Road Show Staff After 2020 Kia Seltos First Drive: “This Little SUV Will be Big”

As far as the world of crossover SUV's is concerned, competition is one driving factor that results in the highest of quality, and it's no secret that customers sure do have a wide variety of crossover SUV's to choose from right now. The staff on duty at Road Show provided a close-up focus on the new Kia Seltos this past week after testing, and immediately reflected that it is going to be at the head of successful competition rankings for the Honda HR-V.

The Seltos fits into our Kia lineup right between the fun-and-funky Soul and Niro, flaunting a center-locking differential and all-wheel drive on the offense. The 103.5-inch wheelbase is two inches longer than the Soul, and the Seltos' tall, upright nose and border of black trim around the base make it look very poised and ready for action. The busiest and most noticeable feature is the leading edge, and the trademark Kia “tiger-nose” grille that we have come be so familiar with. The entire array of lighting is much different than the Telluride's which are simple and clean: on the Seltos the multiple inset LEDs and 3-D effect evoke a much more futuristic vibe overall.

The team from Road Show rendered the inside as having plenty of headroom and legroom and loved the reclining heated seats in the second row. Front seats are ventilated, and well-covered in your choice of real or artificial leather or fabric. For infotainment accessibility, you can choose from an 8-inch or 10.2 capacitive touchscreen, running an updated version of Kia's UVO system featuring higher-resolution mapping and choice of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.  As far as safety, the Seltos roars out strong with six airbags and other passenger-harboring goodies such as automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise.

With the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, the testing crew had no trouble at all merging quickly on the interstate, and they also enjoyed the responsiveness from the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The crew was driving the new Seltos over many bumps and potholes in South Korea, and the ride quality with the car's 18-inch wheels was way beyond satisfactory. As far as typical domestic errands such as school runs and weekend trips, they admit that the Seltos seems perfectly suited.

Although some are under the impression that the car was only meant for the Korean market, all of us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis think that Kia will choose to bring it on over to American shores. With consumers wanting the best in safety features, technology offerings, and specialized size of SUV that perfectly meets their needs, everything about the Seltos aligns with the busy parent, growing business, or career-minded young professional!

2021 Kia Sorento Navigates the Famous Nurburgring Via Motor1.com Spy Video

Anthony Alaniz of Motor1.com is no stranger to spy shots, and the latest batch he doled out via the blog to the masses featured the next-generation Kia Sorento. He provided video footage of the Sorento's recent bout of extensive testing at the infamous Nurburgring track as it flaunted its chops vigorously. Not much is known at this point about how the Sorento's design will change for its fourth generation, and even with it still being under camouflage, it looks like some elements of luxury are added while not sharing too many traits with its sibling Telluride.

During this video, you get to enjoy the tires squealing for grip through the corners, and wonder exactly what kinds of engines will be situated under the new hood. The current model Kia offers the 3.3-liter V6 and 2.4-liter inline-four, cranking out 290 and 185 horsepower respectively. Most experts in the industry agree that hybrid and plug-in hybrid are options that the next-generation will see as well. We are expecting the 2021 Sorento to boast a fully digital instrument cluster, larger infotainment system, and brand-new switchgear. All of us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis are beyond excited to see the performance level the Sorento Displayed on the track: acceleration particularity at the bottom of third gear is ripe, responsive, and the driver does a fantastic job on the challenging hard rights.

Also snagging the title of “2019 Best 3-Row SUV for the Money” from U.S. News, the combination of both value feature and quality brandishing one of the nicest interiors hands down among the competition were helps. A very cushioned ride, user-friendly infotainment system, and quality available driver assistance features are other traits that have rendered the Sorento one of the best buys out there. Family-focused buyers will recognize its stellar value due to the low base price and reliability ratings, and as a better alternative to foes such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.

The Sorento seats seven passengers in three rows, and there are two full sets of LATCH child-seat connectors onboard. Max capacity for cargo is 73 cubic feet with both rear rows folded, which gives you enough space to transport some furniture items or recreational outdoor gear. Standard features in the Sorento currently include Bluetooth, a USB port, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker audio system, and the UVO infotainment system with 7-inch touchscreen. After a back-to-school season test drive, make sure you inquire about other available features that will spice up the Sorento to its fullest potential such as a panoramic sunroof, satellite radio, wireless phone charging, navigation, and larger 8-inch touch screen! 

Motor1.com Confirms Work Has Begun on Pickup Truck: Future Beyond a Prototype

Kia's Damien Meredith officially confirmed this past week that “work has begun” on a pickup that will be designed to compete directly with mid-size options from Ford and Toyota. The Chief Operating Officer for Australia also claimed that this pickup is scheduled to arrive Down Under within 3 or four years. It is not expected to be a “Lifestyle vehicle” like the Hyundai Santa Cruz or Honda Ridgeline, and Meredith also claimed that “What we've requested is the full gambit”.

Even though the report was confirmed for Australia, anything's possible, and all of us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis are excited about the potential for a truck to join the ranks of our product line. When the Hyundai Santa Cruz was announced, the industry stopped firmly in its tracks and paid attention. The pickup truck market is one that is widely-known for buyers who are among the most loyal, and we already know that the brand we love to represent every day so much is heralded for successfully challenging the status quo. Drivers who have a preference for the smooth ride of a unibody vehicle and practical utility of a truck would be excited about an option offered up by Kia for the truck segment.

The engine type in the 2020 Kia Telluride is a naturally-aspirated 3.8-liter V6, and it likely a hint that Kia plans to use it for ambitions within the truck realm. Instead of letting the turbocharged 4-cylinder do the job or even the 3.3-liter V6 that is in the Sorento, this choice of bigger engine yields much higher torque flares. It would be wise to have an engine that will have a focus on towing, boosting the Telluride greatly in terms of being an ideal platform to incorporate for building out a truck.

Earlier this year on the Friendly Kia official blog, you can see some mock-ups of the past that could look a bit like what this newly announced model could look like. Rugged styling and distinctively off-road vibes could be two main features that would help this new model not fall into the ranks of a “typical” family crossover without character. It may not have to be as hardcore as it gets as far as off-road ability, but it would be appreciated if it could climb rutted roads better than the soccer mom's usual choice of vehicle. If a midsize variant with unique styling backed by our industry-leading warranty can come the way of the States within the next few years, we guarantee a home-run hit: we'll keep you posted here on the blog about any developments and final ETA!

Motortrend Doles Out Praise to the Kia Niro EV For “Making It Easier Than Ever to go Electric”

As we have listened to many customers' needs here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, we can heartily agree that for a significant portion of Americans, an electric car has just not made that much sense. An in-depth feature from the experts at Motor Trend this week states off the bat that “they don't want to hear your excuses about range, performance, or charging infrastructure”. Their particularly high grade of praise for the 2019 Kia Niro begins with the important sentient that the Niro is shockingly fun to drive, with absolutely no pun intend

Seasoned car writer Christian Seabough claimed that as he often nailed down the throttle, the Niro which is good for 201 hp and 291 lb-ft of torque really hunkers down on its rear haunches and launches forward instantly. Unlike a hybrid that has the power derivative backed by a CVT, the power in an electric car such as the Niro is readily available at every second. The very latest batch of EVs are capable of going farther on a full battery than ever before, and the Kia just happens to be the best in class boasting a range of 239 miles.

If you are a buyer without a charger at home, this range can allow many daily commuters to go through a week without charging, which has drastically changed the face and future of electric vehicles for good. Google Maps has recently added a feature that lets you search for EV charging stations nearby, and will tell you how many spots are up for grabs. Electrify America is a subsidiary of Volkswagen that is now constructing a level 2 and level 3 fast charger network across the nation, and they are slated to be compatible with ChargePoint.

As driving range has grown exponentially, so has charging speed. On a level 3 charger, a full charge from empty on the Niro EV takes just a bit more than an hour, and use of a Level 2 takes around 9.5 hours. When you visit us for a test drive ask us which trim level we think will best fit your needs: EX and EX Premium offer different features for different lifestyles. Standard content includes passive entry with push-button start, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, automatic climate control, and driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, lane-centering steering assist, and a blind-spot warning.

The Premium trim adds LED head – and taillights, a sunroof, leather front seats that are heated and ventilated, an 8.0-inch center touchscreen, and Harman/Kardon stereo. Doing away with stopping at the pump will make many cheerfully embrace the automotive assets of the future, and realize that the benefits of tomorrow already exist today!

Gear Patrol Praises 2020 Kia Soul for “Style, Fuel Economy, and Versatility”

With the crossover SUV craze in full swing the last few years, we would have to heartily agree with Lawrence Ulrich of Gear Patrol with the sentiment that Detroit automakers have seemed to ignore the rewards of creating an affordable, versatile, yet distinctive small car. Since 2009, the Kia Soul has sold more than 1 million units around the globe, and it's easy to see why. The 2020 model continues the Soul's transformation into a bit more of a grown-up crossover without reworking its originally successful formula: a space maximized for cargo and passengers, and design with attention to even the tiniest details.

The staff on duty at Gear Patrol enjoyed the quality and look of the very slim new headlamps, aptly perched underneath a hood that is a bit like what you'd find on the outback-capable and very distinct Range Rover. Inside, the etchings on genuine metal front-door trim do a good job of catching natural light, which makes them appear as if they were lit up from below. Lawrence reflected that this is a touch even Lexus or Audi would be proud to claim, as extreme upper-end prowess and distinction still are evoked in cars such as this designed for the budget-minded.

With rear seats raised or folded flat, you'll see 24-and 62 cubic feet of storage, much more than similar subcompact crossovers. The Soul actually doubles the Mazda CX-3's cargo space behind the second row, and boasts 50 percent more overall capacity, even though it's 3.1 inches shorter than the Mazda. Up from 5.9 inches on last year's model, ground clearance now resides at 6.7 inches. Fans of the manual transmission have been a little frustrated as of late: there have not been many recent offerings that cater to their wants. The Soul LX trim level offers the six-speed manual stick shift, and all other trim levels sport the Intelligent Variable Transmission.

The engine on deck is a new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that runs on the fuel-saving Atkinson cycle,

with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This is the replacement for not just the 1.6-liter that powered the previous starter model, but the older 2.0-liter that was situated at 164 hp output. High gains are also made in the all-important Fuel economy category, to 29/35 mpg in city and highway, and a 3.4 mpg jump over the old 2.0-liter. The testing crew opted for the tough streets of Brooklyn to try out the all-new platform and suspension geometry and noticed a smart fit, less road noise, as well as a stress-free and practical infotainment system. Here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, we pride ourselves on autos that offer up the best in warranty options, newest and greatest safety features, and stellar reviews such as this one!

2021 Kia Sorento Spy Shots Portray Sleeker and More Distinctive Look

The stylish crossover SUV that Car and Driver claimed is a “solid 3-row player with impressive flexibility” was just spotted being thoroughly tested on the Nurburgring track. For the 2021 model, there is a higher beltline, noticeably sleeker greenhouse, and shared powertrain with the Hyundai Santa Fe. The way that the D-pillar and C-pillar window stick up makes it look a bit like a shark's fin, and the rear hatch boasts a more raked stature than the current model. You can also make out thinner headlights that flow into a wide grille, and signature faux skid plates at the front and rear.

There has not been an official presentation of the interior yet, but we expect a large touchscreen and a wide variety of tech and active-safety features. With plenty of cargo space and seating for up to seven, the third row began to come standard with the 2019 model, and a five-seat option may return for 2021. This model is expected to ride on the Santa Fe's platform, and use a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter inline-four and a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four for engine selection. Front-wheel-drive will be standard with all-wheel-drive as an option, and an 8-speed automatic is likely to be the sole transmission.

With a very long standard equipment list and a warranty that is simply unbeatable, the Sorento is one of the most valuable stars of the show on a daily basis here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis! The upscale SX will always be our prime pick due to its sensible blend of value and features. The 3.3-liter V-6 is standard on SX models, as well as a panoramic sunroof, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, leather upholstery with power-adjustable heated front seats, and a 10-speaker Harman/Kardan stereo.

We are still expecting the Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes to be integrated into the 2021 Sorento, and this year's 8-speed automatic nailed down a 26-MPG result on a 200-mile highway fuel-economy test. As safety features become more and more amazing every year, they are truly the element that is paving the way to autonomous driving in the future. We expect the same automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist to be on board the 2021 model just for starters. The absolute best powertrain warranty in the industry is what we have always been proud to offer: 10 years or 100,000 miles including 5 years of roadside assistance is a solid foundation that will bring you peace of mind every single time you hit the road!

2020 Kia Soul Earns “Top Safety Pick +” Rating Via IIHS

As families prepare for the festive fireworks and picnics with abundant holiday food this 4^th of July week, many cars will be loaded up for the day with a full load of fun-seeking cargo. The further out of the city you may venture in your travels, thoughts drift to safety in the long run. The vehicle that you pick to get you to your holiday destination is one that should provide you with the newest tech features and comfort, while also protecting you in every way possible. The completely redesigned 2020 Kia Soul has now been tested by the IIHS, and the results are off the charts!

Our favorite subcompact crossover here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis earned the absolute highest rating of “Top Safety Pick +”, which is even higher than the previous generation's Top Safety Pick Rating. There is now an improved passenger-side small overlap crash test result, and the Soul also gets the top “Superior” rating in the category of forward collision prevention. This system has the ability to stop the car completely before a collision at speeds up to 25 MPH. Automatic emergency braking is available as a standard feature on S, EX, and GT-Line models, and the system that provides pedestrian detection is available as a standard feature on the upscale and quite awesome turbocharged GT-Line.

Headlight performance came in as “Good” for models with LED headlights, which also helped give the Soul the Top Safety Pick + rating, proving once again that Kia spends such a very large amount of time during research and development to assure that the finished product is one that you can put every ounce of faith in to protect you and your family. The 2020 Soul has stylishly updated the hatchback's boxy look and holds on to the value, quirky personality, and other qualities that make it practical among its competition. The roof now has a “floating” look with the Soul logo dividing the back pillar, and there are plenty of cool contrasting colors to check out within all of the available trim levels!

The very tall interior feels open and roomy, with ample headroom and high chairlike seating. The rear seat is truly a giant step above the rest for a subcompact, with plenty of head and legroom, and a very comfortable seatback angle for full-size passengers. The 2020 model boasts roomier center console storage, and a super cool phone space with wireless charging pad underneath. Ask us about the touchscreen available on the EX and GT-Line Turbo: the 10.25-inch widescreen system has new software and navigation, and maintains a reputation of being among the easiest multimedia systems to use in the industry. You can compare all of the features of the 2020 Soul trim levels here, and get an idea of which of these top-ranked and personality-rich SUV's will be yours!