Showing posts with label Kia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kia. Show all posts

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Say Hello to Kia's New Geneva Motor Show-Bound Provo Concept

Kia's surprise debut for next week's Geneva Auto Salon is a secret no more, at least in what concerns its appearance and name, after photos of the concept car surfaced on the internet today.
The car is named Provo and it's a study for a sporty looking three door hatchback, described by the Korean maker as a "racy new urban concept".

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

Kia Urban Concept

No other information is available on the Provo, but if you don't mind us playing the speculation game, we'd say Kia might be cooking up a sporty challenger for the Mini Coupe.

The car's athletic bodywork with muscular fenders and a sharp face are joined by an equally sporty atmosphere in the cabin, which features a flat bottom steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara, diamond stitched leather surfaces for the seats and space for four passengers (though, the rear area doesn't really look like a comfortable place to be from these images).

We'll update this post as soon as Kia comes out with an official release.

Articles Source : Carscoop

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Hyundai, Kia delaying and updating new Sonata, Optima Hybrids?


Given the recent debacle regarding overstated fuel-economy estimates from Hyundai and Kia, we wouldn't blame the companies for being a little gun-shy about new vehicle releases. That just might be the case for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima Hybrids.

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

With the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) not including those two models under its 2013 model-year list (it only lists the 2012 versions and 2013's gas-only versions), Hybrid Cars is wondering if the two companies aren't pushing back their debuts for some late tweaks. At the moment, only the 2012 Optima Hybrid shows up on Kia's website, and the same goes for the Sonata Hybrid. A Hyundai representative told Hybrid Cars that the 2013 Sonata Hybrid is being redesigned in Korea, with announcements possibly coming in the next month or two.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review

It would seem to make sense that Hyundai and Kia are takign some extra time readying their 2013 model-year hybrids. In late 2012, Hyundai and Kia had to drop fuel-economy estimates on many of its 2012 and 2013 model-year vehicles after reporting inaccurate mileage estimates. The companies agreed to give money back to about 900,000 vehicle owners, with the amounts varying based on the MPG adjustment to their models and the owners' odometer readings. In all, the companies set aside about $412 million for refunds. Both the 2012 Sonata and Optima Hybrids are now rated at 36 miles per gallon combined.

Articles Source : Autoblog

Friday, February 15, 2013

2014 Kia Pro Ceed


The new Kia pro_cee'd joins the cee'd hatchback and cee'd Sportswagon as the third instalment in the latest generation cee'd family and will be joined by Kia's first ever performance-orientated model - the Kia pro_cee'd GT - from the summer of 2013.

2014 Kia Pro Ceed
2014 Kia Pro Ceed

2014 Kia Pro Ceed
2014 Kia Pro Ceed

2014 Kia Pro Ceed
2014 Kia Pro Ceed

2014 Kia Pro Ceed
2014 Kia Pro Ceed

2014 Kia Pro Ceed
2014 Kia Pro Ceed

Kia's stylish new three-door hatchback is offered with a choice of two trim levels - 'S' and 'SE' - both of which are new and unique to the pro_cee'd. The 'S' comes with a very comprehensive level of specification whilst the 'SE' adds a host of luxury and comfort features usually the preserve of much more expensive machinery.

Two engines are offered in the new pro_cee'd line-up - a 1.6-litre GDi petrol and a 1.6-litre CRDi turbodiesel with Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) - and both are available in each trim grade. A six-speed manual transmission is standard across the range and Kia's six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox is also available in 1.6 GDi 'SE' guise.

EXTERIOR

Longer and lower than the previous generation version, the new pro_cee'd is Kia's most emotionally-charged vehicle to date and has been penned to show performance and dynamism from every angle, crease and curve.

"The all-new Kia pro_cee'd is a true clean sheet design," says Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer, Kia Motors Corporation. "With its distinctive form language and dynamic proportions, muscular stance and athletic lines, this 'coupe' follows a very different visual path to the cee'd. It's a completely different car on every level."

With the exception of the front body structure, several major parts of the bodyshell - the roof, body sides, and rear-end - have been redesigned compared to the current cee'd. Ring-shaped structures on centre pillars and tailgate opening area have been added in to ensure rigidity and collision safety. New pro_cee'd shares all the same external dimensions as the current cee'd save for its height - new pro_cee'd is 40mm lower than its 5-door sibling.

New pro_cee'd features a unique front design compared to its siblings. The front fog lights are inset into a new layered design and are sat in a more rakish lower bumper design complete with dark chrome highlights. The gloss black 'tiger nose' grille is slightly narrower and connected to the headlights with dark chrome extensions to lend the car a more aggressive stance that is further enhanced by the striking LED daytime running lights that are standard on all versions.

The front doors are 270mm longer (at 1,410mm) than those on the cee'd and, aside from improving rear accessibility, they work in harmony with the sloping beltline and narrow glasshouse, the lower roofline and the chrome window surrounds to give the new pro_cee'd a very sleek side profile.

As with the previous generation, the rear of the pro_cee'd is characterised by a steeply-angled rear window and bulbous tail lamps that sit astride broad shoulders. A black lower bumper strip with a set of integrated combination lamps and reflectors help to lend a hunkered-down feel to the rear. The LED tail lights create a strong night-time presence to the pro_cee'd thanks to a U-shaped LED pattern that is unique to the vehicle.

INTERIOR

The exterior's performance-orientated looks are echoed on the inside with a driver-centric layout to the dashboard and modern, premium touches such as the dark cloth trim, black headlining, piano black fascia trim and subtle chrome accents to the door handles, instruments and air vents.

The five-seat interior has been designed to be as ergonomically intuitive as possible with all the on-board and infotainment controls conveniently located for driver and passengers. Practicality is improved compared to the last generation model too. Boot storage is up 40 litres to 380 litres - the same as the 5-door cee'd - and up 15 litres to 1,225 litres with the 60:40 split-rear seats folded down and there are storage compartments in the front and rear, centre console and under the boot floor.

SPECIFICATION

To reflect how different the new pro_cee'd is to the rest of the line-up, it uniquely moves away from Kia UK's customary model nomenclature of '1', '2' and '3' for entry, mid-range and top-of-the-range versions. The 'S' grade offers a high level of specification for an 'entry-level' version whilst the 'SE' adds the comfort and refinement of many high-end features.

PRICING
  • pro_cee'd 'S' 1.6 GDi, 124 g/km - �17,495
  • pro_cee'd 'S' 1.6 CRDi, 100 g/km - �18,595
  • pro_cee'd 'SE' 1.6 GDi, 137 g/km - �19,495
  • pro_cee'd 'SE' 1.6 CRDi, 112 g/km - �20,595
  • pro_cee'd 'SE' 1.6 GDi DCT, 140 g/km - �20,795

Articles Source : Netcarshow

Thursday, February 7, 2013

2014 Kia Forte 5-door


Kia Motors America (KMA) ignited the 2013 Chicago Auto Show when the all-new, ultra-hot Kia Forte 5-door rolled on-stage. The all-new Forte 5-door SX's eye-catching European-inspired hatchback design is complimented by an all-new 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injected (GDI) turbocharged four-cylinder engine putting out 201 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque, making the all-new Kia Forte 5-door SX the most powerful Forte from KMA to date. The Forte 5-door is expected to go on sale in the third quarter of 2013, and pricing will be announced closer to launch.


2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

2014 Kia Forte 5-door
2014 Kia Forte 5-door

"We received very positive feedback after the all-new Forte sedan made its debut at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, and we expect the all-new Kia Forte 5-door will build upon that success," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "The combination of a useful hatchback for carrying cargo and the sportiness of the turbocharged SX trim make the all-new Forte 5-door a dual threat in the segment."

Presented in two trim levels, EX and SX, with two distinct engine choices, the Kia Forte 5-door will offer customers Kia's long list of premium amenities and features not normally found in the compact segment. Under the hood, the Forte 5-door packs a punch, with the EX's 2.0-liter GDI four-cylinder engine putting out a healthy 173 horsepower and 154 lb.-ft. of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The performance-oriented SX comes standard with the hard-charging 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder, a first for the Forte line. The SX also offers buyers the chance to pick their own gears with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, or they may opt for the 6-speed automatic featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Standard Features and Technology Take Value to New Levels of Sophistication

Carrying on Kia's reputation of offering tremendous value, the all-new Kia Forte 5-door offers buyers an impressive allotment of technology and safety features. The base EX comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, UVO eServices with rear camera display, Bluetooth� wireless technology, SiriusXM� Satellite Radio, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio and cruise control buttons, FlexSteer�, tilt and telescoping steering column, power windows, and LED positioning headlights with fog lights.

The SX trim ups the ante with standard 18-inch alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust tips, and LED tail lights. Kia Forte 5-door SX also offers an aggressive front fascia with larger bumper and grille openings, black gloss grille inserts, larger front brakes, alloy sport pedals, front and rear seats with carbon fiber-style accents. The lower front fascia and rear valance also feature carbon fiber-look trim pieces.

Additionally, both EX and SX trim levels offer optional HID headlights, navigation system with HD Radio�, sunroof, heated steering wheel,10-way adjustable power driver's seat, heated front seats and cooled driver's seat, heated rear outboard seats, leather seating surfaces, SmartKey with push-button start, electric chromatic rearview mirror and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Stunning European Design Language

Born from the Kia design studio in Seoul and overseen by Kia's global chief of design, Peter Schreyer, the Kia Forte 5-door's sophisticated hatchback profile, large wheels and aggressive posture give it a distinctly European appearance that speaks to its performance intentions. The chiseled body commands attention and continues Kia's tradition as a design leader in the industry.

Like its Forte sedan counterpart, the Kia Forte 5-door's swept headlights stretch deep into the front fenders and the raked windshield and broad shoulders give the front end a sleek, sporty appearance. LED positioning lights add a premium look to the front fascia. Moving around the vehicle, the large 18-inch wheels fill the wheel wells on the SX, and the hatchback profile affords a performance-oriented European personality. Around back, the rear hatch glass opens to reveal 23.2 cubic feet of usable cargo space. LED tail lights complete the premium feel of the exterior and a sporty rear valance with twin chrome exhaust tips maintains the Kia Forte 5-door's edgy demeanor.

Sporty Cabin with Premium Features

Inside, the Kia Forte 5-door features premium materials and soft touch points. Large, easy-to-read white-on-black gauges nestle deeply into the instrument cluster. Chrome accents around the HVAC controls and optional push-button start, along with carbon fiber-like textures on the dash and seats, add a sporty touch. A grippy leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob are further evidence of the Forte 5-door's performance aspirations. Class-exclusive available features such as front and rear heated outboard seats, an air-cooled driver's seat and driver-selectable electric steering further set the Kia Forte 5-door apart from its competition.

Thrilling Driving Experience

The Kia Forte 5-door SX is the most powerful Forte built by Kia to date, utilizing a 1.6-liter GDI turbocharged four-cylinder that help improve performance. Power is seamlessly transferred to the front wheels via a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The GDI powerplant produces 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,750-4,500 rpm. The advanced powertrain features double overhead cams with dual continuously variable valve timing to help improve efficiency and performance.

The Kia Forte 5-door EX comes standard with a 2.0-liter GDI powerplant producing 173 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 154 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm. During durability testing, the engines are run 300 continuous hours at redline under full load then for an additional 20 hours at 10 percent above redline under full load.

To help further improve performance, the Kia Forte 5-door features a sport-tuned suspension with a McPherson strut setup in front and a multilink rear design. The Kia Forte 5-door rides on standard 205/55R-16 tires while 225/40R-18 tires are included with the SX trim for an even more sporting driving experience.

Articles Source : Netcarshow

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept


Blurring the line between Kia's gorgeous GT concept and a luxury CUV, Kia Motors America (KMA) slipped the silk off the beautiful Kia Cross GT concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. Amid the popping strobes of cameras, the Cross GT stunned onlookers with its elegant yet powerful stance, confirming once again Kia's now-well-established reputation for world-class design. The Cross GT seamlessly melds high technology with nature, creating a harmonious partnership between driver and vehicle that also respects our global environment. Purely conceptual, the Cross GT reveals Kia's intentions to potentially offer a larger premium CUV than the current Sorento.

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

2013 Kia Cross GT Concept
2013 Kia Cross GT Concept

"The debut of the GT in 2011 heralded a new frontier for Kia, both from a design and a business perspective," noted Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors Corporation president and global chief of design. "It beautifully illustrated to the world that the brand was ready to explore the possibility of perhaps one day offering a full-size rear-drive luxury saloon. The Cross GT, with its raised stance and large cargo area, allows us to envision the GT in the form of a full-size luxury crossover."

While the GT's lines were penned in Frankfurt, Germany, the Cross GT hails from Kia Design Center America (KDCA) in Irvine, Calif., the house that breathed life into the Track'ster, KV7 and Soul'ster concepts, and most recently the all-new production 2014 Forte sedan. Based on the GT chassis, the Cross GT's proportions are similar to its rear-drive stablemate with short overhangs, a long wheelbase and an aggressively wide posture. But the Cross GT offers even greater visibility thanks to its taller stature and features all-wheel drive for improved performance and all-weather capability.

Drawing inspiration from nature, driven by technology and bathed in gorgeous Fusion Copper, the Cross GT is powered by an efficient hybrid powertrain that looks to reduce the vehicle's carbon footprint while providing the uncompromising performance that's expected of a large, luxury crossover.

Utilizing a state-of-the-art 3.8-liter V6 hybrid, 8-speed automatic and torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive, the Cross-GT's powertrain matches the sophistication of the exterior and interior designs. Backing the V6 is an evolution of Kia's parallel hybrid system, a pancake-shaped electric motor sandwiched between the V6 and transmission. The electric motor is neatly packaged under the rear floor. Combined, the V6 and electric motor produce 500 lb.-ft. of torque and 400 horsepower, with an all-electric range of 20-miles - sufficient to enable exhilarating performance, while delivering superior fuel economy and fuel efficiency.

While strictly a concept powertrain, Kia's proven hybrid technology, combined with all-wheel drive are thought-provoking ideas that may one day find their way into a production vehicle.

While clearly a member of the same bloodline as the award-winning Sorento, the Kia Cross GT cuts an even more imposing figure. At 122.0 inches, the Cross GT's wheelbase is longer than Sorento's by 15.7 inches, and its overall length of 192.8 inches is 8.4 inches greater than Sorento. The 79.1-inch width is 4.9 inches wider than Sorento, but the Cross GT's overall height of 65.3 inches is actually 1.6 inches shorter, giving the concept a lower roofline than most large CUVs. The Cross GT is designed to easily accommodate four passengers and their cargo in luxurious surroundings, but the large greenhouse, airy cabin and gently sloping hood give the Cross GT a nimble feel that's at home in crowded urban environments.

The Cross GT's sophisticated image is enhanced by the dual rear-hinged doors, more commonly referred to as "suicide" doors. The unique configuration allows for easy access to the rear bucket seats and affords generous views of the Cross GT's premium textures and materials. The cargo compartment is accessed through a "clam shell" design that incorporates a traditional glass hatch and a tailgate. Use of advanced LED technology creates a strong and unique lighting identity that dramatically highlights Kia's signature grille. Letting light into the cabin is a multi-paneled sky light with hexagonal glass inserts that enhance the Cross GT's premium design aesthetic.

Inside, the Kia Cross GT Concept exemplifies modern luxury while remaining firmly grounded in nature. Anchored to the central tunnel, the four Almond-Terra-colored leather-covered bucket seats appear to float within the cabin, lending an open, modern feel. Inspired by fine equestrian saddles, the seats feature contrasting stitching and are tanned with vegetable oil using natural dyes and no chemicals. Use of re-harvested American Walnut across the sweeping instrument panel and 100 percent eco-friendly renewable wool felt throughout the vehicle also add to the Cross GT's environmentally friendly appeal. The Cross GT's subsystems, including HVAC, telematics and entertainment, are accessed via an easy-to-use touch screen and central mouse control technology that keeps the driver's hands on the wheel at all times. The rear passengers have the ability to access the Internet and infotainment options through flat panel screens mounted to the headrests of the front seats. A large storage compartment has been incorporated beneath the flat load floor in the cargo area behind the rear seats.

So just how much of the Cross GT is concept and how much is reality? "As witnessed by the introduction of the all-new Cadenza at the recent Detroit Auto Show, our customers are looking to the Kia brand to offer relevant vehicles in the premium segments that take value to new levels of sophistication," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications, KMA. "The Cross GT is the next logical step in that evolution. And while only a concept today, it signals one possible design direction we may explore for the future."

Articles Source : Netcarshow

Monday, January 28, 2013

2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT


The new Kia pro_cee'd GT and cee'd GT - the brand's most performance-focused production cars ever - will enjoy their world premieres at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT
2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT

2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT
2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT

2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT
2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT

2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT
2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT

2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT
2014 Kia Pro Ceed GT

Designed in Europe under the direction of President and Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, the two debutants feature bold athletic styling, distinctive LED daytime running lights, dual-exhaust pipes, Recaro seating, 18-inch alloy wheels and eye-catching red brake calipers.

The new turbocharged 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine will produce 204 PS (201 bhp) and 265 Nm (195 lb/ft), powering the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and allowing the Kia pro_cee'd GT and cee'd GT to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 7.9 seconds.

Production of the newest members of the latest generation cee'd family is scheduled to start at Kia's Zilina plant in Slovakia in mid-May 2013. The pro_cee'd GT is anticipated to go sale in the UK from the middle of 2013 and be joined by its cee'd GT counterpart towards the end of the year.

Articles Source : Netcarshow

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

2014 Kia Cadenza


Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the all-new 2014 Cadenza premium sedan, the most technologically-advanced vehicle Kia has ever introduced in North America. An announcement at Cobo Hall during the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) confirmed Kia's intentions to enter into the premium-sedan segment. The Kia Cadenza expands KMA's lineup of inspiring and award-winning vehicles while moving the brand up-market with an impressive list of premium standard and optional equipment, including Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Lane-Departure Warning System (LDWS). The Cadenza is expected to arrive in Kia retail showrooms in the second quarter of 2013.


2014 Kia Cadenza
2014 Kia Cadenza

2014 Kia Cadenza
2014 Kia Cadenza

2014 Kia Cadenza
2014 Kia Cadenza

2014 Kia Cadenza
2014 Kia Cadenza

"Since the introduction of the range-topping Optima SXL last year, we have seen an increasing number of customers in our retail outlets looking for a sedan with even more upscale amenities and technology," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "The Cadenza is the new flagship for Kia in the U.S. market, and when it goes on sale later this year, it will introduce a number of advanced systems that promise to set a new standard in the premium segment."

With its distinctive front fascia and swept C-pillars, the Kia Cadenza's taut European design language is evident. That it's propelled by Kia's most powerful V6 engine further announces its intentions to provide an invigorating driving experience. Inside, unparalleled premium appointments for five occupants strike the ideal balance between sport and luxury. Combining these elements with technology that, until now, has never been offered on any Kia vehicle in the market, the Kia Cadenza quickly rises to the lofty elevation of being the brand's most advanced U.S. product.

Sophisticated Features and Technology

Offered in one opulently equipped trim level, the Kia Cadenza takes in-car technology and premium features to an entirely new level. Standard features include an advanced navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic� and UVO eServices, displayed on a high resolution 8-inch touch screen. Further enhancing driver assurance is a standard back-up camera and warning system, as well as a premium 550-watt Infinity� 12-speaker audio system including rear surround speakers and subwoofer. The Kia Cadenza's standard equipment level is on par with many premium brands and boasts standard leather seat trim, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear seat ventilation, Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start, 10-way power adjustable driver's seat and Bluetooth� wireless technology. Two option packages are offered: The Premium Package and the Technology Package.

Check the box for the Premium Package and receive a full-length panoramic sunroof with power retractable sunshade, HID headlamps with adaptive front lighting system (AFLS), 7-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, premium Nappa leather seats, a memory enabled 12-way ventilated driver's seat with seat cushion extension for unsurpassed comfort, heated front and rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping steering column, as well as a power rear sunshade for enhanced comfort and privacy.

Stepping up to the Technology Package adds sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, electric parking brake and Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), which maintains a set distance to the vehicle ahead and can bring the car to a full stop if necessary. The package also includes water repellant hydrophobic windshield, a radar-based Blind Spot Detection system (BSD) and a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) that provides audible and visual alerts to the driver should they inadvertently veer into another lane without using the turn signal.

European Design Evokes Premium Sport-Sedan Elegance

Penned under the watchful eye of Peter Schreyer, Kia's global chief of design, the Kia Cadenza's broad shoulders, contoured hood, large wheels and wide stance give it a strong and grounded appearance. The striking design has a distinctive sport-sedan form, as if the car would be equally comfortable on the Autobahn or carving through the Swiss Alps.

The aggressive "Tiger Nose" front fascia instantly speaks to Kia's brand identity. Flanking the grille are quad headlights that nestle deeply behind crystalline lenses. The lower fascia is wide, lending to the Kia Cadenza's imposing stance, and chrome trim accents around the fog lights and grille add to the vehicle's premium presence. LED positioning lights and available HID headlights provide additional European sophistication.

Perhaps best enjoyed in profile, the Kia Cadenza's silhouette is at once strong and elegant. The vertical nose is imposing; the long hood is sensuously sculpted to meet the swept-back windshield. The greenhouse curves gracefully to the C-pillar and is surrounded by a tasteful chrome bezel that flares upward at the rear door, effectively creating a beautiful glass droplet. Beginning just aft of the front-door cutline is a chiseled indentation that sweeps upward, seamlessly transitioning into the tail lights. Classic chrome accents adorn the lower portions of the doors and the treatment continues into the rear fascia. The 19-inch alloy wheels offered in the Technology Package resemble a jet turbine and add to the Kia Cadenza's athletic stature.

Moving to the rear of the vehicle, the standard LED taillights sit high on the deck and are designed to cut across a large portion of the vehicle, lending to the Kia Cadenza's broad stance. The twin oval tail pipes accentuate the Cadenza's sporty and elegant design.

The interior of the Kia Cadenza envelops its occupants in a premium environment complete with soft leather upholstery and tasteful accents of wood and chrome. Ambient lighting and horizontally positioned switch gear radiates an uncluttered and sophisticated aesthetic. An elegant analog clock centered between the center stack buttons lends a classic feel. The center console is angled toward the driver for optimized control, and an available large seven-inch high-resolution TFT LCD screen in the gauge cluster showcases a wide range of vehicle information including turn-by-turn navigation and infotainment. Elegant chrome bezels surround the HVAC and audio controls, air vents and the standard push-button start. Standard Bluetooth, wood-trim door inserts, one-touch automatic up/down power front windows and power-folding heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators all enhance the Cadenza's premium image.

Engaging Driving Experience

The Kia Cadenza is equipped with Kia's most powerful V6 engine ever. The smooth-revving 3.3-liter utilizes gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology that improves performance while maintaining fuel efficiency. Power is seamlessly transferred to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission that includes a Sportmatic manual shift mode and paddle shifters flanking the leather and wood-wrapped steering wheel. The GDI powerplant produces 293 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 255 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm. The advanced all-aluminum engine features dual continuously variable valve timing for improved fuel economy and performance, a maintenance-free timing chain, a three-step variable induction system for enhanced torque, and is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. During durability testing, the engine is run 300 continuous hours at redline under full load then for an additional 20 hours at 10 percent above redline under full load.

To maximize driver engagement and performance, the Cadenza features a sport-tuned fully independent suspension with a McPherson strut setup in front and a multilink rear design. The Kia Cadenza rides on standard 245/45R-18 tires while 245/40R-19 tires are included with the Technology Package.

To further enhance performance and safety, while reducing NVH, 60 percent of the body structure is strengthened through the utilization of High Tensile Steel (HTS), which helps improve torsional rigidity. HTS is produced through a 1,650 degree hot-stamping process, designed to toughen steel. Further reducing the Kia Cadenza's NVH is an extensive list of noise reducing technologies, including a hydraulic transmission mount, optimally tuned damper on the rear cross member and specially designed wheels (the multiple fins help reduce wind noise at highway speeds).

Articles Source : NetCarShow