2010 Kia KV7 Crossover Concept

Kia decided to play Santa early and gifted us with a teaser of its KV7 Concept, which is scheduled to debut next month at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

The company has tagged it as a convention-challenging concept, and certainly, those rear gullwing doors do capture the attention in a big way. The vehicle’s lines are reminiscent of the Soul’s, and it does look like a – rather – stretched version of the latter.

Aside from the teaser rendering you see pictured above, the Korean firm didn't really reveal any details on the funky crossover model that features a set of Gullwing-style rear doors, but if you insist, we've added the press release after the jump.





Press Release

For the past several years Kia Motors' design-led transformation has been delivering production vehicles – such as the Soul, Forte Koup and Sportage – that bear a very close resemblance to the original concept designs that preceded them. At the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Kia will make another dramatic design statement with the world debut of an all-new, convention-challenging concept vehicle named "KV7."

Further information will be released in early-January.

2011 Jeep Patriot

Chrysler has just revealed the first images and details of its 2011 Jeep Patriot, and the compact softroader has received very subtle nip/tuck for the new model year that touch nearly every aspect of the vehicle.

Exterior upgrades include what Chrysler describes as a more "aggressive" front fascia with standard foglamps, a new rear fascia, body-color grille and optional 17-inch wheels. The SUV also gets four new exterior colors, as well as an increased 4x4 ride height. "Ride and handling is refined courtesy of returned steering and suspension systems," said Chrysler in a statement, although specific details are not being disclosed yet.

At the interior the automaker has increased the quality of materials, and the steering wheel integrates the audio/trip controls just like in the new Grand Cherokee.

The 2011 Jeep Patriot will be offered with front-wheel- or four-wheel-drive, and will be available in three configurations – Sport, Latitude and Latitude X. Sales will begin in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Other top features are the 2011 Jeep Patriot model's affordability, fuel economy for its segment and safety features, Chrysler said. (The 2010 model took Top Safety Pick honors from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety -- provided the vehicle has the optional side torso airbags). Chrysler hasn't announced pricing, but Edmunds experts expect that the base-model MSRP will be $17,795 and predict that fuel-economy will be a combined 25.




Press Release

Coming Soon From Jeep®: 2011 Patriot with Aggressive New Styling, Segment- leading Capability and Unsurpassed 4x4 Fuel Economy

September 14, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC released images today of the new 2011 Jeep Patriot, the affordable compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) that offers consumers segment-leading capability and unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy, along with classic, rugged Jeep styling.

Jeep Patriot's classic exterior styling and capability are enhanced for 2011 with new front and rear fascias, a body-color grille, and an increased 4x4 ride height. Ride-and-handling is refined courtesy of retuned steering and suspension systems. Interior enhancements round out the new-for-2011 features, and include significantly upgraded touch points.

"Patriot boasts class-leading 4x4 capability and unsurpassed fuel economy, and a host of safety features in a fun and affordable package – a combination that only Jeep can offer," said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "For 2011, Jeep Patriot is even more appealing to consumers, thanks to rugged new exterior styling, interior enhancements and refinements to the suspension and steering systems."

New-for-2011 Jeep Patriot exterior highlights include an aggressive new front fascia with standard fog lamps positioned inside the headlamps; a new rear fascia that extends lower than on previous models; a body-color grille; new available 17-inch wheels; four new colors and 4x4 ride height that has been increased by 1 inch.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Patriot include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; new center armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior, with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard speed control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls and standard automatic temperature control on the Latitude X model.

Available as a stand-alone option on all models for 2011 is the Uconnect® Voice Command with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music/radio/SIRIUS satellite radio control.

The 2011 Jeep Patriot offers customers more capability than any other vehicle in the compact SUV class. Capability features include low-range mode which generates a best-in-class 19:1 crawl ratio, brake traction control, 19-inch water fording capability, Hill Descent Control, 4x4 Lock shift-on-the-fly which sends 50 percent of torque to front and rear wheels, and a maximum tow rating of 2,000 lbs. The Jeep Patriot also boasts a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates, added rebound springs, and an increased diameter of the rear sway bar. Despite these numerous capability features, the 2011 Jeep Patriot boasts unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy in its segment.

A 2010 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, the Jeep Patriot for 2011 is loaded with more than 30 standard safety and security features, thoughtful functionality and best-in-class off-road capability with Freedom Drive II, offering tremendous value for consumers that desire an SUV to accommodate their active lifestyle at an affordable price.

Offered with front-wheel- or four-wheel-drive, Jeep Patriot is available in three configurations – Sport, Latitude and Latitude X.

Built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill., the new 2011 Jeep Patriot models arrive in Jeep showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

About Chrysler Group LLC
Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group, produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and Mopar® vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler's culture of innovation – first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925 – and Fiat's complementary technology – from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group LLC's product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler and Ram Truck. Fiat will contribute world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-sized cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

2011 Mini Countryman Getaway package

MINI releases today the new Countryman Getaway Package, the company has come up with a couple of accessories for it which really suit the Countryman lifestyle.

It includes fold-up seats, a multifunctional blanket/cover, boots, a jacket, and more for your rural jaunts. And since storage space is always at a premium—especially in a Mini—the kit can be stowed away entirely within the Countryman’s under-floor storage compartment.

Prices :
MINI Countryman Seat Set (two seats + table top) - €89.00; MINI Countryman Single Seat - €35.00; MINI Countryman Boots - €39.00; MINI Countryman Tee - €29.00; MINI Five-In-One Cover - €65.00; MINI Parka - €139.00.




Press Release

The MINI Getaway Package: for spontaneous stop-offs along the way. Cleverly packed travel set accompanies the launch of the new MINI Countryman.

Munich. We've all had one of those days when you're out in the car, the sun shining, and your thoughts turn to finding a nice rural spot for an impromptu breather. If only you'd packed the right equipment for the job in hand. Luckily, MINI is pitching in to help out. The cult British brand has come up with a handy set of items for off-the-cuff mid-journey breaks – just in time for the market launch of the MINI Countryman. The clever MINI Countryman Getaway Package can be stowed away in the new crossover model's dual-layer load compartment floor, which is separated from the regular storage space by a lid. This allows the travel set to be in place and ready for use at all times without making in-roads into interior space.

The set includes the MINI Countryman Seats, two comfortable folding wooden chairs in characteristic MINI design. Their durable canvas surface comes in an easy Racing Check or stylised Union Jack look, both in dark grey against a black background. Roomy outside pockets can be attached to the sides of the Countryman Seats using press studs, while a carry bag makes the chairs easy to transport. The MINI Countryman Seats can also be converted into tables with the help of a wooden board. Now nothing can get in the way of a picnic in the great outdoors. And, as it happens, the convertible seats also do an excellent job inside. The MINI Countryman Seats are available as a set consisting of two chairs and a table top. Extra seats can be purchased individually should your random excursions grow in popularity.

An essential feature of the Getaway Package is the MINI Five-In-One Cover. This multifunctional cover in Chequered Flag design is a poncho, sleeping bag, awning, picnic blanket and bed cover in one, and makes the ideal accessory for those more extended stops during a journey. The loops and ties on the four corners help to make the most of the cover's various functions, and the bag for the cover doubles up as a handy cushion.

The new MINI Countryman Boots, meanwhile, ensure that your feet stay dry on cross-country hikes. With their Union Jack/Rockstyle Print/Countryman design, the black unisex Wellington boots cut a seriously cool figure. The British flag also makes an appearance in the inside pattern of the boots.

The MINI Parka, a contemporary interpretation of the classic M51 Fishtail, also protects against the vagaries of the weather. The olive-green unisex hooded jacket embodies a stylish Mod look, complemented by a selection of neat patches which can be attached on the left sleeve using a Velcro-type fastener.

The Getaway Package also contains a change of shirt, should fresh togs be required. The limited-edition MINI Countryman Tee suits MINI down to the ground and adds a touch of fashionable chic with its funky gift packaging for him or her, catchy shade of lilac and print of the new MINI model.

Spur-of-the-moment picnic or brief saunter into the countryside, the MINI Countryman Getaway Package ensures you are ready for anything. The set will be available from the launch of the new MINI model in September 2010. Customers will be able to order the Getaway Package – as well as the other MINI Collection items – from the MINI Online Shop at www.MINI.de/shop and at selected MINI dealers.

MINI Countryman Getaway Package

MINI Countryman Seat Set - €89.00
(two seats + table top)
MINI Countryman Single Seat - €35.00
MINI Countryman Boots - €39.00
MINI Countryman Tee - €29.00
MINI Five-In-One Cover - €65.00
MINI Parka - €139.00

Statement by American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Regarding VSA Modulator Recall

Honda has announced a recall for some 410,000 vehicle due to a defect with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) module. According to the automaker, 344,00 Odysseys and 68,000 Elements (MY 2007-2008) are affected by the problem and owners will be notified via mail this April to take their vehicles into dealers.


The issue with the VSA results in a softening sensation through brake pedal and a longer pedal travel that requires owners to apply more pressure to bring their vehicles to a halt. The condition worsens over time as the stability control system lets a small amount of air into the braking system.

More Photos



Press Release

Honda will recall approximately 344,000 Odyssey and 68,000 Element vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years in the U.S. to modify the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) modulator. Honda has received customer complaints of brake pedals that feel "soft" or that gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower (closer to the floor) before the vehicle stops. In affected vehicles, this condition tends to very slowly increase over time.

Some VSA modulators were assembled in a manner that could allow air intrusion, making it possible for air to enter the modulator during the VSA self-check mode. While only a miniscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the "soft brake pedal" or "low brake pedal" condition symptoms associated with this issue. Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all customers that their vehicles will perform correctly.

Honda is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of these vehicles to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification from Honda that their vehicle is affected. Notification to customers will start at the end of April.

Once owners of these vehicles receive written notification of this recall from Honda, they should contact their authorized Honda dealer to schedule an appointment for repair. When Honda identifies concerns of this nature, nothing is more important to the company than fulfilling our obligation and responsibility to alert our customers. To this end in addition to contacting customers by mail, after April 19, 2010, owners of these vehicles will be able to determine if their vehicle requires repair by going on-line or calling. Honda owners can go to www.recalls.honda.com or call (800) 999-1009, and select option 4.

Ford Releases new turbo'd 203-hp 2.0-liter for Mondeo at Geneva Motor Show

Ford's all-new C-car makes its European debut at next month's Geneva show, alongside final versions of C-MAX and Grand C-MAX which go on sale this year. There are also further product enhancements for the Ford Kuga and Mondeo and more options revealed for the new S-MAX and Galaxy.

All-new Ford C-MAX range

The all-new Ford C-MAX family provides two of the star attractions presented by Ford Motor Company at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. The C-MAX family brings new levels of style and desirability to the compact Multi-Activity Vehicle (MAV) market.

Ford's C-segment MAV customers now have the choice of a new five-seat C-MAX or a distinctive new seven-seat Grand C-MAX, which features twin sliding doors and innovative seat design to provide outstanding space and flexibility. AtGeneva, the interior of the five-seat C-MAX is revealed for the first time. It features a coupe-like, sweeping roofline which falls off to the rear, but without compromising the comfort and practicality of the vehicle. The seven-seat model features a higher roofline and thinner pillars which emphasise the generous room and visibility on offer within the cabin.

The all-new C-MAX cockpit will represent the next generation of Ford's human machine interface (HMI) system. The key elements of this technology are two five-way toggle switches on the steering wheel, which control two main vehicle displays: one in the instrument cluster and the second mounted in a high position in the centre console. This simple, intuitive control system enables the driver to operate the key vehicle features while keeping both hands on the wheel, and with a minimum of distraction.

Fuel-efficient, low-CO2 powertrains for the C-MAX range include the new 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol engine and updated 1.6- and 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

"The launch of the new C-MAX range is highly significant, and shows customers worldwide that they can expect some truly exciting designs as we roll out our new global range of medium cars," said John Fleming. "The new C-MAX is just the start – with the next-generation Focus coming quickly after, we look forward to revealing more of the story in the very near future."


All-new Ford Kuga powertrain and transmission enhancements

The stylish Ford Kuga crossover strengthens its reputation as the leading vehicle in its class with exciting new powertrain and transmission options designed to boost performance and improve fuel economy and CO2 performance.

The updated Kuga now offers a powerful new 163PS version of the 2.0-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engine achieving a CO2 output of just 159g/km in the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) models with manual transmission (six per cent reduction compared to the previous 136PS engine). The new efficiency advantages delivered by the Ford Powershift gearbox lower CO2 emissions for the 140 and 163PS AWD diesel automatics to a class-leading 179g/km.

With 20 per cent more peak power, the new 163PS engine improves the performance of the Kuga, increasing the top speed from 112 to 121mph and cutting the 0-62mph time from 10.7 to 9.6sec, as well as meeting the latest European Stage V emissions standards.


All-new Ford Mondeo powertrain and transmission enhancements

The versatile Ford Mondeo now benefits from improved fuel economy and lower emissions combined with stronger performance thanks to new high efficiency Ford EcoBoost petrol-injection turbo and upgraded Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

The Mondeo gains the all-new, high efficiency, turbocharged, 203PS 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost SCTi petrol engine and significantly improved Stage V, 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi diesels with 115PS and 140PS power outputs, plus an impressive new 163PS version.

In addition, the smooth and effortless Ford Powershift six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission system comes to the Mondeo range, fitted as standard with the 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and optionally available for the 140PS and 163PS Duratorq TDCi diesel engines.

The newly introduced 2.0-litre 163PS Ford Duratorq TDCi allows the Mondeo to achieve impressive fuel economy with a combined fuel consumption as low as 53.2mpg*, as well as complying with stage V emissions regulations. Together with the new Ford Powershift, the Mondeo delivers a combined fuel economy of just 50.4mpg.

*Note: Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive
EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world.
Source: Ford; Photos autoblog

Geneva Debut: Subaru Impreza XV crossover

Exhibition Outline of the 80th Geneva International Motor Show

Tokyo, February 5, 2010 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced that it will exhibit the "SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT" as an European premiere and unveil the "Subaru Impreza XV" as a world premiere, which will be marketed this summer in Europe, at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show slated for March in Geneva, Switzerland (Press day: March 2 and 3; Open to the public from March 4 through 14).

It will also showcase the "Subaru Plug-in STELLA", a production electric vehicle launched in Japan last year, "BOXER DIESEL" models, and highlight Subaru's unique Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine technologies. With these exhibits and throughout the booth design, FHI will showcase Subaru's efforts to integrate enjoyable and reliable driving with environmentally friendly solutions. The press conference by President Ikuo Mori is scheduled at the Subaru booth on March 2, 2010 at 15.45h

Employing the Subaru's core technology of "Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)" and "Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine", the "SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT" reflects Subaru's vision of the future grand touring car. Presented with an eye-catching sculpted exterior design, the concept offers an ideal combination of Subaru's authentic driving performance, all-round safety features and environmental friendliness provided by its unique hybrid system.

The "Subaru Impreza XV", developed on the basis of the iconic Impreza 5-door model, offers a new crossover styling. Exclusively designed front grille and wheel arch, and specially equipped roof rails and a roof spoiler accentuate the uniqueness of this special Impreza version. The available 2.0-litre Horizontally-opposed petrol engine and the turbo BOXER DIESEL engine comply with European EURO 5 regulations for enhanced environmental friendliness.
Source: Subaru

2011 Chevrolet Orlando Spy Winter Testing

These latest spy shots capture a 2011 Orlando prototype undergoing cold weather testing in Europe. They reveal that the production Orlando will keep the boxy design, swept-back roof, and blunt front-end of the concept, although it appears that the sliding door and split tailgate configuration of the show car has been dropped in favor of a conventional four-door body and vertically lifting tailgate.


The Orlando is based on the same front-wheel drive Delta platform that underpins cars like the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and Volt plug-in hybrid, and despite its compact proportions the upcoming crossover will be able to seat seven.


Being based on the Delta platform means the Orlando will most likely enter production at the same Hamtramck plant in Detroit that will build the Cruze and Volt sedans. However, the new crossover will be a crucial model in Chevrolet’s global lineup, with production planned for Europe and South Korea as well.


Expect a similar powertrain lineup to the one in the Cruze for North American markets, which means a range of four-cylinder gasoline engines in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms. A plug-in hybrid version using the Voltec system borrowed from the Volt may also make an appearance according to previous comments from GM vice chairman and former product planner Bob Lutz.


Chevrolet confirmed early last year that it would bring a production version of 2008’s Orlando concept vehicle to North American markets sometime in 2011, reversing an earlier decision to only sell the vehicle overseas.
More Photos

Spy Photos: European Registry pulls wraps off 2011 Kia Sportage?

Based on these images, the new Sportage looks to be a big step up from the friendly but aged current model. Underneath slick new sheetmetal that's in keeping with Kia's current family design themes, the Sportage will likely share much with the just-unveiled Hyundai Tucson. No word yet on when we'll see the trucklet's official unveiling, but given that Kia's usually good for a significant reveal at the New York Auto Show, we'll wager that at the very least, we'll see the Sportage's North American debut in the Javits Center in late March/early April. Stay tuned.


The European Registry must be a bigger thorn in the side of automakers than the likes of Brenda Priddy and her minions. After all, the new-vehicle images the Registry keeps in its database are devoid of camouflage, and the latest to show its face (and rear, and roof, and flanks) appears to be the 2011 Kia Sportage.


More Photos

Detroit Auto Show: 2010 Kia Shadow Dragon Soul Special Editions

ALL-NEW SPECIAL EDITION 2010 KIA SHADOW DRAGON SOUL ARRIVES IN SHOWROOMS

• Shadow Dragon Soul brings a new color scheme and adds leather-trimmed seating to the Soul lineup

• Shadow Dragon Soul is the third special edition Soul to arrive in less than 12 months

IRVINE, Calif., January 12, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the arrival of the special edition Shadow Dragon Soul, the third of four planned special edition Soul models. Proudly showing design themes similar in nature to the Soul "Burner" concept that debuted in 2008 at the Geneva International Motor Show resulting in a slew of positive feedback from Soul forums and Internet chats, Shadow Dragon Soul wears black dragon graphics over its sinister black-on-black color scheme. Shadow Dragon Soul is the latest example the urban passenger vehicle's unique ability to morph and transform, and joins all other Soul models as a 2010 "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

"Soul is a unique vehicle in that it lends itself perfectly to personalization based on consumer needs and desires," said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. "With its one-of-a-kind paint and graphic treatments, the Shadow Dragon Soul could be the most distinctive special-edition Soul we've released so far, but still maintains the same value, convenience and safety features that consumers have come to know and expect from all Soul trim levels."

From afar, Shadow Dragon Soul's deep shadow black exterior color and matte black dragon graphics on the hood and tailgate give off a dark and menacing persona. Looking closer, the black-on-black theme continues with black 18-inch wheels and machined accents, a body-color wing-type spoiler and high-gloss black accents found on the front and rear bumper inserts. Inside, Shadow Dragon Soul features black leather-trimmed seats – the first leather seating available on any Soul model – and seat warmers for additional luxury and comfort. Like both previous special-edition Souls, Shadow Dragon Soul is based on the Soul+ model and is fully loaded with the Audio Upgrade Package (center speaker, subwoofer, external amplifier and speaker lights that pulse to the beat of the music), an iPod® connection cable for full functionality via the radio head unit and steering wheel controls, carpeted floor mats, moonroof, fog lights and fender vents with side marker repeaters. Shadow Dragon Soul starts at $18,195 with a five-speed manual transmission.

Building from the Soul+ model, Shadow Dragon Soul adds standard keyless remote entry, privacy glass on the rear and rear side windows, body-color door handles and dual body-color power side mirrors. Additional standard features such as cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, Bluetooth®² wireless technology with hands-free connectivity, dual 12-volt power outlets and tweeter speakers enhance creature comforts on the road, as do the covered upper storage bin, dual visor vanity mirrors with covers and dual map lights.


About the Kia Soul

The Soul has won numerous accolades since arriving in dealerships, including two "Top Safety Pick" awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a "2010 Automotive Excellence Award" from Popular Mechanics, a "Super Value Award" by The Active Network, Inc., being named to Ward's Autoworld's "Interior of the Year" list for "Grooviest Interior, named to 2009 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 list by Kelley Blue Book's Kbb.com," among several others.

Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the versatile five door begins at $13,300¹ for the base trim, while Soul+ starts at $14,950¹. Enhancing to the Soul! or Soul sport offers a price beginning at $16,950¹. For additional value Soul also offers impressive fuel economy, with the 1.6-liter manual coming in at 26/31 mpg (city/highway) while the 2.0-liter offers a thrifty, fuel-sipping 24/30 mpg for both the automatic and manual transmissions³, better than the Scion xB.


Standard Kia Safety Features

Soul continues to offer the same high level of standard safety equipment as all new Kia vehicles, including front seat active headrests, dual front advanced airbags, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain airbags. An Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BAS) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) also are standard. Front and rear crumple zones, side-impact door beams, impact-absorbing steering column and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system also come standard on all Soul models, making for a wide-ranging list of standard safety features.


Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all new Kia models, Soul is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year/100,000-mile antiperforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive coverage program.


About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) 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 670 dealers throughout the United States. For 2009, KMA recorded its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share and recently achieved its best quarter of sales ever. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

1 MSRPs exclude $695 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
2 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Kia is under license.
3 2010 EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
More Photos

Detroit Auto Show: GMC Granite concept

As one of the four remaining brands at the new General Motors, the folks in charge of GMC are trying to come up with a reason for the brand to exist. Until now, GMC's wares have been to Chevrolet trucks what Mercury has been Ford – same stuff different badges. Over the last decade the marketing boffins have tried to position GMC as "Industrial Grade," but it's never been entirely clear exactly what that means.


Compared to the Orlando, the Granite has a sharper, more chiseled look that's appropriate to its name. However, this is no copy of the Scion xB or Nissan Cube. The windshield is more steeply raked than the upright screens on the two Japanese boxes, and the Granite isn't as tall, with a roof that's six inches closer to the road than the Nissan and three inches shorter than the Scion. In fact the closest current model in size to the Granite is the Honda Fit, although the Honda is more than three inches narrower. GMC has sized this vehicle for crowded urban environments where its 161.3 inch length is two feet shorter than the Terrain and should make it easier to navigate the cramped confines of the world's metropolises.


In the case of the Granite, with its small exterior dimensions, the large opening afforded by the pillar-less design is especially handy. Inside the designers have created passenger side seats that fold flat and then flip up against the center console, leaving the entire right hand side open. With the seats up, the Granite can accommodate a mountain bike with the wheels still on.


Dave Lyon and the rest of the GMC design team have tried to ensure that even with its small dimensions, the Granite didn't sacrifice utility. It's common for concept cars to use rear-hinged back doors to allow show-going attendees to see the interior. However, few of these ever make it to production that way. Nonetheless, Lyon insisted to us during a pre-show preview that the Granite was engineered to support the rear hinged doors. The idea isn't that far out there, particularly when you consider that GM has done it before with it's full-size pickups and Saturn coupes.


Under the hood, the Granite is spec'd out with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder, likely the same unit that will be optional in the Chevy Cruze. In that application the engine produces 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. In the concept, the engine is paired up with a six-speed automatic transmission, but we wouldn't be surprised to see a manual option available if the Granite makes the transition from concept to production in the next year.
more detail. ...