AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com AutoblogGreen http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif AutoblogGreen http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Kia Optima Hybrid gets same updates as Hyundai cousin, slightly higher price]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/22/kia-optima-hybrid-gets-same-updates-as-sonata-cousin-slightly-h/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/22/kia-optima-hybrid-gets-same-updates-as-sonata-cousin-slightly-h/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/22/kia-optima-hybrid-gets-same-updates-as-sonata-cousin-slightly-h/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 kia optima hybrid

After a slight delay, we now bring you your regularly scheduled refresh of the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid. As with the Hybrid Sonata Hybrid update, the reworked Optima gas-electric gets more power - a 40 pound-feet increase in torque, up to 235 lb-ft - from a bigger 47-horsepower electric traction motor and a more powerful 47-kW lithium-polymer battery. The price also gets bigger, but only a little bit. The new MSRP starts at $25,900, up $100 from the 2012 Optima Hybrid. That's for the base LX model, the fully loaded EX trim starts at $31,950 (fees and delivery extra).

Given that this is a hybrid, fuel economy is key, and the 2013 model bumps those all-important EPA numbers up a smidge, too. The 2013 Optima Hybrid LX is expected to get 36/40/38 city/highway/combined miles per gallon. The 2013 EX does a little worse, at 35/39/37. For comparison's sake, the 2012 model (there was only one trim level) is rated at 34/39/36, the same as the 2011, when Kia introduced the Optima Hybrid. These numbers are the updated, lower figures after Kia admitted earlier estimates were too high, so the new version is better in almost every category. Add in more trunk space and a new-for-2013 navigation system with rearview camera in the EX model, and you've got yourself a bunch of small but welcome updates.

Continue reading Kia Optima Hybrid gets same updates as Hyundai cousin, slightly higher price

Kia Optima Hybrid gets same updates as Hyundai cousin, slightly higher price originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 kia optima hybridkiakia optimakia optima hybridmpgFri, 22 Mar 2013 14:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20514640/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20514640/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/22/kia-optima-hybrid-gets-same-updates-as-sonata-cousin-slightly-h/20514640/article-detail.xml 20514640 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-kia-optima-hybrid-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-kia-optima-hybrid-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai willing to settle MPG cases, offering lump sum payout to buyers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-willing-to-settle-mpg-cases-offering-lump-sum-payout-to/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-willing-to-settle-mpg-cases-offering-lump-sum-payout-to/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hyundai-willing-to-settle-mpg-cases-offering-lump-sum-payout-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 hyundai elantra limited

There has been a lot of fallout from the overstated fuel economy figures that both Hyundai and Kia have admitted to. The two companies are handing out lots of cash to affected customers in the form of debit cards, and the EPA might change the way it works with automakers on fuel economy labels. Some Hyundai/Kia buyers, though, wanted more than an apology and a reimbursement, and thus they filed a number of class-action lawsuits. Thirty-eight, in fact, which were all combined into one big case at the US District Court in Los Angeles. Hyundai is now reportedly saying it is willing to settle, and Kia is deciding whether to participate or not. Both automakers declined to comment.

The details from the filing are all undisclosed, sadly, so we don't know how much Hyundai will be paying (one of the original suits said buyers were due a total of $775 million), but Automotive News says buyers can continue to get reimbursed through the debit cards or take a lump sum payment through the class-action suit. No double-dipping, folks. Earlier reports said the class-action suits were seeking to let buyers back out of leases and loans, but there is no mention of this in this week's news.

Between Kia and Hyundai, around 900,000 vehicles were sold in the US with incorrect MPG numbers on the window sticker. Before the overstated mpg numbers were revealed in late 2012, Hyundai was already the target of a class-action suit over the mpg numbers in the Elantra.

Hyundai willing to settle MPG cases, offering lump sum payout to buyers originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class actionhyundaihyundai fuel economyhyundai gas mileagehyundai lawsuit over mpghyundai mpghyundaigasmileagehyundailawsuitovermpghyundaimpgkiakia fuel economylawsuitmpgWed, 27 Feb 2013 10:14:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20480727/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20480727/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/hyundai-willing-to-settle-mpg-cases-offering-lump-sum-payout-to/20480727/article-detail.xml 20480727 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-fuel-economy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-fuel-economy.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai, Kia delaying and updating new Sonata, Optima Hybrids?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/hyundai-kia-delaying-and-updating-new-sonata-optima-hybrids/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/hyundai-kia-delaying-and-updating-new-sonata-optima-hybrids/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/hyundai-kia-delaying-and-updating-new-sonata-optima-hybrids/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Kia Optima Hybrid - front three-quarter view

Given the recent debacle regarding overstated fuel-economy estimates from Hyundai and Kia, we wouldn't blame the companies for being a little gun-shy about new vehicle releases. That just might be the case for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima Hybrids.

With the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) not including those two models under its 2013 model-year list (it only lists the 2012 versions and 2013's gas-only versions), Hybrid Cars is wondering if the two companies aren't pushing back their debuts for some late tweaks. At the moment, only the 2012 Optima Hybrid shows up on Kia's website, and the same goes for the Sonata Hybrid. A Hyundai representative told Hybrid Cars that the 2013 Sonata Hybrid is being redesigned in Korea, with announcements possibly coming in the next month or two. Neither Hyundai nor Kia responded to requests for comment from AutoblogGreen.

It would seem to make sense that Hyundai and Kia are takign some extra time readying their 2013 model-year hybrids. In late 2012, Hyundai and Kia had to drop fuel-economy estimates on many of its 2012 and 2013 model-year vehicles after reporting inaccurate mileage estimates. The companies agreed to give money back to about 900,000 vehicle owners, with the amounts varying based on the MPG adjustment to their models and the owners' odometer readings. In all, the companies set aside about $412 million for refunds. Both the 2012 Sonata and Optima Hybrids are now rated at 36 miles per gallon combined.

Hyundai, Kia delaying and updating new Sonata, Optima Hybrids? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 hyundai sonata2013 hyundai sonata hybrid2013 kia optima2013 kia optima hybridhybridkiaoptimaWed, 20 Feb 2013 15:31:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20464447/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20464447/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/20/hyundai-kia-delaying-and-updating-new-sonata-optima-hybrids/20464447/article-detail.xml 20464447 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/kiaoptima_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/kiaoptima.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai, Kia owners accept fuel economy apologies, love their debit cards]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/hyundai-kia-owners-accepting-fuel-economy-apologies-love-their/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/hyundai-kia-owners-accepting-fuel-economy-apologies-love-their/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/01/25/hyundai-kia-owners-accepting-fuel-economy-apologies-love-their/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 hyundai elantra limited

Hyundai and Kia may have gotten lots of bad press for inflated fuel economy ratings, but the on-the-ground reality isn't all that bad. Automotive News says that dealers have been pleased at how the parent companies have handled the November scandal and the reimbursement programs are making customers happy and them back in the door.

Hyundai and Kia issues apologies for inflated fuel economy ratings on 13 nameplates from the 2011-2013 model years, which accounted for about 900,000 sold vehicles. Owners are being reimbursed for the "extra" gasoline they'll need to buy for as long as they own the vehicles.

The automakers have provided dealers with cash to help pay for gifts or other goodwill-related charges to please affected car owners. Hyundai and Kia dealers have been very active in the process - lavishing owners with apologies, free service and car washes. The charm offensive is working: reports say dealers have seen very little backlash. This meshes well with what we heard during the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, when Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik said about 90 percent of owners were happy with the reimbursement program.

One thing that has gone over especially well has been the debit cards. Owners were told to go to their local dealerships for mileage audits. After the audits, they received debit cards in the mail from Hyundai or Kia. Consumers can return to their dealerships for subsequent mileage checks in order to recharge their debit cards. Dealers are happy, too. "I'm thrilled with any program that brings customers back," Don Hobden, executive manager of six Kia dealerships in Alabama, Indiana and Kentucky, told Automotive News. "Some customers are actually reacting with some form of delight: 'Really? I'm getting a debit card?' It's been really well received."

Hyundai, Kia owners accept fuel economy apologies, love their debit cards originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car ownersdealershipsdebit cardsfuel economy ratingshyundaikiamileagempgreimbursementFri, 25 Jan 2013 11:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20430283/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20430283/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/25/hyundai-kia-owners-accepting-fuel-economy-apologies-love-their/20430283/article-detail.xml 20430283 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-fuel-economy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hyundai-fuel-economy.jpg <![CDATA[Fuel economy follies: Cheatin' or mistaken?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/fuel-economy-follies-cheatin-or-mistaken/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/fuel-economy-follies-cheatin-or-mistaken/http://green.autoblog.com/2013/01/03/fuel-economy-follies-cheatin-or-mistaken/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Hyundai Elantra - front three-quarter view, silver

Automotive journalists have been hearing a consistent message from Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia: their attributes top the competition. Over the last few years, they have claimed superiority for most of their products in nearly every measure that matters, from power and torque to interior and cargo capacity to, most importantly, fuel economy.

Hyundai logoWhen Hyundai introduced its new compact Elantra a couple years ago, execs poked fun at rivals for using asterisks to designate that their 40-mpg compacts - vehicles like the Chevrolet Cruze ECO, Ford Focus SFE, Dodge Dart Aero and Honda Civic HF - were special high-efficiency models. The Elantra and friends, they boasted, needed no such disclaimer because every model was EPA rated at 40 mpg highway. Yet they also claimed better power, torque and performance.

As a recovering engineer, I have wondered how that could be possible. How can nearly every Korean car and crossover boast better power, torque and fuel efficiency than every other in its segment? Could Korean engineers be that much smarter than everyone else? They certainly are smart, and hard working. But so are Japanese, Germans and Americans.

When I've questioned such "better at everything" claims at Hyundai and Kia new-product introductions, I've received little response beyond smiles and smugly shrugged shoulders. But US auto engineers - who routinely test, analyze and benchmark competitive products - have told me (off the record) that, in their own testing of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, they've been unable to achieve the Koreans' advertised numbers.

Wouldn't it be embarrassing and image damaging for them to get caught cheating?

Could it be, I wondered, that Hyundai and Kia have been fudging their fuel-economy numbers, especially those very important 40-mpg EPA highway claims? Doesn't our all-powerful EPA audit and check automakers' claims to keep them honest? Wouldn't it be embarrassing and image damaging for them to get caught cheating? Yes, sort of and yes.

But how many Americans recall that these same Korean companies were caught a decade ago inflating their power and performance claims? Very few apparently remember, or care, since both have enjoyed record-setting US sales since then. But cheating on EPA fuel economy ratings? How could they do that, and how have they gotten away with it?

Continue reading Fuel economy follies: Cheatin' or mistaken?

Fuel economy follies: Cheatin' or mistaken? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynamometerepafuel economyhyundaikiampgThu, 03 Jan 2013 11:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20415008/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20415008/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/03/fuel-economy-follies-cheatin-or-mistaken/20415008/article-detail.xml 20415008 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-hyundai-elantra-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2011-hyundai-elantra-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[How the EPA tests - and doesn't test - fuel economy of new vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/how-the-epa-tests-and-doesnt-test-fuel-economy-of-new-vehic/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/how-the-epa-tests-and-doesnt-test-fuel-economy-of-new-vehic/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/how-the-epa-tests-and-doesnt-test-fuel-economy-of-new-vehic/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

EPA window sticker

Doesn't the EPA test the fuel economy of all new vehicles? Actually, no.

Last week, Hyundai and Kia announced that they had each made errors in the way they tested the fuel economy of their new vehicles. "Honest mistakes" and "human error" were made during their in-house process for determining fuel economy figures that overestimated the rate at which vehicles like the Veloster and Elantra burn fuel. While most models were off by one or two MPGs, highway numbers for the Kia Soul were revised down by six MPGs in one instance.

At this point, you might be saying, wait, automakers get to test their own vehicles? Doesn't the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) do that?

Actually, no.

Most new cars and trucks in the US never see the inside of the EPA's National Vehicles and Fuel Emissions Laboratory in Ann Arbor, MI. Instead, they are tested by the manufacturers themselves, which often use pre-production prototypes in "a standardized test procedure specified by federal law," and then report those numbers to the EPA. Only 10-to-15 percent of all new models, or about 150 to 200 vehicles per year, are re-tested by the EPA to verify the automakers' numbers. Keep reading below for the full story.

Continue reading How the EPA tests - and doesn't test - fuel economy of new vehicles

How the EPA tests - and doesn't test - fuel economy of new vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>environmental protection agencyepaepa ratingfuel economyfuel mileagempgMon, 05 Nov 2012 18:00:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20369318/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20369318/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/how-the-epa-tests-and-doesnt-test-fuel-economy-of-new-vehic/20369318/article-detail.xml 20369318 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/epa-window-sticker_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/epa-window-sticker.jpg <![CDATA[Is Kia considering a diesel for the U.S.?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/is-kia-considering-a-diesel-for-the-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/is-kia-considering-a-diesel-for-the-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/is-kia-considering-a-diesel-for-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: ,

Kia logo

If we had a dollar for every time we read a headline that said, "[insert automaker here] considering a diesel for U.S. market," we'd have a pretty sizable stack of Washingtons. So why, then, is this story of particular interest?

After the website Efficient Automobile wrote about the possibility of Kia offering a diesel-powered Optima here in the United States, the automaker took things a step further, addressing this on its Facebook page. Kia's North American public relations team asks its loyal followers, "Would you drive a diesel?" And from what we can tell after a quick scan of the comments, there yeses certainly seem to outweigh the nos.

In Europe, the Optima is available with a 1.7-liter turbo-diesel four, good for 134 horsepower and 239 pound-feet of torque. The decidedly vague story from Efficient Automobile also states that the diesel Optima shares many of the visual upgrades that we have on the U.S.-spec Optima Hybrid, including a lowered ride height and special wheels.

It's worth mentioning that Kia's North American PR Facebook account is largely geared towards the U.S. media, and we have yet to meet a single member of the automotive press who wouldn't drive a diesel. But since Kia PR does not restrict its Facebook page, perhaps this is a small way for the automaker to gauge customer interest about the possibility of offering a diesel-powered car here in the United States. And to answer the question at hand, yes, Kia, we would.

Is Kia considering a diesel for the U.S.? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 16 May 2012 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselkiaoptimaWed, 16 May 2012 07:59:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20238598/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20238598/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/is-kia-considering-a-diesel-for-the-u-s/20238598/article-detail.xml 20238598 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/21kiafortekoupreview_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/21kiafortekoupreview.jpg <![CDATA[Paice drags Hyundai, Kia into long-running hybrid patent fight with Toyota]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/paice-drags-hyundai-kia-into-long-running-hybrid-patent-fight-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/paice-drags-hyundai-kia-into-long-running-hybrid-patent-fight-w/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/paice-drags-hyundai-kia-into-long-running-hybrid-patent-fight-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

With all the news coming out recently about the small claims lawsuit over the Honda Civic Hybrid, readers may have forgotten the name behind a long-running legal issue over Toyota's hybrid system: Paice. The latest development is that Paice and the Abell Foundation (an investor in Paice) have sued Hyundai and Kia over the gas-electric technology used in the Optima and Sonata hybrids (pictured), which shares some parts with Paice says infringes its patents, just as it says Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive does. Read up on the details of Alex Severinsky's story here.

Paice claims that Hyundai and Kia should have known that Toyota was dealing with legal issues - especially since Paice has been contacting Hyundai about the issue - and says that the Korean automakers are infringing three patents that Paice owns. Toyota and Paice settled their long-looming hybrid patent infringement case in 2010 after eight years, during which time the courts routinely rejected Toyota's request to dismiss the case. Toyota paid royalties to Paice for the Prius, Highlander Hybrid and Lexus RX400h models it sold.

Paice drags Hyundai, Kia into long-running hybrid patent fight with Toyota originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybrid lawsuitpaicepaice hyundaipaice kiapaice lawsuitpaice patentpaice toyotaSun, 19 Feb 2012 16:35:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20174817/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20174817/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/19/paice-drags-hyundai-kia-into-long-running-hybrid-patent-fight-w/20174817/article-detail.xml 20174817 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA closes probes into Honda Accord Hybrid, Kia Sorento]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Detroit News reports that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has concluded its investigations into both the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Kia Sorento without ordering either automaker to issue a recall. NHTSA began looking into Accord Hybrid models after a fatal traffic accident was initially attributed to unintended acceleration. The agency found no evidence of a mechanical or safety issue in the vehicles.

NHTSA had also received 18 complaints of fuel spilling from the filler port on certain 2003-2004 Kia Sorento models. Kia found the vehicles' fuel evaporation system featured a canister filter that could become clogged over time. As a result, excess pressure could build up in the fuel tank, causing gasoline to regurgitate back out of the filler neck. The canister requires regular service, but isn't mentioned in the owner's manual. According to The Detroit News, Kia has agreed to conduct a service campaign involving around 86,000 2003-2004 Sorento models.

NHTSA closes probes into Honda Accord Hybrid, Kia Sorento originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordaccord hybridhondahonda accord hybridkiakia sorentonational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaservice campaignsorentoWed, 11 Jan 2012 10:55:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20145904/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20145904/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/nhtsa-closes-probes-into-honda-accord-hybrid-kia-sorento/20145904/article-detail.xml 20145904 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2005-honda-accord-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2005-honda-accord-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai will boost 2012 investment by 16%, largely on fuel-efficiency efforts]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/hyundai-will-boost-2012-investment-by-16-largely-on-fuel-effic/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/hyundai-will-boost-2012-investment-by-16-largely-on-fuel-effic/http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/hyundai-will-boost-2012-investment-by-16-largely-on-fuel-effic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Hyundai Motor Group, the parent of both South Korean automakers Hyundai Motor Group and Kia International, will boost investment in facilities, research and development by 16 percent this year largely on its efforts to develop more fuel efficient engines for the two automakers.

Hyundai Motor Group said last week that it will invest 14.1 trillion won (about $12.2 billion U.S. at today's exchange rates) in its plants and research in 2012, up from 12.2 trillion won in 2011. Hyundai Motor Group's R&D investment will increase about 11 percent this year to 5.1 trillion won, and 90 percent of that total will be targeted towards boosting its vehicles' fuel economy and cutting their greenhouse-gas emissions.

With U.S. gas prices up about 27 percent last year, Hyundai has successfully pitched its vehicles' fuel economy to boost sales. Through the first 11 months of last year, Hyundai Motor America increased U.S. vehicle sales by 21 percent from a year earlier to almost 595,000 vehicles and said its fleetwide fuel economy topped 27 miles per gallon. Kia's U.S. sales through November jumped 36 percent from a year earlier, to more than 442,000 vehicles, with models such as the Optima and Sportage more than doubling their sales.

Hyundai and Kia's fleetwide fuel economy figures benefit from the fact that neither company sells large, gas-guzzling SUVs. For the model year 2010, Hyundai and Kia achieved fleetwide fuel-economy levels of 25.9 miles per gallon and 25.1 miles per gallon, putting Hyundai and Kia at No. 1 and No. 3 among the 14 largest automakers when it came to fuel efficiency, according to the EPA.

Hyundai has long marketed its efforts to boost fuel economy through both drivetrain electrification and more efficient gas motors as an integrated effort, even going as far as refusing to break out sales totals for its sole U.S. hybrid vehicle, the Sonata Hybrid. Instead, Hyundai has touted its fleet of vehicles that get at least an EPA-rated 40 miles per gallon highway and said those vehicles - the Sonata Hybrid, Elantra, Accent and Veloster - account for a third of its U.S. sales.

In August 2010, Hyundai garnered attention among fuel-efficiency advocates by saying that it would boost its fleetwide fuel economy for its U.S. cars and light-duty trucks to 50 miles per gallon by 2025, a 43 percent increase from Hyundai's goal for 2015.

Continue reading Hyundai will boost 2012 investment by 16%, largely on fuel-efficiency efforts

Hyundai will boost 2012 investment by 16%, largely on fuel-efficiency efforts originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel economygas mileagehyundaihyundai sonata hybridkiardresearch and developmentsonata hybridsouth koreavelosterThu, 05 Jan 2012 10:46:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20139391/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20139391/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/05/hyundai-will-boost-2012-investment-by-16-largely-on-fuel-effic/20139391/article-detail.xml 20139391 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/sonatahybrid-1325631091_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/sonatahybrid-1325631091.jpg <![CDATA[New Kia Ray is Korea's first production EV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/#commentsFiled under: ,

Kia Ray EV

Kia has unveiled the automaker's very first production electric vehicle. The Kia Ray EV will offer buyers a range of around 86 miles depending on driving conditions and will include a fast-charge option that should top off the cells in around 25 minutes. Otherwise, expect the 16.4-kWh lithium-ion battery pack to take around six hours to charge on a 220-volt circuit. A 50-kW electric motor provides power to the front wheels, which is good enough to get the EV to 62 miles per hour in 15.9 seconds. That may seems slow by most standards, but its worth noting that the internal combustion Ray with its 1.0-liter gas engine makes due with significantly less torque.

Kia says that Ray EV boasts 123 pound-feet of torque, which is 77 percent more than the 1.0-liter machine. The boxy EV also uses a new type of regenerative braking system in which the electric motor generates boost for the hydraulic brake assist - just like on an internal combustion vehicle. The automaker says that the result is a linear brake that still manages to recuperate energy that would otherwise be lost during deceleration. As wonky brake feel is one of our chief sticking points with all EVs, this comes as welcome news.

Kia will manufacture 2,500 Ray EVs for government agency use in Korea, so don't expect to be able to get your hands on one anytime soon. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading New Kia Ray is Korea's first production EV

New Kia Ray is Korea's first production EV originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleevfast chargekiakia evkia raykia ray evlithium ionlithium-ion batteryrayray evThu, 22 Dec 2011 11:50:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20133777/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20133777/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/new-kia-ray-is-koreas-first-production-ev/20133777/article-detail.xml 20133777 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/kia-ray-ev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/kia-ray-ev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia taking the Rio racing, Optima Hybrid selected as pace car]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Kia has only been racing for two years, but during this past season of the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, the plucky Korean brand recorded both its first-ever first place finish and won the driver and team championships for the entire season. Teams don't usually win their first race and wind up champions in the same season.

So Kia's good at racing, so good in fact that it plans to augment its program with a new B-Spec racer based on the recently redesigned Rio 5-door, as well as introduce a new pace car for the United States Touring Car Championship based on the Kia Optima Hybrid.

The new Rio 5-Door B-Spec racer will be made available to teams to compete in a variety of series, from World Challenge to GRAND-AM to SCCA and NASA events. The car is designed to meet showroom stock class requirements and will cost $14,000 on top of the purchase of a donor Rio 5-Door. Kia's racing partner, Kinetic Motorsports, is selling the kit and will install it for an extra $6,000. The automaker hopes the Rio's fuel efficiency will give it a leg up against competition on the track, which will likely include the Mazda2, Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta, among other showroom stock small cars.

Kia also provides the pace cars for USTCC and has decided that the Soul's run has come to an end. Instead, the 2012 season will see a Kia Optima Hybrid leading the field during warm ups and caution flags. Kia went with GoGoGear.com to get the Optima Hybrid ready for track duty (above). They installed a freer-flowing air intake, Magnaflow exhaust system, coil-over suspension system, front splitter and rear wing. The modifications will likely lower fuel economy a bit, but exposing the Optima Hybrid to a new group of potential buyers might be worth the extra fuel.

Kia taking the Rio racing, Optima Hybrid selected as pace car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctscckiakinetic motorsportsoptimaoptima hybridrioustccThu, 03 Nov 2011 08:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20095778/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20095778/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/03/kia-taking-the-rio-racing-optima-hybrid-selected-as-pace-car/20095778/article-detail.xml 20095778 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/50046-hi-kiaoptimahybridgogogear-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/50046-hi-kiaoptimahybridgogogear-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia readying electric minicar for late 2011 launch]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/kia-readying-electric-minicar-for-late-2011-launch/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/kia-readying-electric-minicar-for-late-2011-launch/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/kia-readying-electric-minicar-for-late-2011-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hyundai i10 electric minicar

Word from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show was that dividing lines would form in the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, with Kia to focus solely on electric vehicles and Hyundai to develop plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

Under this strategy, Kia will soon kick off small-scale production of the group's first highway-capable electric vehicle under the codename "TAM." The vehicle - scheduled to launch in late 2011 - is reportedly based on the Hyundai i10 minicar. Specs? We'd expect the electrified Kia to sport a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, a 49-kW (66 horsepower) electric motor and be a sub-100-mile electric mini.

The Kia-badged i10 electric will likely differ only slightly from the Hyundai i10 BlueOn prototype that took to the streets of South Korea in limited numbers back in September 2010. According to Kia, the electrified version of the i10 will be a low-volume production model, with output set at 2,000 units in 2012. There's no word on whether or not Kia's electric minicar will ever hit the U.S.

Kia readying electric minicar for late 2011 launch originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric minicarelectric vehiclehyundai i10i10kiakia electrickia electric vehicleminiminivehicletamMon, 03 Oct 2011 09:17:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20071367/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20071367/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/03/kia-readying-electric-minicar-for-late-2011-launch/20071367/article-detail.xml 20071367 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/58524-e-hyu-i10-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/58524-e-hyu-i10-630.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to focus on electric, Hyundai on plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/kia-to-focus-on-electric-hyundai-on-plug-in-hybrid-and-fuel-cel/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/kia-to-focus-on-electric-hyundai-on-plug-in-hybrid-and-fuel-cel/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/kia-to-focus-on-electric-hyundai-on-plug-in-hybrid-and-fuel-cel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

hyundai kia

Word from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show is that there are dividing lines forming in the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group: Kia will focus solely on electric vehicles, while Hyundai will develop plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles. This according to Yang Woong-chul, vice-president of the automotive group.

Under the new strategy, Kia will manufacture the group's first highway-capable electric vehicle with the codename "TAM." This vehicle is tentatively slated to launch by the end of 2011.

Meanwhile, Hyundai, with its fuel cell technological advantage, will continue to focus on refining its hydrogen-fueled Tuscon ix FCEV and reportedly is on track to debut a plug-in hybrid vehicle by the end of 2013.

What do you think about a split approach that will likely mean Hyundai will be without an electric vehicle during a time when virtually all automakers are readying EVs? The two companies could share technologies fairly easily if needed, but could the strategy backfire if Hyundai's commitment to fuel cell and plug-in hybrid vehicles proves too intense?

Kia to focus on electric, Hyundai on plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclefuel cell vehiclehyundaihyundai fuel cellhyundai plug-in hybridkiakia electricplug-in hybridTue, 20 Sep 2011 09:02:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20046199/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20046199/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/20/kia-to-focus-on-electric-hyundai-on-plug-in-hybrid-and-fuel-cel/20046199/article-detail.xml 20046199 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/hyundai-kia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/hyundai-kia.jpg <![CDATA[Wayne Gerdes hypermiles 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid to Guinness record with 64.55 mpg]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/wayne-gerdes-hypermiles-2011-kia-optima-hybrid-to-guinness-recor/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/wayne-gerdes-hypermiles-2011-kia-optima-hybrid-to-guinness-recor/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/wayne-gerdes-hypermiles-2011-kia-optima-hybrid-to-guinness-recor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

Hypermiler extraordinaire Wayne Gerdes and his colleague Chris Bernius have set a new Guinness World Record for the lowest fuel consumption in a gasoline hybrid vehicle while driving through the 48 adjoining U.S. states. At over 64 miles per gallon, Gerdes, Bernius and the 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid have found a home in Guinness' record books.

The lightfooted duo piloted a bone-stock 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid along a 7,899-mile route across America and achieved an average fuel consumption of 64.55 mpg, crushing the vehicle's official EPA highway rating of 40 mpg (highway).

Kia's 48-state challenge was completed in 14 days, with the Optima Hybrid averaging 564 miles a day and consuming just over 5.5 tanks of gasoline. Crunch those numbers and you'll discover the Optima Hybrid averaged 1,418 miles between fill-ups. That, right there, is what hypermiling is all about.

The record attempt was verified by Philip Robertson, Adjudicator at Guinness World Records, who presented Gerdes and Bernius with their certificate at an official ceremony at Kia Motors' manufacturing facility in West Point, GA yesterday.

Wayne Gerdes hypermiles 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid to Guinness record with 64.55 mpg originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guinnesshypermilingkiakia optimakia optima hybridmpgoptimarecord mpgwayne gerdesTue, 13 Sep 2011 19:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20041376/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20041376/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/13/wayne-gerdes-hypermiles-2011-kia-optima-hybrid-to-guinness-recor/20041376/article-detail.xml 20041376 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-qs.jpg <![CDATA[Wayne Gerdes starts hypermiling mpg record attempt in Kia Optima Hybrid]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/wayne-gerdes-starts-hypermiling-mpg-record-attempt-in-kia-optima/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/wayne-gerdes-starts-hypermiling-mpg-record-attempt-in-kia-optima/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/wayne-gerdes-starts-hypermiling-mpg-record-attempt-in-kia-optima/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

Hypermiling extraordinaire Wayne Gerdes, along with colleague Chris Bernius (both friends of the site), are heading out on a big journey today. The two will leave from Kia Motors' manufacturing facility in West Point, GA on a trip through 48 states in a clockwise direction, finishing in South Carolina 16 days from now.

Gerdes and Bernius will jump behind the wheel of a bone-stock 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid, with the aim of setting a record for lowest fuel consumption in a hybrid vehicle while driving an 8,000-mile route through all 48 contiguous states. (To see how the 2012 Chevy Cruze Eco fared on this type of journey, click here).

The 2.4-liter Optima Hybrid returns an EPA estimated 35 miles per gallon in the city and 40 mpg highway. However, given these hypermilers' previous results, it's safe to assume that they will beat those numbers by a truly significant margin. If you'd like to track the drivers' progress, you can receive live updates via Kia's Twitter feed and though a specially-developed Facebook app on Kia's Worldwide page. Good luck, guys!

Continue reading Wayne Gerdes starts hypermiling mpg record attempt in Kia Optima Hybrid

Wayne Gerdes starts hypermiling mpg record attempt in Kia Optima Hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia optima hybridhypermilingkiakia optimakia optima hybridoptima hybridwayne gerdesFri, 26 Aug 2011 19:58:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20027657/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/20027657/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/26/wayne-gerdes-starts-hypermiling-mpg-record-attempt-in-kia-optima/20027657/article-detail.xml 20027657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-qs.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid [w/video]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-quick-spin-review/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-quick-spin-review/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A Feature-Packed Family Hauler That Sips

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Every time we read Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, we find something new. Adams was able to spin phrases that hit on multiple levels, and his work requires repeated attention to be enjoyed in full. We wouldn't be surprised if the folks at Kia have been reading a bit of Adams themselves, because their latest lineup has been commanding multiple looks.

With new models being churning out both here and abroad, Kia is offering a range of vehicles that hit consumer needs on multiple levels. The latest member of the family is the 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid, and it's looking to speak to the green-tinged car-shopping contingent. (Continue reading...)



Copyright 2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid [w/video]

Review: 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid [w/video] originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 11:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia optima hybridfeaturedoptimaoptima hybridoptima hybrid reviewquick spinquickspinWed, 29 Jun 2011 11:51:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19978719/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19978719/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/29/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-quick-spin-review/19978719/article-detail.xml 19978719 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-qs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-qs.jpg <![CDATA[Kia VP says Optima Hybrid is a no-compromise vehicle]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/kia-vp-says-optima-hybrid-is-a-no-compromise-vehicle/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/kia-vp-says-optima-hybrid-is-a-no-compromise-vehicle/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/kia-vp-says-optima-hybrid-is-a-no-compromise-vehicle/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia Motors' vice-president of marketing, Michael Sprague, says that the 2011 Optima Hybrid is the vehicle that will legitimize the Korean automaker as an eco-friendly company. In speaking with Ward's Auto, Sprague stated:
In our studies, some people would reject the brand outright because they wanted to do business with a company they felt was environmentally friendly. They may not necessarily buy a hybrid, but they want to be associated with a company that offers that technology or that option.
Enter the Optima Hybrid, which Kia is promoting as a no-compromise vehicle. According to Sprague, this makes it unlike some of the competition's gas-electric vehicles. For example, Sprague says that the Optima Hybrid's compact lithium-ion battery pack doesn't rob the vehicle of precious cargo space.

Priced from $26,500 (excluding $750 for destination and handling), the 2011 Optima Hybrid is a bargain. For the sake of comparison, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, starts at $28,305 (not counting a $795 destination and handling charge) and the Toyota Camry Hybrid has a base MSRP of $27,050 (plus $760). The only mid-size gas-electric sedan that undercuts the Optima Hybrid's price is its mechanically identical twin, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.




[Source: Ward's Auto]

Kia VP says Optima Hybrid is a no-compromise vehicle originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hybrid sedanhybrid vehiclekiakia optimakia optima hybridoptima hybridWed, 15 Jun 2011 10:43:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19962765/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19962765/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/15/kia-vp-says-optima-hybrid-is-a-no-compromise-vehicle/19962765/article-detail.xml 19962765 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/10-2012-kia-optima-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/10-2012-kia-optima-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to offer Picanto Bi-Fuel in Europe]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/kia-to-offer-picanto-bi-fuel-in-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/kia-to-offer-picanto-bi-fuel-in-europe/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/25/kia-to-offer-picanto-bi-fuel-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Picanto: Geneva 2011
2012 Kia Picanto - Click above for high-res image gallery

Korean automaker Kia has announced that its Picanto Bi-Fuel compact sedan will be exported to select European markets in late 2011. Powered by both liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and gasoline, the Picanto Bi-Fuel was specifically developed to "overcome range-anxiety problems in Europe and to eliminate cold weather starting problems sometimes associated with LPG engine," a Hyundai-Kia spokesman told Ward's Auto (sub. req.).

The Picanto Bi-Fuel hybrid can travel up to 373 miles in LPG mode and, if needed, up to 115 miles in gasoline mode. Kia says that when the Picanto's engine fires up, it's in gasoline-burning mode. However, the Bi-Fuel switches over to LPG within seconds. The fuel system incorporates an underbody-mounted 35-gallon LPG tank and a 10-gallon gasoline tank.

In Korea, Kia sells the Picanto Bi-Fuel as the Morning Bi-Fuel, which is priced from 10 to 12.4 million won ($9,187 to $11,346 U.S. at the current exchange rate), depending on trim level and options. Kia has yet to announce European pricing for the Picanto Bi-Fuel.



Live photos copyright (C)2011 Noah Joseph / AOL

[Source: Ward's Auto - sub. req.]

Kia to offer Picanto Bi-Fuel in Europe originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 25 May 2011 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia morningkia picantokia picanto hybridlpgpicanto bi-fuelWed, 25 May 2011 17:04:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19948010/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19948010/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/25/kia-to-offer-picanto-bi-fuel-in-europe/19948010/article-detail.xml 19948010 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/04kia-picantogenflive-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/04kia-picantogenflive-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Kia Optima Hybrid priced at $26,500*]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-priced-at-26-500/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-priced-at-26-500/http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/11/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-priced-at-26-500/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid
2011 Kia Optima Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia Motors America has announced that its midsize fuel-sipping sedan, the 2011 Optima Hybrid, will be priced at $26,500, plus an extra $750 for destination and handling, when it hits U.S. dealers in June. The gas-electric Optima is Kia's first-ever hybrid vehicle.

Like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the gas-electric Optima uses the automaker's 2.4-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine, mated to an electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission. This combo is expected to return 35/40 miles per gallon city/highway, just like the Sonata Hybrid.

Though the Optima Hybrid shares most of its mechanical bits with the gas-electric Sonata, its exterior styling and interior design are distinct. The Optima Hybrid comes standard with items like a rear-mounted backup camera, rear spoiler, auto-down front windows, a cooled glovebox, compass and Kia's Uvo infotainment system.

For the sake of comparison in this segment, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid starts at $28,405 and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, which apparently has less standard equipment than the gas-electric Optima, starts at $25,795.




[Source: Kia Motors America]

Continue reading 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid priced at $26,500*

2011 Kia Optima Hybrid priced at $26,500* originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 11 May 2011 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia optima hybridhybridhybrid sedanhybrid vehiclekiakia optima hybrid priceoptimaoptima hybridWed, 11 May 2011 09:06:00 EST http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19937119/article-comments.xml http://green.autoblog.com/feed/19937119/article-comments.html http://green.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/11/2011-kia-optima-hybrid-priced-at-26-500/19937119/article-detail.xml 19937119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2012-kia-optima-hybrid-630-1301580911_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/2012-kia-optima-hybrid-630-1301580911.jpg -1 2