Coming Soon: The All-New Kia Rio

If you’re a Kia Rio fan, you’re going to want to check this out. Kia has recently unveiled sketches of its all-new, overhauled fourth generation Rio and there is excitement worldwide. The vehicle will make its official world debut at the 2016 Paris Motor show next month. Production for Europe will begin at the end of 2016, however, production times for other regions have not yet been announced.

As you can see, the new Kia Rio has received a sporty makeover- with an even lower and wider look than before. The iconic ‘Tiger Nose’ grille has been stretched out to reach the headlights, which have a slimmer look themselves and straight, smooth lines offer an overall balanced appearance. The interior will house a large display screen, of course featuring “the latest technology features” Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Though we’re not sure when we’ll be getting this car, we are sure it’s going to be a hit, especially for our St. Louis Kia drivers! We’ll be sure to update you when we hear more!

The All-New 2017 Kia Cadenza

The 2017 Kia Cadenza is headed our way with updated technology, a more luxurious interior, and even more convenience. In addition to interior updates, the Cadenza has also received a refreshed, stronger body structure and powertrain enhancements- leading to sophisticated look with improved driving dynamics and efficiency.

Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning at Kia Motors America stated “The new Cadenza adds an extra dose of excitement to the large-car segment with its striking looks and premium refinements. The Cadenza’s cabin has been improved in nearly every way, but it’s underneath where the Cadenza truly shines with a stiffer and lighter chassis, eight-speed transmission and vastly improved driving dynamics.”

Utilizing Kia Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer’s “straight line” philosophy, the exterior of the 2017 Kia Cadenza possesses an overall clean, sleek image. The front fascia has been newly designed with a hexagonal shape and curved grille- giving the “tiger-nose” front end an even more sharp appearance. In the back, LED “piano key” taillights have been added.

The interior of the Cadenza rings true to its luxurious claims- offering tons of space and rich materials. As far as technology goes, the third-generation UVO system has been added which also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other features include keyless entry and push-button start, Bluetooth, dual zone climate control, and safety features like Advanced Smart Cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and Lane Departure Warning.

Power will come from an improved version of the 3.3-liter V6 engine, which has been revised for better fuel economy and produces 290 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. The new transmission, and Kia’s first FWD eight-speed automatic, is very efficient and contributes to quick shifts and an overall captivating driving experience.

The 2017 Kia Cadenza should be at Jim Butler Kia in St. Louis, MO sometime this fall, so be on the lookout! We’ll be sure to remind you too!

Kia Takes A Leap Into Next Generation With Worldwide GT Models

Though typically known for their family-oriented model lineup, Kia is planning to take a leap into the next generation with slightly more aggressive and sporty GT versions of their mainstream vehicles. The company’s first GT model- the ProCeed GT- was sold exclusively in Europe in 2013, so those of us in the U.S. (and especially at Jim Butler Kia) are looking forward to this next line being sold globally.

Though GT is not a perfect fit for all Kia models, it will be for the Kia Optima. This Optima GT will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 242 horsepower. Additionally, it’s looking like a GT version of the Rio will be available, packing a three-cylinder turbocharged engine and rivaling the Ford Fiesta ST. Contrary to the Hyundai N division cars, these GT models are not built for the track. The main goal, according to performance boss, Albert Biermann, is to build cars that “drive as well as they look.”
Selling more than 626,000 vehicles in the U.S. just last year, Kia hopes to boost sales even further with the introduction of these GT models.

St. Louis Kia fans- get ready!

KIA Motors Experiences All-Time Sales High In Certified Pre-Owned Segment

Just this past June, KIA Motors was recognized by J.D. Power as the highest scoring nameplate of all 33 makes in the U.S. in the 2016 Initial Quality Study and in July, the company saw record-setting new-vehicle sales. This success has now been carried to pre-owned vehicles, as KIA Motors has experienced an all-time sales high in the Certified Pre-Owned segment over the summer of 2016.

Following an all-time high in June, a retail sales report by Autodata shows that Kia held a market share of three percent in Certified Pre-Owned sales in July- making this their second-strongest month in CPO sales ever. It is predicted that this trend isn’t slowing down either- in 2015, about 2.6 million CPO vehicles (across all brands) were sold and many are expecting these sales to hit nearly four million by the end of the decade.

Michelle Krebs, a senior analyst at AutoTrader stated “With household budgets squeezed, CPO vehicles represent a great opportunity for consumers, especially Kia customers who place such emphasis on affordability and value.”

To be considered as a Certified Pre-Owned, KMA requires the vehicle to be five years or newer with less than 60,000 miles. Additionally, the vehicle must pass a 150-point Quality Assurance inspection by a certified Kia technician.

Check out Kia pre-owned vehicles for yourself on our website or stop in and see us at Jim Butler Kia in St. Louis, MO!

Kia Offers UVO Upgrade To Late Model Year Vehicles

Kia Motors America is driven to provide customer satisfaction and they surely don’t fall short. The company recently announced they will be enabling owners of late model year vehicles- equipped with the UVO platform- to upgrade to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Eligible owners of these certain vehicles will have access to this free software update at the end of this month at www.myuvo.com. These vehicles include:

• Kia Forte (MY17)
• Kia Soul (MY14-16)
• Kia Soul EV (MY15-16)
• Kia Optima (MY15-16) 
• Kia Optima Hybrid (MY15-16)
• Kia Sedona (MY15-16)
• Kia Sorento (MY16)
• Kia Sportage (MY17)

Through Apple CarPlay, users have the ability to access the iPhone interface through the UVO infotainment system. Drivers can make phone calls, send and receive texts, utilize Siri voice control and get directions all while staying focused on the road. Similarly, Android Auto connects the user’s device- providing access to apps such as voice-guided Google Maps navigation, hands-free phone calls and text messaging, voice recognition and Google Play Music.

Managing Director Connected & Mobility Services, KMA, Henry Bzeih stated “With the advanced growth of telematics and infotainment systems, Kia is excited to offer to more of our customers the opportunity to have the latest software update for their vehicle free of charge via myuvo.com. Providing CarPlay and Android Auto to a greater number of vehicles in our lineup will revitalize our current owners’ systems with an additional element of convenience while maximizing the benefits of connectivity.”

As mentioned earlier, Kia Motors America is focused on customer satisfaction, just as Kia drivers should be focused on the road. This update ensures that. Call Jim Butler Kia if you have any questions and don’t hesitate to stop in to check out our lineup!