, Jerome Gallix, can take much of the credit for this, as the newcomer is the first project to be masterminded by him. The trademark Peugeot grille remains, but the lights will have a more aggressive look than those of the 308 or 207. A distinctive rising crease runs along the flanks, from the front wing to the boot, while sculpted sills add further to the visual drama. An upswept C-pillar detail and stylish rear lights complete the look. Gallix has vowed to come up with a unique, instantly identifiable shape for Peugeot cars. Yet this won’t conform with the conventional design seen on prestige models from the likes of Audi and BMW. And it’s no secret Peugeot intends to match the interiors of its German rivals, so expect a feast of top-notch design and hi-tech kit in the cabin. The emphasis will be on providing occupants with a relaxing atmosphere, complemented by excellent build and materials. Standard equipment is likely to be very generous, too, with refined sat-nav systems and intelligent controls. These should give the car the kind of advanced feel to match the Ford Mondeo and forthcoming Vauxhall Insignia. Under the skin, the saloon shares its platform with the latest-generation C5 from PSA sister brand Citroen. That car’s chassis is tuned as much for comfort as it is for handling performance. But the Peugeot promises to take refinement even further, thanks in part to dramatically improved sound insulation. Engines will be shared with the C5, too, and Peugeot is keen to make sure its latest model puts the emphasis on fuel efficiency. The car will be launched with a choice of advanced 2.0 and 2.2-litre four-cylinder HDi diesels, while flagship variants will be available with a 2.7-litre V6 oil-burner. It’s possible there will be no petrol options in the UK market, as the V6-engined version of the 607 proved such a slow seller here. But buyers will get the option of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, both of which send power to the front wheels. Adjustments will be made to all engines to improve their emissions figures, while fuel-saving stop-start technology is also in the pipeline for the newcomer. This will eventually filter through to the rest of the manufacturer’s model line-up. The big Peugeot will arrive in British showrooms in 2009, with prices from £25,500.

Hot News: Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

Continuing its strategy of thwarting spy photographers and providing its own pictures of future vehicles, General Motors offers a good look at the preproduction Chevrolet Camaro convertible.

Pilot vehicles are currently undergoing testing—unclad and therefore unhindered—as the automaker preps them for full production later next year.

As promised by the designer when GM first showed the convertible concept, the car sports a simple cloth top with a glass rear window and small quarter windows.

Like the Camaro coupe, the interior has been made less space age and more practical. And the side mirrors have grown, as expected.

The revised muscle cars ride on a version of GM's Global Rear Drive platform or Zeta, developed by subsidiary Holden in Australia. It will be offered with V-6 and V-8 power, and features a four-link independent rear end which should give the Camaro a handling edge over the live-axle Ford Mustang.

First Sketch: Mazda SUV

Mazda will show a new SUV concept car at August's Moscow International Automobile Salon that shows the potential for a smaller brother to the CX-7.

Smaller than the Mazda Hakaze concept from two years ago, the concept does not directly preview a production car. Instead it shows more of Mazda's Nagare design theme, as seen on the Nagare, Ryuga, Furai, Taiki and Hakaze concepts. It is not a second-generation Hakaze but an entirely new vehicle.

The car was designed specifically for the Russian market because Russia will become the biggest market for new cars in Europe next year, overtaking Germany. SUVs have a 20 per cent market share in Russia.

VÄTH V63RS Clubsport based on Mercedes C 63 AMG

As one of the first Mercedes tuners to come forth with a comprehensive tuning package for the new Mercedes C 63 AMG, German tuner Väth have put together a tasty package. With a modestly redesigned front bumper fascia that closely resembles the original, the rear gets more dramatic with three prominent diffusor vanes protruding outwards plus the boot spoiler gets another boot spoiler on top of it.

For performance Väth has reprogrammed the engine control unit, added a freer flowing exhaust manifold, and stainless steel sport exhaust. The result is an earth pounding 585 hp (430 kW) and 690 Nm of torque compared to the already potent 457 hp (336 kW) with 600 Nm of the stock 6.3 liter V8 engine. With the speed limiter removed top speed climbs to a lofty 202 mph.

Other upgrades include sport suspension, bigger brake rotors (390mm), sport brake fluid, 19-inch wheels, new sport seats, revised instrument cluster, TV/DVD unit and many other customizations. The V63RS Clubsport can be yours for approximately EUR 125,000.

Range Rover AR7 Highlander by Arden

Arden have already tackled the Range Rover LM last year when they initially released the AR7, but clearly they felt they had unfinished business by going back to the drawing board and pumping yet more power out of the SUV and with more power comes a longer name - "Highlander" has been added.

Tata's favorite tuner who specializes on the Jaguar and Land Rover brands originally took the standard 400hp supercharged Jaguar sourced V8 engine and increased its displacement up to 4.5 liters to bring total power output to 480hp and 650Nm of torque – but that was soooo last year. Now in 2008 Arden have added a new high-performance twin-screw supercharger which brings the power up to 520 hp and 701 Nm of torque, although the performance figures remain the same with the0-100km/h time staying at 6.5 seconds whist top speed remains at 240km/h.

Press release:

• superior 520 HP and powerful 701 Nm
• Compressor motor with increased cubic capacity
• High Performance Twin Screw Supercharger
• sporty aerodynamic kit
• resonant sound with stainless steel exhaust system / extravagant exhaust tailpipe design
• 22” or 23” wheels, high performance braking system
• elegant sporty interior

Elegance, discreet sportiness and understatement have always been the characteristics of British cars. The car enhancement specialist and registered automobile manufacturer from Krefeld was unable to resist the attraction of these vehicles over 30 years ago. It has for many years been a refuge for customers wanting it to individualise their Jaguar or Range Rover and emphasize its typical characteristics. Arden’s latest development is the AR7. It is based on the Range Rover LM, which Arden completely converts and provides with more overtaking prestige. The base vehicle which is impressive due to its sheer size becomes captivating with its extraordinary sporty look. Meanwhile enhanced performance of the Range Rover compressor motor contributes to the sporty driving performance.

Superior performance

Arden obtains not less than 520 HP from the from the supercharged V8, its cubic capacity having been raised to 4.5 litres and a high performance twin screw supercharger was added. Together with the torque which has been increased to an ample 680 Nm, this provides the not exactly light Range Rover with an appealing driving performance. The sheer power catapults the British SUV from nought to one hundred km/h in 6.5 seconds. Outstanding engine power goes without saying. Even if speeds beyond 200 km/h do not happen often due to the flow of traffic, the Arden AR7’s 480 HP make over 240 km/h possible.

Arden bodykit: better look, better driving behavior

Arden adapted its aerodynamic components to the Range Rover’s basic design in a masterly fashion. As usual with Arden, the kit looks as though it fits seamlessly. The completely re-designed, in total 6 cm wider front apron, which replaces the production part, features a hand-made stainless steel grill and air vents. These features emphasize not only the dynamic and powerful appearance, they also provide more effective air supply to the cooling units behind. Arden has made substantial improvements to the aerodynamics, effectively reducing lift to the front axle; this has a lasting benefit on handling performance at higher speeds. The LED daytime running lights deserve special attention. They comply with the future European standards and are harmoniously integrated right and left above the large air intakes. To complete the powerful appearance, Arden also enhances the Range Rover with wheel arch extensions, side skirts and a newly developed rear apron, which like the front apron features several grill inserts.

With regards to harmoniously designing the rear area, Arden adapted the design of the exhaust tail pipes of the stainless steel sport exhaust system, which was exclusively hand-made for the new AR7, perfectly to the design of the rear apron. The system which produces a marvellous resonant sound ends in rectangular tailpipes, with its openings characterized by a horizontal center bar, so that they do not appear too overpowering and meet Arden’s standards for understatement.

“Bigfoot”

The “Sportline” wheels have a large share in the appearance of the Arden AR7. Arden offers the three-part forged wheel in 22” or 23”. The increased size compared with the production Range Rover clearly improves the handling of the SUV and gives the driver more driving pleasure.

Whoever decides on enhanced power should also think of suitable braking performance. So that the Arden AR7 comes to a standstill as quickly as it accelerates, Arden incorporates at the front a 6-piston and at the rear a 4-piston braking system which distributes its power emphatically on the internally ventilated and perforated brake disks.

Elegant interior

The interior does not come off badly with Arden either. In the in-house saddlery all of the interior work is carried out to the highest precision and converted into the customer’s requirements with great attention to detail. Leather and alcantara are made to measure in any colour desired, a wide variety of high-grade woods are processed and also chrome, carbon and aluminium applications are made for customers.