About.com Likes New KIA Forte

KIA FORTE NAMED TO ABOUT.COM “BEST NEW CARS OF 2010” LIST

Popular Kia Compact Sedan Honored by Esteemed Online Resource

Kia Forte tops highly competitive compact segment

Kia sedan offers consumers the entire package of standard safety features and cutting edge technology

IRVINE, Calif., January 13, 2010 – Recently named “Car of the Year” for 2010 by NADAguides.com, the 2010 Kia Forte sedan has been named to the “Best New Cars of 2010” list by popular online resource About.com. Forte was one of 12 vehicles selected by About.com for its attractive combination of high quality, extensive standard safety features and overall value.

“In today’s economy consumers are looking for an attractive, well-equipped vehicle at a great price point, and the stylish Forte sedan offers exactly that and more,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing of Kia Motors America (KMA). “Recognition from a widely referenced consumer site like About.com brings more attention and credibility to the progress of the Kia brand and consumers can expect to see more of our new signature design direction in the near future as we continue the largest product rollout in company history.”

Taking all new and redesigned vehicles for 2010 into consideration, About.com reviewed and selected the top 12 vehicles they felt best offered consumers an exceptional combination of value, style, quality, safety features and amenities.

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the Forte sedan starts at $13,695¹for the LX trim, while the EX begins at $15,995¹ and the SX starts at $17,495¹. In addition to competitive pricing, Forte comes well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, starting with a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service². Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as BLUETOOTH®³ wireless technology and connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible mobile phones.

In addition to offering affordability and standard amenities, Forte also showcases a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Visit Jim Butler's Forte Inventory Now!!

http://www.kiamedia.com/secure/corporate011310.html

Kiplinger's Personal Finance names KIA Optima and Sportage "Best New Models"

Midsize Sedan and Compact CUV Recognized for Upscale Amenities and Stunning Design
-- All-new Optima sedan recognized for high residual value and refined features
-- Sportage CUV selected for standard safety features and fuel efficiency

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 2, 2011 -- Already the recipients of several awards and accolades, the all-new 2011 Kia Optima and 2011 Sportage were both honored recently as "Best New Model" by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.  The Optima was named "Best New Car" in the $25,000-$30,000 category, while the Sportage was designated the "Best New Crossover" in the Small Crossovers category.  In addition, Kia Motors' funky urban passenger vehicle, the 2011 Soul, received a "Worth a Look" mention in the cars under $20,000 category.

"Earning 'Best New Model' awards from Kiplinger's Personal Finance for both the 2011 Optima and Sportage, as well as the 'Worth a Look' honor for Soul, reinforces the tremendous impact Kia Motors' design led transformation has had on our brand and product lineup," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America (KMA).  "With each new product launch Kia is adding world-class styling and emotion to our award-winning vehicles while remaining true to our core principles of design, quality, safety, technology, fuel efficiency and value."

Kiplinger's Personal Finance's annual Car Buying Guide recognizes vehicles in 11 categories, ranked by price, performance, safety, roominess and driving impressions.  Kia Motors' stylish and performance-oriented midsize sedan, the 2011 Optima, was selected as "Best New Car" in the $25,000 - $30,000 category for its stunning design, standard safety features, upscale amenities as well as its comfy, classy interior.  The Optima was also selected for providing consumers with a choice of three powerful and efficient powertrains, including the brand's first hybrid (available later this year).  Meanwhile, the 2011 Sportage compact CUV was selected "Best New Crossover" in the Small Crossover category for its sporty design and long list of standard convenience and safety features.  The Sportage was also selected for its combination of fun-to-drive performance and easy-on-the-wallet fuel economy.  In addition, the Soul's standout styling, interior space and overall value led to "Worth a Look" status in the cars under $20,000 category.

About the 2011 Kia Optima
Kia Motors' stylish midsize sedan advances the brand's design-led transformation with completely new and stunning design characteristics, highlighted by a dynamic and streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every angle.  The all-new Optima's three new powertrains – including the brand's first-ever turbo and hybrid engines (available later this year) in the U.S. – deliver a class leading combination of power(1) and fuel economy(2) while the sedan's spacious cabin is outfitted with the latest technology features and luxury amenities.  A recent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick," the 2011 Optima is available in three trims, LX, EX and SX(3), with a starting MSRP of $18,995.(4)
The 2011 Optima has earned numerous awards and accolades including a Consumer Guide Automotive "Best Buy" designation and Edmunds' InsideLine.com "Editors' Most Wanted(SM)" Award.  The 2011 Optima also had the highest increase in car shopper consideration following the Los Angeles Auto Show according to Edmunds.com.

About the 2011 Kia Sportage
The 2011 Sportage CUV offers image-, safety- and value-conscious consumers increased levels of performance and efficiency, comfort and convenience, the latest in-vehicle technologies incorporated into all of Kia's latest new vehicles and an abundance of standard safety features.  Retaining the functionality and versatility of the previous generation model, the 2011 Sportage also offers a sleek, modern and boldly styled package with new proportions and a completely new look.  A "2010 Top Safety Pick" by IIHS, the all-new CUV received top ratings from IIHS for front, side, rollover and rear impact protection.  Later this year, a new Sportage SX will arrive at retail showrooms featuring a powerful, efficient 2.0-liter, 256 horsepower Turbo GDI engine, unique exterior and interior features.  Available in Base, LX, EX and SX trims, the 2011 Sportage features a starting MSRP of $18,295.(5)Kia Motors' compact CUV has earned numbers awards and accolades, including "International Truck of the Year" by ICOTY jurors, Consumer Guide Automotive "Best Buy" designation and "Best Crossover" by Ruedas ESPN.

About the 2011 Soul
Available in four trims, Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport, pricing for the dynamic compact CUV begins at $13,300 for the base trim, offering standard convenience features, including air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service(6) and MP3 connectivity.

Soul has earned a trophy case full of prestigious awards and accolades since its launch, including earning a "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS, being a recipient of the "Best Family Cars for 2010" designation by Edmunds.com and Parents Magazine, recognized as "Best Hatchback of 2010" by Cars.com, and "Best New Car for Your Teen" by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.

Visit our Great Selection of 2011 KIA Vehicles NOW!

[Source: KIA Media]

2011 KIA Sportage gets a Turbo Engine Option!

AWARD WINNING 2011 SPORTAGE EXTENDS ITS PRODUCT OFFERING FEATURING SX TRIM WITH ALL-NEW FLAGSHIP ENGINE.

Sportage SX provides debut of 2.0L Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) producing power of a V6, while achieving outstanding fuel economy of a four-cylinder.

2011 Sportage will offer UVO infotainment technology powered by Microsoft®
Sportage offers standard technological and safety features expected on vehicles priced much higher

The all-new, completely redesigned 2011 Sportage lineup will be extended in late spring at Jim Butler KIA's showroom with the arrival of the all-new SX trim that features the all-new 2.0L Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) producing the power of a V6, while achieving the fuel economy of a four-cylinder engine. The Sportage SX also offers additional standard equipment and design that distinguishes the Sportage even further from any other vehicle in the segment or on the road.

The all new Sportage SX showcases Kia's remarkable styling, and offers enhanced driving performance, as well as an upscale and contemporary interior with an impressive array of standard technological features. "The addition of the SX package to the all-new 2011 Sportage further enhances our positive momentum on the vehicle while introducing a whole new dimension to both design and power including exception fuel economy", said Robert Staffieri, Marketing Director of Kia Canada Inc. "The Sportage SX completes our powertrain offering for the Sportage and the 2.0L Turbo GDI provides a high level of world-class technology."

Incorporating many of the key styling elements of the Kue concept, the Sportage proudly displays Kia's new signature design language, with dramatic swept back headlamps, signature family grille, and distinctive lower fascia treatment. The dynamically shaped hood, framed by a distinctive windshield design, adds to its bold flair.

SX Powertrain
The 2011 Sportage SX will offer the all-new 2.0L Turbo GDI engine which is a win / win / win technology that enhances power and fuel efficiency while at the same time reducing emissions. This is accomplished by injecting highly pressurized fuel directly into the cylinder (instead of intake tract) where a more complete combustion occurs resulting in the aforementioned benefits. A Twin-Scroll Turbocharger & Intercooler Turbocharging the 2.0L-T GDI greatly enhances power by forcing more air into the engine than would normally be possible. An intercooler cools the air for a denser, oxygen rich intake charge which results in even more power. The advanced 'Twin Scroll' turbo design greatly reduces turbo spool-up lag time and achieves a desirable early and flat torque curve. The introduction of the 2.0L Turbo GDI engine to the Kia lineup is extremely exciting and is intended to showcase Kia's dedication to developing and utilizing state-of-the-art technology in Kia's design-led vehicle evolution. Technology such as GDI and Turbo allow Kia to design vehicles that achieve top tier performance, produce fewer emissions and opens the door to extraordinary fuel economy numbers. These powertrains will be the staple to designing future vehicles that utilize this combination of impressive technology.

The Sportage SX will be coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission engineered and manufactured by Kia Motors which is one of the most compact and fuel efficient transmissions in the market today. This transmission boasts fully variable hydraulic line pressure control (improves fuel economy) and adaptive learning which actually 'learns' the driving style of the driver and custom tailors the shift points. In terms of durability, the new 6-speed automatic transmission adapts to normal internal wear by adjusting hydraulic pressure to maintain that 'like new' shift feeling throughout the lifetime of the vehicle. Also added is a new feature called 'Neutral Control (NC)' that effectively shifts the transmission into Neutral while stuck in traffic  that improves fuel economy. 'Neutral Control (NC)' works in conjunction with another feature called 'Hill Assist Control (HAC)' that prevents any rollback.

SX Standard Features
Building on the standard features found on the EX Luxury including Smart Key Push Button Start, Panoramic Sunroof, 18" Alloy wheels, Driver Ventilated Seat, UVO Infotainment System powered by Microsoft®, Premium Sound (7 speakers), Rear Spoiler, Deluxe Door Scuff, SX Leather Seating and Auto Dimming Mirror with Homelink.

UVO Infotainment System powered by Microsoft®
The 2011 Sportage SX will also include as a standard feature the UVO or "Your Voice" for short, infotainment system. UVO is an innovative and intelligent in-car communications and entertainment system that will also be available in select Kia vehicles starting this spring. UVO provides consumer friendly voice and touch-activated experiences for simple management of music files and hands-free mobile phone operation. Co-developed with Microsoft® and based on Windows Embedded Auto software, UVO is an easy-to-use, hands-free solution that allows drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from a variety of media sources and create custom music experiences.

Entire Sportage Trim Grades & Powertrains
The 2011 Sportage is offered in three trim grades: LX, EX and SX. The LX and EX trims are powered by the venerable 'Theta II Engine', a 176 horsepower, 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine, delivering more horsepower than the previous 2.0L I4 and 2.7-liter V6 engines. The Sportage offers either a 6-speed manual transmission (base) or a full featured 6-speed automatic transmission (all trims other than base). Fuel economy improvements of up to 12% highway and 21% city have been achieved depending on equipment levels on the 2011 Sportage with the 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine versus the outgoing model.

Standard Features
LX models come standard with an extensive list of convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, heated front seats, cruise control, tilt-adjustable steering wheel, height-adjustable driver's seat and keyless entry. Further increasing the level of refinement the EX models receive a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, telescopic steering wheel, and power driver's seat with lumbar support. Impressive technology features come standard on both trims, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service1. Also standard on both trims are auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting with MP3 players and Bluetooth®2 wireless technology connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls.

Safety Features
Like all Kia vehicles, the 2011 Sportage is equipped with a long list of standard safety equipment. All trims come outfitted with driver and passenger advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags, front active headrests, four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) w/ Traction Control (TC), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control (DBC). The Sportage also features 'Roll Over Prevention (ROP)' which is a passive system that helps prevent rollover accidents related to speed. A new to Kia feature is 'Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)' that passively monitors wheel traction, steering angle and g-force to ensure the vehicle is driving in the intended path, and if not, will assist the driver by mildly operating the steering wheel in the appropriate direction (through electrical motor).

The Sportage has also introduced motor driven power steering (MDPS) to the Kia lineup resulting in improved fuel economy by using an electric power steering motor instead of loading the engine with a hydraulic power steering pump.

Visit Jim Butler KIA's Website NOW!!!

[Source: KIA Media]

In the News-2011 KIA Optima honored "Best of 2011"!

2011 KIA OPTIMA HONORED AS "BEST OF 2011" BY CARS.COM

• All-New Eye-Catching Midsize Sedan Wins Top Award From Popular Online Automotive Resource
• Optima is latest result of Kia Motors' design-led transformation
• Cars.com praises the all-new 2011 Optima's design, premium amenities and for exceeding expectations

DETROIT, January 12, 2011 - Kia Motors America's (KMA) all-new stylish and performance-oriented midsize sedan, the 2011 Optima, continues to accumulate accolades, and its latest achievement is winning Cars.com's second annual "Best of 2011" award. Optima was selected for its sharp styling inside and out as well as its available luxury features, including heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and a panoramic sunroof.

"The 2011 Optima continues to gain recognition for its striking style and long list of available luxury features, and we fully expect it to be a driving force for the brand as we continue our aggressive design-led transformation," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "The 'Best of 2011' award from Cars.com is further evidence that people are taking notice of Kia's design-led transformation and the stunning design, exhilarating performance and tremendous value the all-new Optima adds to our exciting vehicle lineup."

Before selecting the "Best of 2011" awards, editors at Cars.com tested the more than 70 brand-new or redesigned cars released for model year 2011. Editors picked their top six before selecting the "Best of 2011." The all-new 2011 Optima beat out the BMW 5 Series, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Volt, Honda Odyssey and Nissan Leaf to earn this site's second annual award.

About the 2011 Kia Optima

The all-new 2011 Optima, which stars as the Official Vehicle of the NBA, advances Kia Motors' design-led transformation with completely new and stunning design characteristics, highlighted by a dynamic and streamlined profile that conveys elegance and athletic confidence from every angle. The all-new Optima's three new powertrains – including the brand's first-ever turbo and hybrid engines (available later this year) in the U.S. – deliver a class leading combination of power1 and fuel economy2 while the sedan's spacious cabin is outfitted with the latest technology features and luxury amenities. Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX3, the 2011 Optima features a starting MSRP of $18,9954.

A "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2011 Optima has earned numerous awards and accolades including a Consumer Guide Automotive "Best Buy" designation and Edmunds' InsideLine.com "Editors' Most WantedSM" Award. The 2011 Optima also had the highest increase in car shopper consideration following the Los Angeles Auto Show according to Edmunds.com.

Safety-Minded

The 2011 Optima is equipped with a high level of standard safety features, as is the rest of the Kia line-up. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.

The 2011 Optima is covered by KMA's warranty program5, 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 anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage.

2011 Kia Motors America Product Line

Kia's model year 2011 vehicle line includes the Sorento CUV, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio sub-compact sedan, Rio5 sub-compact hatchback and Sedona minivan.

Visit Jim Butler KIA in Chesterfield Valley or check out our 2011 Optima Inventory Online!

1 HP claim based on comparison of 2010 and available 2011 midsize sedans with standard 4-cylinder engine as of December 2010. Maximum horsepower for Optima 2.4L GDI engine is 200 hp @ 6,300 rpm; maximum horsepower for Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) 2.4L GDI engine -- the only non-turbo engine available in CA, CT, ME, MD, MA, NJ, NM, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT and WA -- is 192 hp @ 6,300 rpm.
2 MPG claim for LX manual transmission. EPA estimate for 2011 Kia Optima LX 2.4L GDI engine w/MT are 24 mpg/city and 35 mpg/hwy. Claim based on comparison as of December 2010 of 2010 and available 2011 EPA city/hwy mpg estimates for midsize sedans with I4, nonhybrid engines. Actual mileage may vary.
3 SX model will be available later this year.
4 Starting price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRPs exclude $695 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.
5 See retailer or go to kia.com for warranty details.


[Source: KIA Media]

2011 KIA OPTIMA is at Jim Butler KIA in Chesterfield!

We'd like to announce the arrival of the next great KIA, the All-New 2011 KIA Optima!

Sleek design, loads of technology, efficient body lines and powertrain, all at an affordable price. Jim Butler KIA is located in Chesterfield Valley and we stock over 100 KIAs. We are proud to announce the NEW 2011 KIA Optima.

The 2011 Optima isn't just a redesign, it is a completely new car that takes a huge step forward for the KIA brand. The features in this vehicle are endless, and the quality is unsurpassed. The vehicle is assembled in KIAs Alabama plant, and is one of the most advanced automotive production facilities in the U.S.. It will definitely be an award winner, not just for it's great safety features but for it's unique design and innovation.

Click here to checkout our inventory!

Next Innovation-Future 2011 KIA Optima Hybrid!!

During the LA Auto Show, KIA unveiled the 2011 KIA Optima Hybrid!! Read the official KIA press release below.

 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Will Offer Class-Leading Estimated 40 mpg Highway Fuel Economy Blended with Technology, Efficiency and Design

•  New Optima iteration utilizes state-of-the art lithium polymer battery for increased fuel efficiency
•  Addition of hybrid model continues Kia's dramatic brand transformation

IRVINE, Calif., November 17, 2010 - As the latest model in Kia's design-led transformation, the all-new 2011 Optima midsize sedan lineup expanded today with Kia Motors America's (KMA) introduction of the all-new Optima Hybrid at the Los Angeles Auto Show. With a stunning design, roomy interior, and an estimated 40 mpg class-leading fuel efficiency, Kia's first-ever hybrid in the U.S. will attract those looking for a striking and well-equipped sedan that does not sacrifice style, comfort, performance or value for fuel efficiency. Set to hit showrooms early next year, the Optima Hybrid employs a Kia-developed powertrain that includes several innovations that enable it to provide exceptional hybrid performance and efficiency.


"Kia Motors is aggressively expanding its green car investments and R&D in much the same way we committed ourselves to the quality and design innovations over the last decade that have fueled our dramatic brand transformation," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "By adding our first-ever hybrid in the U.S. to the Optima lineup we are providing consumers with three powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain choices, and continuing Kia's philosophy of offering stylish, value-packed vehicles with outstanding fuel efficiency."


The 2011 Optima Hybrid uses a full parallel hybrid system and can be driven in zero emission, full-electric drive mode at speeds up to 62 miles per hour or in blended gas-electric mode at any speed. When the car comes to a stop and the electrical load is low, the engine shuts off to completely eliminate idle fuel consumption and emissions.


Durable Lithium Polymer Battery


The 2011 Optima Hybrid's outstanding efficiency is due in large part to the use of a lithium polymer battery, which was developed in South Korea with partner LG Chem. The power and energy density of this new battery type allowed Kia engineers to create a lighter and more compact battery pack, with the 30 kilowatt battery pack weighing just 95.9 pounds – 28 pounds less than the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid's nickel metal hydride pack – which aids fuel economy and also helps to maximize Optima's cargo space.


The Optima Hybrid's battery will hold its charge up to 25 percent longer than hybrids with nickel metal hydride batteries, so the battery is more likely to have usable energy available even if it has not been in use. Both fuel consumption and emissions are cut, allowing more electric starts and drive-aways. With that improved efficiency, more of the recovered kinetic energy and charging energy from the engine is available to move the car as necessary, which allows the vehicle to provide electric driving assist more often and for a longer period. Lithium polymer also has less of the self-discharge characteristic found in most rechargeable batteries.


Unique Hybrid Architecture


Unlike most current systems on the market, the Optima Hybrid powertrain is configured with a unique architecture. Compared to the power-split hybrid systems found on vehicles from Toyota or Ford, the Optima Hybrid uses a Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED) layout with the electric motor separated from the transmission gear-set. Offering several advantages, this modular layout includes more efficient powertrain packaging, use of many "off-the-shelf" components such as the existing six-speed automatic transmission found on the 2.4-liter GDI Optima, and reduced engineering investment. This also allows for other possible future combinations including the application of more powerful motors and higher capacity batteries.


The Optima Hybrid also is among the first full hybrid systems on the market to use a typical step-ratio automatic transmission. The extremely compact six-speed automatic that debuted on the 2011 Kia Sorento CUV is carried over to the hybrid largely unchanged. An external electrically-driven oil pump also has been added to provide the hydraulic fluid pressure needed to keep the clutches engaged when the vehicle is in idle stop mode.


The Optima Hybrid's electric motor is hard-coupled to the input of the transmission and equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous electric traction motor that produces 40.2 horsepower (30 kilowatt) and 151.2 pound-feet of torque when electric only, and an impressive 206.2 horsepower and 195.4 pound-feet of torque when in hybrid mode. This replaces the torque converter, with a multi-disc clutch is fitted between the engine and motor, enabling the gasoling engine to be de-coupled from the powertrain for idle stop and electric drive modes. Employing this layout allows the entire package, including a torsional damper, to fit virtually within the same area as the traditional torque converter.


Another unique component of the Optima Hybrid is the Hybrid-Starter-Generator (HSG). This 8.5 kilowatt starter motor-generator is belt-driven off the Theta II engine and operates at the same 270 volts as the electric traction motor and the lithium polymer battery, but does not provide any tractive effort to the vehicle. In its place, the HSG is used only to start the engine and then to charge the hybrid battery.


One of the main benefits of the hybrid electric powertrain provides is the capability to recover energy lost during braking and store it for use during acceleration and cruising, so when the brake pedal is applied, the engine is decoupled from the traction motor and gives no drag on the vehicle. The motor is then used as a generator to recharge the hybrid battery. Converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy rather than thermal energy through the friction brakes also reduces the wear on the brake linings so they last longer. When conditions require emergency stopping or driving on hills, the extra reliance on regenerative braking allows for the brakes to be more effective.


The Optima Hybrid uses an electronically controlled brake system to determine the driver's braking needs based on the degree of pedal application, which is then converted to a total brake torque requirement. The hybrid system control then detects the current level of battery charge, vehicle speed and other conditions to determine how much regenerative braking is possible under current circumstances. The brake control system then receives the maximum regenerative braking level to manage the friction braking torque so that total net torque is equal to the driver's needs.


Like all other 2011 Optimas, the hybrid uses an Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system that instantly provides boost and only when it is needed during steering maneuvers. Reducing the extra weight compared to an engine-driven hydraulic assist, the EPAS is independent of the engine and also provides assistance when the engine is not running, such as during idle stop or electric drive mode.


The Optima Hybrid also features an electrically-driven air conditioning compressor so that climate control can be maintained even when the engine is off. Like electric power steering, the electrically-driven air conditioning compressor allows for more precise on-demand control reducing the overall load on the powertrain, cutting fuel consumption.


Taking advantage of the instant and continuously available torque from the electric motor, Kia engineers modified its popular 2.4-liter Theta II engine to operate on an Atkinson cycle, raising the compression ratio by 20 percent to maximize its efficiency and achieving a 10-percent fuel saving over a regular Theta engine. This cycle generates a little less torque, but the electric motor compensates for any loss and consequently, the Optima Hybrid's overall power and torque outputs are greater than the regular model.


With the Optima also weighing in as one of the lightest cars in the segment, high performance and outstanding fuel efficiency are a natural result. The lightweight architecture of the new Optima platform, combined with the lightweight lithium polymer battery pack, brings the Optima Hybrid in at just 3,490 pounds, 230 pounds lighter than the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid.


Beyond the Optima Hybrid's innovative powertrain, Kia's engineers addressed all aspects of vehicle efficiency including aerodynamics and rolling resistance. The Optima Hybrid features unique exterior aero refinements, a lower ride height, an active air flap system, lower drag wheels, and underbody aero tuning to reduce drag, while low rolling resistance tires also help increase efficiency. The Optima Hybrid's drag coefficient is an exceptionally low 0.26, among the best in the world.


The end result of the Optima Hybrid's highly-efficient powertrain, low-rolling resistance tires, and clean aerodynamic signature is truly exceptional highway fuel efficiency, the best of any mid-size hybrid sedan in the market.


In addition to offering consumers class-leading fuel economy, the 2011 Optima Hybrid also delivers high level of style, comfort and refinement. Ensuring Kia's newest addition stands out from the crowd, the hybrid model has unique features to it, including front grille design, 16-inch alloy wheel design, headlamp design, fog lamps, heated outside mirrors, chrome accents on exterior door handles, front and rear lower bumpers and side sills, LED tail lamp design and a rear lip spoiler.


In addition to the extensive list of standard convenience features and stylish appointments found on the well-equipped Optima LX A/T trim, consumers opting for the Hybrid will enjoy additional standard features, including, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, dual zone automatic temperature control with rear vents, push-button start with smart key, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, automatic up/down on front windows, chrome interior door handles, glove box illumination, rear reading lamps, and fixed rear seats with ski pass-through. Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS), standard on the Optima Hybrid, plays a pre-recorded engine sound during electric-only operation to notify people outside the vehicle that it is approaching.


The 2011 Optima Hybrid also offers a Premium Technology Package, key features include a panoramic sunroof, unique 17-inch alloy wheel design, four-way power adjustable front passenger's seat, driver's seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, HID headlamps with automatic leveling, leatherette-wrapped center fascia, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink™ and compass, a navigation system with back-up camera and SIRIUS Traffic™1, and an eight-speaker Infinity®2 audio system.

Safety-Minded


The 2011 Optima Hybrid is equipped with a high level of standard safety features, as is the rest of the entire Kia line-up. This includes six airbags3 (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a Brake Assist System (BAS) and Hill Assist Control (HAC) also are standard.


Competitive Warranty


The entire 2011 Optima lineup is covered by KMA's 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 anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle 
coverage.


www.JimButlerKia.com
[Source:KIA Motors]

Edmunds rates Top 10 New Cars under $15k -2010 Forte Tops List

KIA FORTE AWARDED EDMUNDS.COM CONSUMERS’ TOP RATED® VEHICLE AWARD

Forte is Top-Rated Sedan by Consumers in “Under $15,000” Category

• Kia compact sedan recognized for high owner satisfaction
• Forte lauded for style, abundant features and overall value

IRVINE, Calif., June 3, 2010 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the 2010 Kia Forte compact sedan has been named the top-rated sedan under $15,000 in the Edmunds.com Consumers’ Top Rated®¹ vehicle awards for 2010. Forte earned strong marks for its excellent overall value, wealth of standard features, being one of the best-looking small cars on the market and most fun-to-drive vehicles in its class.

"As one of several new vehicles to roll out under Kia’s exciting new design direction, accolades such as this Edmunds.com award, which provides feedback directly from owners, are evidence of Kia’s commitment to consumers by offering vehicles with the content buyers want without breaking the pocketbook,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. “Forte offers buyers a youthful and dynamically styled vehicle with an impressive array of standard safety features, and being honored as a top-rated sedan under $15,000 by consumers furthers its position as a top contender in its segment and a vehicle that offers the entire package.”

Available in three trims, LX, EX and SX, pricing for the Forte sedan starts at $13,695 for the LX trim, while the EX begins at $15,995 and the SX starts at $17,495². In addition to competitive pricing, Forte also showcases a class-leading combination of standard safety features with active front headrests, advanced two-stage airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS), brake assist (BAS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), electronic stability control (ESC), a traction control system (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

All Forte models also come well-stocked with a long list of standard amenities, starting with a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capabilities with three months complimentary service³. Also standard on all models is an auxiliary audio input jack and USB port for connecting personal MP3 players as well as Bluetooth®⁴ wireless technology and connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, which enables hands-free operation for all compatible mobile phones.

To determine the winners of the 21 vehicle categories, Edmunds.com invited owners to use the Consumer Ratings and Reviews feature, where they are able to evaluate their new or used vehicles in eight different categories, including performance, comfort, fuel economy, driving impressions, interior design, exterior design, build quality and reliability. Top-rated vehicles are those that received the highest average rating from visitors as of April 28, 2010.

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[Source: Kia Media]