Kia’s new flagship K9 sedan has begun selling in Korea. The company’s first rear-wheel drive large sedan in over a decade isn’t just to be a domestic offering – it’s set to be launched in a number of key overseas markets later this year.

The V6 and eight-speed transmission-equipped vehicle measures in at 5.09 metres long, with overall width and height being 1.90 and 1.49 metres respectively. The car has a 3.045 metre-long wheelbase, promising generous front and rear occupant space.

The K9 rolls in powered by an upgraded 290 PS Lambda V6 3.8 litre MPI engine, though a 334 PS 3.8 litre GDI engine will join the global engine line-up next year. The normally aspirated twin DOHC mill is mated to an all-new Kia eight-speed automatic transmission, which features shift-by-wire (SBW) technology.

Salient points include an ultra-stiff bodyshell made with 74.3% high-strength steel, as well as an electronically-controlled air suspension with five-link front and rear suspension geometry, and four driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow) enable the driver to choose a preferred set-up of suspension, steering, engine and transmission.

Depending on model, available active safety features for the car will include fully adaptive all-LED headlamps, a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), radar-based Blind-Spot Detection (BSD) and an Around-View Monitor (AVM) with four cameras.

Premium comfort features include a 12.3-inch full-size Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD cluster, a head-up display, twin 9.2-inch monitors to entertain rear seat occupants and a remarkable 17-channel, 17-speaker Lexicon sound system and Smart Cruise Control (SCC), which adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain the distance from the vehicle ahead.

A special “VIP” option will offer twin heated and ventilated rear seats with a reclining backrest, sliding cushion and lower leg support for the nearside seat, together with a front passenger seat that slides forwards when unoccupied.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. DRIVEN: Fifth-gen Hyundai Elantra MD tested in Korea!
2. Renault Talisman – made in Korea, destined for China
3. Kia releases first pics of K9 flagship – Korea only for now
4. Kia KH: first sketches of all-new RWD flagship sedan
5. Kia Ray EV – Korea’s first production EV enters the scene
6. BYD begins selling its e6 EV to individuals in China
7. Mitsubishi begins i-MiEV joint testing with PTT in Thailand
8. Chevrolet Malibu set to be brand’s flagship in Europe
9. BYD sales decline by 20%, sales boss resigns as a result
10. Chevrolet Hari Raya Sales and After-Sales Campaign 2011

Naza Kia is sponsoring a Kia Sorento SUV as the hole-in-one prize for the Maxis Team Golf Tour (MTGT) 2012. MTGT is a loyalty programme for Maxis postpaid customers and is one of the biggest amateur team golf events in the country.

This year is the 12th consecutive year Maxis has held the event, which will comprise of 10 rounds at various golf courses across the country. The grand final will be held at the Stone Forest International Golf Course in Yunnan, China. The local rounds start next month while the grand final will be held n November.

MTGT 2012 is only open to Maxis postpaid customers with valid handicaps. Two people make one team and entry fee is RM248 per person.

Kia’s global association with golf includes the sponsorship of two-time Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) winner Michelle Wie and the Kia Classic, which is part of the LPGA Tour. Another sporting event sponsored by Kia is of course the EURO 2012 finals in Poland and Ukraine. Participate in Naza Kia’s Test Drive Kia On Tour 2012 roadshow and you could be on your way to Ukraine for the Group B match between Germany and Holland.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Assemble your own Toyota 86. Take a photo. Win prize
2. Test Drive Kia On Tour is back, EURO 2012 tickets for grabs
3. Lotus F1 Team: An inside look into the team’s garage
4. Team Hyundai to promote brand for EURO 2012 – Casillas, Podolski, Rossi, Benzema and Sturridge are ambassadors
5. Tweet a pix with a Ford Ranger – it might land you a prize
6. Proton sponsors Le Tour de Langkawi for the 17th year
7. The Grand Prize of Test Drive Kia On Tour 2011 goes to Mohd Ismail Ibrahim – he drives home a Forte 1.6 EX!
8. Test Drive Kia on Tour – Final leg at The Curve this week
9. Test Drive Kia on Tour goes to Johor Bahru this weekend
10. Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow heads to Penang

Metaphorically speaking, if you close your eyes and drive this car, you’d have a hard time telling where this car is from. You see, every car out there, no matter the brand, hints at the country in which it came from.

For example, the interiors of Japanese cars usually feel bright, filled with synthetic materials, rides on the softer side, have good handling and are more reserved with the steering. German cars, on the other hand, are over-wrapped in skin and loaded with buttons placed in a very organised manner. Cars from Deutschland ride firmly, have excellent handling and the steering is always full of banter.

And Korean cars, well, they were lacking ideas in every department. In recent years though, they have proved that they can pull up their socks and make a car loaded with features, enjoyable to drive and with a head-turning design. The difference between then and now is really night and day. They have, somehow, integrated the cost-friendliness of the Japanese with the driving dynamics of the Germans. It’s not perfect but it all signs are pointing in the right direction.

This brings me to the car here: the Kia Forte Koup, which was launched in Malaysia sometime late last year with a price of RM115,800 on-the-road with insurance. Finally a two-door coupe that does not cost both kidneys, and it has good value too.

At this point, you might expect me to somehow tie in Peter Schreyer but I am not going to. I leave its design to your own mind and judgment. Personally, I think that the loss of two rear doors, the lowered roof and the redesigned bumpers make the car look appropriately aggressive; bigger wheels might even give it more street cred. The dimensions of the Koup is made tauter too – 4,480 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width and 1,400 mm in height – compared to its four-door sibling.

As for the interior, well, I leave that to you as well. The point of contention here is the red two-colour interior. Some have warmed to red-accented dashboard you see in the pictures while others run the other way.

Besides the colour scheme, the interior does lean toward the Japanese. The whole catalog of interior plastics is here – from the soft and malleable to the hard and shiny. What’s more important is that these plastics are put into their appropriate place following function.

The centre console is not outfitted with tons of buttons either. It hosts the usual climate control and stereo system. Above the disc slot is the ‘hazard lights’ button. It is the only button there, thus, you’ll never miss hitting it when the situation calls for it.

There is also a feature called the Speaker Control Switch that does not control the volume of the speakers at all. Instead, it surrounds the front speakers with a ring of light, which also let you make it pulsate according to the beat of the song. Rounding up the electronic gadgetry are cruise control, engine start/stop button and the smart key.

Both front seats are bucket type and have adequate thigh and body support. Sitting in the driver’s seat, I can tell that there has been some thought that went into the ergonomics. All buttons are easy to reach and those that are further than my finger can be controlled from the steering. The steering feels thick and substantial. The meter cluster is huge; speedo is in the middle, rev meter flanks the left and the fuel gauge is on the right.

A surprising thing to note about the interior is its spaciousness and I don’t mean the space in the front. What is quite unexpected is the legroom at the back. The Koup’s wheelbase of 2,650 mm matches that of its four-door sibling. This also means that you’ll be able to fit two full-sized adults in the rear without the need to detach their legs. But the getting-into will be tight head-wise; the Koup loses 60 mm of headroom due to the sloping roof.

But enough of measurements and design and spaciousness… what you are really here for is to know how the Koup drives.

Under the bonnet is a 2.0 litre THETA II engine with CVVT that generates 156 PS (or about 154 hp) at 6,200 rpm and 194 Nm at 4,300 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission that allows for manual shifting of the gears that drive the front wheels. However, if you’re hankering for earth-burning acceleration, don’t. The partnership does not make the car quick.

Given the natural-aspiration nature of the engine, most of the power lives in the median of the rev range. Not to say that the Koup is a slouch, it is just that you need to spur the Koup into the middle rev range before things get really exciting. The challenge then becomes a game of keeping the revs in the sweet spot, which can be achieved with surprising ease. The manual shifter is snappy and locks in the gears with minimal delay and all you really need to do is to hold the throttle. Done.

Although the Koup is not quick getting to 100 km/h, it does have the legs to run once you settle in. And when the urge to get ahead of the car in front overwhelms, the Koup proves that it has still plenty of fire in its belly to complete the mission. Hitting near double-century figures on the speedo becomes all too easy.

At speed, the Koup shows its worth. It is also where the Koup feels like a car from continental Europe. Armed with MacPherson struts at the front and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear, the Koup dispatches high-speed sweepers with a predictably flat and stable behavior that simply builds confidence to get from apex to apex until the tyres start talking back. The steering feels properly weighted and alert so it is easy to keep the car tracking the way you want it to.

Find yourself understeering? Not a problem, feed the steering a bit more turn, just lift off the throttle for a bit and let the Koup’s weight, grip and the electronic stability program keep you on the black stuff.

The trade-off with the brilliant handling is that the Koup gets a rather unyielding ride. You will feel every inch of the road, flat or otherwise, yet it is not hard enough that it crashes into every hole it rolls over.

When everything is taken into consideration, the Koup drives as how a sporty coupe should. I do think the Koup is less of a road warrior and more of a long-distance B-road runner. If you’re not packing to much people for a weekend, here’s the ride you should take.

So, if you’re looking for a reasonably priced car that hasn’t got too many doors, strides well in the city and have the endurance to go interstate, then say hello to the Kia Forte Koup.

Photos: H.T Production

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

No related posts.

[UPDATE: Visitors who book a KIA car at the roadshow will also get a chance to win.]

If you love football then you might this piece of news of interest.

KIA will be giving you a chance to win tickets to Ukraine in June to watch this year’s biggest football event – the EURO 2012. Kia Motors is, after all, the official sponsor for EURO 2012.

The mechanics are simple, visit the ‘Test Drive Kia On Tour’ roadshow at selected venues, test drive a Kia and you’ll get a chance to win the trip to Ukraine. They gave away a Forte 1.6 EX last year.

There are six Kia cars available at the event – the Optima K5, Sportage, Sorento, Forte, Forte Koup and the Rondo MPV.

The roadshow starts in One Utama in, from March 28 to April 1, from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily. The roadshow will then head to KSL City Mall (Johor) from April 13 to April 15, The Curve (PJ) from May 18 to May 20 and Queensbay Mall (Penang) from May 24 to May 27.

At each venue, visitors will stand a chance to win one grand prize comprising of airfare, accommodation and a EURO 2012 match ticket to the Group B match between Germany and Netherlands.

The grand prize winner of each venue will be announced on the last day of each roadshow at 9:00 pm. Of course there are other gifts to take home when you test drive a Kia or sign up to become a Kia Malaysia fan on Facebook at the venues.

If you need more information, call 1-800-888-542.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Castrol’s Ada Kick contest offers an all-expense paid trip to watch EURO 2012 live in Poland!
2. Team Hyundai to promote brand for EURO 2012 – Casillas, Podolski, Rossi, Benzema and Sturridge are ambassadors
3. Ford Ranger XLT roadshow: iPads and G-Shocks for grabs
4. Gold up for grabs in ‘Peraduan KeEMASan dengan Caltex’
5. The Grand Prize of Test Drive Kia On Tour 2011 goes to Mohd Ismail Ibrahim – he drives home a Forte 1.6 EX!
6. Test Drive Kia on Tour – Final leg at The Curve this week
7. Test Drive Kia on Tour goes to Johor Bahru this weekend
8. 2012 Euro Honda Civic hatchback – first images revealed
9. First teaser image of 2012 Euro Honda Civic hatchback
10. Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow heads to Penang

Kia is no stranger to the red dot design awards; it has previously won with the Kia Optima K5 and the Sportage. Well, here are two more for the award cabinet.

The five-door versions of the Kia Picanto and the Rio have been named winners in red dot’s ‘Product Design’ category. Both cars were up against more than 4,500 products by 1,800 manufacturers of different industries across the world.

To date, Kia’s red dot awards now total six – the Soul in 2009, Venga in 2010, Sportage and Optima in 2011. The Optima was also named ‘best of the best’ in 2011 – the highest award for groundbreaking design, eligible to only the best products in each category.

Other awards for the Rio include the best ‘Exterieur’ class at the Automotive Brand Contest in 2011. As for the Picanto three-door, it took home the iF product design award 2012.

I wonder just how packed Peter Schreyer’s design trophy cabinet is now?

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Geneva preview: Ford Tourneo – Kinetic Design on a van
2. Accord owner wins Honda Insight in after-sales campaign
3. Hyundai Elantra and Range Rover Evoque win 2012 North American Car and Truck of the Year awards
4. Proton wins Malaysian 1.6 Touring Car Championship
5. RAC Future Car Challenge Brighton to London: Proton wins two awards, Gordon Murray T.27 is overall winner
6. Proton scores double race wins in the MSS
7. VW buys 55.9% stake in MAN, aims for Daimler’s top spot
8. Renault Mégane R.S. 265 Trophy sets a new FWD lap record of 8’08” at the Nürburgring
9. Renault Mégane Renaultsport 265 Trophy limited edition – 15 hp and 20 Nm more than RS 250 Cup

Kia’s second-generation cee’d has made its debut in Geneva, and the car arrives in five-door hatchback and SW body styles. Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, exclusively for the European market, the car has been deemed as a more sophisticated, more efficient and a more refined offering than its predecessor.

It’s both longer (by 50 mm, to 4.31 metres) and lower (by 10 mm) than its predecessor, and despite being based on a completely new platform, the new cee’d continues on with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, one of the longest in the C-segment.

The track has also been widened on the new car, by 17 mm at the front and 32 mm at the rear, and the availability of 17- and 18-inch diameter alloy wheels means that the new car offers a minimal gap between tyres and bodywork.

Engine-wise, the new cee’d will be available with a wide variety of mills, offering power outputs from 90 to 135 ps. For Europe, the primary offerings are two Gamma petrol engines (a 1.4 MPI and a 1.6 GDI, with 100 PS and 135 PS respectively) and two diesels, these being a 90 hp 1.4 WGT and a 1.6 VGT diesel offered in two states of tune (110 and 128 PS). Certain European markets will also get a 130 PS 1.6 MPI petrol unit.

All engines will be offered with a choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions. Depending on version, the 1.6 GDI will also be available with Kia’s all-new six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which is developed by Kia’s in-house transmission development team in partnership with a German-based engineering firm.

The car will be available with a number of fuel-saving technologies, organised under the company’s EcoDynamics sub-brand, to optimise efficiency and lower emissions. These technologies, available on both diesel and petrol models with manual transmission, include ISG (Start/Stop), low-rolling resistance tyres and an alternator management system (AMS).

The standard steering system employs electric power-assistance, but on certain models an all-new Flex Steer system is available, offering improved driving dynamics. This one introduces three operating modes – comfort, normal and sport – allowing the driver to vary the level of steering assistance and the weight of feedback, in order to best suit the current driving conditions and the driver’s personal preferences.

Inside the cabin, higher quality materials are featured, as is a broader range of high-tech equipment – new standard gear includes tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel adjustment, iPod/Aux and USB support, a six-speaker audio system and a multi-mode trip computer.

Other kit includes a full length (1,045 mm long) powered panoramic glass sunroof, LED daytime running lights, fixed cornering lamps (illuminated depending on steering angle) and a new Parallel Park Assist System (PPAS), which features front, side and rear sensors and automatic steering control by an on-board computer to safely perform parallel parking, with the driver remaining in control of the accelerator and brake.

The cee’d is set to be manufactured exclusively at Kia’s Zilina facility in Slovakia, and is set to go on sale across Europe from the second quarter of 2012. As for the wagon version, details on that one will only emerge closer to its European on-sale date later in the year.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Tata Safari Storme – updated SUV debuts in New Delhi
2. 2013 Ford Escape debuts in LA – call it the Kuga too!
3. Bufori debuts in China – first showroom to be in Shanghai
4. Mitsubishi debuts new 4J10 MIVEC engine in ASX, Lancer
5. Honda Brio debuts in India – set to take fight to Suzuki
6. Frankfurt: Porsche’s seventh-generation 911 debuts
7. Frankfurt: Ford debuts the 1.0 litre 3-cylinder EcoBoost
8. Frankfurt: Production Subaru XV debuts – CKD next year!
9. Ford in Frankfurt: Four world debuts including Focus RS?
10. Hyundai Grand Avega hatchback debuts at IIMS 2011

It looks like the third-generation Kia Rio is getting very close to its Malaysian debut – reader Kevin spotted two silver-coloured examples of the five-door UB somewhere in the Klang Valley earlier today.

No idea as to what the chosen powertrain for this market is to be – globally, there are six engine choices, including a 1.6 GDI lump offering 138 hp right through to a 69 hp 1.1 litre three-pot diesel. Something like the 107 hp 1.4 litre petrol unit would be right up the alley locally, but guess we’ll have to wait and see.

The car, which was unveiled at last year’s Geneva show, is also available in sedan form, which is the Rio Sedan offered in the US market as well as the K2 derivative, which sells in China.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. SPIED: BMW F30 3-Series spotted in town – coming soon?
2. SPIED: Honda Jazz Hybrid spotted in Klang, coming soon!
3. Fiat 500L 5-door hatch coming soon, 7-seater on the way!
4. Ford Fiesta facelift begins testing on public roads
5. F20 BMW 135i M Sports 3-door hatchback spied!
6. Speed limit for state and federal roads reduced for CNY
7. Castrol EDGE Car Club Performance Drive – 10 finalists enjoyed some twisty roads and the Gymkhana Challenge
8. Youngman SUV spied in China – based on the Lotus APX?
9. SPIED: Hello, are you the new Toyota Avanza?
10. SPIED: Proton GEN-2 refreshed, gets Persona LED lamps!

Kia today revealed the first official images of its new flagship sedan. To be called K9 in Korea, it will be launched there in the first half of 2012. The K9 is Kia’s first rear-wheel drive sedan. As its name denotes, the big sedan slots in above the K5 (Optima) and K7, or Cadenza in export markets.

“K9 is our first rear-wheel drive large sedan, created without compromise in its design, driving performance and new technologies. K9 sets a whole new level of standards and values in the large sedan segment, and its design will be another Kia demonstration of our brand’s power to surprise the world,” said Soon-Nam Lee, Director of Overseas Marketing Group.

The K9’s design concept is “high-tech luxury sedan” and Kia describes the front end as “imposing and characterful”. The BMW style front grille slats may be a touch heavy for some, but it does lend the car presence. The rear end reminds me of the Hyundai Grandeur. No word on what’s inside, but there’s a “3.8 GDI” badge at the back. The 2012 Hyundai Genesis is powered by a 3.8 GDI V6 with 333 hp and 395 Nm, 350 hp/400 Nm for the Genesis Coupe.

It’s interesting to note that while the popular models at the lower end of the scale such as the Forte and Optima K5 sport sharp styling, the large higher end models like the Cadenza and this K9 have round edges and smooth lines.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. LEAKED: Volvo V40 video and hi res pics emerge online
2. Kia KH: first sketches of all-new RWD flagship sedan
3. GALLERY: More pics of the Lexus LF-LC Concept surface
4. Kia Ray EV – Korea’s first production EV enters the scene
5. My Proton Makeover – work in progress pics of the Wira
6. GALLERY: Landmark models at Honda Collection Hall, Twin Ring Motegi – 65 pics of cars, bikes and robots!
7. My Proton Makeover – Work in Progress pics of 1992 Saga
8. Chevrolet Malibu set to be brand’s flagship in Europe
9. Infiniti releases fifth JX concept teaser – a full rear shot
10. First pics of European spec new Toyota Yaris revealed

More images of the next-generation Kia cee’d have come about ahead of the five-door hatchback’s world debut in Geneva next month. Still nada as far as tech details go, but Kia says the new cee’d is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, with the same long wheelbase.

Design-wise, the front of the new car gets the latest interpretation of the company’s trademark ‘tiger-nose’ grille as well as aggressive, wraparound headlamp clusters housing LED daytime running lights.

Other new detail touches for the exterior includes a new, bolder, more sophisticated Kia badge, an indicator blade protrusion in the front headlamps, the Kia-signature windscreen head castellations, a chrome side glazing surround and a specific aerodynamic shaping of the tail lamp which extends into the adjacent bodywork.

Meanwhile, there’s a completely new interior, offering a more premium look and feel and higher perceived quality, with the use of soft touch materials, as well as improved switchgear and enhanced driving position ergonomics – the dashboard layout features a cockpit-like design with an aircraft-themed, driver-oriented fascia.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Toyota FT-Bh Concept to make debut at Geneva 2012
2. Mitsubishi to debut all-new 2012 Outlander in Geneva
3. Fiat 500L: 5-door Fiat 500 to make Geneva 2012 debut
4. Infiniti’s Geneva-bound electric sports car concept to showcase new style and content direction for brand
5. Peugeot 107 gets reworked for 2012 – hatch gets new face, upgraded interior and enhanced equipment
6. Dacia Lodgy – first images of Geneva debutant
7. 2012 Euro Honda Civic hatchback – first images revealed
8. New images of Frankfurt-bound Eterniti Hemera released
9. 2012 Lexus GS sedan revealed – first details and images
10. 2012 Honda Civic images from Saudi Honda website

Kia has unveiled the seventh in a series of unique SE versions that has come about with its Soul five-door hatch. This one, called the Red Rock Special Edition Soul, unsurprisingly derives its inspiration from the rock formations found in the North American Southwest.

The production model includes a number of features designed to set it apart from other Soul variants, led by a lustrous exterior shade called Canyon. Other RRSE exterior features include a high-gloss black front fascia and mirror housings, while the interior gets exclusive black leather trim and brown cloth seats.

The edition began life as a concept, premiering at last year’s New York auto show. Following its debut, the Red Rock Special Edition concept toured the US, and with enough favourable nods has made the journey from concept to reality. Proof then that there’s more than one way to stir your Soul.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Kia Track’ster Concept – 2-door turbocharged 4WD Soul
2. VIDEO: Kia Soul Hamsters – everyday they shufflin!

Kia has revealed the first sketches of what will be its all-new flagship sedan, which is set to be introduced in the Korean market sometime in the first half of the year. The KH, as it’s codenamed, won’t just be limited to the domestic market – Kia says the car will be its flag-bearer in other markets globally.

No details about the car, save that it’ll have the honour of being the company’s first rear-wheel drive vehicle. Kia says that the the design concept behind the KH is tagged as ‘distinctive, modern and classic,’ but there are enough family-look cues on call, the radiator grille design being one of them.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Cadillac ATS, compact luxury sedan targets the Germans
2. Dodge Dart, American ‘Alfa Giulietta Sedan’ looking good
3. Dodge Dart ‘Giulietta sedan’ – cabin teasers released
4. Dodge Dart – a reinterpretation of the Giuletta as sedan
5. Next gen Volvo XC90 sketches surface with new face
6. Nissan to supply Fuga sedan to Mitsubishi in Japan
7. Frankfurt: Seat IBL Concept – sleek Spanish sports sedan
8. Frankfurt preview: Seat ‘IBL’ sedan Concept leaked
9. Chevrolet Malibu set to be brand’s flagship in Europe
10. Frankfurt preview: Kia four-door sports sedan concept

When Kia Motors American chief designer Tom Kearns and his team was styling the new Kia Track’ster Concept, they went on with the idea to make the Track’ster tough looking, like a bulldog, but still instantly recognisable as a Kia Soul, but with a whole lot of attitude added. Something that could change people’s concepts of what a sporty Kia could be.

The end result – finished in a 2-tone Whiteout and Inferno Orange design – is pretty much spot on. Under the hood is a 2.0L turbocharged engine with a 6-speed manual making 250 horsepower – a 66% increase over the most powerful engine in the production Kia Soul. The Track’ster also has all wheel drive to help send all that turbo torque to the wheels.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Proton Exora with turbocharged Campro CFE spotted!
2. Volkswagen cross up! Concept previews 5-door up!
3. Frankfurt: Kia Rio 3-door eyes trendy European streets
4. Frankfurt preview: Kia’s RWD 4-door concept is called GT
5. Fisker to use BMW turbocharged engine as range extender
6. VIDEO: Kia Soul Hamsters – everyday they shufflin!
7. Kia Rio – five-door to make European market debut
8. Frankfurt preview: Kia four-door sports sedan concept
9. Kia Picanto 3-door launched to meet rising demand
10. F10 BMW 5-Series gets new 2.0L turbocharged inline-4

The Kia Track’ster Concept Car designed by the company’s California Design Studio will make its world debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show this month. This is the only teaser image the company has released so far, alongside the sketch they released earlier.

This isn’t the first time Kia has made a concept car based on their Kia Soul B-segment lifestyle SUV – previously we saw the Kia Soul’ster concept, which was sort of like a convertible/pick-up variant of the Kia Soul, which would definitely look at home on the roads along Laguna Beach.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser unveiled at Brussels Motor Show
2. Chevrolet MPV Concept unveiled at Delhi Auto Expo 2012
3. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga MPV debuts at Delhi Auto Expo 2012
4. Auto transmission driving licence to begin in May 2012
5. BYD-Daimler set to roll out electric concept at Beijing show
6. Hyundai Elantra Coupe to get Chicago 2012 debut!
7. Volkswagen Passat CC facelift – debut at LA Auto Show
8. Volkswagen GT up! Concept at Frankfurt Motor Show 2011
9. Skoda MissionL Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show
10. Volkswagen.Das Auto.Show 2011 happens this weekend at the Bukit Jalil Stadium carpark – admission is free!

Kia has released the first photo of its next generation Kia cee’d, which will make its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show on the 6th of March 2012, after of which it will go on sale across Europe in Q2 2012.

The cee’d is a C-segment hatchback car made for European tastes – the rest of the world gets a C-segment Kia in the form of the Kia Forte in 5-door hatch, 4-door sedan and 2-door coupe form. The cee’d will be made available with an industry-leading 7 year warranty.

The sole shot we see here is of the car’s front three quarter angle, which shows off Kia’s “Schreyer grille”, a common feature that the South Korean car company has implemented across its entire car range.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Peugeot 208 to enter the market in spring 2012
2. BMW F30 3 Series unveiled: four engines at launch, three equipment lines, market debut in Feb 2012
3. Skoda Citigo – urban dweller enters market in 2012
4. Fourth-generation 2012 Honda CR-V Concept revealed
5. 2012 Euro Honda Civic hatchback – first images revealed
6. First teaser image of 2012 Euro Honda Civic hatchback
7. 7th-gen US market 2012 Toyota Camry finally revealed
8. Kia Rio – five-door to make European market debut
9. Frankfurt preview: B-segment SsangYong Concept XUV 1
10. First image of next generation Honda CR-V released!

The much-anticipated Kia Optima K5 has been launched – the D-segment offering was introduced earlier today at Naza Kia Malaysia’s new flagship Kia Red Cube outlet in Petaling Jaya. The car arrives in a single engine variant form, this being a 2.0 litre Theta II MPI mill offering 165 PS at 6,200 rpm and 198 Nm at 4,600 rpm, with a six-speed automatic transmission in attendance.

It’s pretty spot on the dot as to what we speculated earlier in our leaked brochure story, as far as specifications and features go. Pretty much the entire list of items that was bandied are on, and it’s a comprehensively-filled bag.

For starters, there are auto-leveling HID xenon headlamps and LED-daytime running lights, front fog lamps, LED rear combination lamps, machine-finished 18-inch, 10-spoke flush-faced alloy wheels, rear lip spoiler and gull-wing folding side mirrors. The car comes with a single tailpipe, as opposed to the twin units in the 2.4 GDI version we
drove earlier in the year in Australia.

Inside, the K5 features a leather interior, a supervision cluster and a multifunction four-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters and controls for audio, ECO-driving, auto cruise-control. There’s also a six-CD changer audio system with an eight-speaker (not seven, as speculated) Infinity speaker system, replete with Aux, iPod and USB connectivity.

Other items include dual-zone auto air-conditioning, full-width three-piece panoramic glass sunroof, push-button start/stop, illuminated door scuff plates and USB connectivity, as well as a tailgate-mounted reversing safety camera with interior mirror LCD display monitor.

The driver gets an 8-way electronically-controlled seat with an integrated memory seat function, which retains settings for two drivers based on their seating position. In terms of safety, the car comes equipped with six airbags (dual front, front side and full length-curtain) and an electronic stability programme incorporating ABS, EBD, TCS, brake assist and hill-start assist control.

There are also large brake discs for improved braking performance, front active headrests, child seat fixtures at the rear and speed-sensing auto door locks.

It also wears HPD (high performance dampers) as part of its suspension setup, though the units in the local K5 aren’t the Sachs dampers with the Australian-defined tune, but rather a slightly softer tune to accommodate our diverse road surface conditions; we’re told that it offers enhanced handling without sacrificing ride comfort.

Three external shades are available, these being Snow White Pearl, Bright Silver and Platinum Graphite, and the Optima K5 goes for RM143,888, on-the-road.

Elsewhere, a bit on the Kia Red Cube, which is the second such Kia outlet in the ASEAN region. The 3S (sales, service and spare parts) centre features the company’s new modern space identity, and will serve as NKM’s flagship ‘store’ in the country. Another Kia Red Cube is due in 2012, either in the northern or southern region.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Proton P3-21A spotted again undergoing road-testing
2. Kia Optima K5 – leaked brochure pages reveal more!
3. Kia Optima K5 coming – launch set for end-December
4. Road closures around Dataran Merdeka for Formula Drift
5. Kia Optima CBU shipment sighted at Port Klang!
6. New Kia Optima spotted being tested by JPJ officers
7. Bersih Road Closures in KL on 9th July 2011
8. Subaru WRX STI sets new Isle of Man road-car lap record
9. F1 not pertinent in gaining tech for road cars, Audi says

Kia has introduced its Ray EV in Korea, and the zero-emissions city car has the honour of being the country’s first production electric vehicle. The car, which is only for the domestic Korean market, shares a general commonality with the company’s 1.0 litre gasoline-powered Ray CUV launched recently; it has the petrol model’s major dimensions. Operating range is up to 139 km on a single charge.

The front-wheel drive Ray EV is powered by a 50 kW electric motor offering 68 PS and a high-capacity 16.4 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack – engineered for a 10-year life cycle – that’s packaged under the rear seat and cabin floor. It’s equipped with an automatic transmission offering two drive modes, Eco and Brake, the latter maximising braking power on downhill runs.

The Ray EV weighs 187 kg more than the gasoline model, but the 167 Nm on call ensures responsive performance, Kia says. In terms of performance, the Ray EV does the 0-100 km/h run in 15.9 seconds, while top speed is 130 km/h. As for recharging times, it’s six hours using a 220V household supply and just 25 minutes in fast-charge mode.

The vehicle has a few small distinguishing points to identify it as the EV version. A flap in the front radiator grille covers an electricity inlet for a 220V supply for the slow recharge mode, while the fast recharge mode inlet is where the fuel intake of the regular model is.

Then, there’s the dedicated 14-inch alloys it wears, which improve aerodynamic performance by minimising drag, but surely the easiest way to spot it is from the ‘Zero Emissions EV’ decals pasted on the front doors.

Inside, the Ray EV features a unique instrument cluster, displaying electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It is also equipped with the first-ever EV-specific navigation system that features a 7-inch screen and provides crucial information for EV drivers. such as the nearest locations of the slow/fast recharging stations.

The display shows a circular shaped area in which the model can travel with its current level of battery power, so that drivers can see which destinations are reachable without a recharge. Some trivia: there are 500 slow/fast recharge stations in Korea, and the government plans to increase that figure to 3,100 stations by the end of 2012.

Since the Ray EV generates no engine noise, which can be a potential problem with pedestrians being unaware of the approaching car, the vehicle is equipped with a VESS (Virtual Engine Sound System). At speeds below 20 km/h, the system delivers a mixture of recorded gasoline engine noises, which are also emitted whenever the car is backing up.

Safety kit includes six airbags and electronic stability features – VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) and Hill Assist Control – as standard. Kia says it plans to manufacture 2,500 units of the Ray EV next year, which will be provided to government departments and public offices as part of Kia’s long-term real-world research and development programme.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Seat IBX Concept confirmed for production – reports
2. Skoda Citigo – urban dweller enters market in 2012
3. Hyundai and Kia increase European production capacity
4. Frankfurt: Production Subaru XV debuts – CKD next year!
5. New MINI Coupe – production car details revealed!
6. Frankfurt preview: Jaguar C-X16 production concept
7. Honda CR-Z Mugen RR – no current plans for production
8. Mitsubishi to double production in Thailand by next year
9. Lotus Cars enters China – Lotus China Symphony appointed as official distributor
10. Mazda to part production ways with Ford in the US

More on the soon to be launched Kia Optima K5, which will be officially introduced on December 27 – some leaked pages of the product manual or brochure for the Malaysian-spec’d 2.0 litre model have come about, courtesy of reader Billy, and while they don’t really tell us that much more about the car that we already don’t know, there are still some tidbits to be had.

The most interesting is the mention of HPD (high performance dampers) as part of the car’s suspension setup. The configuration is similar to the Sachs high performance dampers – with floating pistons – found on the Australian 2.4 GDI variant we drove earlier in the year, and that particular suspension tune was quite the standout, so there’s a lot of handling promise being hinted here with the inclusion of HPD in the Malaysian version.

As mentioned in our earlier story, the D-segment K5 will be available here in a single engine variant form, this being the Theta II 2.0 litre MPI mill with 165 PS and 198 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed transmission.

We do already know that the handsome, muscular Optima – styled by Peter Schreyer and his team at Kia’s studios in Frankfurt, Germany and Irvine, California – destined for Malaysia will come with the same machine-finished 18-inch, 10-spoke flush-faced alloy wheel as that of the Aussie car, and it’ll also feature leather seats.

Externally, with the exception of the dual tailpipes of the 2.4 GDI (the car here features a single tailpipe), the list of external cues looks pretty much identical too – same black chrome two-tone front mesh Tiger Nose grille, rear lip type spoiler, LED daytime running lights (located above the fog lamps, and set into the front bumper) and LED rear combination lamps. The K5 here will also feature auto-levelling HID xenon headlamps.

The scan of the interior features shows the same four-spoke leather steering wheel, replete with paddle shifters and function controls, and items include a foot parking brake and an Active ECO function. This optimally adjusts the ECU, TCU and air-conditioner compressor for the best fuel efficiency performance – Kia says it can result in up to 9.1% in fuel savings.

Other items on the known features list are dual-zone auto air-conditioning, full-width three-piece panoramic glass sunroof, cruise control, six airbags (dual front, front side and full length-curtain) and USB/Bluetooth connectivity.

Given the way it shapes up, I’d hazard a guess that the list for the local K5 should contain pretty much the whole shebang found in the Oz car, which should mean that push-button engine start/stop, LED side repeaters, a tailgate-mounted reversing safety camera with interior mirror LCD display monitor as well as illuminated door scuff plates and Supervision cluster – with a 3.5-inch TFT-colour LCD screen – are in.

Another bit on the list should be the six-CD changer, seven-speaker Infinity Premium Sound System, incorporating a centre speaker, subwoofer and an external amplifier. And safety-wise, ABS, EBD, TCS, brake assist, hill-start assist control and ESP should be part of the parcel. All in all, this should be a very comprehensively-equipped vehicle. No indicative pricing as of yet, but we’ll know come December 27.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Kia Forte – does leaked image reveal next-gen model?
2. Proton Exora Bold – brochure scans reveal all!
3. Kia Optima K5 coming – launch set for end-December
4. Toyota Avanza – brochure’s out on the upcoming facelift
5. 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser’s brochure leaked online
6. VIDEO: Peugeot 208 teaser, reveal on 2nd Nov 2011?
7. Honda City facelift brochure leaked ahead of Thai launch
8. Lexus GS 450h gets an early reveal ahead of Frankfurt
9. Volkswagen Polo GTI brochure uploaded on microsite
10. MINI Coupé – teased on video in a reveal film

Kia’s Forte sedan hasn’t been around all that long, being launched in the second half of 2008 (and making its debut here in late 2009), but it seems that the boys at Kia have already drawn up its successor.

A sketch with a series of profiles has been leaked, suggesting that what’s been penned is the next-generation Forte, depicting a far more flowing form than the current vehicle. Website Kia World, which revealed the image, alludes that the new Forte is set to make its official debut in 2012, and thus as a 2013 model year offering in the US.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Proton Exora Bold – brochure scans reveal all!
2. Proton Inspira R3 – new hi-res image and more details
3. VIDEO: Peugeot 208 teaser, reveal on 2nd Nov 2011?
4. Lexus GS 450h gets an early reveal ahead of Frankfurt
5. Mercedes B-Class image leaked ahead of Frankfurt debut
6. Infiniti JX Concept – teaser image number six released
7. Volvo sets out to grow, and get rid of its dowdy, safe image
8. MINI Coupé – teased on video in a reveal film
9. Toyota Hilux facelift leaked image makes its way onto the net – July debut at IIMS 2011
10. Tesla to end Roadster production, Model S out next year, 2014 Model X to combine SUV and MPV qualities

Naza Kia Malaysia is set to launch the Kia Optima K5 on December 27. The car will be launched at NKM’s first Kia Red Cube outlet in Malaysia, which is located in Petaling Jaya alongside the Federal Highway.

The sedan – spotted during JPJ homologation testing in October and last month, stockpiled in Port Klang – will be the fourth Kia model to be introduced locally this year, following the launch of the Sportage, Forte 6-Speed and Forte Koup. It will come in a single engine variant form, this being the 2.0 litre Theta II offering 165 PS and 198 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Features include auto-levelling HID xenon headlamps, LED daytime running headlights, dual-zone auto air-conditioner, a plush leather interior, a panoramic sun roof, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, auto cruise control, ESP, 18-inch alloy wheels and six airbags. In effect, the kit list should have most of that found on the 2.4 GDI variant driven in Australia earlier in the year.

Meanwhile, the Kia Red Cube outlet, with a built-up size of 24,350 sq ft, will be Naza Kia Malaysia’s flagship showroom in the Klang Valley and will incorporate Kia Motors’ new Global Space Identity. The 3S (Sales, Spare parts, Service) facility features a modern and stylish design, all meant to give customers a greater experience when purchasing a Kia or sending their existing Kias for service. More when launch time arrives.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. BREAKING: Subaru BRZ coming to Malaysia next year!
2. New Toyota Avanza coming soon – specs, prices are out!
3. COMING SOON! Proton Saga FLX SE 1.6L with CVT leaked
4. Kia Optima CBU shipment sighted at Port Klang!
5. New Chevrolet Colorado double cab coming in December!
6. New Kia Optima spotted being tested by JPJ officers
7. Volkswagen up! due out in Europe in December – three versions and two engine output choices at launch
8. Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase coming in 2012
9. MINI One coming in August, only 31 units up for sale
10. Thanks for coming to the Petronas PRIMAX 95 XTRA Race Appreciation Party!

A CBU shipment of the Kia Optima has been spotted at a port in Port Klang by reader S. Blaze a few days ago. This is good news for Malaysians as it means the Optima should be launching soon. We’ve already seen the Optima being tested by JPJ.

There doesn’t seem to be any indications of the engine though, as we could not find any badging indicating engine size on the rear end – just a sole badge that says Optima. Anthony Lim tried out the 198hp 2.4 liter GDI model in Australia earlier this year, but it seems we won’t be getting that engine because of issues with our petrol quality.

The 2.4 liter GDI model that Anthony drove also featured dual tailpipes while this batch of Optima only sports a single tailpipe. Everything else looks decently specced though – fancy wheels, LED daytime running lights, projector headlamps, and leather seats. The protection on the roof might also be hiding a panoramic sunroof – that would be nice!

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. UMW Toyota Integrated Quality Hub opens in Klang
2. New Kia Optima spotted being tested by JPJ officers

Kia has revealed the first official images of its new Ray compact vehicle, which will be sold exclusively in Korea. The production Ray shouldn’t be confused with the Ray Concept that the company presented at the Chicago Auto Show last year – this one is very much a box-type city car, far removed from the latter in terms of styling and shape.

There are very little details about the Ray, which the company says combines fuel economy with a spacious and highly versatile interior. Indeed, there’s not even a mention of powertrain options for the vehicle – that’s set to be announced closer to the vehicle’s launch.

Click to enlarge.

Design-wise, the Ray features a simple exterior silhouette, and the front combines the brand’s signature radiator grille with unique headlamps and LED daytime running lights. The rear, meanwhile, presents a wide and stable stance, accentuated by prominent LED rear combination lamps and vertically positioned bumper reflectors

The passenger-side rear door – in this case, on the right hand side – is a sliding-type unit, enabling not just easier ingress and egress in tight parking spaces but also provides a wide, unobstructed side opening for cargo storage.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. New images of Frankfurt-bound Eterniti Hemera released
2. 2011 Renault Koleos facelift – more images released
3. Hyundai i30 – first images of Frankfurt debutant revealed
4. Ssangyong XIV-1 Concept for Frankfurt: 2 new images
5. First images of new third generation Fiat Panda
6. Kia Rio – five-door to make European market debut
7. 2012 Lexus GS sedan revealed – first details and images
8. New Skoda compact sedan to be built in China in 2013
9. BREAKING: FHI and Tan Chong to make Malaysia the ASEAN production hub for Subaru, compact SUV first up!
10. Compact sports sedan based on Toyota FT-86 platform

By now many would have already heard of, or participated in the Test Drive Kia On Tour 2011 campaign, a roadshow organised by Naza Kia. Test Drive Kia On Tour started in May at 1Utama PJ before heading to Penang and Johor Bahru, stopping over in Seremban and Melaka. The final leg was recently held at The Curve, Mutiara Damansara.

Those who went got to check out and test drive Naza Kia’s products such as the Forte, new Sportage and Sorento SUV. The company is happy with the response – a total of 600 bookings were collected throughout, from a total of 3,144 test drives conducted.

A big pull was that those who went and test drove stood a chance to win a Forte, besides mystery gifts for those who signed up as fans of Kia Malaysia’s Facebook page. Some 4,896 people “liked” Naza Kia and 9,000 entries were received for the grand prize draw.

This morning, it was announced at Menara Naza Kg Baru that Mohd Ismail Ibrahim from Kuala Lumpur has won the grand prize. The 38-year old baker received the keys to his new Forte from SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman of the Naza Group.

Interestingly, the Forte winner (who currently drives a Myvi) test drove a Forte at The Curve, so he’s getting what he was interested in!

The team is already planning for next year. “Next year, we will take the Test Drive Kia On Tour roadshow to more destinations in the country,” said Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, COO of Naza Kia, adding that there should be six legs including locations in East Coast and East Malaysia.

Instead of trying to lure people to showrooms, Naza Kia is bringing its showroom to the people, which is a clever move.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Test Drive Kia on Tour – Final leg at The Curve this week
2. Test Drive Kia on Tour goes to Johor Bahru this weekend
3. Proton set to take on IRC champs Skoda in their home rally
4. Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow heads to Penang
5. Caltex launches bubbly new brand campaign – ‘Enjoy the Journey’ replaces 10-year old ‘What Drives You’ tagline
6. 2011 Hyundai Grand Starex Royale – more kit and plush
7. Hyundai Grand Avega hatchback debuts at IIMS 2011
8. Nissan Grand Livina facelift launched in Malaysia

Naza Kia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, will host the final leg of its popular Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow in Petaling Jaya, Selangor this week. The five-day event will be held from now till 16 Oct (Sunday) at The Curve in Mutiara Damansara.

At the roadshow, customers will be given a chance to test drive the new Sportage as well as the Forte and Sorento SUV. Those who test drive any of the vehicles at the any of the roadshows will be in the running to win a Forte 1.6EX. The lucky winner will be announced at the end of the roadshow at The Curve.

There are also mystery gifts for those who test drive or sign up to be a Kia Malaysia fan on Facebook on the spot.

The Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow kicked off in May at 1Utama PJ before moving to Penang in August and Johor Bahru in September.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Test Drive Kia on Tour goes to Johor Bahru this weekend
2. Test Drive Report: New Nissan Livina X-Gear 1.6 Auto
3. Yong Siew Loon from Seremban wins the final Proton Inspira in the BHPetrol Fever Frenzy II contest
4. Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow heads to Penang
5. Lotus unveils revised and restored Hethel test track
6. Kia Sportage to be launched next week, estimated RM140k
7. Proton Exora prototypes used to test Campro CFE engine and CVT transmission

The new Kia Optima is currently on test with JPJ, and it seems it’s being driven quite frequently as well, as it’s been spotted twice by two different readers in the span of a week. Reader Adrian Yong snapped the Optima parked at an undisclosed location, while Khairil got his opportunity to snap photos at the Tapah R&R, north-bound. Perhaps we could see the Optima launched before the end of the year, or in the first half of next year? We’ve already driven the Kia Optima during an international press drive event in Australia, so you can read our first impression test drive review story posted earlier this year. The model we tested had a 2.4 litre GDI engine.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Infiniti EX and FX models spotted at JPJ Putrajaya
2. It’s not called SE – Perodua Myvi Extreme 1.5 spotted!
3. Honda Brio spotted again in KL, this time in Brickfields
4. Honda Brio spotted on flat bed tow truck in Malaysia
5. Yellow Perodua Myvi SE spotted transported by trailer
6. 2012 Lexus GS prototype spotted testing on the ‘Ring
7. Peugeot 408 (T73 sedan) spotted undergoing camouflaged testing on the highway
8. 2011 Perodua Myvi spotted being trailered in the night

Originally, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech (HMMC) planned to move from two-shift to three-shift production at the start of October, but has been doing so since last week (19 Sept). The company hired 800 new employees to work on this extra shift. In total, Hyundai and its suppliers employ 10,000 people in the Nošovice area of the Czech Republic.

The up in production is thanks to rising demand for the ix35 (Tucson to us) and Frankfurt debutant new i30, which will hit the showrooms early next year. By the way, HMMC has stepped from one shift to three in less than three years.

Sister brand Kia also has plans to increase production. The more youthful brand of the duo will introduce a third production shift at its European production hub in Slovakia along with 1,000 new staff. Three-shift operations are scheduled to start in Zilina by the first quarter of 2012.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Volkswagen up! – production car debut at Frankfurt 2011
2. Frankfurt: Kia Rio 3-door eyes trendy European streets
3. Frankfurt: Production Subaru XV debuts – CKD next year!
4. Kia Rio – five-door to make European market debut
5. Mitsubishi to double production in Thailand by next year
6. First pics of European spec new Toyota Yaris revealed
7. GM won’t sell Opel to an European rival
8. Mazda to part production ways with Ford in the US
9. Volkswagen Passat CC – VGM says delays in deliveries due to re-evaluation exercise, possible increase in pricing

Naza Kia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, will take its Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow to Johor Bahru this weekend. The three-day roadshow will be held from Sept 23 to 25 at the KSL City Mall in JB.

The activities actually start today with a 13-car Kia convoy that will be flagged off at Menara Naza, KL. The journey south will include stops at Seremban and Melaka. Driven by Naza Kia personnel, the motorcade includes Kia models such as the Forte, Forte Koup and new Sportage.

In Seremban, the convoy will have brief stops at Tesco Seremban and Dataran Seremban while in Melaka, it will stop at the Melaka Mall, Dataran Pahlawan, Aeon Bandaraya and Mydin Melaka. They will spend an hour at each of these locations, distribute pamphlets and freebies. On Sept 22, the group will have stops at JB’s Sutera Mall, Perling Mall, Plaza Pelangi and Pelangi Leisure Mall before anchoring at KSL City Mall.

This is the third leg of Naza Kia’s Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011, which started in May at 1Utama PJ before moving to Penang in August. After JB, the roadshow will end with one more Klang Valley event in October.

Those who test drive any Kia at one of these roadshows will be in the running to win a Forte 1.6EX. The lucky winner will be announced when the roadshow ends in October. In JB, Naza Kia is giving mystery gifts for customers who test drive or sign up to be a Kia Malaysia fan on Facebook on the spot.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Volkswagen.Das Auto.Show 2011 happens this weekend at the Bukit Jalil Stadium carpark – admission is free!
2. Test Drive Report: New Nissan Livina X-Gear 1.6 Auto
3. Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow heads to Penang
4. Lotus unveils revised and restored Hethel test track
5. VIDEO: Drama at the Super GT over the weekend
6. Proton Exora prototypes used to test Campro CFE engine and CVT transmission

We’ve previously seen the five-door Kia Rio for the European market, now is the turn of the three-door Rio to have its world debut at Frankfurt. The Rio is a B-segment Kia, which we’ve also seen in sedan form for the US market. China’s notchback has slightly different styling and is called the K2.

Designed primarily for chic Euro streets, the new three-door Rio’s task is to attract first time Kia buyers and to rack up conquest sales. The on-form Korean brand expects 20 to 25% of total Rio sales to be of the 3-door car.

It has the same key dimensions as the 5-door model (length 4,045 mm, width 1,720 mm, height 1,455 mm and wheelbase 2,570 mm) and retains the same roofline that is among the lowest in Kia’s Euro range for some sporty appeal. Up to 10 body colours are offered – White, Black, Silver, Red, Beige, Electronic Blue, Deep Blue, Brown, Graphite and Yellow.

The 3-door will be available with the same range of powertrains, equipment and options as the 5-door. Customers have a choice of four three- and four-cylinder engines – with a 75 to 109 PS power range.

The fastest Rio will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds on to a top speed of 183 km/h. Fuel consumption will be as low as 3.2 litres per 100 km for the newly-introduced EcoDynamics diesel model, which also delivers a super low CO2 rating of just 85 g/km.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Frankfurt: Audi presents the refreshed 444 hp / 430 Nm RS5
2. Frankfurt preview: Kia’s RWD 4-door concept is called GT
3. Frankfurt preview: Ferrari 458 Spider
4. Kia Rio – five-door to make European market debut
5. Frankfurt preview: Kia four-door sports sedan concept
6. Frankfurt preview: B-segment SsangYong Concept XUV 1
7. Kia Picanto 3-door launched to meet rising demand
8. Frankfurt: New Hyundai i30 is now Fluidicly Sculptured
9. First pics of European spec new Toyota Yaris revealed
10. GM won’t sell Opel to an European rival

Fast rising brand Kia will be bringing a dramatic rear-wheel drive four-door sports sedan to the Frankfurt show. We’ve seen some pics of the concept already, but details were scarce. Now we know that the big sedan will be called GT, thanks to leaked official pics.

Apparently, this will be the first in a series of concept cars that will see the Korean brand explore new market segments with style-led models. This approach is already in place to some extend in the brand’s main model lines – the Forte, Optima and Sportage are eye catching cars in their respective segments.

“No matter from which perspective you look at it – this concept car is roaring with energy and ready for take-off. I believe the car is a strong statement from Kia: we are ready to fast forward to an all-new chapter,” said Kia’s design boss Peter Schreyer.

As for what’s under there, Autocar UK says that it’s based on the Hyundai Genesis saloon with a big V8 engine under the hood. Don’t expect a production version of the GT in the near future though.

“We have made good progress recently. But it is now important for us to improve our brand power. Concepts like these will help a lot with that. But we are prepared to take our time. We will test plenty of ideas before we make any decisions about production,” Kia’s vice chairman and CEO, Hank Lee, told the mag.

More pics after the jump. Do you think Kia is ready to challenge the premium boys?

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Frankfurt preview: Jaguar C-X16 Concept, 911 here I come!
2. Frankfurt preview: second-gen Bentley Continental GTC
3. Frankfurt preview: Ferrari 458 Spider
4. Frankfurt preview: Seventh-gen Porsche 911 revealed!
5. Frankfurt preview: Maserati GranCabrio Fendi
6. Frankfurt preview: Kia four-door sports sedan concept
7. Frankfurt preview: B-segment SsangYong Concept XUV 1
8. Frankfurt preview: Jaguar C-X16 production concept
9. Frankfurt preview: Audi Urban Concept is one of a kind
10. Frankfurt preview: Diesel electric hybrid Peugeot 508 RXH

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. VIDEO: BMW Z4 with N20B20 inline-4 turbo engine
2. VIDEO: A 360 degree look at the Daihatsu A-Concept
3. VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz World AMG car driving demo
4. BMW “check my machine” music video for F20 1-Series
5. VIDEO: New Toyota Camry SE, XLE, Hybrid secretly filmed!
6. VIDEO: 1 minute of the F10 BMW M5 in motion
7. VIDEO: Drama at the Super GT over the weekend
8. VIDEO: 2011 Perodua Myvi instrument panel demo
9. VIDEO: Supercharged 197 hp Honda CR-Z Mugen in action
10. VIDEO: MINI Cooper S Countryman Review

The third-generation Kia Rio is set to make its European market entrance, joining the compact fray in the UK at the beginning of next month. The UB hatch, which made its debut in Geneva earlier this year, arrives in five-door form first, followed by the three-door version towards the end of the year. There’s also of course a sedan form of the vehicle, the Rio Sedan unveiled in New York in April, which is set to begin selling in the US in January next year, as well as the K2 derivative for the Chinese market.

Universally, the Rio will have six engine choices in all from a 69 hp 1.1 litre three-cylinder diesel unit up to a 1.6 litre GDI mill producing 138 hp, the last set for North America. Four engine choices will be available for the UK – two petrol and two diesel, among them a 107 hp 1.4 litre petrol and a 89 hp 1.4 litre turbodiesel.

Large gallery of the UK spec’d hatch after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 12:42:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Frankfurt preview: Kia four-door sports sedan concept
2. US market Honda Fit Sport gets mild update in and out
3. Kia Picanto 3-door launched to meet rising demand
4. Geely Panda puts its paw on the Indonesian market
5. Caterham to enter Chinese market
6. Renault Koleos facelift to enter market later in the year
7. First pics of European spec new Toyota Yaris revealed
8. GM won’t sell Opel to an European rival
9. Audi Q3 production starts in Spain, market launch in Q4