What Makes the Kia Rio So Popular?
The 2009 Kia Rio just hit the Alberta market and brings with it style and power like never before. Kia, an auto manufacturer known for creating affordable cars that last, offers a shocking 10 year, 100,0000 mile warranty on its Rio - making it one of the most long-lasting and beneficial warranties of any manufacturer on the market! Here's what you can expect from the 2009 Kia Rio:
Extra space
The Kia Rio brings more roominess than ever before, including seating for 5 with plenty of leg room and storage space to make travelling comfortable - whether it's near or far.
Power
The new Rio has 110 horsepower behind it, making it faster and more powerful than many other small sedans on the market. Plus, despite its powerful engine, it delivers 35 miles to the gallon on the highway. With that kind of mileage and comfort, you can drive to your heart's content.
Affordability
Kia is known to provide cars at economic rates. Because of the warranty and gas mileage, you know that when you purchase a Kia, you are not only purchasing a car that will last, but also one that will save you money at the pump every week.
Safety
Kia has a 6 airbag safety feature standard on every car. Plus, the car comes complete with airbag and seatbelt latch sensors, anti-lock brakes, 3-point seat belts throughout the car, dual front airbags, curtain airbags, fog lights, and 24 hours roadside assistance. You'll never have to wonder about your tires either with the 24 hour tire monitoring system.
The 2009 Kia Rio is not only one of the safest cars in its class, but it proves that driving a small sedan doesn't have to be uncomfortable. With enough leg room for all occupants and gas mileage to get to where you're going cheaper, you'll love taking the Rio with you on all of your trips!
By Don MacCallum
Visit the Blog about kia chicagoKia Koup - What a Concept!
Kia has an image problem. Well, not really. The South Korean automaker is often found in the shadow of Hyundai, the automotive giant which owns a significant chunk of the company. Kia is actually part of the Hyundai Kia Automotive Group, which is based in Seoul and the two automakers share several platforms for various models.
In North America, we're familiar with the many different economically priced models including the Sorento, Optima, Rio, and Spectra, to name a few. Kia is also big on building concept cars, including the KOUP which made its debut at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.
The KOUP is an attractive sport coupe, reminding me of the Nissan SX cars and including expressive lines you see on today's iteration of the muscle car. Clearly, if the KOUP comes out as shown (please, toss the name!) it could be a landmark model for Kia.
A 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower paired with a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) twin scroll turbocharger designed to deliver superior power and fuel efficiency. By means of injecting fuel directly into the cylinder under high pressure using the Kia GDI system, the intake charge is cooled and combustion behavior is improved. Improved combustion assures excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Lower grille openings enable additional air intake for extra power. Kia claims that the KOUP delivers torque of 289 lb-ft at a low 2,000 rpm sustained to 4,000 rpm.
Kia says this about the the car: utilizing a FWD unibody frame, coil springs and stabilizer bars complement an independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts and an independent dual link rear suspension to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort and engine responsiveness. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling. Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for quick movements and sharp turns paired with a sport-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and strut tower bar offer a tighter grip for more spirited driving.
Will the KOUP go into production? Time will tell, but if the car is produced it could significantly improve Kia's budget image.
By Matthew Keegan
