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2017 SPORTAGE NAMED “BEST NEW COMPACT SUV” BY CARS.COM

2017 Sportage SX Turbo 2WD
2017 SPORTAGE NAMED “BEST NEW COMPACT SUV” BY CARS.COM
01/05/17 | ID: 12161
  • Innovative Packaging, Premium Materials and Value Take Sportage to the Head of the Class
  • Sportage also nominated for esteemed Cars.com Best of 2017 Award
IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 5, 2017 — The 2017 Sportage, the fourth generation of Kia Motors America’s longest running nameplate, is considered the best in its segment as Cars.com has named it the “Best New Compact SUV” of 2017. With the honor, the Sportage is also in the running for the “Best of 2017” Cars.com award. “With all of the improvements made for the 2017 model year, it’s hard to ignore the Sportage” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning KMA. “Instead of bland utility, the Sportage combines distinctly European and sporty styling with an impressive level of craftsmanship and surprising features, all for an excellent value. To be recognized by the experts at Cars.com as ‘Best Compact SUV’ and as a ‘Best Of’ nominee represents how far the Kia brand has come in its continued commitment to world-class quality and top-notch design.” The 2017 Best of Awards is the annual show Cars.com hosts in Detroit during the North American International Auto Show. This year's categories include Best of 2017, Best Pickup Truck of 2017, Eco-Friendly Car of the Year, Family Car of the Year, Luxury Car of the Year and Play Car of the Year. Each car represented on the list excels in three key criteria; quality, innovation and value. All vehicles are 2017 models and Best of 2017 nominees must be all-new or fully redesigned. “It's hard to overstate how far Kia has come in the last 15 years: The South Korean brand has steadily refined its lineup while adding features that wouldn't be out of place in a luxury vehicle. The redesigned 2017 Sportage compact SUV continues that trend with its distinctive styling, a roomy interior, easy-to-use technology and upscale available features,” said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com editor-in-chief. “The SUV segment is booming and compact SUVs are especially hot. That field is extremely competitive, but the new Sportage is well positioned to challenge them — and win.” The all-new 2017 Sportage, an IIHS Top Safety Pick + – when equipped with optional front crash prevention – wraps a contemporary design around a structure that is both stiffer and more spacious than ever before. Advanced driver assistance technologies, significant suspension and steering improvements, and available intelligent AWD improve the Sportage’s driving dynamics while premium materials create a class-up experience in an otherwise utilitarian segment. The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four found on the FWD SX Turbo makes 240 horsepower (237 on AWD models) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, while LX and EX trims use a normally aspirated 2.4-liter engine that produces 181 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque.
About Kia Motors America Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. Recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands and 50 Best Global Green Brands by Interbrand, Kia proudly serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including cars and crossovers built at North American manufacturing plants in West Point, Georgia* and the municipality of Pesqueria in the state of Nuevo Leon, Mexico.  

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Blue 2021 Kia Soul

2020 SOUL OVERVIEW

Next-Generation Soul Strikes Back With Forward Design, Modern Tech, and More Diverse Model Lineup Iconic shape and profile evolve on top of all-new platform Technologically advanced cockpit designed to provide visceral musical experience New 2.0-liter engine and available IVT transmission combination Available 10.25-inch wide display2 and available Head-Up Display2 play up Soul’s high-tech image New “GT-Line” models and “X-Line” adds more visual and performance excitement to Soul family SAN DIEGO, Calif., Feb 20, 2018 – All-new and funkier than ever, the 2020 Soul is a completely new yet familiar version of Kia’s beloved and award-winning urban runabout. Taking everything that helped popularize the quirky, unconventionally styled subcompact, Kia Motors poured more of its soul into nearly every inch of the vehicle, resulting in a third-generation that continues to transcend unmatched style, peppy performance, thrilling technology, and urban practicality. “The Soul has been a massive success since its introduction to the U.S. market, blowing its (now defunct) rivals out of the water and establishing itself as an automotive icon with its fun-loving character and eccentric style,” said Orth Hedrick, executive director of Car Planning and Telematics. “Even with an entirely new generation of competitors now crowding the marketplace, we are confident the all-new Soul will once again prove to be a tough contender given its unparalleled style and impressive level of invigorating technology and customization options.” Proving the point that “there is a Soul for everyone,” the normally aspirated and optionally turbocharged Soul is available in five trim levels – LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, and EX – plus the all-new Soul EV (outlined in a separate press release). Design Beyond the Box While the Soul stays true to its design heritage with its boxy silhouette and confident stance, its newly sculpted lines, cutting-edge details, and technical lighting elements present the most futuristic, youthful and innovative Soul yet. New exterior design highlights include: High-tech front headlight configuration with connecting trim piece accentuates width Slim-design daytime running lights and turn signal indicators Larger front grille with unique two-tone treatment Front fender detail lines add volume to clean and smooth surfaces Roof rack mounting points Three-dimensional wraparound boomerang-shaped taillights C-pillars designed to resemble airplane wings Signature vertical rear window and “Island” stay true to Soul design heritage Distinctive C-pillar garnish features new “Soul” graphic Music has been an overarching theme for Soul since its inception, and it’s no different this time around. For the third generation, designers and engineers turned up the volume on the interior design. Drawing inspiration from the “emotional visualization of sound,” the Soul’s interior space is adorned with shapes and textures that reflect acoustic inspired elements to create a full sensory experience. Interior design highlights include: Available sound mood lighting emits soft light from the center door panels and a unique 3D pattern surface on the upper door panels, with the ability to synchronize to the beat of the music playing through the Soul’s audio system Sound mood lighting features a rainbow of customizable colors Available wireless charging1 Available dual auto climate control Soul’s signature tweeter speakers HIGHLIGHT – SOUL’S MOOD LIGHTING SYSTEM Since the Kia Soul first arrived on the scene in 2009, it has established a very real and remarkable connection with music. This continues to be a core attribute of the Soul's persona and the volume has been turned up to 11 with a new mood lighting system that tailors the interior ambiance according to a variety of selectable “moods”: Hey! Yo! Party Time Traveling Romance Midnight City Cafe Smart Packaging and Stronger Structure Despite its compact footprint, the Soul’s boxy dimensions continue to offer up a surprising amount of cargo and passenger space. Slightly longer than before, the 2020 Soul also features more smartly designed packaging in an effort to make accessibility even easier. Exterior Dimensions: Length: 165.2 in. Width: 70.9 in. Height: 63.0 in. Wheelbase: 102.4 in. Interior Dimensions: Legroom (front / rear): 41.1 in./ 38.8 in. Headroom without sunroof (front / rear): 39.4 in. / 39.5 in. Shoulder room (front /rear): 55.5 in. /54.7 in. Cargo capacity: up to 24.2 cu.-ft. Packaging highlights: Wider and lower rear liftgate opening improves ease of loading and unloading Easy grip handle on liftgate Dual level cargo board offers flexibility with the ability to accommodate taller items using the lower level setting Larger front door openings as a result of sculpted front door panels The 2020 Soul’s stronger structure benefits from an increased use of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), hot stamped components, and structural adhesive. With stronger bones, the 2020 Soul is expected to achieve the highest safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Traffic Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA). Next-Gen Infotainment and Kia Drive Wise Technologies Recognizing that one’s car is an integral part of their social life, the 2020 Soul continues to surprise and delight with next-gen infotainment and technology. Available 10.25-inch HD color touchscreen2 with split screen function (standard on EX, GT-Line with turbo engine) and rear view monitor3 and parking guidance Android Auto4 and Apple CarPlay5 Bluetooth®6 Multi-Connection - two Bluetooth devices can be connected at the same time Available 8-inch Head-Up Display2 Available 640-watt Harman Kardon7 audio system – twice the wattage of current Soul – with an amplifier and 10 speakers including tuned center speaker and subwoofer Like other newly designed Kia models, the all-new Soul offers a suite of available Kia Drive Wise features8 including: Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) / FCA Pedestrian type Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) Lane Changing Assist (LCA) Driver Attention Warning (DAW)9 Blind-spot Collision Warning (BCW) Rear Cross Collision Warning (RCCW) Smart Cruise Control (SCC) High Beam Assist (HBA) What Drives You? Soul enhances its fun-to-drive personality and versatility with different drivetrain combinations. From the all-new 2019 Forte, Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) is now available on the 2020 Soul for those who require efficiency with their zip. Designed and built in-house, the IVT is Kia’s unique version of a continuously variable transmission that provides an engaging driving experience. 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine + 6-speed manual transmission or Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) 147 horsepower, 132 lb-ft. of torque EPA-rated fuel economy: 25/31/27 mpg10 city/highway/combined (6-speed manual) 27/33/30 mpg10 (IVT) For those who desire more zip, a turbocharged option is also available: 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbocharged I-4 GDI engine + 7-speed dual-clutch transmission 201 horsepower, 195 lb. ft of torque EPA-rated fuel economy: 27/32/29 mpg10 With the Soul’s all-new platform comes a more refined experience behind the wheel and on the road. Engineers designed suspension geometry to help quell noise, vibration and harshness while also improving handling and comfort in a variety of conditions. A Soul for Everyone The 2020 Soul can be outfitted to convey one’s unique sense of style through a variety of customizable options. Aside from the all-new Soul EV that debuted alongside its gasoline counterpart, the Soul offers even more flexibility according to different lifestyles. GT-Line Sporty front and rear fascia 18-inch alloy wheels P235/45 R18 tires Unique side sills and front fascia with red accents Integrated fog lights on front grille “GT-Line” badging Leather-wrapped D-shaped steering wheel and gearshift knob Available 201-HP turbocharged engine Chrome tip center exhaust Larger disc brakes Sport-tuned suspension X-Line Rugged body kit Body cladding Overfenders for chunkier look Offroad-inspired accents “X-Line” badging Unique 18-inch alloy wheels Roof rail inspired accents Optional two-tone paint Fog lights EX Designer Collection (package available on EX trim) 18-inch alloy wheels with black spokes LED headlights and fog lights Optional two-tone roof treatment P235/45 R18 tires About Kia Motors America Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America continues to top quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands and 50 Best Global Green Brands by Interbrand. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including cars and SUVs proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia.* For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert. * The Sorento and Optima GDI (S, EX, SX and certain LX Trims only) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts. 1 Charging system only works with select devices. Refer to the vehicle's Owner's Manual for warnings and instructions.” 2 Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution. 3 Rear View Monitor is not a substitute for safe driving, and may not display all objects behind the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution. 4 Vehicle user interface is a product of Google and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play and an Android compatible smartphone running Android™ 5.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC. 5 Apple CarPlay™ is a trademark of Apple Inc. Requires a compatible Apple device sold separately. Apple CarPlay™ runs on your smartphone cellular data service. Data plan rates apply. 6 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc., and any use of such marks by Kia is pursuant to license. A Bluetooth® enabled device is required to use Bluetooth® wireless technology. 7 Harman/Kardon is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Inc. 8 These systems are not substitutes for proper and safe driving, parking, and/or backing-up procedures. These systems may not detect every object behind or alongside the vehicle or in the vehicle’s blindspot or direction of travel. Always drive safely and use caution. 9 Driver Attention Warning is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all instances of driver fatigue or inattentive driving practices. Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution. 10 Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition.

Kia Telluride is One of Winter’s Hottest Sellers

In the first quarter, Kia has sold 5,395 units of the Telluride, surpassing even their own expectations. This family-oriented, three-row SUV is Kia’s largest-ever vehicle and was introduced at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Thanks to the Kia Telluride, Kia was able to have its best first quarter since 2016. You can read more about winter’s hottest selling vehicles at www.usatoday.com.

2017 WARRIOR BEACH RETREAT

Our next major warrior beach retreat will be held May 15 – 22, 2017. The SHERATON BAY POINT RESORT, 4114 Jan Cooley Drive, Panama City Beach, FL will host our combat wounded warriors and spouses. Please visit their website www.sheratonbaypoint.com. The opening ceremony will be held @ the HELEN BLACKBURN  ARNOLD AUDITORIUM – J.R. Arnold High School, 550 Alf Coleman Road, Panama City Beach, FL.  32407 on Thursday, May 18th, 2017 @ 7:00 PM. The parade route will start @ 4:00 PM located at t he SHERATON BAY POINT RESORT, 4114 Jan Cooley Drive, Panama City Beach and end @ the HELEN BLACKBURN ARNOLD AUDITORIUM – J.R. Arnold High School, 550 Alf Coleman Road, Panama City Beach on Thursday, May 18 th, 2017. MOTORCYLES – everyone who wishes to ride their motorcycle in the parade escort is welcome. Please come to the Sheraton Bay Point Hotel and follow the signs that say “MOTORCYCLES” for staging. Please arrive between 3:00 – 3:45 PM. Will depart @ 4:00 PM and arrive at approximately 4:51 PM @ Arnold High School. All motorcycles and vehicles in the parade escort will park in the parking lot behind the Convention Center. This is at the Sheraton Bay Point Resort. Look for signs that say “Motorcyles”, “Honorary Vets” (in cars only), “Wounded Warriors”, “Chaplains”, “Staff” & “Supporters” to find your appropriate place to park. James Leirer -Parade Route Coordinator – will be in the parking lot to answer any questions and to direct traffic. NEW THIS RETREAT – PARADE ROUTE: This route will take us across the Hathaway Bridge eastbound down to Beck Ave then to 23 rd Street and back across the Hathaway Bridge westbound to Panama City Beach Parkway up to Alf Coleman Road then to Arnold High School. We need people with flags on both sides of the bridge.