Kia Models are a Great Option for Your New Car

Kia Motors is growing quickly in America. The Korean-based company has sold millions of cars and was named amongst the "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012" by Total Car Score. So, why are these cars so popular?

Fuel Efficiency

Kia cars are known for the fuel efficiency. Obviously, fuel efficiency is influenced by several different factors including your personal driving style, the terrain through which you're driving, the temperature of the outdoor air, the local weather you're driving through, the loads you're carrying or towing behind you in a trailer, the length of your trips, how long the engine is left running if you're sitting, and whether you have a manual or automatic transmission. Various tests are performed on each new car that's developed to determine its fuel efficiency, and the results are used to determine the car's overall performance.

Low Cost Quality Cars

Though in the past Kia models had a reputation as cheap but unreliable cars, the company has made strides in their manufacturing process. Many dealerships offer flexible payment plans, further underlining their affordability. Even those with bad credit may be able to purchase a car and utilize the payments to bring up their credit score.

One of the Most Popular Models: The 2012 Sorento

The Sorento has been listed as one of the most popular models this year. This crossover SUV has four different trim levels. The base version features a 6 speed manual transmission and seventeen inch wheels. You'll also find cruise control, air conditioning, a high-tech steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, a trip computer, and many amenities for the sound system.

If you upgrade this vehicle, you'll get an automatic transmission instead of a manual. The outside mirrors are colored to match the car's exterior. Additional features include turn signals feature LED lights and an armrest for passengers in the second row. Add-on options include fog lamps, roof rails, heated seats, a rearview camera, and rear parking sensors. You may also add a third seat to the back, which is functional for adults as well as children.

The EX model increases the value by adding eighteen inch wheels, dual climate control, keyless entry and ignition, and many other options included in only the most modern vehicles. Rear parking sensors come standard with this model, and it also features an Uvo electronic interface that is voice-activated. Potential buyers may also select outside mirrors that can fold automatically, leather seats, a navigation system, an luxurious sound systems.

Drivers could also choose to upgrade to an even higher model, which comes with more advanced performance options. If you love the sunshine, you can choose a panoramic sunroof.

Courtesy of American Chronicle

Kia Soul Named One Of The "Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" By Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com

The 2012 Kia Soul has "shuffled" its way onto the "Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, a leading provider of new and used car information. Kia's iconic hatchback was honored for its unique combination of style and affordability in a fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient vehicle.

"Our intention with Soul was to design a vehicle that is both fun and economical, and its recognition by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com as a 'cool' vehicle is further indication that we hit the mark," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America (KMA). "Everything about Soul, from the viral sensation 'Share Some Soul' campaign featuring LMFAO's hit single 'Party Rock Anthem,' to performance improvements and a strong list of standard technology and safety features, has contributed to its appeal among young buyers and those who are young at heart."

The annual "Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000" list published by Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com features vehicles that are fun to drive, fun to own and, most critically, possess the decidedly subjective "cool factor." Editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com compiled the list of qualifying vehicles using Kelley Blue Book's exclusive Fair Purchase Price, which reflects vehicle transaction prices paid by consumers and is updated weekly to reflect changing market conditions.

"A unique blend of funky style and practical packaging, the Kia Soul cranks up its cool quotient for 2012 with even more high-value appeal," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "Nose and tail tweaks add edge to its appearance, while drivetrain enhancements for 2012 bring double-digit horsepower gains plus better mpg figures to both its new 1.6-liter direct-injected base engine and the available 2.0-liter upgrade."

Available in three trims--base, + (Plus), and ! (Exclaim)--Soul turns up the fun-to-drive volume with significant horsepower and fuel economy increases for 2012 with new six-speed transmissions and the ability to deliver 35 mpg on the highway[2]. All Soul models feature electronic power steering (EPS), air conditioning, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows, door locks and mirrors, available SiriusXM(TM) Satellite Radio with three months complimentary service[3] and MP3 connectivity. New this year is a 350 watt seven-speaker Infinity[4] sound system that is available on Soul+ models and standard on Soul! models for a more dynamic audio experience. Also new for 2012 is Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft®[5] voice-activated infotainment system with a 4.3-inch color touch screen and rear camera display. The available Premium Package includes heated front seats, leather seat trim, automatic climate control, navigation system (in lieu of UVO system) and push-button start with smart key for added convenience.

Soul's 2012 power increases come from two new four cylinder engines. The 1.6-liter GDI engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission produces 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. A new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine available with either the six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission produces 164 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque.

SOURCE: Kia Motors America

Huffines Kia McKinney Service near Dallas

At Huffines Kia McKinney we're focused on one goal, caring for you and your Kia vehicle. From routine Dallas Kia service and maintenance to major repairs, we offer Kia-trained technicians and Genuine Kia Parts for your vehicle. Click here to see a menu of our regular McKinney Kia service and maintenance items along with our pricing. We stand at the ready with professional care for all your service and maintenance needs!

2012 Kia Soul Ranked Highest in Initial Quality Study by J.D. Power and Associates

From breakthrough advertising to runaway sales success, the Kia Soul has made quite a splash since entering the marketplace in 2009, and today the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Initial Quality Study (IQS) ranked the popular urban passenger vehicle highest in initial quality in the compact multi-purpose vehicle segment. The study captures feedback from owners after 90 days of purchase in two distinct categories: quality of design and quality of production. Refreshed for the 2012 model year, the Kia Soul was fine-tuned with a significant number of technological, powertrain and style enhancements, and consumers have responded with sales up more than 22 percent through the first five months of the year.

"Kia Motors is dedicated to building world-class, high quality vehicles, and the Soul's recognition in the automotive industry's authoritative study on quality is the latest example of Kia's maturity and momentum in the U.S. market," said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, Kia Motors America (KMA) and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). "The Soul signaled the beginning of Kia's design-led transformation when it launched in 2009, and it continues to be one of our most popular vehicles, attracting new consumers to the Kia brand with its eye-catching design and outstanding record of quality, dependability and reliability and playing a vital role in Kia becoming the fastest-growing automotive brand in the U.S."

In the study, the Kia Soul was honored as the highest-ranking model in the compact multi-purpose vehicle segment, while the Kia brand made significant advancements with gains that outpaced the industry average. The annual report includes 233 vehicle models and measures attributes across eight categories, including the driving experience, engine and transmission, and a broad range of quality problem symptoms reported by vehicle owners.

About the 2012 Soul
Refreshed for the 2012 model year, the Kia Soul has been fine-tuned with a significant number of technological, powertrain and style enhancements. The 2012 Soul delivers class-leading horsepower[2] and significantly improved fuel efficiency of up to 35 miles per gallon (mpg)[3] on the highway. Kia Motors' hatchback remains a class-leading value[4] with the lowest starting price of its competitive set at $13,900 MSRP[5].

Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is 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[6] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[7]. 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 two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. -- the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*. Kia's value and technology-laden 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, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

 

Courtesy of The Auto ChanneL

2012 Kia Sedona

You can get up to $7,000 off on this 2012 Kia Sedona at Huffines Kia McKinney! Click here for details and to view our other special offers going on now.

2012 Kia Sportage makes AAA’s ‘Top Cars For Teens’ List

The 2012 Kia Sportage compact CUV has been named one of the “Top Cars for Teens” by the Automobile Association of America (AAA). The Sportage was lauded for its dynamics, dependability, overall value, standard safety features and performance in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) crash safety tests, including a “no tip” evaluation during the tests.

“We are honored that AAA, one of the most respected authorities on travel and transportation, is recognizing the Kia Sportage as a top car for teenage drivers,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America (KMA) in a written press statement. ”Knowing that the Sportage, our longest-running nameplate, has been chosen not only for its attractive design that appeals to all ages, but more importantly, for its safety features, reliability and value is evidence that consumers do not have to sacrifice curb appeal for dependability.”

Courtesy of Better Roads

Certified 2011 Kia Sorento

Happy Monday fans! Stop by and see us this week to take advantage of our current specials. You can get this pre-owned 2011 Kia Sorento $21,500! Click here for more information

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Kia Back At Vans Warped Tour

Kia is back for year five as "Official Vehicle of the 2012 Vans Warped Tour." The automaker first used the tour five years ago as a way to tease the U.S. market with the concept version of the Soul vehicle before the on-sale date in 2009.

Kia will bring Soul and the newly redesigned Rio -- Kia's smallest car -- to the 40 cities where the tour stops. This time around, Kia will also be official sponsor of the tour's two main stages, which will be called the Kia Soul Stage and Kia Rio Stage. The stages will physically bookend an airborne rigging display showing the Soul.

Over the years, the division of Hyundai Motor has shifted toward a definite Millennial positioning -- especially with the debut of the Soul three years ago, Kia's answer to the protean urban-centric cars from Scion, intended to be hip and multi-utilitarian. While Soul ad creative (DavidAndGoliath in Santa Monica, Calif. has handled the brand for over 10 years) features the anthropomorphic hamsters as hipsters, the company has applied that kind of rakish quality to other more traditional cars like the 2013 Optima. That car was supported with a Super Bowl commercial featuring a mash-up of supermodel, UFC fighter, and Mötley Crüe playing "Kickstart My Heart."

Said Michael Sprague, VP of marketing: "Going back out on the road again with the Vans Warped Tour was an obvious fit as a way to maintain our status as a young, current and engaging brand."

Kia says it will also have its Soul Lounge on site at tour stops. The exhibition has things like a music station where people can mix and customize beats, get personalized bandanas, and vie for VIP passes for access to a private riser near the main stage or on the two main stages. As in previous years, Kia will have a "Warped Tour" blogger, Steve Guttbinder, who will writing about the shows and field questions and upload photo and video content.

"Kia is an innovative company that understands the culture of Warped, and their support allows us to bring back two main stages for the 2012 tour," said Kevin Lyman, Vans Warped Tour founder and producer.

Vans Warped eschews the temptation to be über-branded, and relies instead of a roster of over 70 smaller sponsorships, particularly from not-for-profit organizations. In addition to Vans, the other top-tier sponsor with Kia is Monster Energy. Trojan, the Truth Campaign, the Air Force Reserve and many niche and endemic brands in music and fashion tend to fill out the rest.

The music and extreme-sports tour, which Vans (which makes skateboarding shoes) has sponsored since the mid-1990s, kicks off this weekend in Salt Lake City, and all told will comprise 90 punk, rock, hip-hop, rap, metal, indie rock and electronic artists. Markets include Las Vegas, San Francisco, Houston, Atlanta, Portland, Detroit's suburbs, and Milwaukee.

Courtesy of Karl Greenberg; Media Posts

New 2013 Kia Optima at Huffines Kia McKinney

Stop in today and lease a 2013 Kia Optima for just $199 per month! Call or stop in to schedule a test drive!

Kia Named To "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012" List By Total Car Score

Total Car Score ( www.totalcarscore.com ), one of the most comprehensive automotive ranking and comparison websites, has named Kia Motors America (KMA) as one of its "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012." One of only two non-luxury brands listed, the fastest-growing automotive brand in the U.S. also posted the biggest improvement over 2011 with a gain of 3.76 points. The list, based on the average Total Car Score for every model within the manufacturer's product line up, comes on the heels of the 2012 Soul urban passenger vehicle and 2012 Sorento midsize CUV being honored with "Top Scoring Car Awards" and the 2012 Forte compact sedan landing on the "Top Cars for College Grads" list from the website.

"With record sales that have contributed to Kia becoming the fastest growing car company in the U.S. over the last five years and a full line of critically acclaimed vehicles, consumer awareness of the Kia brand has dramatically increased, and this recent accolade from Total Car Score is further evidence of the breadth of our transformation," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "Kia continues to be committed to offering consumers a comprehensive array of vehicles with a hard-to-beat formula of cutting-edge technologies, high fuel efficiency, immense value and world-class design."

The "Top 10 Best Car Brands for 2012" list by Total Car Score is based on numerical ratings for 2012 model year vehicles currently on the market. The list provides a data-driven assessment of which automakers are producing the most desirable, highest quality cars, crossovers, SUVs and pickup trucks.

"As one of only two non-premium brands on the list, Kia has validated its ongoing efforts to produce some of the best cars on the market," said Karl Brauer, chief executive officer and editor-in-chief of Total Car Score.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is 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[2] and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking[3]. 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 two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. - the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*. Kia's value and technology-laden 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, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

SOURCE Kia Motors America

Special Offers At Huffines Kia McKinney

Happy Monday fans! Get a jump start to an awesome week by clicking here to check out our new specials! Be sure to stop by to get a better look and take a test drive!

 

Parallel Park Kia’s All-New cee’d? No Problem

Let’s admit it –parallel parking isn’t exactly the best part of driving, and it can be both tricky and stressful, especially in some tight European city spaces. That’s why Kia came up with the ‘parallel park assist system’ for our All-New cee’d, so you can just sit back, relax and let 10 parking sensors do the rest.

Don’t believe us? Check out the video from Kia UK below to see the cee’d’s parallel park assist system in action:

Courtesy of Kia Buzz

Kia Optima Hybrid - Lean on Gas Mean on Feel and Performance

The KiaOptima Hybrid is lean on gas and mean on feel and performance.  We recently had the great pleasure of test-driving one for a week and while we did not blast Motley Crue through the cars incredible sound system, there was the uncontrollable desire to drive fast that is often induced by Vince Neil and the boys.  After a week of up and down streets and cross-town trips and even going the long way just to see what would happen, the needle on the gas gauge barely moved.  But we moved, we moved a lot.

This car is so sporty.  When our friends came over to visit they thought we were hosting wealthy relatives.  So it is a car that can easily be claimed as a status symbol, especially if you are trying to curry favor with mother earth.  If you are still of the mind set that eco friendly cars are short on performance you can forget it.  This car has both power and fuel efficiency, 40 highway miles per gallon and 35 while driving in the city.  The only thing that is a little difficult to get used to is that the engine doesn’t run all the time so we occasionally wondered whether the car was still on.  What we didn’t realize is that the Kia Optima Hybrid is smart, like Stephen Hawking smart.  This car knows when to turn the engine on if more power is needed, and when to let it rest to conserve more fuel.

We have never driven a car this technologically advanced. There is a computer screen in the center console that can do everything from place a hands free phone call, to helping us back up with it’s available rear camera display, to informing you when your tire pressure is low. Our favorite feature had to be the retractable panoramic sunroof.   We think it was Baybah’s also.  He would hook his feet together lace his fingers behind his head and stare with wonder up into the atmosphere. It was kind of like driving in a convertible but without the safety concerns and bad hair days.  The five star rollover crash rate is the highest possible and that made us feel secure.  The entire experience of driving this car was in a word, awesome, and we relished every second of this opportunity.  Test drive one for yourself at your local Kia dealer today.

Courtesy of Crazy About My Baybah

 

Huffines Kia McKinney Service near Dallas

We're focused on one goal, caring for you and your Kia vehicle. From routine Dallas Kia service and maintenance to major repairs, we offer Kia-trained technicians and Genuine Kia Parts for your vehicle. Click here to see a menu of our regular McKinney Kia service and maintenance items along with our pricing. We stand at the ready with professional care for all your service and maintenance needs. Schedule an appointment with us today!

 

Vehicle Profile: The 2012 Kia Sedona EX

Room, comfort and versatility: They’re what make a minivan work for so many families. In recent years, however, the price of entry for a new minivan has been astronomical. The 2012 Kia Sedona EX, the top line model, moves into luxury territory with all the amenities family buyers want while providing the outstanding value that Kia delivers throughout its product line.
 
The 2012 Kia Sedona brings the brand’s renowned value and quality to the whole family. For the family looking for some luxury in a van, the 2012 Sedona EX continues the value streak with an MSRP of $29,190.
 
Adding a few luxuries to some vans can drive their prices into luxury car territory. That’s not the case with the 2012 Kia Sedona EX. This value-packed model starts out with the comfort and convenience of a standard rear-view mirror camera display, six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, four-way power front passenger's seat, power rear quarter windows, six-speaker audio system, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink®, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer with integral compass and heated power outside mirrors.
 
The seven-passenger configuration in the Kia Sedona EX includes middle-row captains’ chairs for maximum comfort. Order the available Rear-Seat Entertainment System, and those captains’ chairs will become the most coveted seats in the vehicle. A generous 34 inches of legroom helps make the third row comfortable for adult passengers, too.
 
The middle-row captains’ chairs are easily removed, and the third-row bench folds flat into the floor to open up a massive 141.5 cubic feet of carrying space. Compare that to the 108.4 cubic feet of space in the Nissan Quest. You can fold the 60/40 sections of the third-row seat into the floor individually, too.
 
When you load up a family van with people and their belongings, you add weight, of course. So, out on the road, you’ll want plenty of reserve power, especially on hills. The 2012 Kia Sedona obliges with a 271-hp 3.5-liter V6 matched to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. The Sportmatic® feature allows manual shifting when desired, such as for driving on hills.
 
Out on the road, you’ll find the 2012 Kia Sedona offers another major advantage over the Toyota Sienna. In the Sedona, a sophisticated, multi-link independent rear suspension, similar to what you’d find on a sport/luxury sedan, ensures agility and smooth ride quality. The Toyota Sienna, meanwhile, uses a simpler beam-type solid axle. In the Sedona, each rear wheel can respond to bumps independently, providing a noticeable difference in ride smoothness.
 
In the Kia Sedona EX, your passengers will enjoy comfort no matter what the weather holds with front and rear air conditioning, power side windows and the previously mentioned power rear quarter windows. Getting in and out from either side is easy with dual power sliding doors. When loading all your stuff in the 2012 Sedona EX, you’ll appreciate the standard power tailgate.
 
The 2012 Kia Sedona EX offers plenty of audio choices, starting with a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite audio system that includes both 3.5mm auxiliary and USB/MP3 input jacks. SiriusXM® Satellite Radio comes with three months of complimentary service. Helping you keep order in your life, Bluetooth® wireless technology bolsters the convenience of your smartphone.
 
Add the Premium Entertainment Package and equip the Sedona EX with an Infinity® 10-speaker audio system and a rear DVD entertainment system with wireless headsets and remote control. Or, choose the Navigation Package with an eight-speaker audio system along with a navigation system.
 
It’s not all about the kids, is it? Add the Sedona EX Luxury Package and treat yourself to the comfort of leather seat trim, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, tri-zone automatic climate control and a power tilt/slide sunroof. You also get a memory system that remembers personal settings for the driver’s seat, outside mirrors and the adjustable pedals.
 
That’s a lot of family van value with real luxury for the driver, too. It all comes backed by the brand’s five-year or 60,000-mile Limited Basic Warranty with a Roadside Assistance plan for that period, plus a 10-year or 100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty and five-year or 100,000-mile Anti-Perforation Warranty.
 
Come in and see why the 2012 Kia Sedona EX is the ideal family van for your family.

Courtesy of Huffines Kia McKinney Newsletter