Kia Unveils 2.0-liter Turbo Sportage SX in Montreal

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


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

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

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

[Source: CanadianDriver]

Milestone: Hyundai Sold 200,000 Sonata's in 2010

Wonder why you’re seeing so many new Hyundai Sonata models on the road? Well, that’s because the Korean automaker sold a total of 200,000 units of the new Sonatas in North America in 2010, a huge milestone for the Sonata during a record-setting year in which Hyundai sold more than 530,000 vehicles in the United States and more than 110,000 in Canada.

“Sonata has delivered some pretty incredible results for us this year,” says John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. “Sonata is the Hyundai brand and it’s appropriate that it has led our best year ever. Sonata’s innovation has reset the most hotly contested, largest segment in the U.S. car market, with Sonata delivering more year-over-year retail sales growth – about 90,000 units – than any other car in the entire industry.”

Sales of the Sonata in the stateside were up 117 percent and 65 percent overall in the U.S. marking its best year ever. Canadian sales were up 60 percent.

Hyundai Announces Equus Pricing for Canada

Hyundai Canada has announced pricing for its all-new flagship luxury sedan, the Equus. Pricing starts at $62,999 for the Signature and $69,999 for the Ultimate.

The Equus is powered by a 385 horsepower 4.6-litre V8 with six-speed transmission and includes rear-wheel drive architecture, air suspension, and continuous damping control. Both trims feature adaptive cruise control, premium leather seats, natural wood trim, Alcantara suede headliner, 19-inch chrome alloy wheels and navigation system with rearview camera. In the Ultimate, rear-seat passengers can enjoy a cooled storage box, eight-inch movie display, and VIP seat with shiatsu massage function and extending leg rest.

All models include full concierge service within a predefined area, both during and after sale. Interested consumers can have an Equus driven to their homes or work by a specially-trained salesperson for a test drive. When the vehicle requires service, the local dealership will pick it up and leave a Genesis or other Equus in its place.

[Source: Hyundai Canada]

2011 Kia Forte5-Door Launched in Canada

Kia officially launched the long-awaited five-door version of its popular Forte in the Canadian market today. Marketed as the Forte5-Door, the new hatchback builds on the popular Forte compact sedan and Forte Koup by employing another practical yet modern iteration of the platform.

"The Forte5-Door is another key ingredient to the design-led transformation that Kia Motors is currently in the midst of" said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "The Forte5-Door provides Canadians the practicality and utility that is expected from our already successful Forte line-up".

READ MORE for the full article and the official press release.



The Forte5-Door retains almost all styling cues from the successful Forte sedan, including a front fascia design that has been adapted by the sedan and Koup for 2011. The Forte5-Door completely differentiates the rear view from the Forte sedan. The rear of the vehicle includes a two-tone bumper on the SX package complemented by an integrated chrome exhaust tip as well as wrap around, multi-layer composite rear tail lamps. Available outside mirror LED turn signals and unique 16" and 17" alloy wheels also complement the look of the Forte5-Door.

The upscale interior of the Forte5-Door is replete with an impressive list of standard and optional equipment. Standard features on the base LX model include six airbags, anti-whiplash front headrests, power windows and locks, four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, and steering wheel audio controls. The EX model adds two more speakers, telescopic steering wheel, and heated front seats. The top-of-the-line SX model adds Sirius satellite radio, automatic climate control, leather trimmed interior, supervision instrument cluster, and metallic interior accents. Push-button keyless start, navigation, rear-view camera, and auto-dimming interior mirrors are available on the SX Luxury trim.

The 2011 Forte5-Door door has two engine offerings including the 2.0-litre Theta II and the 2.4-litre Theta II engine. The 2.0L engine produces 156 horsepower and 144 lb.ft of torque. Tne larger 2.4L generates a hearty 173 horsepower and 168 lb.ft of torque. Both are mated to a standard 6-speed manual tranny or an available 6-speed auto.

In Canada, the 2011 Forte5-Door starts at $16,995 for the LX model. The EX model stickers at $19,195, while the SX model starts at $22,495 and tops out at $26,195 for the SX Luxury with automatic transmission.

[Source: Kia Canada]

--

PRESS RELEASE: 2011 Forte5-Door extends Kia’s design-led transformation and aggressive new product launch

ANN ARBOR, MI, Oct. 21

Forte 5 door enhances Kia Canada's best-selling vehicle line by adding utility and practicality
Forte 5 door line-up includes refined and efficient six-speed powertrain offerings

ANN ARBOR, MI, Oct. 21 /CNW/ - Kia Canada Inc. officially launches a valued addition to the best-selling Forte compact sedan and bold Forte Koup lineup with the debut of the all-new 2011 Forte5-Door.

"The Forte5-Door is another key ingredient to the design-led transformation that Kia Motors is currently in the midst of" said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "The Forte5-Door provides Canadians the practicality and utility that is expected from our already successful Forte line-up".

Forte5-Door builds on the popular Forte compact sedan and bold Forte Koup by employing another practical yet modern iteration of the platform. Forte five-door carries with it all the amenities of the Forte line and introduces lower valence designc, available paddle shifters, push-button start ignition and voice recognition navigation in addition to the ostensible fifth door for a distinct appearance and intentional practicality. Forte5-Door is available with an efficient 2.0-liter engine or a sporty 2.4-liter engine both featuring a six-speed manual transmission or an available six-speed automatic transmission.

Design

The Forte5-Door retains almost all styling cues from the successful Forte sedan. In 2011, both the sedan and 5 door share a common look of the front view noting the familiar Kia signature grille. The sporty hatchback exudes styling of European tastes and enhanced practicality. The wedge like character of the side profile displays a sense of speed while the available chrome door handles and outside mirror integrated turn signals signifies luxury in the compact segment. The Forte5-Door completely differentiates the rear view from the Forte sedan. The rear of the vehicle includes a two-tone bumper on the SX package complemented by an integrated chrome exhaust tip as well as wrap around, multi-layer composite rear tail lamps. Available outside mirror LED turn signals and unique 16" and 17" alloy wheels also complement the look of the Forte5-Door.

The sweep of the Forte5-Door door's bold lines continues inside, creating a modern cabin where form and function blend seamlessly. Interior features include optional mono-tone black perforated leather interior standard on the SX for an upscale image, metal and chrome interior finishes on instrument knobs to provide a high quality finish, audio controls and temperature controls ergonomically positioned at a hands reach and front centre armrest with storage.

World Class Powertrain

The 2011 Forte5-Door door has two engine offerings including the 2.0-litre Theta II and the venerable 2.4-litre Theta II engine also known as the 'World Engine' in some markets. These powerful, yet fuel efficient all-aluminum engines has been durability tested up to 24 million combined kilometers. The engines feature a light-weight ladder-frame block, special hollow dual overhead cams, continuously variable valve timing modules attached to both intake and exhaust cams which increases horsepower, torque and enhances fuel efficiency while reducing emissions output. In addition, durable proprietary 'silent' timing chains, and a multi-stage composite variable intake manifold enhances power output across the power band. The engines also contain strong sinter-forged connecting rods and a stainless steel tube exhaust manifold.

The Forte5-Door door LX starts at $16,695 and comes standard with the 2.0-litre coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Horsepower for the 2.0-litre engine is rated at 156 hp with the torque rated at 144 lb. ft. The 2.4-litre engine is standard on the SX trim level and features a six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Outstanding fuel economy is also achieved for the Forte 5 door SX rated (with manual transmission) at 9.2 L/100Km for city driving and 6.2 L/100Km for highway driving. In addition, the Eco-minder, located in the instrument cluster, indicates when the Forte5 is driving at its optimal fuel efficiency (automatic transmission only).

Engineering

A meticulously engineered chassis and power rack & pinion steering work in harmony, blending dynamic handling and ride comfort. The front suspension is an independent McPherson strut application while the rear suspension is a semi-independent coupled torsion beam with gas shock absorbers and coil springs.

Safety

Safety comes naturally to the Kia Forte5-Door. There is the standard protection of six airbags, dual advance front, dual side seat mounted and dual full length curtain airbags. This is complemented by the sure-footed stopping power of four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and a rigid body structure that helps channel crash energy away from the driver and passengers. Other safety features include anti-whiplash active front headrests, electronic stability control, traction control, panic brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, impact sensing door unlock, front seat belt pretensioners and rear child safety door locks.

Pricing and Content

The Forte5-Door door line-up comes in 11 trim variations ranging in MSRP from $16,995 to $26,195.

LX - Starting at $16,695
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include: 6 airbags (advanced dual front, dual front side and dual curtain) anti-whiplash front headrests, 4-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), power windows and locks, power heated outside mirrors, four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, 15" steel wheels with wheel covers, front and rear mud guards.

EX - Starting at $19,195
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to LX): 16" alloy wheels, , telescopic steering wheel, 6 speakers audio, keyless entry with panic feature, manual air conditioning, windshield wiper de-icer, heated front seats, cruise control, outside mirror with integrated LED turn signal, exterior chrome door handles. Optional sunroof available.

SX - Starting at $22,495
2.4L, 4-cylinder engine, 173hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to EX): 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Sirius satellite radio, trip computer, automatic climate control, leather seats, leather wrapped gear shift knob, leather wrapped steering wheel, power sunroof, supervision instrument cluster, metallic interior accents, alloy sport pedals, automatic light control. SX Luxury adds: Push button ignition start, navigation

Additional available exterior and interior features on the Forte5-Door SX Luxury include:

Auto dimming rear view mirror with Homelink
Voice activated In-dash Navigation system
Rear-view camera integrated display into navigation screen
Industry-Leading Warranty
Like all Kia models, Forte5-Door is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a five-year or 100,000-km limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 100,000-km limited comprehensive warranty, and a five-year unlimited-km anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/100,000-km roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

The Forte5-Door represent Kia`s new design strategy. They have enhanced the value of Kia`s current line-up, which has already shown strong appeal, and have propelled Kia into the top tier of design led brands. With the successful launch of the Soul, Forte Sedan, Forte KOUP, Sorento, Sportage and now Forte5-Door door, Kia is leading the way by creating a new generation of vehicles that offer premium styling combined with exceptional value.

Kia Canada Inc. (www.kia.ca) -- a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart -- is a subsidiary of Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) in Korea was founded in 1999 and sells and services high quality class leading vehicles like the Soul, Forte and Sorento through a network of 168 dealers nationwide. Kia Canada Inc. employs 136 people in its Mississauga, Ontario headquarters and four regional offices across Canada. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan -- "The Power to Surprise" -- represents the company's global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

Kia Canada Releases Info on 2011 Forte Sedan and Koup

PRESS RELEASE: 2011 Forte Sedan and 2011 Forte Koup set new benchmark with significant powertrain upgrades in the compact car segment

- Forte line-up includes available six-speed manual and six-speed powertrain offerings
- Transmission upgrade offers refinement coupled with exceptional fuel economy
- Kia's quest for continuous improvement includes additional upgrades to line-up

ANN ARBOR, MI, Oct. 21 /CNW/ - Kia Canada Inc. has taken the Forte line-up to an entire new level by offering six-speed manual and automatic transmissions for its entire Forte line-up in 2011. The standard manual transmission on the Forte Sedan and 2-door Koup has been improved from a five-speed to a six-speed while the standard offering on the automatic transmission receives an upgrade from a four-speed to a six-speed...READ MORE AFTER THE JUMP

[Source: Kia]

"Kia's mandate is to drive change not only in design but also in value and technology for Canadians" said Maria Soklis, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "This further enhances our best-selling product line and provides a level of technology that would normally be found in vehicles priced much higher".

The powertrain change for 2011 also provides competitive fuel economy ratings with its 2.0-litre offering and 2.4-litre engine in its class. "Fuel economy is top of mind with Canadians and providing world class fuel efficient vehicles is part of our winning formula".

The Forte Sedan offers exceptional fuel economy. The 2.0-liter engine offers 8.1/5.7 litres/100km (city/highway) when mated with the six-speed manual transmission and 8.0/5.5 litres/100km (city/highway) with the optional six-speed automatic. The more powerful 2.4-liter engine offers fuel economy at 9.2/6.2 litres/100km with the six-speed manual and 9.0/6.2litres/100km when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.

The Forte Koup fuel economy is not sacrificed for sportiness. The 2.0-liter engine offers 8.3/6.0 litres/100km (city/highway) when mated with the six-speed manual transmission and 8.0/5.7 litres/100km (city/highway) with the optional six-speed automatic. Those opting for the more powerful 2.4-liter engine also can expect an economical 9.2/6.2 litres/100km with the six-speed manual and 9.0/6.4 litres/100km when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.

In addition to powertrain enhancements, Kia designers also made some changes to the 2011 Forte sedan line-up to include the common use of the Forte 5 Door front fascia on the sedan, redesigned integrated fog lights and outside heated mirrors with LED turn-signals and new 16" aluminum wheels. Moving to the interior, the centre console has been upgraded which includes a new design, leather shifter boot, chrome lined cup-holders and outside temperature display found on the LX "Plus", EX and SX.

Across the Forte line-up, additions have been made available to the SX trim to include paddle shifter on the SX automatic transmission; Smart Key with push button start ignition on the SX Luxury automatic transmission, automatic light control, and voice activated navigation on the SX luxury and electrochromic auto-dimming mirror on the SX.

The 2011 Koup also receives an upgrade on the rear taillights by offering an available LED rear combination lamp which provides a more stylish, sporty and upscale image. The centre console has been upgraded which includes a new design, leather shifter boot, chrome lined cup-holders and outside temperature display on the 2011 Koup.

Kia also administered a variety of NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) improvements, such as adding additional sound dampening material throughout the Forte lineup as part of their continuous improvement objective.

2011 Forte Sedan
LX - Starting at $15,995
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include: 6 airbags, active front headrests, 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, ESC, power windows and locks, power heated outside mirrors, four speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, tilt and steering wheel, 15" steel wheels with wheel covers.

EX - Starting at $18,495
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to LX): 16" alloy wheels, auto off headlamps, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 6 speakers audio, keyless entry, manual air conditioning, windshield wiper de-icer, heated front seats, steering wheel mounted cruise control, outside mirror with integrated turn signal, sunroof is an available option.

SX - Starting at $21,795
2.4L, 4-cylinder engine, 173hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to EX): 17" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Sirius satellite radio, trip computer, automatic air conditioning, leather seats, leather wrapped gear shift knob and steering wheel, power sunroof, auto light control, supervision instrument cluster, alloy sport pedals.

SX - Luxury Trim offers Navigation, Electrochromic mirror, smart key with push button ignition start (only on Automatic transmission)

2011 Forte Koup
EX - Starting at $18,995
2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, 156hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include: 6 airbags, active front headrests, 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, ESC, power windows and locks, power heated outside mirrors, keyless entry, air conditioning, heated front seats, cruise control, six speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with AUX and USB inputs, voice activated Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 16" alloy wheels and exterior chrome door handles, front fog lamps and optional tilt and sliding sunroof.

SX - Starting at $22,295
2.4L, 4-cylinder engine, 173hp
Transmission: 6-speed manual and optional 6-speed automatic
Standard features include (in addition to EX): 17" alloy wheels, sport tuned suspension, automatic climate control, power tilting and sliding sunroof, leather seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, alloy sport pedals, trip computer, paddle shifter (automatic only), Sirius satellite radio (includes 3 month free trial) and supervision instrument cluster.

SX Luxury trim Offers Navigation, Electrochromic mirror, smart key with push button ignition start (only on Automatic transmission), LED rear lights

Industry-Leading Warranty
Like all Kia models, Forte Koup is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a five-year or 100,000-km limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 100,000-km limited comprehensive warranty, and a five-year unlimited-km anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/100,000-km roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

The KOUP, the Forte Sedan and Soul represent Kia's new design strategy. They have enhanced the value of Kia's current line-up, which has already shown strong appeal, and have propelled Kia into the top tier of design led brands. With the successful launch of the Soul, Forte Sedan, Forte KOUP, Sorento, Sportage and now Forte5-Door, Kia is leading the way by creating a new generation of vehicles that offer premium styling combined with exceptional value.

Kia Canada Inc. (www.kia.ca) -- a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart -- is a subsidiary of Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) in Korea was founded in 1999 and sells and services high quality class leading vehicles like the Soul, Forte and Sorento through a network of 168 dealers nationwide. Kia Canada Inc. employs 136 people in its Mississauga, Ontario headquarters and four regional offices across Canada. Kia Motors Corporation's brand slogan -- "The Power to Surprise" -- represents the company's global commitment to surpassing customer expectations through continuous automotive innovation.

Kia Canada Launches "Drive Change" National Marketing Campaign

PRESS RELEASE: Kia Canada Inc. launches industry-first national marketing campaign - 'Drive Change'

- 'Drive Change' reflects how Kia is leading change in the automotive
industry through its world class design

- 'Drive Change' also signifies Kia's commitment to impact change by
helping to improve communities in Canada

MISSISSAUGA, ON, July 21 /CNW/ - Kia Canada Inc., a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart announced today the industry-first, 'Drive Change' national marketing campaign. The campaign will focus on the evolution of the Kia brand, showcase its new world class design-led portfolio while reaching out and creating an emotional connection with Canadian consumers through its most recent commitment to social responsibility.

"We have worked very closely with our marketing partners, Innocean Canada and David & Goliath to develop an innovative and compelling campaign. The campaign clearly identifies our new world class automotive design attributes while at the same time reflecting Kia Canada's ongoing commitment to help local communities" said Maria Soklis, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer (COO) Kia Canada Inc. "Drive Change will be the conduit to heightening our brand awareness by reaching out to establish an emotional connection with consumers through both traditional and social media; thus differentiating Kia from other automotive manufacturers."

Kia Canada has invested in an integrated media campaign that involves the production of four television spots, prevalent on-line positioning, strategically placed bill boards, cinema presence, newspaper and magazine.

[Source: Kia Canada]

READ MORE for the second video of the campaign (feat. the Sorento) as well as the complete press release with more information.



Kia Canada is also revealing dedicated Facebook (www.facebook.com/kiacanada), Twitter (www.twitter.com/kiadrivechange) and You Tube (www.youtube.com/kiacanada) outlets. These channels document the step-by-step creation of the 'Drive Change' campaign and will serve to provide communication moving forward. This provides Kia with a unique and creative way to reach out to consumers.

The two-initial television spots for 'Drive Change' were captured recently over two, fifteen-hour sessions through time-lapse technology. These spots document life changing improvements for two different groups through the support of volunteers, Kia Canada Inc. employees and the use of Kia vehicles - Soul and Sorento.

The first television spot was captured at the Second Base Youth Shelter in Scarborough, Ontario which underwent a major basketball court restoration for the shelter residents. The court was virtually unplayable. As a result, Kia Canada completely refurbished the court and surrounding area including court surface, basketball nets, player's benches and gardens.

The second television spot was filmed at the Gilder Avenue location of Toronto Community Housing. This location was also in immediate need of a grounds restoration at the complex. Improvements made were the direct result of the resident's feedback and included the implementation of a common green space sitting area, sustainable vegetable gardens and a sectioned-off disposal area with wheel chair access.

Kia is inspiring and propelling change by differentiating themselves from other automotive manufacturers as a dynamic and youthful brand that is community conscious and responsible.

The next phase of brand evolution will witness the launch of the 2011 MY Sportage as well as three additional vehicles over the next twelve months. Kia is emerging as one of the world's top automotive companies and recently surpassed one million sales worldwide through the first six months of 2010.

The mandate of Kia Motors Corporation is to continue to strengthen and grow its global presence while maintaining a strong social consciousness. Toward this end, Kia Motors is implementing a variety of international and local community based programs aimed at developing long-term, economically and culturally sensitive relationships across its global network through universally shared interests such as sports, environmental, health and education issues.

Hyundai Canada Reports Best June Sales Ever

Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. today announced it recorded its 17th straight month of sales increases. With 11,501 units sold in June 2010, the company surpassed the same month last year by 13.8 percent.

Hyundai has sold 62,214 units year-to-date, representing an increase of 18.6 percent over the first six months of 2009.

"When Hyundai began developing the all-new Tucson crossover and Sonata sedan, we wanted them designed to make a strong visual impact on the road," said Steve Kelleher, president and CEO, Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. "We believed consumers were looking for a vehicle that not only fit into their lives, but also offered more styling presence than what's currently in the market. Based on recent sales performance, it's clear that Canadians do indeed want the kind of style, quality and value that the Tucson and Sonata can deliver."

The Tucson, Sonata and Genesis Coupe vehicles in the Hyundai line-up showed strong sales in the market, recording increases of 154, 99 and 66.1 percent, respectively.

[Source: NewsWire.ca]

Hyundai Canada sets all time sales record in May

Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. today announced it recorded its second consecutive month of record-breaking sales and its 16th straight month of best-ever sales increases. With 12,620 units sold in May 2010, the company surpassed its previous company record set in April 2010 by 125 units.

The May 2010 performance represents an increase of 12.6 percent over the same month in 2009. Hyundai has sold 50,713 units year-to-date, representing an increase of 19.7 percent over the first five months of 2009.

"Hyundai products are clearly resonating with Canadian customers," said Steve Kelleher, president and CEO, Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. "With the high-profile launch of the all-new the Tucson and Sonata garnering attention for the whole Hyundai brand, customers are discovering our strong line-up of products deliver unmatched quality, value and style. We've also brought to market the Hyundai Smart Advantage. By offering customers lower prices combined with 0% financing, we're able to take the tremendous value equation of our vehicles and make them more affordable."

The Elantra Touring, Sonata and Tucson vehicles in the Hyundai line-up showed strong sales in the market, recording increases of 42.2, 61.5 and 74.6 percent, respectively.

[Source: Hyundai Canada]

Canada-Only Kia Forte Koup SX-R Tests Waters for Future Tuning Branch

The sub-$20,000.00 2010 Kia Forte Koup has made quite the splash amongst the younger demographics with its attractive price tag and 2.4L 173-hp engine. Its attractive, stylish yet aggressive lines clearly make a statement that Kia has stepped up to the plate to play ball, capturing a market that used to be almost exclusive to Honda, Acura and Scion. But much like their Japanese counterparts, Kia has looked towards marketing with customization and personalization, especially with the hip Forte Koup. The result? The Kia Forte Koup SX-R with a fine collection of accessories that have Forte Koup SX owners going wild for. The major disappointment for those in the US? It’s currently only available in Canada.

The buzz was started with the official debut at the Toronto Auto Show and a little less than a month later the orders are coming in. The Forte Koup SX-R will be made available to Canadian Kia dealers by mid-May with pre-orders starting now. The aesthetics of the Forte Koup has been further complemented with a front chin spoilers, new side skirts, and a rear lip spoiler. Minor details on the outside come in the form of chrome “R” badges while the interior receives “R” branded door sills. Engine performance has been enhanced thanks to an AEM Performance drop-in air filter and performance axle-back exhaust system. The car rides lower and stiffer thanks to a set of Eibach Pro lowering springs (1.3-inch drop) and a front upper strut brace. No custom car is complete without a fine set of wheels and tires and Kia delivers in a big way with a set of 18-inch Europa wheels wrapped with, surprisingly, Yokohama S-Drive performance tires. The Kia Forte Koup SX-R is available in three attractive colors: Titanium Silver, Racing Red and Black.

Now all these accessories will be available for order through Canadian Kia dealerships only for those already cruising around in Forte Koup SX. American enthusiasts will probably have to open up their wallet a little bit for freight across the border, but we anticipate many of them to be willing to do so. If you’re interested, contact any Canadian Kia dealership and reference accessory bulletin AY10 007. It’s exciting times for Kia owners and we can’t wait to see what’s next from the Korean manufacturer.

[Source: ForteForums.com]

Continue reading to view more images of the Forte Koup SX-R

Sales: Hyundai Canada Posts Best September Ever

Hyundai has been breaking sales records in Canada throughout 2009, and September was no exception to the trend. With 9,282 units sold in September, the company's total year to date sales volume reached 82,642 vehicles - surpassing its best ever annual sales volume, set in 1985, by nearly 2.5 per cent.

September sales were up year-over-year by more than 30 per cent. This marks the company's eighth straight record-breaking month and ninth consecutive month of sales increases. Ranked globally as the fourth largest automaker (behind only Toyota, GM and Volkswagen), Hyundai is Canada's sixth largest manufacturer by volume as of end-of-August figures.

In the showrooms, the Santa Fe has enjoyed particular sales success. Selling 2,478 units, September 2009 was the Santa Fe's best on record and represented an increase of more than 70 per cent over September 2008. The Elantra also enjoyed its best September ever with 2,039 units, a staggering 129 percent increase from the same month last year.

[Source: Hyundai Auto Canada Corp.]

Read more for the complete sales chart.


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Month 2009 2008 % Change Notes
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January 4,607 3,874 + 18.9%
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February 6,912 5,326 + 29.8% Best February ever
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March 8,818 7,029 + 25.5% Best March ever
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April 10,809 9,412 + 14.8% Best April ever
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May 11,204 9,508 + 17.8% Best month on record
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June 10,104 8,049 + 25.5% Best June ever
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July 10,488 7,611 + 37.8% Best July ever
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August 10,418 7,530 + 38.4% Best August ever
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September 9,282 7,095 + 30.8% Best September ever
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Nameplate 09/2009 09/2008 % Change Notes
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Accent 2,218 2,154 + 3.0%
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Elantra 2,039 889 + 129.4% Best September ever
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Elantra Touring 830 - N/A
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Sonata 556 1,371 - 59.4%
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Azera 19 47 - 59.6%
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Genesis 84 51 + 64.7%
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Genesis Coupe 226 - N/A
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Tucson 659 785 - 16.1%
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Santa Fe 2,478 1,455 + 70.3% Best September ever
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Veracruz 114 119 - 4.2%
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