2021 Kia Optima Renamed K5 for the States, AWD is a Definite

When all of us on staff here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis receive inquiries from customers and cohorts about what's happening and what's around the corner in the auto realm, we've found that Car and Driver is a great source for details. They ran a feature on their blog this week describing the future of the Kia Optima and reported that they are now certain it will be renamed the K5. This Is due to the finding of an official document from the EPA that claims the Kia K5 could be used to match the name currently used by the model in Korea.

When the Car and Driver testing staff was giving the model a spin last year, the Kia rep that met up with them had hinted that this name change could occur down the road. Here in the states, the Optima has been available for four generations over two decades. The official EPA fuel-economy ratings first spotted by Motor Trend also definitely confirm the K5 will offer an all-wheel-drive option in the States. The single model officially listed has a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive.

This same engine cranks out 180 horsepower, and 191 lb-ft of torque, as it also does situate in the Hyundai Sonata Sedan, which does not yet offer AWD. We expect to hear some more solid details soon, and during our web search this week found Motor Trend claiming that the new model is definitely a “big leap forward in looks and tech”. We do at least know now that a performance GT will follow later in the year, and we have been very happy about just how much the Optima was a game-changer, helping put the brand we love to represent so much on many new buyers' radar.

The K5 also introduces “heartbeat lighting” at both ends of the car, squiggles of LED lights that resemble the readout on an EKG heart rate monitoring device. The rear LEDs provide an even more accurate replica of an actual heartbeat with spikes at each end, and a flat line in the middle that is a series of dashes that eventually shrink when they join in the center.

Designed with a very aggressive variant in mind, the K5 will boast new architecture developed under Albert Biermann, head of R and D and testing for the Hyundai Motor Group. As we have seen the overall popularity of trucks and SUVs rise drastically over the last decade, it is always exhilarating to witness the release of a new sedan. The K5 promises a solid connection to the road, top-notch handling and engineering, and the standard excellent warranty selection that we are known for being the best-in-show of worldwide!

2021 Kia Stinger GT Sighted Blasting Lines at Nurburgring by Motor1.com

Already receiving a refresh for 2021, the Kia Stinger GT was spotted at the famed Nurburgring track dutifully delivering its chops by the staff on hand at Motor1.com. They posted this video on their blog showing the skilled drivers putting the sedan heftily through its paces. It was still covered heavily in camouflage at the time, hiding many of the changes expected to be made to the model. The headlights and taillights are rumored to be receiving new graphics while tweaking the front-and-rear end designs.

 

This most likely also means revised intakes, reworked bumpers, and a tweaked look for the grille. Many of the online experts we have consulted here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis have suggested that the 2021 Kia Stinger GT will see a definite power bump. The twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 in the Stinger GT currently cranks out 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque, while the updated number allegedly makes 380 horsepower and 390 lb-ft. The regular Stinger could also likely be the recipient of Hyundai's new turbocharged 2.5-liter that cranks out 290 horsepower.

Another new feature should be a variable exhaust system to help adjust the engine's note. The model comes in rear-wheel-drive with the option to upgrade to all-wheel, and inside the analog switches will most likely be done with. The infotainment screen is expected to grow to 10.25 inches, and currently, July looks like when the official reveal will take place. This other video from Carbuzz.com shows the red Stinger that was spied being tested in Europe earlier this month. This one was fitted with quad exhaust outlets and was taking corners just as snugly as ever.

Now in its third year on the market, the Stinger turned a lot of heads when it first debuted in 2017 at the Detroit Auto Show, and a long-term test version of the 2018 Stinger had Autoblog editors thoroughly compelled and excited with its performance. The Stinger has surely risen to “legendary” status within Kia's lineup, snagging awards such as Best Engine from Wards, Best Interior from Wards, and a Top Safety Pick distinction from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It is gone head-to-head with models like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz E 400, and Porsche Panamera and managed to come out ahead in star-studded candor every time.

Adaptive seat bolsters may be on the list of new features for Kia to throw into the mix, which mimic a racing seat when sport mode is activated. When you come to visit us for a test drive you will be astonished at just how aggressive this car is: it is the kind of model that allows you to appreciate in-depth every little turn, crack, and corner with the capabilities of a true modern beast on the track!

2021 Kia Stinger's Additional Power, Other Additives Covered on Autoblog.com

In Germany this week, a few spy photographers from the Autoblog crew were able to capture shots of the 2021 KiaStinger testing on the roads of Germany under heavy camouflage to disguise the new changes the model has up its sleeve. This particular prototype is wearing extensive exterior and interior disguise, which leads us to think that both will receive updates as part of the 2021 makeover. It's hard to make out the fine details that we are so curious about here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, but we are still excited nonetheless to see what the surprises will be for our award-winning sedan.

 

Most of the rumors we have heard are currently ruling out the possibility of new engines, but the existing turbocharged 2.0-liter and 3.3-liter mills are expected to see some tuning for a little more kick. This is one of those models that allows you to fully celebrate and engage with the ways in which the driver connects to every curve in the road, and we're not talking about going the actual speed limit! We know that many out there in the world with massive love for the Stinger were holding out hope that the 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 from the new Genesis G80 sedan would be a welcome addition, cranking out 380 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque.

Although this engine may, unfortunately, not be part of the package, we still can't wait to see what our number for next year's update. The Stinger was so mind-blowingly sleek and sporty that it was immediately mentioned alongside the competition in the form of the A5 Sportback, 4-Series Gran Coupe, and the C-class sedan. As the staff of Car and Driver laid out earlier this year, “two eager engines, an athletic chassis, and communicative steering make the Stinger a car you thoroughly enjoy every day”, and proved it in a 40,000 mile long term-test.

For the current model, the GT Line now offers a Sun and Sound package that adds Premium's content and also comes with a sunroof, a larger 8.0-inch infotainment display, navigation, LED headlamps, and Harman/Kardon Stereo, power-adjustable steering column, ventilated front seats, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. One this test drive the Car and Driver staff also claimed that the rear seat is better than many cars in this class, and key safety features include standard blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert as well as lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist.

Hotcars.com Reveals Kia's New Dedicated EV's Final Confirmation for 2021 US Release

After leaving the entire industry on edge with a slew of electric concepts, Kia let their mid to long-term schemes be made public with the release of Plan S, the blueprint for the brand's electrification lineup. This past week the staff at Hotcars.com reported on the plans for the U.S. market, including a new dedicated battery electric vehicle. When Plan S was first made public in January, it was said that EVS would now be made more popular to the public, as well as expanding mobility.

As a very important part of this strategy, Kia said it will definitely see the launch of a dedicated BEV next year, leaving us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis among others guessing whether it would see and arrival in the States or not. Now there is no need to guess, based on a conversation between technology PR manager Neil Dunlop and long-range product strategy manager Steve Kosowski. The exciting and “super-charged” news is that Kia is not going to bring just one, but two electrified products starting late this year!

First up is a PHEV or dedicated plug-in hybrid EV. According to the experts over at Green Car Reports, it is on track to be offered solely as a plug-in model. You can see one concept image here, and check out the smaller-size and very futuristic looking appearance. Following that up is the previously touted BEV -our very first- that will boast a crossover design that pleasantly combines the boundaries between passenger cars, compact utility vehicles, as well as crossovers. This model is supposed to be the perfect combination of a sporty car and crossover. It will be underpinned by the E-GMP dedicated EV platform that Hyundai also uses.

This new EV architecture should allow for improvements in size and design element, and when it sees official launch should have a 20-minute charging time and range of 300 miles. As the world changes rapidly and traits such as charging time and range see expansion yearly, Kia is planning right now to launch 11 new EVs by 2025, with annual BEV sales of 500,000 units by the following year. While this seems ambitious, we have faith in the many talented men and women who are overseeing the production and development of the brand we loyally support.

 

From the edgy and raw sportiness of the Stinger to the sensible urban flair and practicality of the Soul, we guarantee there is a model in our current lineup that will perfectly meet your needs. The impressive-as-always Telluride has snagged more awards than we can count, and there are plenty of amazing options to tide you over for the present as we wait on the numerous changes we will see in the industry for the future!

The Drive Says of 2020 Kia Telluride: “No Getting Around the Fact that it's Stellar”

William Clavey of The Drive has had the opportunity over the years to test drive many capable, reliable, and high-tech cars and SUVS, and this past week produced an in-depth feature about the 2020 Kia Telluride. The first thing that he commented on was the overall delivery of the product, touting excitedly that this is “Something that will make you rethink Toyota and Honda ownership for good.” Everyone on duty here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis agrees with William here that the Telluride is our means of penetrating the lucrative segment of SUV ownership.

This “second take” for us arrives during an era when consumers just “can't get enough SUVs”, and when Korean brands are developing trust due to increased reliability and superior tech regarding the competition. We enjoyed the comparison of the Telluride with its width and boxiness being reminiscent of “a Korean interpretation of a Chevy Tahoe”. In a world where all 3-row mall finders look the same, the Telluride is the one that the kids will feel they look the coolest in after being dropped off at school!

With the new model seeing availability in front or all-wheel-drive, the Telluride is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-Liter V6 good for a claimed 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The zero to 60 mph sprint takes place in about seven seconds flat, and the towing ability goes up to 5,000 pounds. This puts it right at the core on par with competition such as the likes of the Honda Pilot, Volkswagen Atlas, Chevy Traverse, and Subaru Ascent. In comparison to the Palisade, it is said here that the Telluride has what is a more mainstream and laid-back vibe and is host to conventional analog gauges and gear lever instead of push-button gear selector.

Even though some may feel the presentation and functionality of the infotainment center is a bit on the simple side, the large colorful icons, quick-reacting screen, and redundant physical buttons are all worthy of praise for not over complicating things. The testing staff here recommends driving it hard for fun in Sport mode, where it remains surprisingly spongy and soft with bursts of high performance. The naturally aspirated V6 sees praise here for being smooth, quiet, and adequately tune for its intended daily use.

This is the first time that an SUV has won these three prestigious awards in one year:

·      2020 NACTOY Utility Vehicle of the Year

·      Motor Trend SUV of the Year

·      Car and Driver 10Best

Bringing these high-level accolades home as the ultimate trophy caps a year of unprecedented success for the brand we love so much to represent here every day, and heartily confirms our brand as among the best in the industry. It has also successfully been granted numerous “Best of” honors and top accolades from various other print, online, and video outlets.

Motor1.com Claims More Power, Variable Exhaust on the Way For 2021 Kia Stinger

Adrian Padeanu of Motor1.com admitted that he was pleased that Kia “dared to introduce a sporty liftback in an SUV-obsessed world”, and reported last week on the mid-cycle refresh taking place for the Stinger's 2021 release. A new report from South Korean magazine Top Rider claims that there will be quite a few changes for the new facelift. As far as the power department is concerned, the range-topping GT model will now put to use an upgraded version of the existing twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 engine.

Due to this step up, the output is expected to grow from the current 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque to 380 hp and 390 lb-ft. This pleasant jump in output will be also complemented by the company's very first implementation of a variable exhaust system with adjustable flaps to make changes to the piping sound. There are also slated to be redesigned front and rear bumpers along with a freshly updated look for the headlights. The taillights are on schedule to see a bit of tweaking as well and will be linked to one another by a full-width LED light bar that is now common on many recent models.

Everyone is wanting bigger and bigger as far as infotainment screens are concerned, and we understand the rage: the 2021 model will see a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system instead of the current 8-inch setup. There also may be the addition of adaptive headlights that turn with the wheel to light up the path into corners and seats featuring automatically adjusting side bolsters to hold drivers in place while in the exhilarating Sport mode. The staff hard at work on the Autoevolution blog claimed that the Stinger's “fastback shape is way cooler than your average sporty compacts like an STI or Golf R”, and claimed that track-oriented car fans should line up to “give Kia their money!”

This is the stellar and sleek sedan that all of us here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis recognize as the main competition against the likes of the Honda Accord as well as Toyota Prius, and there will also be a long list of safety features onboard such as Driver Attention Alert, Direct Collision Assistance, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Cross Traffic Alert.

Next year's Stinger is a car that was born to be nothing short of amazing and fiercely brandishes Dynamic Stability Damping Control with 5 modes, MacPherson front and multi-link rear suspension, Rack-mounted motorized power steering with 5 modes, and construction made up of 55% advanced high strength steel. There is still the most choosy and ride-focused car enthusiast out there that wants to walk out the door and grip the pavement with just that: A CAR. The Stinger offers up in a characteristic Kia manner what raw power and the crosstown rival feels and drives like: a number that you frankly just can't wait to hammer the throttle down in and get crazy with!

Kia Telluride Excitedly Named “World Car of the Year”

The “World Car of the Year” award is a highly esteemed and huge honor that recognizes the most significant new vehicle on the scene as determined by an international jury of automotive journalist judges. The Telluride that we are so excited about here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis added to its long list of honors by beating out the Mazda CX-30 and the Mazda3, which were previously announced finalists for the WCOTY award! In another win for Kia, the Soul EV was named World Urban Car of the Year, beating out the Mini Cooper SE and Volkswagen T-Cross.

Last year's honors were taken by the Jaguar I-Pace, and other previous honorees consist of the Volvo XC60, the Jaguar F-Pace, and the Mazda MX-5. The team that makes the decision consists of 86 jurors from 24 countries and runs as an independent organization not tied to any specific publication. This is the 16^th year for the awards to take place, and the amazing interior is just one of the fine qualities that boosted the Telluride to this soaring victory. This super cool video shows the details and a bit about what it feels like to sit in the range-topping SX trim level.

For starters, the host claims that immediately when you sit down, this feels more like an upper-end luxury vehicle than anything from the Honda or Toyota brands. He enjoyed the various accents of leather within the interior, and the large grab handles in the middle that are a bit reminiscent of what the Porsche line has to offer. The storage area by the cup holders is ideal for smartphones, and that's where you also find the wireless charging. There are also two USB ports in the back of the seat, and the 10.25” touchscreen looks fantastic perched on the dash.

Every Telluride does now come standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. On this top-of-the-line SX, there is a “driver talk” option that allows you to use a Bluetooth microphone to project your voice to the passengers in the rear. The host illustrates how comfortable the second-row captain's chairs are, and the rarity of heated and ventilated seats in the second row as well. He also happens to be 6 ft 3 and does a good job of depicting the available space and headroom in the way rear of the Telluride.

While sitting in the third row, the size of the windows also doesn’t make one feel quite as claustrophobic as in some 3-row models, a big plus when embarking on long journeys. We couldn’t be prouder of one of our favorite vehicles for yet another award-winning achievement, and hope that we can assist you to pick out this or any other Kia model to complement your growing family or business this spring! We appreciate the loyalty of our St Louis-area customers during good times as well as those that are more difficult and look forward to finding the perfect vehicle for you.