The Kia Sportage Cross-over Turn Heads into 2012

When we transition directly into 2012, just one car to check out once again is the 2012 Kia Sportage. It absolutely was entirely refurbished, and so the 2012 Kia Sportage design provides just a few modifications. For that matter, the only real new components for that forthcoming year are definitely the suspensions and some additional audio insulation. In any other case, there are several new additional in some of the trims. The Competition involves the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV, both providing a little more cargo space. Other competitors are the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Chevrolet Equinox, and that is generally companies to companies within this comparability.

Features of the Kia Sportage incorporate snazzy cabin and outlook appearance which will make heads turn. Additionally, there are top quality found inside the Kia Sportage that could improve the value in some other manufacturers.

The Kia Sportage has 5 seats and is presented in the basic foundation, EX and LX trim levels, along with the modified turbocompresseur SX trim.

The base provides specifications like 16inch cast aluminum wheels, all-power accessories, air-conditioning, pull back on steering wheel together with audio and phone features. It arrives with material furniture, but there’s a premium package deal you may get with all the top grade EX for a leather alternative.

The Kia Sportage LX provides you with convert signals on the outlook mirrors, keyless entry and also tinted rear windows. Together with the Kia Sportage EX you will have LED daytime running lights, chrome exterior features, 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler, dual-zone automatic hvac, a leather-wrapped controls, roof rails and also telescopes, a power driver seats, and, fully grasp this, a chilled glove-box.

Obviously, you can also find deals such as the EX Premium-package that not only present leather-based covers, but additionally heated up front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a ventilated driver seat, rear parking sensors, and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. With the EX and LX models you can also find the choices of a modified sound system and a voice-controlled navigation system with a backup camera.

Underneath the hoods, the EX and LX are all 2.4 liter inline 4 engines applying 168 pound-feet of torque and 176 Hp. You will get the base using a 6-speed of manual transmissions. The EX and also LX features a 6-speed automated, as well, however, you can easily select front or perhaps all wheel drive or even the turbo-charged with 2.0 liter engine SX trim, which with front-wheel-drive has been examination automobile for this car reviews.

The Kia Sportage precautionary features incorporate front side and also full-length side window curtain safety bags, active front head rests, anti lock disc brakes with brake support, traction’s control, balance control, and mountain lineage and also mountain start control.

Inside the Kia Sportage, the actual top-of-the-line cabin turns on the EX trim with many different shapes and user-friendly controls which are well-placed and simple to locate and use.

The seats inside all the trims are stand apart, with more comfortable shaping to the entire body, there are lots of leg-room and head-room for adults. Even just in the rear seat, 2 adults can fit in effortlessly. A third passenger in the rear seat will make this a bit of a confined, except if the 3 passengers are rather little.

To get an effortless to drive and a pleasurable “around town” car, evaluate the SX if you would like more power when driving. However, the ability from the four-cylinder engine is sufficient and the automatic transmitting can make it a simple drive throughout. Without requiring the maximum amount of cargo space as some of the competition cross-overs, there is 26.1 cubic feet at the rear of the back seats and 54.6 cubes using the 60/40-split-folding seats laid toned. Reported by Managed Speed

Courtesy of Managed Speed Car Directory

Thank you John for taking the time to write this great feedback!

"We had a good experience in purchasing a new car. All of the personnel we came in contact with treated us in a friendly and courteous manner. They went out of their way to be helpful,yet were never pushy. Mr. Macpherson was a real delight to do business with. He and everyone else we dealt with handled themselves in a professional and caring manner throughout the entire process including followup."-john barnes

Click here to see more great reviews on Dealer Rater[[posterous-content:pid___3]]

Kia Motors Dreams Up Super Bowl Commercial Starring Supermodel Adriana Lima, Rock Legends Motlet Crue and MMA Fighter Chuck Liddell

“Mr. Sandman” Brings a Dream to an Unsuspecting Couple in 60-Second Spot to Introduce New 2012 Optima Limited; Kia is First to Premiere Super Bowl Ad in Movie Theaters

• “Drive the Dream” campaign’s soundtrack includes The Chordettes’ recording of “Mr. Sandman” and Mötley Crüe’s “Kickstart My Heart”
• Noam Murro, director of the upcoming Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures’ “300” prequel, helms fast-growing automaker’s Super Bowl ad for second consecutive year

IRVINE, Calif., January 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Dreams have been a topic of speculation and interest throughout history, and Kia Motors America (KMA) is tapping into the idea of dreams revealing true desires in a new 60-second commercial set to air during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVI. In the spot, titled “Drive the Dream,” the new 2012 Optima Limited races through a Gen X couple’s wildest thoughts as they sleep, including: Victoria’s Secret® Angel Adriana Lima waving the checkered flag at a speedway; an in-your-face Mötley Crüe concert; mixed martial arts legend Chuck Liddell battling in the ring; a heroine and hunk on horseback in a romance novel setting; champion bull rider Judd Leffew taming a bucking rhinoceros; and a fairy tale ending.

Kia returns to the big game for the third straight year with a fully integrated marketing campaign incorporating TV, cinema, digital, print, social media and in-dealership components. In a Super Bowl advertising first, the complete “Drive the Dream” ad will premiere on February 2 on more than 18,000 movie screens nationwide in National CineMedia’s FirstLook pre-show program before airing in the game. Kia also will run 15-second teaser ads featuring Adriana Lima on TV and in cinema beginning on January 27, while also leveraging the Twitter and Facebook channels of the spot's celebrity cast. A special expanded version of the ad will be available at YouTube.com/Kia beginning on February 2.

“With more than 100 million people watching the Super Bowl broadcast and millions more viewing content online around the world, Kia will once again deliver a memorable, one-of-a-kind campaign that entertains people before, during and after the game and leaves them wanting to see the Optima Limited fantasy again and again,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “We selected an eclectic group of celebrities and personalities for ‘Drive the Dream’ to enable us to tap into a diverse body of fan bases and leverage each talent’s expansive social media footprint.”

Created by David&Goliath, “Drive the Dream” opens with the familiar notes of The Chordettes’ “Mr. Sandman” as a real-life Mr. Sandman enters the bedroom of an unsuspecting young couple who are asleep. After being sprinkled with “Sweet Dreams” dust, the woman smiles and envisions herself on a horse with a romance novel-like hunk in a beautiful green meadow. Meanwhile, Mr. Sandman accidentally stumbles and spills his entire night’s dust supply on the man, launching an extreme dream sequence that begins with the roaring guitars of Mötley Crüe’s “Kickstart My Heart” and Adriana Lima waving a checkered flag as he blasts around a race track at night in a Snow White Pearl Optima Limited with thousands of bikini-clad fans cheering him on from the stands.

As he circles the track with Lima looking on adoringly, the dreaming driver receives nods of approval from the band as bursts of flames and fireworks surround their stage as well as Chuck Liddell, champion bull rider Judd Leffew, and a pair of lumberjacks sawing a massive submarine sandwich.

“Mötley Crüe had a blast doing the Kia commercial,” said bassist Nikki Sixx. “A hot model, a fast car, a pro fighter, pyrotechnics and rock n' roll...What's not to love?”

Much to the disbelief of Lima and drummer Tommy Lee, the high-octane dream turns into a fairy tale when the husband makes a conscious decision to drive the Optima Limited off the race track and into his wife’s fantasy to win her back from Prince Charming.

“After working with Kia for the Super Bowl last year I was drawn to work with the fast-growing brand again by the idea of exploring people’s ultimate fantasies in a fun and lighthearted way, and I am certain we have created a spot people will be talking about after the game,” said director, Noam Murro.

As part of the “Drive the Dream” campaign, beginning on Thursday, February 2 consumers can download a $25 pre-paid test drive voucher¹ at Kia.com that is redeemable after eligible consumers visit a Kia dealership and complete a test drive of any Optima model.

New for 2012², the Optima Limited adds a new level refinement to the premium technology, convenience and performance features found on Kia’s award-winning turbocharged Optima SX. In addition to head-turning design, class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency and a class-exclusive panoramic sunroof, the Optima Limited offers elegant touches that modern drivers would expect to find in the car of their dreams, such as: unique design 18-inch wheels, high-grade Nappa leather seating, LED accent lights, chrome exterior accents and sporty red brake calipers.

Kia Motors is the one of the world’s fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America’s full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality³ and the industry’s highest brand loyalty ranking⁴. Kia’s U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company’s two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan⁵. Kia’s value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

Kia Super Bowl Ad Teased With Model Adriana Lima

Kia released information on their newest Superbowl commercial last week, but now the Korean automaker is teasing us a little more with a 15 second video spot featuring supermodel Adriana Lima in slow motion as the Chordettes classic “Mr. Sandman” sings sweetly in the background.

The slogan for the Super Bowl spot is “Drive the Dream” and will follow a couples dream sequence as they snooze the night away. The story will wind through the couples dreams after “Mr.Sandman” sneaks into their room and sprinkles “sweet dream” dust on the sleeping pair. Then things really take off, diving into  the couples ridiculous wildest dreams; getting up close and personal with MMA fighter Chuck Liddell, being front row at a Mötley Crüe concert, having Adriana Lima wave the checkered flag as you cross the finish line, and even a heroine and hero on horseback entangled in a romantic love scene. The spot will feature the 2012 Kia Optima Limited racing through each dream sequence.

Kia chose personalities that they thought would capture any football fans heart, whether young or old. Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing & communications for Kia Motors American said,  “We selected an eclectic group of celebrities and personalities for ‘Drive the Dream’ to enable us to tap into a diverse body of fan bases and leverage each talent’s expansive social media footprint.”

Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx puts it bluntly,“A hot model, a fast car, a pro fighter, pyrotechnics and rock n’ roll…What’s not to love?”

Kia’s past Superbowl commercials have yet to disappoint, and this one should be no less entertaining. Watch for the spot during the fourth quarter of next Sunday’s big game. Check out the teaser right here:

Don't forget about our special offer this month!

Hey Fans! Don't forget about our current special offer. Get an oil change for only $14.95! Hurry and click here to get your coupon because this offer ends on January 31st.

Winterize Your Vehicle Special!

Take advantage of our winterize your vehicle special at Huffines Kia McKinney for $179.99. Includes drain and refill of engine coolant, oil change, wiper blade replacement, engine air filter replacement, and a battery test and tire inspection. Click here for more details http://bit.ly/xHT4We

Kia Motors America Renews NBA Team Partnerships And Establishes New Relationship With The Golden State Warriors

Kia renews with teams in Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and San Antonio Kia is currently in its fifth season as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA  Kia Motors America (KMA), the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA and one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.1, has added a new team to its National Basketball Association (NBA) team partnerships by becoming the "Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors." Beginning with the 2011-2012 basketball season, KMA also has renewed relationships with the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Miami HEAT, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs, while the Los Angeles Clippers, Orlando Magic and Portland Trail Blazers remain on Kia Motors' roster in 2011-2012 as part of multi-year agreements. Kia's U.S. sales have increased 78 percent since 2008 and the company's unprecedented growth is the direct result of expanded brand visibility through high-profile partnerships, including involvement on- and off-the-court in professional basketball. Kia is currently in its fifth year as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA, which is the brand's largest U.S. sports marketing initiative. After he leaped over an Optima midsize sedan to become the 2011 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest champion, NBA All-Star Blake Griffin became a global brand ambassador for Kia. The brand also serves as the Official Automotive Partner of NBA All-Star, title partner of the Kia NBA Performance Awards, and an Official Automotive Partner of NBA Cares. Kia also is the title sponsor of ESPN's "Kia NBA Countdown." "Kia's involvement with the NBA and nearly half of the league's teams has driven dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand and was a major factor in our best-ever sales total in 2011," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. "All of our team partnerships leverage the excitement of the game and increase Kia's interaction with the passionate fan bases in each market, and we are proud to add the Golden State Warriors to our roster and establish a relationship with Bay Area basketball fans." Kia's 13 NBA team designations are as follows: Official Vehicle of the Chicago Bulls Official Vehicle of the Denver Nuggets Official Vehicle of the Golden State Warriors Official Vehicle of the Los Angeles Clippers Official Vehicle of the Miami HEAT; Exclusive Vehicle of the Miami HEAT Official Vehicle of the Orlando Magic Official Automotive Partner of the New York Knicks; Official Vehicle of the New York Knicks Official Automotive Partner of the Boston Celtics; Official Partner of the Boston Celtics Official Partner of the San Antonio Spurs Proud Partner of the Cleveland Cavaliers Proud Partner of the Philadelphia 76ers Proud Partner of the Phoenix Suns Proud Partner of the Portland Trail Blazers Kia's growing roster of sports initiatives includes basketball, women's professional golf and motorsports and is designed to increase brand awareness among a new and more affluent group of consumers. Michelle Wie is the brand's official golf ambassador and Kia was recently named the Official Automotive Partner of the LPGA in addition to its role as title sponsor of the annual Kia Classic tournament in Southern California. In just its second year, Kia's U.S. racing program captured the company's first-ever championships in the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, and it will expand to include the Pirelli World Challenge in 2012. With several key initiatives planned for 2012, Kia Motors is poised to continue driving increased consumer interest and expanding its brand presence with new and enhanced partnerships while continuing to deliver world-class design, cutting-edge technology, modern conveniences and amenities, and outstanding safety features in all its vehicles. Kia's Unprecedented Growth Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality2 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking3. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan4. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan. About Kia Motors America Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies. Courtesy of Kia Media

Special Offers On New Vehicles At Huffines Kia McKinney

Start the week off right by checking out our current specials on new vehicles. Take advantage of these great offers by clicking here to view more information http://bit.ly/zB0mJC

2010 Kia Sedona on sale at Huffines Kia McKinney

Looking for a good deal on a spacious vehicle? We have a great selection including this 2010 Kia Sedona! Click here to view details on this special offer http://bit.ly/AmOiBj

Deal says 'Kia's success is Georgia's success' after first official visit

Gov. Nathan Deal joined Mr. Byung Mo Ahn, Group President and CEO for Kia Motors America and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) at the company's West Point plant today to celebrate the growth and success at its first automotive manufacturing facility in the United States. The occasion marked Deal's first official visit to KMMG since taking office.

"Kia's success is Georgia's success. KMMG has made an indelible and lasting impact on this state," said Deal. "We have a deep appreciation for Kia's continued investment in Georgia and for the vision of the company's leadership, which we have seen grow to fruition over the last seven years. The strong relationships that have developed between the company, the community and the state are a model for the kind of partnerships we strive for."

Kia announced in 2006 that Georgia would be the site of its first manufacturing site in North America. KMMG's production began in 2009 on the Sorento CUV, and the company announced in 2011 that it would add the Optima midsize sedan to its production line and increase its capacity in 2012 to 360,000 vehicles annually. KMMG has stated that it expects the number of jobs created by the company and its suppliers to amount to more than 10,000. A Georgia Tech study estimates the facility's economic impact to Georgia is approximately $4 billion per year.

"We are honored to host the governor today and celebrate with him the outstanding success KMMG has enjoyed in Georgia, thanks to his leadership and the exceptional business environment the state has cultivated," said Byung Mo Ahn, Group President and CEO for Kia Motors America and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. "Our pride in this facility is exceeded only by the pride we have in our committed and highly trained team members, who have contributed so much to our accomplishments."

The State of Georgia has been instrumental in helping Kia recruit and train its workforce. The state constructed and staffs a 70,000-square-foot training center on the Kia site, where Georgia Quick Start, the state's award-winning workforce training program, operates the curriculum and training courses it developed for plant employees.

"We not only care about companies locating or expanding in Georgia, we care about helping them succeed here," said Chris Cummiskey, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. "Assets like the Georgia Ports and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are important to a global company such as Kia, and part of our ongoing commitment to companies we work with is to be sure they are able to take full advantage of what our state has to offer."

 

(SOURCE: Office of Governor Nathan Deal)

New 2012 Kia Rio on sale at Huffines Kia McKinney

Take a look at our special offer on this 2012 Kia Rio. Get a quote on this vehicle, ask a question, or make an offer by clicking here http://bit.ly/wI1R8J

Kia Rio + 20th Century Fox Rio movie + Rio de Janeiro = Rio movie remix!

What if Kia Rio meets Rio animation characters of 20th Century Fox?

Here's the video remix of the 2012 Kia Rio and Rio animation!

2013 Kia Cee'd (Forte) Hatchback Images Leaked

A new Kia cee’d (essentially the equivalent of the Kia Forte in the United States) is set to debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, but Kia UK has already released images of the new cee'd five-door hatchback.

Spotted on Kia World, the images show a tasteful update of the existing car’s styling, with cues borrowed from the new Kia Optima and even the revised Kia  Rio. The wing-shaped grille is more rounded than in the Optima, but the sculpted hood and upswept lower front valence are common traits.

The new hatchback isn’t quite as radically styled as the sketches of the upcoming sedan  we previously showed you, but the production version of the sedan isn’t likely to match the sketches. If the hatchback is any indication, expect the sedan to carry both a higher beltline and a bigger greenhouse (also called “Daylight Opening,” in car-speak).

Kia World is reporting that the new cee'd hatchback will be “marketed exclusively in Europe,” but it’s likely we’ll get a version in the U.S. to replace the aging Forte five-door currently on the market. Kia isn’t saying much, and so far has announced plans for a new Forte sedan only.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Soul Lease Special at Huffines Kia McKinney

Check out our special offer on this 2012 Kia Soul! Only $169 a month with a 39 month lease! Click here to find out more details http://bit.ly/A5CpyK

New 2012 Kia Optima on sale at Huffines Kia McKinney

Don't miss out on this great offer! Enhance your driveway with this beautiful 2012 Kia Optima on sale at Huffines Kia McKinney. Leases starting at $189 a month. Click here to see more details http://bit.ly/AepjYu

2012 CES: Kia’s UVO 2 System Packs More Features, Easier User Interactivity

Since Kia debuted its first UVO infotainment system two years ago, we’ve had some mixed feelings about the technology. Though the system performed decently during its first generation run, mediocrity isn’t good enough for Kia so the automaker has revealed a new and improved version — aptly called UVO 2 — at this year’s CES Show.

UVO 2 sports a litany of new features informing and entertaining drivers. You first notice the brilliant and highly responsive 4.3-inch full color TFT touch screen located in the dash’s center. Pertinent media buttons are to the left of the display, while eServices, Phone, and Setup buttons to the right.

It’s the eServices button that is of great interest, however, as it offers drivers 14 convenient services. Among them: Crash Notification Assist, Roadside Assist, Automatic Diagnostics, Manual Diagnostics, Maintenance, Owner’s Guide, Driving Info, Send2Car (for point of interest navigation), Curfew Limit, Speed Alert, Geo Fensing, Car Care Web, and Park Assist.

While we only got to play with a few of the prototype’s functions, the future of UVO looks bright, not to mention easily usable and efficient speaking of the future, like the German automakers in attendance (Audi and Mercedes-Benz), Kia also debuted a concept of what it believes will become of the cockpit.

Called the IVI concept, or In-Vehicle Infotainment concept, it employs a massive 10.1-inch located atop the dash and another 11.6-inch wide screen located within it — in this case, inside of the Naimo EV crossover. According to Kia, the system seamlessly connects to tablets and smartphones, offers full connectivity to social, news, point-of-interest sites and applications and uses the latest in augmented reality navigation. Devices can be charged wirelessly, too.

Along with IVI, Kia revealed its User-Centered Driving (UCD) concept. A full-color head-up display and 12.3-inch TFT-LCD cluster keep the driver informed and correctly on course in style. There’s a HMI (human-machine interface) haptic steering wheel switch to control both displays, a driver state monitoring system to safeguard against distraction or drowsiness, and a night vision mode to ensure safer driving when the sun goes down.

Courtesy of Motor Trend

2009 Kia Borrego EX at Huffines Kia McKinney

We have a great selection of certified pre-owned vehicles.Check out this 2009 Kia Borrego EX at a no-hassle price! Click here to see more details http://bit.ly/ACXYtD

 

Fuel Economy Driving Tips with the Optima Hybrid

Who doesn’t love saving some cash and fuel? In the spirit of savings, we’re going to cover some nice fuel economy tips for the Kia Optima Hybrid from Guinness World Record “hypermiler” Wayne Gerdes. You might remember Wayne from previous Kia-Buzz posts which covered his world record setting drive in an Optima Hybrid across the 48 adjoining U.S. states. This earned him the lowest fuel consumption record by averaging 65.55 mpg over 14 days. That’s what we call hypermiling or using special driving techniques to maximize your fuel economy.

Checkout Wayne’s video below on fuel economy driving tips with the Kia Optima Hybrid and you might set a hypermiling record of your own.

“Hey Kia-Buzz! What about us non-Optima hybrid folks?” Don’t sweat; we got you covered. Just lookout for tips marked with an asterisk* in the recap list below and checkout our ‘Non-Hybrid Tips’ section that can be applied to any make and model.

Here’s a recap of key tips from the video according to Wayne:

1) The Long Glide : When approaching a stop or toll on a decline, coast as far as you can in EV mode and with the engine off.

2) Maintaining EV during Acceleration from Stop : Maximize EV drive by gently pressing the acceleration pedal.

3) Regenerative Braking : During deceleration, the motor acts as a generator to absorb braking energy. Do not shift to “N” or Sports (Manual Selection) mode during deceleration.

4) Regenerative Braking with Max A/C Use : On long steep downhill descents, turn on A/C to maximum to cool the cabin during high SOC (State of Charge) so that you don’t have to use A/C and consume unnecessary fuel later on.

5) Smart Active Air Flap : The flap closes automatically while driving to reduce air resistance by up to 4.2%, which results in improving overall fuel economy by an average of 1.8%.

6) *Merging for Fuel Efficiency* : Don’t use the brake or accelerator when merging lanes. Allow other vehicles to merge in front of you.

7) *Driving with Load*: When driving over a slight incline followed by a decline (like an overpass), keep the accelerator at a steady position so that the engine thinks it is driving on a flat surface.

8) *Smart Braking* : Coast into (don’t race up to) a stoplight and in many cases you won’t need to stop before the light turns green.

9) *Face Out Parking* : Whenever possible, pull into a parking spot with the front of the car facing out so that you don’t have to back out later.

These are useful tips indeed, especially for some of us who aren’t familiar with maximizing our fuel economy with hybrids. But thankfully we got Wayne to show us the way.

Non-Hybrid Tips

For those of you not driving hybrids, there are still ways to save by following tips from our previous blog on “How to Save Money with Car Maintenance” and “New Habits to Cut the Cost of Driving”. Following these simple tips will definitely help you save some cash in the long run.

Apart from those, we still have more tips below to share. Isn’t it fun learning about the wonderful world of fuel economy?

1) Don’t idle

Consider shutting down your vehicle’s engine if stopped in traffic for a lengthy period. A modern, fuel-injected engine consumes less than seven seconds worth of fuel on restart.

2) Cut down on gadgets

Running mechanical and electrical accessories decreases fuel economy. Roof racks and trailers spoil the aerodynamics. Operating the air-conditioner on its maximum setting can increase fuel consumption by up to 30%.

3) Plan your trip

Frequent short trips and cold weather can really affect fuel economy. Don’t leave your engine running to warm up before setting off. Drive to your furthest destination first and then stop at the closer destinations on your way back. This will ensure the car is warmed up for longer portions of your drive.

These tips are great, but being safe and comfortable is better, so adapt these changes slowly and use the ones that work best for your style of driving.

Tell us what you think

Do you have any personal tips on being fuel efficient or know a great online source to share? Leave us comments or links below!

Courtesy of Kia Buzz

Great job Steve on always going the extra mile for our customers!

"Fantastic buying experience with Steve Robertson at Huffines Kia! Always dread buying from dealerships due to the pressure and overall negativity resulting from the experience but Steve was thorough, honest, and communicative throughout. Our first Kia in the family and it will probably not be our last. Ask for Steve and you won't be disappointed."-Loan nguyen ‎

Click here to see more great reviews on Google Maps

Internet Kia Specials

Check out our current internet specials! Save hundreds in discounts. Click here for more details http://bit.ly/ztasXa

Kia Motors' Record December Sales Increase by 42.5 Percent

After surpassing its all-time best annual sales total in the first nine months of 2011, Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported record December sales of 43,390 units, a 42.5-percent increase over the same period in 2010, which contributed to the brand's best-ever full-year sales of 485,492 vehicles. Kia, one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.[1], has achieved 16 straight monthly sales records, and 2011's 36.3-percent sales increase over 2010 far outpaced the industry. KMA's unprecedented gains follow an aggressive three-year sequence of new vehicle introductions that began with the Soul in 2009. In 2011, the popular urban passenger vehicle became KMA's second vehicle to exceed sales of 100,000 units. Kia's U.S.-built* products  Optima and Sorento continued to be the brand's best performers for the third consecutive month, with Optima topping the sales chart for the first time since its introduction in late 2010. Kia's U.S. market share has risen for 17 straight years, including a 78-percent increase since 2008 to today's 3.8-percent[2].

"Kia is a much different company than just three years ago, and with one of the youngest and most acclaimed vehicle lineups in the industry, Kia's customer loyalty rate has dramatically improved and at the same time, more new car shoppers are looking at Kia than ever before as evidenced by our substantial sales and market share gains in 2011," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "The Kia brand is built on a commitment to offering our customers high-quality, stylish, fun-to-drive and fuel efficient vehicles that are packed with the latest technologies, amenities and safety features, and we will continue to deliver on that promise in 2012 and into the future with the introduction of more new models."

Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality[3] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[4]. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia KMMG  is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S.  the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan[5]. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

Courtesy of Hispanic PR Wire

Military Special Offer

Special offers for active members of the United States Armed Forces, and the immediate family of participant (spouse or child). Click here for more information http://bit.ly/uVQc2S

Alignment Special at Huffines Kia McKinney

$79.99 for an Alignment Special! Service includes 4-wheel alignment. Click here http://bit.ly/yUPBGn or call 877-621-8161 for more information.

Oil Change at Huffines Kia McKinney for $14.95!

Hey fans! Take advantage of our special this month, $14.95 for an oil change. Appointment required so call now at (469)525-4400. Click here for more details http://on.fb.me/ugq3jl

Information on the Kia SOUL

Click here to find out some information on the Kia Soul that you might not have known before. We've done some research and have prepared it for you here http://bit.ly/zXXuOe

2012 Kia Soul 2.0 Exclaim

What Is It?

When it launched in 2009, the Soul marked Kia’s initial foray into funky design, and the quirky and affordable hatchback has gone on to become one of the Korean automaker’s top sellers, virtually—ahem—boxing out all of its direct competitors. Now 2012 brings the model’s first major revisions, although you’d be hard-pressed to identify them without sliding behind the wheel.

The exterior receives only a few mild alterations. The front and rear fascias have been swollen to give the illusion of a wider stance, and new lighting elements have been installed at both ends. Top-tier Exclaim models like our test car (Kia identifies this trim as ! in its materials) include standard projector headlamps and LED taillights and driving lights, and get redesigned 18-inch wheels this year.

The interior has been slightly upgraded as well, but, again, the changes aren’t readily noticeable to anyone this side of a Soul aficionado or Kia product planner. Still, material quality is a notch higher and the center stack has been redesigned for ease of use. (The original interior was filled with hard plastics; its design and graining did well to hide this fact, but we’re nevertheless pleased to see the improvements.) On the Exclaim, a new color screen replaces a dated-looking red dot-matrix unit, the better to display the feed from the newly standard rearview camera. Also included on the Exclaim is an uplevel Infinity audio system with subwoofer and the voice-activated UVO infotainment system. Navigation is available with the Premium package, but it cannot be paired with UVO. Finally, yes, the multi-colored, dancing speaker lights carry over.

How Does It Drive?

Even though the competent chassis is basically unchanged—it still offers accurate and obedient steering, eager turn-in, and well-controlled body motions—the Soul drives much better than before, largely on the back of the upgraded engine and transmission. New this year are six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, which replace five- and four-speed units, respectively. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder, standard in the Exclaim and mid-level Plus, gains 22 hp and 11 lb-ft of torque for totals of 164 hp and 148 lb-ft. (The base Soul’s 1.6-liter four adds direct injection for a small power boost, too.) Nevertheless, fuel-economy ratings for the 2.0-liter are bumped to 26 mpg city and 34 highway; last year, it achieved 24/30. Our penchant for pinning the accelerator to the floor netted 21 mpg overall. (Mileage hounds would be advised to wait for the Soul Eco model, which arrives later this year with an engine stop/start system, low-rolling-resistance tires, and a button to reduce throttle sensitivity; it is expected to achieve 29/36 mpg with the 1.6 and 27/35 with the 2.0.)

The new powertrain greatly improves the Soul’s everyday drivability, especially on the automatic-only Exclaim, where passing maneuvers can now be executed with much more confidence. Zero to 60 mph takes 8.2 seconds and the quarter-mile is reached in 16.4 seconds at 84 mph. Neither is a blistering figure, but they’re on par with those of the old 2.0 when paired with the five-speed manual. (That car turned in times of 7.9 and an equal 16.4 seconds; we didn’t test the previous engine with the four-speed auto.) The six-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and our only real complaint was its willingness to allow a cold engine to briefly bang the rev limiter in first gear before selecting second.

Braking performance was very consistent in our testing, and the Soul turned in a 167-foot 70-to-0-mph stop, right about average for the segment. Average also describes the stability-control-inhibited 0.80 g recorded on the skidpad.

 

Another great stride: significantly reduced NVH. Thicker insulation for the dash, A-pillars, and floor, along with better door seals and an exhaust silencer make a huge difference, bringing some solitude to the experience. Exclaim models have additional subframe and engine-mount dampening, too. Even with the 18-inch wheels, there’s less road and suspension noise—an observation objectively backed up by a 70-mph cruising sound level that is 5 dB lower than before.

How Does It Stack Up?

Boxes are good for stacking, and the Soul really towers over its competition. With the Honda Element now dead and gone, the Scion xB and Nissan Cube are the only squares left to duke it out with the Soul, and the Kia is a much better drive than either. It also acquits itself well against more conventionally styled hatches. With a low price of entry, a spacious interior, and agreeable dynamics, Kia’s box has been an enticing option from the get-go, but the 2012 model largely rights its few wrongs. If sales numbers are to judge the score of this fight, the Soul is the undisputed champ. In November 2011, Kia moved nearly 7000 Souls, about five times the number of Cubes and xBs combined.

What’s the Cost?

Not much for what you get, really. A base Soul starts at $14,650, while a minimum of $17,050 is required to get the 2.0-liter engine (in the manual Soul Plus). The top-level Exclaim model costs $20,350, which was the as-tested price for our option-free test car. Besides the aforementioned exterior bits and Infinity stereo, the Exclaim also brings a sunroof, a leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel, USB and aux inputs, and keyless entry. A $2500 Premium package adds navigation, leather seats (heated for front occupants), push-button start, and automatic climate control. While we have a deep affection for warm seats on a cold winter’s day, we’d skip the Premium pack and use some of the savings to pick up some snow pants and an aftermarket nav unit.

With its unique styling and well-appointed and flexible interior—all at a bargain price—it’s no wonder that the Soul has been such a success for Kia. And now that its few drawbacks have been addressed, any small-car shopper should check out the Soul.