Blind-Corner Battalion Leader: Kia Stinger GT Dominates the Demands of Nurburgring

“The Foxhole” is a widely unsettling and demanding stretch of racetrack that lies on one of the most intimidating raceways in the world. The high-speed sections of the Nurburgring Nordschleife are built to handle supreme steel beings like the Stinger GT at speeds of 90 MPH +, and Wired Transportation writer Joe Resnick took Kia's front-running sports sedan on a spin through this esteemed track section. The twin-turbo, 365-horsepower 2018 Kia Stinger GT fared quite well during this tremendous test, and everyone knows that this is the location where brands go to prove that their latest sports car is the best-handling and attractive option out there.

The Stinger GT is actually a bit longer then models from the BMW 3-club, and some out there wonder if this could affect its performance on a demanding and curve-laden section of track such as this. When you first climb into the Stinger GT, you'll notice that the front seats are positioned very low, which helps greatly with the center of gravity and sense of stability. There are three levels of engine selection to choose from: the base 252-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo 4 cylinder, the 365-horsepower 3.3-liter twin turbo V6, and a mid-range 2.2-liter turbo diesel 4-cylinder available in European and Korean markets only.

When Joe and his tech-savvy troupe from Wired got out on the track to prove themselves, the track's longest straight section had them reaching speeds of 135 to 140 MPH, and they enjoyed the overall performance of the rear-wheel drive Stinger the most. Hyundai's own patented 8-speed automatic is the medium for shifting sensibly in the Stinger GT, and many who have test driven it loved it right away. An overall stiff ride in a class that is similar to BMW's 3 and 4 series is another extreme highlight, and the Stinger GT handles bumps with a solid form that deserves high recognition.

This is admittedly a bit of new territory for Kia to pursue: going head to head with the sports-car coupe crowd may seem a bit of a lofty accomplishment. Motor Trend billed the Stinger as “confident and composed, while making the best use of the grip it affords”. When you are able to drive off the lot with a brand new Stinger, you are also getting behind the wheel of a vehicle that has the best power steering Kia has ever produced, which you notice at the go point right away.

This stacked wheel set will stay firmly planted no matter what type of speed or lunge is thrown at them, and the intense trail braking needed at Nurburgring is absolutely a ferocious proving ground. The Michelin Pilot Sport 3 tires are designed specifically for the fast and furious Stinger GT, and showed hardly any wear after a day of instructors trying to one-up their past records handed down abuse. For any model, the current time is the right time to spring a dusting of upper-level performance and speed, and the Stinger holds its own exceptionally well on the most legendary of locations.

A Close Look at the Stealth and Savvy Crossover Gem: 2017 Kia Niro

One of the reasons why the Niro was billed as the “Unhybrid” is that drivers are appreciating the design effort that allows it to not scream loudly to the masses about its status. Combining a hybrid powertrain with a subcompact crossover, the result is a very spacious interior, and a vehicle that yields 52 mpg in the city. The power source for the Niro is a 1.6-liter 4 cylinder, which gets the job done with the aid of an electric motor, and battery pack with lithium-ion.

The power rating of the Niro is 139 HP, and 195-lb of torque. We know that these are not numbers that will send the new driver trembling with excitement to their nearest test track, but will still allow for a punchy and swift journey to wherever they need to go. The cargo bay's maximum space of 54.5 cubic feet is accessed easily, by use of a 60/40 folding rear seat that will fold down to all the way flat. Even if you opt for the base trim, you still get awesome features such as satellite radio receiver, dual-zone climate, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and height-adjustable driver's seat.

The Niro is priced underneath other contenders in the crossover market such as the Nissan Rogue, and the Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid, by several thousand dollars each. Aside from the difference in price and other valuable features, we really enjoy the Niro's appearance: it's a smaller-sized, savvy and sleek vehicle that taps into a few different sources of charm. It takes quite a reach for a vehicle to really seem ready, poised, and efficient without wearing their prowess like a badge, and the Niro succeeds in that department.

Car and Driver proclaims that the Niro Hybrid “delivers sharp design language on top of the popular crossover form factor”, and goes on to state that the Niro is truly a more plausible version of what the Prius strives to be. When you come to pay us a visit and engage in a test drive, you'll see that the car feels just high enough to simplify getting in and out, but not so high that taking corners feels awkward. Behind the seat you can easily fit six carry-on sized suitcases, and the head and legroom space in the back will be ample for anyone joining you on an outbound journey.

Don't be too concerned if you think the power factor is a bit on the meager side: The Niro is more than sufficient for sports practice runs, the daily commute, and fun jaunts anywhere around St Louis that you feel calling your name during down time. If you do have a longer trip ahead of you, you're still going to love how you get a cost-efficient ride, with handling that allows you to maintain constant control.

One very noticeable advantage the Niro has over many of its imitators is the way in which it behaves a bit like a very conventional gas-only vehicle, and is not quite the same as the delayed and snarling characteristics of Toyota's dual-motor, Hybrid Synergy Drive. Push-button start, heated and ventilated front seats, and sunroof are some of the other essential additives that you'll benefit from within the vehicle. We'll show you how the Fuel Efficient, Touring, and LX and EX range trims differ from each other, and clue you in to which one will meet you and your family's needs to the T!

2017 Kia Cadenza: Bringing the Full-size Sedan Segment Upmarket, and Slaying It

The Kia Cadenza has been widely thought of
as one of the absolute best entries in the large sedan class for the year, and expert reviewers Edmunds stated this summer that “the materials quality is particularly impressive”. We daresay that the Cadenza before this one was handsome in a manner that was a bit more generic, and the 2017 version has a few things about it that are distinctly more unique. Once you climb aboard, the white leather's complement to the faux wood on the dash is a great trait of the car's visual identity.

After getting your hands on one of the coolest sedans out there, you're going to want to heavily stack your social calendar. One of the ultra fun end-of-summer events coming up in St Louis is the Fringe Festival: from August 19-27, the eclectic artists in the area are dishing up performance art, drama, and even circus acts for the masses to enjoy. Tracing its beginnings back to Edinburgh, Scotland in 1947, it is an alternative festival that draws individuals in the area who have a penchant for good taste, and are always embracing the Indie culture and way of life.

Elements of Shakespeare, Snow White, Dead Gothic's Society, and productions such as Please Remain Calm are going to all be offered up here this August, and it will be one of the coolest events of the year in Missouri. The Kia's UVO Infotainment system offers one of the best touch-based systems out there to keep yourself in stock with great new music, but before the weather chills just a little, the outdoor options such as this are key for making sure you have an abundant lineup of fresh air factor.

The spacious vibe of the cabin is really tied together with the accents of the white leather, as well as the dose of rays you'll get with the expanse of the Cadenza's sunroof. If you are thinking about taking your sales and marketing pitch on the road or visiting family you haven't seen for some time, the space in the back seat is going to be an important selling point. Class comfort is noticeable at every glance here, and you have the ability to acquire about 28 MPG while taking the show straight to the highway.

Constructed from expertly engineered adhesives and 53% very high-grade steel, the body of this car is built to be massively strong, and you notice that as you lurch forward immediately. It makes for better driving dynamics, and a more pleasurable ride in the long run. When you arrive at the lot to explore all of the options Kia has to offer for you this year, you'll get excited about how the brand new 4-wheel independent suspension offers up an extra smooth handling experience. Luxury does come in packages a bit bigger than average, and drivers across the nation are going wild over the Cadenza: you'll be amazed at just how intelligent the engineering is, offering you consistently proven peace of mind!

KIA Trio Hailed as Segment Winners in 2017 J.D. Power Performance, Execution, and Layout Study

The Niro, Soul, and Kia Cadenza have all been making waves in the marketplace quite heavily: J.D. Power APEAL Awards came out with all them snagging the best in their specific genres. The Niro grabbed accolades in the Small SUV segment, The Soul Dominated the Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle segment, and the Cadenza presided at the top of the list for the Large Car Segment. For the second year in a row, Kia Motors was ranked the absolute highest in the industry, and all 3 Kia APEAL study segment winners were also IQS segment winners.

Here on the lot as every new day presents us with opportunities to link people up with great cars in the St. Louis metro, we recognize that buyers today have more choices than ever before. They are looking for vehicles that offer first-class design, technology, efficiency, and amenities that really shine. More consumers looking for a smooth and safe commute are finding KIA every day, and realizing just how incredibly well these cars are fating against the competition.

The Niro cross over hybrid performed a noticeably large 51 points total aboce other average models within its segment. The Cadenza also dominated highly within its own segment, surpassing the average model's score by 27 points. The Soul has always been a hefty favorite with consumers who march to a slightly different beat, and this year it nailed down its fifth APEAL Award. This solidifies its position as the vehicle with the most APEAL awards in Kia's entire lineup of cars, and it is the only care with a spot in the Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle category to score above its segment average.

The J.D. Powers APEAL study measure new-vehicle owners' overall running level of satisfaction with their vehicles during the first 3 months of ownership. This is such a crucial time when you really think about it: this is when the owner gets the most drastic first impression, that determines or not they would have recommend the car to a friend. It also determines whether or not they would choose to purchase the car again themselves, which we understand so much of our business at Jim Butler derives from.

Hailed by Car and Driver as "The fully realized execution that could elevate the hybrid crossover to widespread adoption", the Niro is rated at 50 MPG. Most likely causing many consumers heads to turn immediately, it is the true face-to-face contender of the supposedly savvy and dapper Toyota Prius. CNBC calls the Cadenza a "Spacious boat of a car with great value", with a true difference in identify. Motor Trend calls the Soul "Stylish and Surprisingly practical": make sure you take some xtra time over the coming month to see us at Jim Butler, and find out how a new Kia car will add a deliberate sense of direction to your fall driving itinerary.

Summer 2017 Safety Update: Kia Forte Nabs Top Safety Pick Plus Rating Via IIHS

The summer is in full swing around all of St. Louis, and now is the time of year when thoughts begin to drift into the back-to-school realm. Our beloved Cardinals are at 52-53, many of us enjoyed an awesome fourth of July with family last month, and set out to explore destinations like the Ozarks in the best vehicles KIA has to offer. When August rolls around, we are reminded that as fun as our days of outdoor recreation have been, the next vehicle on your family purchase list should be one that leaves you feeling secure and protected from any level of mishap on the road.

The 2017 KIA Forte was awarded the Top Safety Pick Plus Rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety this year, on models built after March 2017. When equipped with optional front crash prevention and high-intensity discharge headlights, this great auto selection from KIA now has the honorable distinction of the highest in class for safety. Just before receiving this top safety award, the Forte was also named the highest-rated compact car in the 2017 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, which is a benchmark for consumer satisfaction. Cars that have the least number of issues during the first three months are the name of the game here, providing minimal hassle and worry.

In order to qualify for this incredibly high ranking from the IIHS, vehicles have to dutifully earn "good" ratings in five astringent crashworthiness tests: small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength and head restraints. Taking things a step further within the cloak of top-notch safety, the vehicle must also earn an "advanced" or "superior" rating for front crash prevention, and "acceptable" or "good" mark when it comes to headlight testing.

Completely revamped for the current year, the Forte features a sporty style, new powertrain components, and an array of driver assistance systems. Some of the features that will make you feel safe and sound are Autonomous Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Warning, and Dynamic Bending Light. This last function is a mega-cool way to help the drive during rain or any other element: the headlights are automatically adapted depending on how fast you're going, as well as noting the steering angle, immediately improving overall illumination quality.

When you come down to the lot to pay us a visit, you can check out the 3 different trim levels that the Forte is available in: Sport S trim, entry-level LX, and the top-trim EX option. The engine got an upgrade from the previous year: it is now a 2.0-liter Atkinson model, that generates 147 horsepower at 6200 RPM, and 132 lb-ft of torque. The new starting-point engine is matched up with a 6-speed manual transmission, though an automatic option is available. Once you get inside, you're going to immediately notice that the car feels far from compact, with very spacious front and back seats, as well as one of the largest trunks in existence for sedan and hatchback genres.

Known for reliability and having the features to be a satisfying daily commute car, the Forte is one of the most reasonably-priced compact cars out there. Talk to us about stepping up to the Forte S, which adds the rearview camera, cruise control, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto for entertainment. With top-level EX trim, you can acquire heated front seats and luxurious leather upholstery: the Forte is going to be an awesome staple of safety and secure riding for you before the fall hits!

Bestowing Teens with Behind-The-Wheel Knowledge: B.R.A.K.E.S. Driving School Confirmed for St. Louis

Here at Jim Butler, we fully understand the excitement that every parent feels when they are finally ready to hand the keys over to their teenage driver. Higher insurance premiums, the hours of discussion for them to be cautious you have had with them, and information they have learned in school have all been mulled over. If you have already selected the perfect KIA model for your teen, you may be feeling nervous, in that there's an extra bit of information you want covered before the ignition switch is punched on the maiden voyage. Vehicle crashes are the main cause of deaths for 15-17 year-olds worldwide, and so the issue of safety is one that we don't take lightly.

To provide teens with the knowledge and training for the ultimate in responsibility behind the wheel, Jim Butler teamed up with KIA and the B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe) Teen Pro-Active Driving School to bring a no-cost advanced driver training class to the St. Louis Metro. One of the reasons why we jumped at the chance is because completion of the program has resulted in a 64% reduction rate of collision for teen drivers during their first 3 crucial years behind the wheel.

If you or any of your acquaintances have a teen that will soon be behind the wheel, there is currently still enrollment open at https://putonthebrakes.org/shop. All you need to get started is a permit or valid driver's license, a parent or guardian to participate, and a minimum of 30 hours previous driving experience. When you arrive, what you will be taught involves advanced behind-the-wheel training with KIA provided vehicles, by seasoned, professional driving instructors. Skid control, distracted driving awareness, panic stopping, drop-wheel recovery, and car control are all covered in detail. Distracted driving is what we have been seeing an alarming increase in, and so we are excited that this very necessary topic is being covered with B.R.A.K.E.S.

The training takes place on August 12 and 13, right at Gateway Motorsports park. Your avid teenager will love to get behind the wheel of a Soul, Cadenza or Rio for learning about the prime years of their driving experience. Worrying about the safety of a teen is something that can take up many of your precious hours, and the safety features that are available in KIA cars now are top-notch. The Optima alone earned a 5-Star Crash Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and comes with comprehensive airbags. Featuring dual front, front-seat mounted side, and full-length side curtain airbags, there are also high-tech sensors that can detect the level of impact, and presence of a front passenger.

After your teen learns the ropes with the B.R.A.K.E.S. curriculum, features such as Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) help deliver more consistent braking, and distribution and weight loads constantly change. Teens will also be able to take advantage of the Tire-Pressure Monitoring System, which continuously monitors the inflation pressure in all four tires, and provides an urgent warning when the pressure drops below a specified range. Together, we can all play an important roll in saving lives, and preparing teens for the hazards they will face on the road. Sign up for this event while there is still time, and allow yourself the peace of mind that comes with expert training!

The New Ad Spot for the KIA Soul: Turbocharged With Ace of Spades Goodness

For the past 8 years, commuters and other everyday folks in Missouri have enjoyed how the KIA Soul has embraced very innovative elements, and taken great strides to stand apart from the competition. Recently KIA thought that there should be a drastic improvement in the auto itself, and that it should also be made even more awesome to drive. Now supercharged, it is the proud owner of a 201-horsepower engine, and the latest ad campaign takes a peek at the lovable hamsters giving a very warm welcome to the newest Soul counterpart in "The Arrival."

This funny spot opens with a young nurse making her morning rounds in a maternity ward, when she comes across a furry and harried young hamster who is missing from the crib. The newborn bundle of cuteness utilizes a make-shift parachute to safely float to the street, where a new turbocharged Soul is waiting to whisk him away. The iconic song "Ace of Spades" is the soundtrack for the ad, conveying the high-paced luster of what speed can feel like: turbocharging gives consumers just one more powerful way to enjoy one of the most popular vehicles in the product line.

KIA's trademark hamsters have always done great at the job of standing out from the crowd, and were first seen during commercials 8 years ago. Iconic and lovable characters that help spread the brand's namesake, hamsters are a suitable pick to promote the KIA line's ease of use, great consumer reviews, and overall accessibility.

The 2017 Soul is available in 3 different trim levels. The Base has manual or automatic 6-speed transmission, Soul Plus has a 6-speed automatic, and the new 201-horsepower turbocharged Exclaim is the option on the higher end of the scale. Premium touch points, ultra-cool LED mood and music lighting, and a panoramic sunroof are some of the other offerings you can enjoy with the purchase of a new Soul For the 3rd year in a row, the Soul was the highest-ranked brand overall in initial quality for the 2nd year running.

Once you score a new Soul and are ready to check out some great things to see in the summer, we can always steer you in the right direction! For the days when the blazing sun makes the temps seem like an inferno, cool off indoors at the National Blues Museum. Dedicated to exclusively preserving the international story of the Blues and its impact on American culture, you can take a nice air-conditioned walk while checking out display after display of this amazing music genre. You're going to love getting there in a vehicle that is ranked high for safety, boasts a more-than-economical price, and is taking the auto world by storm: all of the possibilities St. Louis offers will be sensational from behind the wheel of a Soul.