2017 Kia Sportage

The new 2017 Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that would identify as a small crossover.  It has seating for five people and is offered in three trim levels.

The 2017 Kia Sportage’s interior is the impressive run. Kia Sportage 2017 model’s dashboard has a substantial, luxurious look and includes a wide central control layout tilt towards the driver, the cockpit a sporty character fit the name. Material quality is class-competitive, and we have noticed no squeaks or rattles in our test vehicles to date. The 2017 Kia Sportage LX trim is equipped by today’s standards, but one could argue that most of what you need, including Bluetooth, a USB port, and a small touch screen gives you. The Higher finish can be provided with a high-resolution 8-inches touch screen that sharp images and fast response times have, but even the LX is eligible for an upgrade to the EX’s standard 7-inch touchscreen with Uvo infotainment functions.

Passenger space and comfort is superior for this size class. As expected in a crossover, driver and front passenger, many main and legroom, and adds power seats bottom cushions independent tilt for additional customization. Behind occupants hardly worse, however. Even with a 6-footer in the driver’s seat, can be another 6-footer down immediately astern without the problem, and he or she will receive adequate thigh support. This level of accommodation is usually associated with mid-sized crossovers, so it was a welcome surprise in the compact Sportage.

In 2017 Kia Sportage LX and 2017 Kia Sportage EX trim, the 2017 Sportage is motivated by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque deliver. The 2017 Kia SX Turbo model gets a stronger turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder which cranks out 240 hp and 260 lb-ft. Both engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive available as an option.

For more info, stop by Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

2016 Kia Soul

When the Kia Soul first arrived, there is no doubt that most people thought it was a cute little fad but hardly took it seriously.  The styling all the way down to the Hamster ad campaign, not many people viewed it as a viable option.  That is, until people started to really take a look at it.

Once people started shopping them, they found an affordable, dependable and safe vehicle that is infused with personality, options and practicality.  There was nothing on the market like it.  Then you throw in the multiple colors offered and for a small 5-door hatchback that is much taller and roomier inside than you would ever have imagined.

Vibrant paint colors, special appearance packages, and available upscale fittings make the Soul appealing to a broad cross-section of potential buyers.  You can get a cheap drive, a whimsical commuter, a sporty utility vehicle, and even one with more than a touch of luxury and they would all still be very affordable by todays auto prices.

Kia proves that small cars can be designed to be very comfortable.  The seats are firm and supportive that look good and are very durable.  For a small car which normally has you laying back, the Soul has you sitting up high with a great view in all directions.  The wide door opening and tall seat positions make it exceptionally easy to get into and out of the vehicle.

Come test drive one at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin, TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

2017 Kia Sorento

When Kia set out to give the Sorento a full redesign, they meant a full redesign complete with new metal, new body structure, engine, interior as well as improving an already fantastic cabin comfort and ride quality.

But it's a lot more than that, with every bit of sheet metal and every piece of trim changed. The exterior melts right into the family-crossover tapestry. From the outside, the redesign is so evolutionary that it’s easy to let your mind fill in the lines—from all but the side, perhaps. Inside, the redesign is a lot easier to see at first glance. The cabin of the 2016 Sorento has been quite dramatically tidied-up and made more sophisticated, with more soft-touch trims all around—wherever front occupants are expected to typically touch—and climate and navigation/audio controls are cordoned off into nice, neat control pods.

From the driver’s seat, it’s easy to feel that there’s been major improvement in the way this re-engineered model responds and performs. Steering is much-improved versus the previous Sorento, and previous Kias in general, and in particular there’s better tracking on center, plus better brake feel, a suspension that keeps a firm, composed ride, and an all-new body structure that’s far stiffer, with more than double the high-strength steel. Altogether, the Sorento has what Kia set out to achieve: a vault-like, German-style ride and the a heftier, more confident feel in general—even though the lineup has lost some weight.

Get more info at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

Kia’s Risk: Our Reward

In today’s automotive market a lot of car companies are playing it safe and sticking with the old tried and true without making many changes and updates for fear of losing a following.  The result is the same boring models year after year.

Guess who struck out more times than any other baseball player, the guy who also holds the record for the most home runs.  Guess who got thrown out trying to steal the most bases, the guy who has the record for the most stolen bases.  You don’t get ahead in life playing it safe.  Thank goodness for Kia.

Kia announced at the CES consumer electronics show that it plans to spend an initial 2 billion dollars on advanced driver assistance systems in the next three years as it pursues a goal of fully automated driving by 2030. The Korean carmaker also said it will be grouping all its advanced driver assistance systems under a new brand called “Drive Wise.” Henry Bzeih, chief technology strategist for Kia Motors America (KMA), spoke to automotive IT about Kia’s digital roadmap for the US. Bzeih is also in charge of KMA’s connected-car and technology planning.

Henry Bzeih said, “People at the helm of automotive companies today may be manufacturing or product-oriented, but they are also pragmatic. That’s why many automakers are reinventing their businesses. Customers are demanding it, so you have to make a commitment to technology as one pillar of your product strategy. It’s why we are investing 2 billion dollars in Drive Wise. That’s a lot of money.”

Take a trip and test drive some of this technology at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!


 

2016 Kia Rio

The 2016 Kia Rio shows Kia’s dedication not only to their new higher end luxury sedans but also to the compact segment of their vehicle lines as well.

For the 2016 model year, Kia installed new front and rear fascia’s that give the tiny sedan a lower, wider and sportier look. Up front, Kia installed its thinner “Tiger Nose” grille, pushing the headlights inward a touch, and adding round fog lights with revised surrounds. The lower valance is also changed for 2016, as it is larger and straighter than on the 2015 model, further enhancing the lower-and-wider look Kia was going for. The backside of the 2016 Rio received a much lighter refresh, as Kia only installed new reflectors that are now closer to the outside of the bumper to help spread the widened look to the rear.  The remainder of the changes on the Rio center around the color palette, as Kia added two new hues: Urban Blue and Digital Yellow.

Kia spread the changes to the inside too in 2016, one of which was the installation of more high-density foam in the A- and B-pillars to help reduce NVH. Kia also installed premium touch materials to help give the cabin a slightly higher-grade feel than before. The model-wide changes to the cabin also include new satin-finish bezels around the air vents, and a piano-black center console.  On EX models there is also a new Designer Package available that gives the cabin a two-tone color scheme, with black cloth seats with leatherette trim and grey stitching.

Come by today to get information on this and all of the new vehicles Kia has to offer at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

2016 Kia Sedona

The 2016 Kia Sedona has a quiet and spacious interior, a very comfortable high-end seating option, a smooth ride, and a modern infotainment system.

It has a sliding seat system that moves the middle row into a compact space, freeing up lots of storage capacity. On the most expensive model, it swaps those for a pair of airline-style lounge chairs with excellent comfort--the future airport or adult-living shuttle. The 276-hp six runs very smoothly behind lots of layers of sound deadening. A six-speed automatic moves the power to the front wheels. The available electric power steering is quick and well-tuned. Ride quality is excellent, even with the top model's 19-inch wheels.  With a healthy dose of high-strength steel in the body, the Sedona posts top-tier crash-test ratings. Kia also includes Bluetooth and a rear view camera on all models.

The Kia family grille fits well on the Sedona's big front end and creates a clean look. There's no mistaking the minivan profile.  The Sedona's cabin is downright charming, with its horizontally laid-out instrument panel, its two-tone looks, and the quality materials applied to its surfaces. Among the available features are a smart tailgate that opens the hatch when the key fob is detected in close proximity for three seconds, and a dual-compartment glove box with a cooled lower area. The UVO infotainment system includes app capability from iTunes and Google Play (including compatibility with Pandora, iHeartRadio, and Yelp) plus SiriusXM Travel Link information on traffic, weather, fuel prices, and more. It also uses Siri Eyes Free connectivity and Google Local Search systems to help find and navigate to points of interest. The Sedona gets Kia's first high-power USB charging port, and there's a 115-volt AC outlet on some trims, too--a combo that all but obviates the need for a factory-installed rear-seat entertainment system.

For more information on all of the new offerings in Kia's lineup, come by Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

2016 Kia Sportage: The Epitome of Perfection

All of the features of the brand new 2016 Kia Sportage point to perfection. It is new and improved and ready to hit the road! Not only do the mechanics of this wonderful vehicle reach optimal performance, but the cosmetics of it will make you want to strut your stuff down the highway every day. With exterior features such as standard Projector-Beam Headlights and LED lighting at the rear, this fresh edition of the Kia Sportage will be sure to turn heads and drop jaws anywhere you choose to show it off. Bragging rights is definitely an inferred feature with this hot SUV.

So other than envious looks, the newest model also includes AM/FM/CD/MP3/SiriusXM Audio system with 6 speakers standard with every version. You can jam out anytime with your favorite people in your fabulous Kia. Also standard in all versions is Bluetooth Wireless Technology Hands-free connectivity, power door locks to make your life easier, center console armrest with storage, illuminated cup holders to keep from those night time incidents where your cup didn’t quite make it in, front and rear door bottle holders for all of your beverage placing needs, and an illuminated glove box. 

Between the cosmetics of this new addition of the Kia family and the unbeatable features, it is safe to say that this hot new item is near perfection. Stop by today for more information on this wonderful vehicle.

Come in for a test drive of all of our 2016 models today at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX 78750 or give us a call at 512-583-1900!

The Winning Tradition Continues: Kia and the NBA

As has been customary as of late, Kia awards NBA players for winning certain awards and honors with a brand new version of a vehicle.  The good that comes from this goes well beyond an award.  This year the winner of the New Sorento was Lou Williams.  He won the NBA Sixth Man award.  To us, he won more than that.

The sixth man award is for the bench player that makes the biggest contribution to their team.  A substitute role for a player good enough to be a starter.  That is the epitome of Louis Williams of the Toronto Raptors.  Well after he won the award, he made a gesture that shows he is more than just a talented basketball player.  He asked Kia to send his Sorento to The Remix Project.  It is a Toronto & Chicago based organization that works to help young people from disadvantaged communities.  Lou finished the season averaging over 15 points coming off the bench.  He was the first Raptor to win any NBA award since 1999.  

Kia decided not to sit on the bench.  They plan on giving away a new Sorento to the charity of choice for all 5 winners of the NBA’s 2014-15 end of the year awards.  This is exactly what makes Kia such a special car company.  It isn’t about the publicity.  It is about doing the right thing.

Come see what award winners drive today at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

2016 Kia Optima: The Frontrunner

It comes as no surprise that Kia Motors has been a leader in the Korean automobile industry for more than 69 years. One of the models more popularly responsible for this tremendous success would be the classic Kia Optima. For the past five years, the most recent generation of the Optima, it has been the best-selling car in all of Korea. Though it has yet to make its official debut, the concept design and features of the 2016 model have made their way public. This new model is sure to be the perfect start to a new generation of the popular classic.

The newest addition to this long line of mid-size four door sedans will be powered by a 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine that is expected to give 192 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque with an electronically controlled six speed automatic transmission. This is very similar to that of the 2015 model, save the fact that the coming version will run smoother than ever before. Also, an Infinity 8 speaker audio system has been added as a standard feature to enhance the sound quality of your favorite tunes as you cruise in your new Optima. 

More features that have been added to improve the quality and furthermore advance the technologies of the newest model are the new soft touch cabin, new color options, a redesigned dashboard, and a rearview camera. 

Come on in for a test drive at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin, TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

The Making of the 2015 Kia Picanto

To understand what any new model vehicle’s persona is, you must first take a look way back in its past. The very first Kia Picanto was the 2004 model which made its world-wide debut in 2003 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Another name allotted to the Picanto was the “Kia Morning”. At the release of the 2007 model, car fanatics noticed a phenomenal facelift with a new bumper and front grille “tiger nose” grille.

2011 marks the beginning of the second generation of Kia Picanto/Mornings as well as it was the first year the vehicle was made available in a 3-door version, but only in Europe. In 2013, also included in the second generation, Kia Netherlands released the limited edition R-Cross version of the popular model. Only 500 of these were produced, making them very rare. What made them so unique and special was their black body kit that wrapped around the wheel wells with 14 inch alloy wheels. 

As far as marketing goes, Kia released the world’s first nail art animation promotional video to advertise the popular model. The work of art consisted of 900 nails and 1200 bottles of nail polished were used to color the piece. It took 25 days simply to create the set seeing as how each nail too approximately 2 hours to paint. The 900 painted nails came together to create a picture of the Picanto in motion. 

Come in for a test drive of our 2015 line up at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin, TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

  

Kia’s GT Concept Gets OK’d

Although the Kia GT Concept car was more of a novelty item a couple of years ago, it seems that a public outcry from consumers wanting the vehicle has changed the mind of the car company.  They have announced production and the New Kia halo car is expected to arrive in the United States in 2017.

This is one of the most futuristic, yet realistic cars you will lay your eyes on.  Most futuristic designs are almost laughable and look more like something you would see in a comic or a space movie.  Looking at this vehicle, you could actually see yourself driving this beauty.  It first turned heads at the 2011 Frankfurt auto show.

Last week in Las Vegas, Kia shared their plans for the rear-wheel drive, mid-luxury car to be equipped with a V-6 engine with their U.S. dealers.  Just like the concept, the production version will be a four door fastback and like the upmarket Kia K900 luxury sedan, it is intended to attract new buyers to the brand with its futuristic design and upscale features.

The GT concept that was introduced in 2011 featured rear hinged suicide doors, but that feature is not expected to make it into a production version of the vehicle.  As of right now, the concept does not have a name but you can be sure they are working on coming out with one that will be identifiable with Luxury.

See what else Kia is working on at Capitol Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin, TX or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

    

2014 Kia Sorento: The Perfect Crossover

The new 2014 Kia Sorento is a beautiful crossover with a great design, excellent fit and finish, and good driving dynamics in a segment that often has none of these things.  It has an answer for everything.  It is roomy, fuel-efficient and tech savvy.

 Kia has emerged as a game changer in the midsized crossover market.  It has become the benchmark in this segment of the market place.  It has a beautiful and ergonomic interior and a great set of power options under the hood.  One of my favorite features is the panoramic sunroof that runs from the drivers head all the way back past the second row with just a small cross piece splitting it.  It is definitely one of those things you have to see and experience for yourself to realize the true beauty of it.

The connectivity is another great addition.  It has a very well designed driver’s space with easy access controls and one of the best things Kia has come up with, selectable steering modes.  It allows you to adjust the steering feel, on the fly, to suit your wishes – Sport for stiffer, more responsive steering; Normal for an everyday average feel; and Comfort for a relaxed, easy feel on the highway.  It also has electric assist so these selections are immediate and at your fingertips with a push of a button on the wheel.  

For more information on the ultimate crossover, come see us at Capital Kia 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. Austin, Texas or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

Car of the Future is coming to Austin Texas

It is no secret that technology continues to progress.  Our children navigate the world through new and innovative electronics.  Glasses are allowing us to view and communicate with each other, watches tell us more than the time of day, and cars are no different.  Austin, Texas has always been at the front of the line with technology helping Texas lead the way in new technology.

This year’s concept cars share the not-so-distant future new ideas, designs, technologies, and corporate intentions.

Most vehicles are projected to be powered by some form of gas-electric system.  By the year 2025 the corporate fuel-economy (CAFÉ) has set the standards for all vehicles to meet 54.5 mpg and at today’s gas prices reaching $4 a gallon, which is not a bad idea.  Thanks to technological, scientific and manufacturing advancements materials like carbon fiber, aluminum space frames and other super-lightweight alloy bits which are found in high-end luxury sport sedans are finding their way into more economical vehicles geared toward the everyday driver.  Heads-up displays which means the system overlays information directly on objects seen through your windshield is nothing new.  However, these displays are becoming fully interactive, customizable, and controllable with nothing but hand signals.  Mirrors are being replaced by cameras providing safety for the automotive consumer, and with all of these advancements the Kia Ray concept, a plug-in hybrid sedan concept built on the Forte platform and shown in Chicago, is quoted at 202 mpg.

In 2007 KIA Motors installed a design center equipped with design and modeling studios including the KIA Design Center America in Irvine, California.  Through its efforts, KIA Motors has introduced a number of striking concept cars at various international motor shows and the results of the company’s efforts are beginning to show on the streets. The company has gone from a maker of affordable cars that had little to set them apart from vehicles to a company that produces cars that have been highly acclaimed pieces of art.

 With an unprecedented 17 consecutive years of market share growth, Kia Motors is the fastest growing automotive brand in America. Thanks to advances in product quality, design and innovative marketing, Kia is also one of the fastest-growing car companies in the world.
KIA is already well known for its Optima, Sorento, Soul, Sportage, Forte, Rio, Sedona, and the most talked about mid-size sedan on the market, the Cadenza.

Now the K900 is about to hit showroom floors near you.  The KIA K900 packs exactly what you expect – tons of luxurious amenities, and an optional VIP seating package with reclining, heated and cooled outboard rear seats. Standard leather surfaces are found throughout the cabin, and soft Nappa leather is available in black or white with contrasting stitching. On the technology front, V8 VIP models offer a 12.3-inch full-color TFT display in the instrument panel, with different themes depending on which drive mode is selected. In the center console, standard navigation and UVO telematics are viewed through a 9.2-inch HD screen that's controlled by a rotary knob and surrounding buttons. Of course, there's a mountain of active safety features, including front and rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot detection, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and more. There's even an around view monitor.

The K900 is a handsome thing, looking sort of like a puffed-up version of the smaller Forte or Cadenza sedans. Up front, V8 models use adaptive LED headlamps (with a total of 16 bulbs), and more LED lighting can be found out back. Attractive 19-inch wheels are found at all four corners, wrapped in 245/45-series rubber up front and 275/40-series tires at the rear.
The performance, style, innovation of all KIA Models can be found at Capitol KIA and non-commission sales associates can help put you in the right technological KIA that meets you and your family’s needs by calling 512.583.1900.  Capitol KIA is located at 13573 U.S. Hwy 183 N. in Austin, Texas.

2014 Kia Forte is Amazing

Critics are raving and saying that this is the most fun car to come from any Korean automaker.  The new and improved build of the outer body gives a sportier look for this four-door model. This coup trumps the sedan with its base 173-horsepower and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.  This coupled with the six-speed manual transmission makes this a fun yet sporty compliment to the Kia line of cars.

 The new Kia Forte looks poised to go head to head with the Honda Civic Si.  Style has remained as a strong suit for the forte.  It shares many of the same curves with its sedan counterpart.  The rest is unique to the sportier models, including its slimmer, smaller tiger nose grille that evolves the look.

It has plenty of soft touch materials with more features than you would find in a loaded Mercedes-Benz E class from a decade ago.  It is expansive and comfortable.  The shifter, which has a small round handle that easily fits in the hand, corrects issues from the past.  Overall it has better than average materials and built above the quality normally seen in the past.

Standard features include Xenon headlights, LED tail lights, heated steering wheel, power folding mirrors and keyless entry with options such as power leather seats with heating and cooling elements.  

The 2014 Kia Forte balances out luxury comfort and convenience with driver involvement and fun.  Like every newly designed Kia coming out this year, the improvements have been significant and welcomed.

Come see the improvements to this and the many Kia’s in inventory at Capitol KIA.  Visit our showroom at 13573 U.S. Highway 183 N. in Austin, Texas or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!

2014 Kia Rio is a Must See

Expert test drivers agree, the 2014 Kia Rio has plenty of power.  They say the ride is soft enough to not be jarring over rough roads, yet firm enough to feel composed going through turns. The steering is well-controlled in low-speed parking lot situations and on the highway. It has no problems with highway merging or passing, and the optional automatic transmission shifts smoothly. The four-cylinder engine is capable of getting a 29/37 mpg city/highway EPA fuel economy rating, which is good for the class.  This is a must in today’s fluctuating gas prices.

The roomy cabin also impressed reviewers. It offers plenty of leg space in the front and back seats, with plenty of comfort for day-long trips. The material is great, and like most Kia vehicles, the Rio comes with a ton of standard equipment, including Bluetooth and a USB port for hooking up your iPod or smartphone to the car’s stereo. There is also plenty of trunk space. Since its redesign last year, the Rio has become one of the best subcompact cars on the market today.

For the everyday driver, the Kia Rio is the perfect car due to the engine power, comfortable ride and extreme amount of cargo space.

For more information on the Kia Rio and other great vehicles stop by Capitol KIA at 13573 U.S. Highway 183 N. in Austin, Texas or give us a call at 512-583-1900 today!