Displaying items by tag: kia

Displaying items by tag: kia The Philippines’ first and longest running on-line automotive magazine. http://www.kotse.com Sat, 25 May 2013 02:25:50 +0000 Joomla! 1.5 - Open Source Content Management en-gb Kia lets you hatch the all-new 2013 Carens on Twitter; Prices published before launch http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/contest-and-promos/item/1368-kia-hatch-my-carens-promo http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/contest-and-promos/item/1368-kia-hatch-my-carens-promo

We seriously believed that the Columbian Autocar Corp. (CAC), the Philippine distributor of Kia, would be launching the all-new 2013 Carens at the 9th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Well, we were wrong. Now they tell us that stocks are not expected to arrive until May or June. And to mark its arrival, they're asking you, yes you, to help hatch the newest member of the Kia family. Yes, hatch... like an egg.

Although the contest has nothing to do with the all-new Carens, you do get to win some cool prizes from Kia such as a fun-filled day at Enchanted Kingdom or the Manila Ocean Park. Here's how to join.

First, you'll have to follow Kia Philippines on Twitter (@KiaPhilippines) and set your Twitter profile to 'Public'. Then, tweet using the hashtag '#HatchMyCarens' to qualify for the contest where a theme or guide question will be announced each Tuesday at 9:30 am for you to follow. Kia will then select winning tweets and announced the following Monday at 6:00 pm. Remember, winning tweets can be clever, insightful, humorous, or otherwise interesting.

Kia Philippines' Hatch My Carens promo runs from April 23 to May 31, 2013 only. Do not that a person may only win once.

Be part of this adventure through www.HatchMyCarens.com.

Kia has also now published the full range and price list of the all-new 2013 Carens. When it's officially launched in May, they'll be offering it in three variants: the base 1.7 LX MT CRDi priced at P1,140,000, the 1.7 LX AT CRDi at P1,230,000, and the top-of-the-line 1.7 EX AT CRDi at P1,480,000. They, however, have yet to publish an official spec sheet for us to know what the local-spec Carens will come with. All we could get from the info above is that all variants will come with a 1.7L four-cylinder U2 diesel engine with 136 hp and 330 Nm of torque.

]]> Contest and Promos Thu, 25 Apr 2013 01:07:04 +0000 Kia's all-new 2014 Soul looks ready to get frisky http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1360-kia-all-new-2014-soul-preview http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1360-kia-all-new-2014-soul-preview

Words by Gracey Maquiniana | Photos courtesy of Kia Motors Corp.

Remember last year's Track'ster Concept? We'd like to believe that it was Kia's fantasy of what the ultimate track day car should be, built around the Soul's platform. What we didn't know was that the head honchos over at Kia took the concept to heart and used it to build the all-new 2014 Soul. Redesigned from the ground up and now strutting a lovely Inferno Red shade and new 18-inch alloy wheels, Kia's latest sporty compact crossover is definitely something the ladies would love to have. I know I do.

Growing two more doors than the Track'ster Concept, the cutesy boxy all-new Soul is bigger than the model it replaces. The wheelbase is 20 mm longer and overall width is 15 mm wider, thus offering a bit more space indoors. While subtle, the rear hatch opening is then made 61 mm wider so people can now load and unload things easier at the back.

Design-wise, this all-new model was likened by its Chief Designer to a bulldog. But I think it looks more like a purse and would go nicely with my outfit. Sorry boys. Other noteworthy features are the LED front positioning lights, rear LED “halo” lights, and panoramic sunroof that makes this one hottie especially at night.

One big improvement the design team paid particular attention to was to make the all-new Soul's interior feel more upscale. They've covered almost all surfaces with soft-touch materials and fine leather for the seats. Plus, they've played with a “circular theme” in the cabin which is incorporated into the door panels, center console, and gauge clusters. If all that sounds too familiar, that's because MINI uses the same philosophy.

Kia didn't skimp out on the techie stuff either. There's an eight-inch touchscreen Android-based infotainment system on the center console that connects to any smartphone. It can also connect online and function as a GPS navigator. But the best feature of all are the LED-backlit speakers that pulse with the beat which was something we really loved in the old Soul. This instantly turns any parking lot into a party!

This all-new Soul is moved by a 130 hp 1.6L DOHC four-cylinder GDI engine. There's also a more powerful 164 hp 2.0L four-cylinder unit on the list if you want a bit more get up and go. Both are available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Who wouldn't want something this cute to zip around in? Judging by looks alone, I'm sold! Now my only problem is coming up the money to buy one.

]]> Newly Launched Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:28:20 +0000 Kia’s Cross GT concept hints of an upcoming sporty SUV http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/concept/item/1259-kia-cross-gt-concept http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/concept/item/1259-kia-cross-gt-concept

Words by Hans Gerald Chua | Photos courtesy of Kia Motors America

Crossovers and SUVs are quickly becoming the transport of choice for most people nowadays. They're easy to drive, versatile, and can practically do anything a sedan can, only better. As a matter of fact, manufacturers have begun turning them into luxury saloons and even supercars. And the latest to join in the fray of classy sporty crossovers is Kia, who recently came up with the Cross GT concept.

"The debut of the GT in 2011 heralded a new frontier for Kia, both from a design and a business perspective," noted Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors Corporation President and Global Chief of Design. "It beautifully illustrated to the world that the brand was ready to explore the possibility of perhaps one day offering a full-size rear-drive luxury saloon. The Cross GT, with its raised stance and large cargo area, allows us to envision the GT in the form of a full-size luxury crossover."

The Cross GT concept shares the same blood line with the Sorento, but is bigger by 21 cm in length and 12.5 cm in width. Overall height was chopped by 4 cm to give the concept a low roofline which always equates to “being sporty.” It's then equipped with dual rear-hinged doors for easy accesses to all four passengers, which complements the futuristic look. Yes, it's a strict four-seater with four matching buckets seats that are, by the way, anchored to the central tunnel to make them look like they're floating. There's also a multi-panel glass sunroof that looks like it was inspired by the Millennium Falcon. And of course, it wears Kia's signature “tiger nose” grill.

Kia's design department decorated the interior with the finest materials they could get their hands on to stress just how “luxurious” this SUV is. Beautiful Almond-Terra-colored leather and re-harvested American Walnut are just some of the accents that decorate the Cross GT's surfaces. But don’t you worry, because its 100% eco-friendly. As for the HVAC and infotainment system, everything is easily controllable with its touch screen and central mouse interface. This lets the driver access the device menu without taking his hands off the wheel. Rear passengers, on the other hand, can enjoy internet access and infotainment options through two flat screen panels at the back.

Resting under the bonnet is a new 3.8 liter V6 hybrid that's accompanied by an eight-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive. With the engine and electric motor working in unison, it spits out 400 horsepower and 678 Nm of torque - numbers which should put it within the range of the Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7, and BMW X5.

The Cross GT concept is definitely an SUV worth waiting for. Unfortunately, Kia stated that this concept is “purely conceptual,” even the hybrid powertrain. But as with all concepts, we're pretty sure that some of its design cues will find their way into production models in the near future.

]]> Concept Wed, 20 Feb 2013 02:26:06 +0000 Kia's new after-sales service program treats customers like Family http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/contest-and-promos/item/1256-kia-family-like-care http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/contest-and-promos/item/1256-kia-family-like-care

Kia has been making cars that are at par with their Japanese, American, and even German counterparts for quite some time now. And the Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), Kia's exclusive distributor in the Philippines, is proud of being able to provide world-class vehicles to its customers. But their commitment doesn't end there. Of course, they also want to deliver exceptional after-sales service to make the loving relationship last.

This is Kia's new “Family-like Care” program, where their customers get to enjoy being treated with the same dedication and care given to family members.

Kia's customer care program is now on tour around the Philippines so Kia customers can bring their vehicles for a FREE check-up and diagnosis by Kia Master technicians with assistance of CAC's own engineers. And for those who own 2009 models and above, you can get FREE selected items such as Oil Filter, Air Filter, Wiper Blade, and Aircon Filter until supplies last. For 2008 models and below, Kia Genuine parts will be available with marked down prices.

Kia Family Service Program Schedule:

February 23	Kia Metroeast (Manila)
March 02	Kia Fairview (Manila)
March 09	Kia Global (Manila)
March 23 & 24	SM Pampanga (Luzon
April 06	Kia Molino (Luzon)
May 18 & 19	SM Cebu (Visayas)
August 03 & 04	SM Cagayan de Oro (Mindanao)
October 12 & 13	SM Davao (Mindanao)

]]> Contest and Promos Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:01:14 +0000 Kia Means Business, Pushes 2012 sales up by 57.4% in the Philippines http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/industry-update/item/1194-kia-december-2012-sales-report http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/industry-update/item/1194-kia-december-2012-sales-report

In recent years, Kia has been building cars that can already go toe-to-toe with its Japanese, American, and even European counterparts. But for some reason, the upgrade hasn't really translated into sales here in Philippines. Well, their fortunes have definitely changed in 2012 when the Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), Kia's exclusive distributor in the country, ended the year with an awesome 57.4% year-on-year sales increase.

CAC managed to sell 7,527 units in 2012, or 2,745 cars more than they did in 2011. Better yet, the impressive sales jump bests all other automotive brands in CAMPI, in terms of percentage of course. Beat that!

“2012 was a really good year for the automotive industry and the enormous growth from our 2011 figures is a testament to that,” said CAC President, Ms. Ginia R. Domingo. “The increase in sales can be greatly attributed to the strong performance of our Sportage and Rio models. The all-new Kia Rio was launched only in early 2012 but it’s already one of our best-selling nameplates, definitely a favorite among Kia fans.”

Likewise, CAC's global counterpart - Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) - has also reached an all-high in sales back in 2012 which is made up of export, domestic, and sales from overseas plants. In total, Kia was able to sell 2,710,017 units worldwide and represents a 9.3% year-on-year increase. This milestone is also the Korean automakers' very first time to reach the 2.7 million sales mark. But the celebrations doesn't end there. 2012 is also a year to remember as this is the first time KMC was included in InterBrand's Top 100 Best Global Brands.

But as spectacular as 2012 may be, CAC will definitely be aiming higher this 2013. From what we've heard, they're already busy planning for the launch of several all-new vehicles within the year. If our sources are right, the list should include the all-new Carens, Forte, and Kia's luxury flagship sedan, the Quoris.

Without a doubt, CAC means business. And now that they're giving the Japanese, American, and fellow Korean counterparts a run for their money, it's not hard to see that the people behind this brand is truly running on a different beat.

]]> Industry Update Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:13:39 +0000 Ex-Audi designer Peter Schreyer named as new Kia president http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/industry-update/item/1173-schreyer-named-as-new-kia-president http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/industry-update/item/1173-schreyer-named-as-new-kia-president

Words by Christopher Kho | Photo courtesy of Kia Motors Corporation

Peter Schreyer used to be a designer for Audi and Volkswagen where he helped create icons such as the Audi TT and new VW Beetle. But when poached by Kia in 2006, he did more than simply draw cars. As duties of Chief Design Officer, this is the man that's solely responsible for the brand's signature “tiger-nose” grill and new design direction that turned Kia into a global name. And before 2012 came to an end, he was appointed as Kia's new President and was the very first non-Korean to do so.

Kia apparently has three Presidents, one of which is now Schreyer. But while in position, he will retain his responsibilities as Chief Design Officer - a job he's been excelling at for the last six years. If you want proof, just look how pretty Kia's vehicle line-up is today and compare it to what they had a decade ago. Yes, that's mostly Schreyers doing. As a matter of fact, his “tiger-nose” grill design is now featured on almost, if not all, of Kia's new vehicles including the Picanto, Rio, Soul, Optima, Sportage, Sorento, and upcoming Forte.

Hiring Schreyer proved to be such as a success for Kia that its mother company, Hyundai Motor, seized ex-BMW designer Christopher Chapman to head its US design center last 2011.

Scheyer's promotion is a clear indication that Kia has much higher ambitions in the near future. Can you just imagine what new cars they'll come up with now that this guy's on top?

Source: www.autonews.com

]]> Industry Update Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:23:52 +0000 Kia is doing what it does best with the all-new 2014 Forte http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1139-kia-all-new-2014-forte-us-launch http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1139-kia-all-new-2014-forte-us-launch

Words by Jade Lu | Photos courtesy of Kia Motors America

California girls aren’t the only thing good to come out of the sunshine state. Kia's American Design Center has concocted their own cocktail for what they hope to be a catchy compact. In true blue Cali style, this six-year-old nameplate has opted for its third rendition - and then some - and is now packed with more than just Botox. Set to go on sale in the US by the first quarter of 2013 (and perhaps also in the Philippines), Kia presents the all-new 2014 Forte.

"The all-new Forte significantly raises the bar, offering upscale amenities and eye-catching appeal," said Kia Motors America (KMA) Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications Michael Sprague. Of course, by upscale amenities he means steering wheel-mounted audio controls, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio, and Bluetooth® wireless technology as standard features for the LX trim. Opting for custom packages like the Popular Package or Eco Package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, Kia’s Idle Stop Go System, and keyless entry, all depending on whichever package you choose.

But if you’re in for a more exclusive trim that adds creature comforts and urban conveniences, the EX variant includes emote keyless entry with trunk opener, rear camera back-up display, a sliding center armrest, and a cooling glove box. Available in this variant is the Flex Steer option, which allows the driver to choose between three Comfort, Normal, and Sport steering profiles.

Two optional packages are offered with the EX trim, Premium Package and Technology Package, which allow customers to add the likes of heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, push button start, HID headlights, LED tail lights, a 4.2-inch color LCD cluster screen, and more.

Of course, Kia has all but forgotten what drives this culture vulture’s ride.

The LX variant is powered by a 148 hp 1.8-liter engine, while the EX variant with a 173 hp 2.0-liter unit. Both engines are dual continuously variable valve timing four-cylinders mated to either a standard six speed manual or an optional six speed automatic gearbox.

It’s not often we see a car as customizable as this. The all-new 2014 Kia Forte lives up to its name by offer its customers exactly what suits their own fortes. And with a look as aggressive as that, we can’t wait until it sails from sunny Palm Springs over to Philippine shores.

]]> Newly Launched Thu, 13 Dec 2012 01:58:20 +0000 Play your Beats and win a brand new Kia Picanto on Facebook http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/contest-and-promos/item/1099-kia-beat-contest-facebook http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/contest-and-promos/item/1099-kia-beat-contest-facebook

To celebrate more than 150,000 “Likes” on Kia Motors Philippines' Facebook page, Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC) is letting you play a 'A Different Beat' to win an Apple iPad and even a brand new Kia Picanto.

“Like” their page and play Kia BeatPop - a match and swap puzzle mini game which you can play from November 7 to December 30, 2012. And when you reach a certain number of points, you're given five additional sound effects to use for your Kia Beat.

Then, from November 19 to December 30, 2012, create your own Kia Beat using Kia BeatMaker with just three basic sound effects: car starting, bass guitar, and bass drum. But you can get more complex beats and bonus sound effects (piano, jingle, rear-view mirror hitting, hood hitting and grille hitting) through Kia BeatPop.

A total of six (6) weekly winners, whose Kia Beat gets the highest votes, will win an Apple iPad. And at the end of the contest, a panel of judges will select one grand prize winner who will get to drive home a brand new Kia Picanto. Winners will be announced on January 11, 2013.

Time to play some serious beats with Kia.

]]> Contest and Promos Sun, 25 Nov 2012 22:13:40 +0000 Kia's Forte sedan and Koup make a come-back; now cheaper than ever http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1084-kia-forte-sedan-koup-launch http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1084-kia-forte-sedan-koup-launch

Words and photos by Jose Carlo R. Sapera

Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the official distributor of Kia in the Philippines, introduced the Forte as both a four-door and a Koup over two years ago. Armed with a 2.0L engine and handsome looks, it was Kia’s card to the competitive compact car segment. Sadly, it proved very difficult to convince people to actually buy one because of its steep P1.3-ish million tag price. But after a brief hiatus, the Forte is back with a bang!

For starters, the Forte sedan now carries a smaller 1.6L engine with 122 hp and 156 Nm of torque. The interior might be a bit toned-down from what we saw previously, with no extra touches of silver or wood panels, but it still looks great. As for space, this sedan can easily accommodate five adults comfortably. Passengers are sure to enjoy the abundance of leg and head room in the front and back seats.

But the best part is, they've slashed the price to a more manageable P828,000. For that amount of money, you get a driver's side airbag, ABS, keyless entry with alarm, 1 DIN single-CD audio system with AUX connectivity, fog lamps, 15-inch rims, and black fabric seats. It’s only available with a six-speed automatic gearbox with Shiftronic feature, but it comes in four different shades: Temptation Red, Clear White, Aurora Black, and Bright Silver.

And for the main attraction, the athletic two-door Forte Koup is back with a lower P948,000 price tag. This sporty coupe is powered by a larger 2.0L Theta II block that churns out 154 hp and 194 Nm of torque. It comes with features such as cruise control, integrated audio with USB/AUX ports, dual airbags, and sexy 17-inch alloy wheels.

With a lower price, consistently great build quality, and a 5-year or 160,000km warranty, the Forte is now a lot more attractive. But if you want one, better run to your nearest Kia dealer today while supplies last. That's because while the Forte’s return temporarily fills the gap between the Rio and Optima in Kia's local line-up, our sources say that the all-new K3 is scheduled to hit our shores next year.

]]> Newly Launched Thu, 15 Nov 2012 23:58:10 +0000 Rio 1.2 SLX: Kia kicks the entry-level 4-door Rio a notch higher http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1069-kia-rio-12slx-launch http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/1069-kia-rio-12slx-launch

Words by Jose Carlo R. Sapera | Photos courtesy of Columbian Autocar Corporation

Early this year, Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the official distributor of Kia automobiles in the Philippines, finally launched the all-new Rio. It was made available locally in three trims: the entry-level 1.2 LX sedan, 1.4 EX sedan, and the sexy 1.4 EX hatchback. Each variant was designed to cater to every buyer’s budget and preference. Well... almost.

For those on a tight budget who finds the LX too basic for their taste, CAC added a new variant to the Rio line-up just for you. Please take a close look at the new Rio 1.2 SLX four-door sedan (we like to think that the extra “S” stands for “Super”).

While the base model LX is already fitted with steel rims and wheel covers, the SLX rides on more stylish 14-inch multi-spoke alloys as an upgrade. The black plastic grill, however, is retained to differentiate it from the EX and to keep price competitive. The SLX also has the same classy black and beige interior as the LX, as well as the 1-DIN headunit with USB and AUX connectivity. But what makes this new variant truly shine are the central locking system and front power window features that now come as standard equipment.

Like the LX, the SLX is also powered by Kia’s 1.2L Kappa mil that churns out 86 horsepower and 120 Nm of torque. Likewise, the smooth five-speed manual gearbox is retained. Sorry, but there are no automatic versions available here.

Even with all these new enhancements, the Rio 1.2 SLX is tagged at P625,000 which is only P27,000 more than the base model LX. Plus, it also comes with Kia's 5-Year/160,000 km warranty. But as exciting as this new variant is, available colors is only white.

Interestingly enough, the Rio 1.2 SLX is priced almost identically as the new Toyota Vios 1.3J Limited, which was just launched early last month. Well, I guess it all boils down to the buyer’s taste, wants, and needs. So, let the battle of the bases begin!

]]> Newly Launched Thu, 08 Nov 2012 01:37:06 +0000