2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio model is longer (by 20 mm), wider (by 25 mm), and lower (by -15 mm) and features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm). With an overall height of 1,455 mm, new Kia Rio is one of the lowest cars in Kia’s European product range.

In many countries, diesel power is the preferred option in this segment and Rio will be available with two versions of Kia’s ‘U2′ power unit – both fitted with 16-valves and a WGT. The 1.4-litre generates 90 ps and 216 Nm of torque, while the 1.1-litre produces 70 ps and 162 Nm. Both engines deliver maximum torque from just 1,750 rpm. A well-proven power unit in the Kia line-up, the updated ‘Gamma’ has friction-reducing modifications and dual CVVT (continuously variable valve timing), to achieve a responsive performance and competitively modest fuel consumption. With maximum output of 109 ps and peak torque of 136 Nm, accelerating to 100 kph in 11.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 181 kph (112 mph).

Available in the USA with a choice of three trims – LX, EX and SX – the 2012 Kia Rio sedan is powered by a 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder engine with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. One of only two vehicles in this segment to offer a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, the 2012 Rio offers consumers that elusive combination of power and impressive fuel efficiency, achieving class-leading 135HP (100kW) power and class-leading fuel economy rating of 30/40 mpg city/highway (7.8-5.8L/100km). Kia Rio also offers ISG technology, new to the Kia line-up, where the engine turns off when the vehicle is not in motion. The engine restarts automatically when the driver releases the brake pedal, resulting in lower levels of fuel consumption in stop-start urban traffic.

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2012 Kia Soul

2012 Kia Soul comes with a new six-speed transmissions and the ability to deliver up to 34 miles per gallon on the highway. A new 1.6-litre GDI engine produces 135HP (100kW), an 11 percent increase from the previous engine). For buyers looking for a greater boost in power, a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

This engine, which produces 160HP (119kW), a 13 percent increase from the previous engine, and 143 pound-feet (194Nm) of torque, is standard on the three Kia Soul models. Kia calculates that fuel economy for the 1.6-litre is an impressive 28/34 mpg city/highway (8.4-6.9L/100km), 10 percent more efficient than the previous engine, while the 2.0-litre offers a fuel-sipping 27/33 mpg (8.7-7.1L/100km) for both the automatic and manual transmissions.

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2012 Kia Picanto 3-door

Kia Picanto 3-door offers brand-new 1.0- and 1.25-litre Kappa-family petrol engines, which deliver fuel economy of up to 67.3mpg with CO2 emissions as low as 99g/km. The larger engine is available with Kia’s EcoDynamics fuel-saving technology – an Intelligent Stop & Go engine stop/start system – or, alternatively, with automatic transmission.

The three-cylinder 1.0-litre unit develops 68bhp and 95Nm of torque. The 1.25-litre four-cylinder engine is offered in three guises, all developing 84bhp and 121Nm of torque. In standard form it averages 60.1mpg. With a four-speed automatic transmission fuel consumption is an impressive 53.3mpg. Finally, there is the EcoDynamics version with fuel consumption at 65.7mpg.

At the front and rear the Kia Picanto 3-door reveals its own personality. The main grille opening is larger than that on the five-door and is available with silver or red trim surrounds. The front bumper has been re-profiled to make the car appear wider and lower. It contains a slim, full-width lower grille, housing large black-bezelled foglamps with the two upper trim grades.

The rear bumper has a rectangular black central section in place of body colour, a relatively simple measure that makes the Kia Picanto 3-door instantly appear sportier. The finishing touch is created by exposed twin chromed exhaust outlets in place of the hidden single tailpipe of the five-door car.

Picanto 3-door is offered in four trim specifications: 1, 1 Air, Halo and Equinox. The 1 and 1 Air carry over from the five-door and offer buyers a great value specification whilst the Halo and Equinox are new to the range.

Halo and Equinox are similar in concept to the popular ‘Originals Collection’ versions of the Kia Soul, such as the Soul Echo, Burner and Searcher, and each offer a very high level of specification. By offering both entry level and characterful, more luxurious specifications Picanto 3-door appeals to a broad customer audience within the growing A-segment.

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2012 Kia Rio 3-door

Kia Rio 3-door will be available with the same range of powertrains, equipment and options as the 5-door. The new model will offer customers a choice of four highly efficient three- and four-cylinder engines – with a 75 to 109 ps power range. The fastest Kia Rio 3-door will accelerate to 100 kph (62 mph) in 11.5 seconds and be able to reach a top speed of 183 kph (114 mph). Fuel consumption will be as low as 3.2 litres per 100 km (88.2 mpg) for the newly-introduced EcoDynamics diesel model, which will also deliver an industry-leading CO2 rating of just 85 g/km.

To maximise the impact of the new Kia Rio 3-door´s striking appearance, Kia will be offering customers a choice of up to 10 body colours – White, Black, Bright Silver, Signal Red, Fresh Beige, Electronic Blue, Deep Blue, Wendy Brown, Graphite and Caramel Yellow – which help to underline the car’s refined and stylish character.

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2012 Kia K9

K9, will complete Kia’s domestic market K-series range of passenger cars, whose members also include the front-wheel drive K5 (Optima in overseas markets) and K7 (Cadenza in overseas markets) sedans.

K9 is the latest continuation of Kia’s evolving design DNA, carrying its family-look radiator grille, bold high-tech luxury car style LED headlamps, with classic design echoes in its voluminous hood. Viewed from the front, K9 presents an imposing and characterful image.

Furthermore, the sophisticated and bold profile with its simple but strong character line and the innovative and stable rear view with its high-tech LED combination lamps, luxurious chrome garnish and bumper-integrated muffler, completes the parameters for whole new level of luxury car design.

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