Kia has certainly come a long way since their vehicles were first marketed here on our shores. The Korean automaker is now definitely a force to be reckoned with on all levels of their existing stable. We’ll deal here with their latest Kia Rio lineup.

The design for the latest Rio models, which includes both a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback, was conceived at Kia’s design studios in Irvine, Calif. The 2012 Rio 5-door and its sedan counterpart are all-new, and proudly display more appealing styling than ever before, displaying their own versions of Kia’s signature grille, that’s slimmed down to connect to the dynamic headlamp design, which provides a new angle on the Kia family image including a larger air intake, exuding a more youthful face.  Exhibiting highly sculpted, sloping shoulder lines and wedge-shaped exteriors, both the hatchback and sedan showcase attractive and athletic profiles that convey power and agility while mimicking the aggressive lines found on other recently launched Kia products such as last year’s Optima and Sportage models.  The Rio sedan drops the wedge line profile slightly toward the rear door down to the trunk, differentiating it from the outline of the hatchback.

The overall aura of the new Rio serves up a slammed stance and muscular exterior profile. No shortage of standard exterior features are provided, starting with the LX trim. Next up is the EX trim level which adds amenities, and finally, comes the SX trim level with an even higher level of spottiness and added features and equipment.

Moving to the interior, the 2012 Rio delivers a bold and modern cabin, centered on Kia’s horizontal three-cylinder instrument panel and two-tone color scheme, emphasizing spaciousness and a feeling of comfort.  An extended wheelbase (101.2 inches) enhances passenger room and comfort, providing 40 inches front headroom, 37.6 inches rear headroom, 43.8 inches front legroom and 31.1 inches rear legroom for both the Rio sedan and Rio 5-door hatchback. Cargo space amounts to an impressive 13.7 cubic feet for the sedan and 15 cubic feet in the hatchback.

Rio’s allows for an earth-friendly theme, with 85 percent of the vehicle’s materials being recyclable at the end of its lifespan.

Both models and all trims are powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC, 16-valve, GDI, inline four-cylinder engine with CVVT and the option of either a six-speed manual transmission (LX only) or an efficient six-speed automatic with manual shift capability.  One of only two vehicles in the segment to offer a GDI engine, the 2012 Rio provides a combination of power and fuel efficiency, achieving a class-leading 138 horsepower along with 123 pound feet of torque, while maintaining class-leading fuel economy as well – 30/40 mpg (city/highway) for the sedan and hatchback.  Rio also will be the first non-hybrid or luxury vehicle to offer Idle Stop & Go (ISG) technology (available later this model year), which aids in reducing fuel consumption, improving fuel economy by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is not moving – such as at a stop light or in traffic – and automatically restarting when the driver releases the brake pedal.

Adding to the Rio’s improved performance, Kia’s engineers were able to reduce engine weight by 29 pounds over the previous generation vehicle by adding an aluminum valve cover and block to this third-generation Gamma engine, while incorporating cast iron linings for increased durability.  The Rio’s all-new platform is longer, wider and lower.

Pricing for 2012 Rio 5-door subcompact hatchback begins at $13,600 MSRP, while the Rio 5-door A/T begins at $14,700 – both lower than the previous generation.  The EX model lineup will begin pricing at $16,500 while the top-of-the-line, sporty SX trim starts at $17,700 offering an impressive inventory of consumer-friendly and upscale features.

Standard safety fare on all Rio trims include: Electronic Stability Control; a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System; Hill-start Assist Control; and Vehicle Stability Management, which coordinates the car’s ESC and ABS to help the driver stay in control of the vehicle.

I was able to evaluate both the Rio SX sedan and 5-Door Hatchback. The 5-door hatch came with the 6-speed manually shiftable automatic, with the exterior finished in Signal Red metallic with a Black interior. The base price was set at $17,700 while the final sticker came to $18,545. My 4-door sedan tester was also in SX trim with the automatic transmission, finished outside in Clear White and inside in Black with a base price of $17,500 and final price totaling $20,545 after adding the Premium Package, carpeted floor mats and Destination and Handling.

SUMMARY:  The 2012 Kia Rio on all levels is no longer an Ugly Duckling…. It is sporty and attractive in either form, though I personally prefer the 5-door hatch styling, and the added versatility that it provides.

Power seems adequate for virtually any scenario except street racing, which is not the Rio’s intended purpose anyway. There is however a Kia race team that fields vehicles in the Grand Am racing Series – witness the recent Kia 200 held at Homestead raceway in Florida. Handling characteristics lean toward sporty, displaying an athletic agility and nimble response.

The ride quality around town may perhaps prove a little too firm for some, especially on rough and uneven road surfaces, however on one of my favorite twisty back roads, this was barely noticeable and the Rio stuck like glue, and manual shifting of the automatic transmission was precise with predictable and smooth gear transitions. One may expect to achieve in excess of an average 40 mpg under normal driving scenarios.

Bottom-line, both the Rio sedan and 5-door hatch are admirable vehicles at an affordable price, with high value and equipment and feature content. The varying trim levels allow consumers to choose the model that best meets their needs and budget. The 2012 Rio and Rio 5-door are covered by Kia’s industry leading comprehensive warranty program. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.

SPECIFICATIONS: Kia Rio 5-Door SX -‘12

 Base Price:                           $17,700.

Price as Tested:                        $18,545.

Engine Type and Size:            1.6-liter, DOHC, 16-valve inline four-cylinder with Dual CVVT and Gasoline Direct Injection.

Horsepower (bhp):                        138            @ 6,300            rpm

Torque (ft./ lbs.):                        123            @ 4,850            rpm

Transmission:                        Six-speed automatic overdrive.

Drive Train:            Transversely mounted front engine / Front-wheel drive.

Suspension:                                    Front - MacPherson type with gas shock absorber.

                                                Rear – Coupled torsion beam axle with gas shock                                                             absorber.

Brakes:                                    Power-assisted four-wheel discs (vented front) with                                                             ABS.

Tires:                                                Hankook Optimo H425 205/45 R17 mounted on

Wheelbase:                                    101.2            inches

Length Overall:                        159.3            inches

Width:                                                  67.7            inches

Height:                                      57.3            inches

Curb Weight:                                    2,483            lbs.

Fuel Capacity:                        11.4              gallons

EPA Mileage Estimates:                30            mpg city /40            mpg highway

Drag Coefficient:                        Not listed.

0 – 60 mph:                                    Not tested.

The Sonata Hybrid from Hyundai bowed first, claiming the best mid-size sedan highway fuel economy. Now Hyundai’s Korean sibling Kia has introduced their first ever Hybrid for the U.S. market – the Optima for 2012, boasting the same EPA mileage ratings from the same basic powertrain. In fact the Optima, which is not an exact clone of the Sonata, is pretty darned close, even within the same pricing range.

Hyundai calls their production application of its hybrid system  “Hybrid Blue Drive” which debuted in mid-2009 featured in the Korean domestic market’s Elantra LPI mild-hybrid.  As implemented in the 2011 Sonata Hybrid, Direct Hybrid Blue Drive is now a full parallel hybrid system. Both the Kia Optima Hybrid and the Sonata Hybrid are full parallel systems, and may be operated in a zero emissions, fully electric drive mode at speeds up to 62 miles per hour, or in a combined gas-electric mode at any speed. When the car comes to a stop and the electrical storage load is low, the engine shuts down, completely eliminating idle fuel consumption and emissions.

At the core of the Hybrid System is a lithium polymer battery pack. The Kia Optima Hybrid powertrain is configured with a unique architecture. In contrast to the more familiar power-split hybrid systems such as those from Toyota and Ford, Kia’s Hybrid Drive utilizes a transmission-mounted-electric-drive layout where the motor is separated from the transmission gear-set. This modular layout offers both Kia and Hyundai a number of advantages. Most importantly, the TMED configuration provides flexibility to mix and match different sized electric motors and transmissions to suit different vehicles.

The Hybrid Drive System consists of a 2.4-liter Theta II DOHC, 16-valve four-cylinder hybrid with Continuously Variable Valve Timing and a 270V Maximum Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric motor. The gas engine delivers 166 horsepower at 6,000 rpm along with 154 pound feet of torque at 4,250 rpm, while the combined gas/electric operation generates 206.2 horsepower and 193.4 pound feet of torque. The system transfers energy through a six-speed automatic transmission without a lock-up torque converter. Another unique aspect of system is the 8.5 kW Hybrid-Starter-Generator, which is belt-driven off the Theta II engine. It is not to be confused with integrated starter systems used for so-called micro or mild-hybrid systems from other manufacturers.

Regenerative braking plays an important role in recovering kinetic energy lost during braking and storing it for future propulsion.

The newest member of the Kia stable was the all-new, third generation 2011Kia Optima. First seen at the 2010 New York International Auto Show, this latest iteration Kia Optima reflects Kia’s design-led transformation, and perpetuates Kia’s completely new and emotion-stirring design philosophy. The new Optima is longer, wider and lower than its predecessors. The sleek and streamlined Optima profile is coupe-like with its blacked out “B” pillars and gracefully arched roofline that is highlighted by a bright chrome trim strip that runs from the “A” pillar to the “C” pillar, which features an intriguing reverse treatment. The car’s shoulder line runs from the headlamps to the decklid, with another indented character line riding at the rocker lever, and connecting the pronounced wheel wells. The overall effect is bold and athletic. The new signature grille is individualistic and quite attractive, flanked by projector headlamps.

The New Kia Optima displays an allure that is missing from many other mid-size sedans, regardless of price point, and will be offered in three trim levels featuring a host of standard features: a base LX model with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission with; a more upscale EX model; and the cream of the crop SX flagship model. The LX is powered by a 2.4-liter, DOHC, 16-valve normally aspirated inline four cylinder with Gasoline Direct Injection that delivers 200 horsepower at 6,300 rpm while generating 186 pound feet of torque at 4,250 rpm. The same engine will power the EX models with a 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI variant optionally available at a later date. The Optima Hybrid model is based upon the 2.4-liter four-banger. The turbo motor will crank out 274 horses, along with 269 pound feet of torque and will be the exclusive source of energy for SX model Optimas. EX and SX model Optimas are not available with the six-speed manual gearbox.

The Kia Optima’s styling is shared with its gasoline-powered sibling –It is sleek and aerodynamic with accentuated character lines that emphasize motion even when parked. The wide front opening houses a mesh grille, which is flanked by futuristic headlamps and fog lamps. The cabin or greenhouse curves gracefully from the sharply raked windshield to the equally raked rear glass and abbreviated deck. The car sits low over amply filled wheel wells displaying a bold, athletic stance.

My test 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid Premium sedan wore an exterior coat of Satin Silver metallic, which was complemented by a two-tone Sand and Black leather interior. The base price was set at $26,500 slightly more than the Sonata Hybrid, while the addition of the $5,000 Premium Technology Package, with a host of extra features and equipment, along with inland Freight and handling charge elevated the final purchase price to $32,250.

SUMMARY:  I drove my test Kia Optima Hybrid in a variety of situations, which included both urban and suburban scenarios. The expected range, depending of course upon driving style and terrain can easily reach 600 miles. I was hardly aware of the Hybrid system’s operation, which is seamless for all intents and purposes except for the gas engine shutting off when the car comes to a complete halt. My driving partner and I managed to glean 44 mpg on a recent Florida trip from Miami to Key West, without really employing any serious hypermiling exercises.

The Kia Optima Hybrid is very attractive and appealing, with a bold and athletic persona, that should find favor with both genders and all age groups. It performs much as one would expect from a conventional vehicle’s operation, but with much greater efficiency. The electric power-assisted steering delivers a sporty and positive feel, and the ride quality is very comfortable.

Additional possible powertrain combinations are on the horizon, including the use of even more powerful motors and higher capacity batteries that will possibly spawn plug-in hybrids.

The Kia Optima Hybrid is a very affordable and impressive five-passenger, four-door sedan that features a lengthy list of standard features and equipment. Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution of Kia Motor Corporation based in Seoul, Korea, offering a complete line of vehicles through more than 730 dealers throughout the United States.

SPECIFICATIONS: Kia Optima Hybrid Premium-‘12

 Base Price:                           $26,500.

Price as Tested:                        $32,250.

Engine Type and Size:            2.4-liter Theta II, DOHC, 16-valve in-line four-cylinder with CVVT and Multi-point fuel injection in combination with a Permanent Magnet Synchronous electric motor and 270V Lithium Polymer battery.

Horsepower (bhp):                        166            @ 6,000            rpm-engine only

Torque (ft./ lbs.):                        154            @ 4,250            rpm-engine only

Horsepower (bhp):                        40.2            @ 1,400-6,000 rpm– HEV only

Torque lb-ft.:                                    151.2  @ 0-1,400               rpm – HEV only

Power Electronics (HEV):            HP= 206.2 @ 6,000 rpm

Lb.-ft.= 195.4 @ 4,250 rpm

Transmission:                        Six-speed electronically controlled automatic without                                                             lockup torque converter – with wet-type laminated                                                             clutch.

Drive Train:            Transversely mounted front engine / Front-wheel drive.

Suspension:                                    Front – Independent MacPherson struts, coil springs                                                             and anti-roll bar.

                                                Rear – Independent Multi-link, coil springs and anti-                                                            roll bar.

Brakes:                                    Active Hydraulic Boost four-wheel discs (vented front)                                                             with ABS, TCS, ESC, HAC, TPMS and regenerative                                                             braking.

Tires:                                                Kumho Solus KH25 -  P215/55 R17 mounted on 5-slot                                                 Geo Disc alloy wheels.

Wheelbase:                                    110.0            inches

Length Overall:                        190.7            inches

Width:                                                  72.1            inches

Height:                                      57.0            inches

Curb Weight:                                    3,490            lbs.

Fuel Capacity:                          17.2            gallons

EPA Mileage Estimates:            35            mpg city / 40            mpg highway

Drag Coefficient:                        0.25

0 – 60 mph:                                    Not tested.

New for UVO is a telematics suite (“eServices”) powered by a free smartphone app.  It provides drivers with an innovative in-vehicle connectivity experience including navigation, diagnostics capabilities and added convenience features. Powered by Microsoft^® .

UVO is short for “Your Voice,” and provides consumers easy-to-use voice and touch-activated experiences to manage music files and hands-free mobile phone operation

“UVO was a breakthrough for Kia, and signaled the brand’s ambitious plans to become an in-vehicle technology leader by enabling drivers and passengers to use all of their personal technologies more safely and easily, while creating additional entertainment experiences,” said Henry Bzeih, who heads the connected car program for KMA. “With smartphone penetration nearing 50-percent in the U.S., UVO eServices extends our award-winning system’s abilities far beyond the original offerings by utilizing one of the industry’s first app-based approaches for telematics. The development focus for UVO eServices was to deliver the connectivity, services and notifications valued by vehicle owners while also adding safety features, diagnostic information and innovations such as our parked vehicle locator to create user-friendly experiences that exceed people’s expectations.”

UVO gives the driver the ability to control music by voice controls from a variety of media sources, including CD, radio, USB, media player, and the Digital Jukebox.  Now they can also control the navigation system through voice commands when the vehicle is outfitted with the UVO eServices/navigation package.

Other new UVO eServices are an enhanced telematics suite, which includes a number of maintenance, and infotainment functions, including Crash Notification Assist, Roadside Assist, Automatic Diagnostics, Manual Diagnostics, Scheduled Diagnostics, vehicle maintenance, eServices Guide, Trip Info, safe- and eco-friendly driving awards, Send2Car, Curfew Limit, Speed Alert, Geo Fencing, Car Care Web and Park Assist. These functions, with the exception of eServices Guide and Crash Notification Assist, are run through the owner’s smartphone equipped with the free UVO eServices app.

Key Features of UVO eServices include:

• eServices Guide: accessed via the touch-screen or voice command, eServices Guide places a phone call to a voice response system that explains UVO eServices to the driver in an interactive manner.
• Car Care Web: Through the UVO eServices owner’s portal, known as “Car Care Web,” owners can check vehicle diagnostics, vehicle status, maintenance schedules, driving behavior, My Car Zone alerts, and schedule appointments with their preferred or nearby dealer via their home computer or mobile device.
• Send2Car: This feature allows owners of Kia’s equipped with a navigation system to send a destination from Google Maps to their smart phone. After the phone receives the destination, it will send the destination to the vehicle’s navigation system the next time the phone is paired viaBluetooth^®2 wireless technology.
• Vehicle Diagnostics: If UVO’s eServices identifies a problem by way of the Automatic Diagnostics function, it will communicate the vehicle’s list of issues and its location to Kia’s 24/7 call center or will schedule an appointment online with the nearest Kia dealership upon user request.
• Crash Notification Assist: In case of an airbag deployment, the Crash Notification Assist function will alert emergency services. After a 10-second delay, during which time the driver has the option to cancel the call, UVO will dial 9-1-1, read the vehicle’s location aloud to the emergency services operator and allow the operator to speak with the vehicle occupants.
• My Car Zone: UVO eServices helps drivers stay up to date on their vehicle’s whereabouts while away from the car. Curfew Limits in terms of time stamps or even GPS coordinates through ‘Geo Fencing’ (a predetermined area plotted in the navigation system) can be set. If the car leaves that area or is used outside of predetermined hours, the owner receives a detailed alert on his or her smartphone the next time the driver pairs the phone with the vehicle via Bluetooth^® wireless technology. The Speed Watch function also allows owners to set a predetermined maximum speed for the car, and receive an alert if exceeded.
• Park Assist: If the driver happens to forget where they parked the car, the Park Assist function helps find it by sending the location of the vehicle when it is parked to the driver’s phone.

Kia also showed its IVI concept, which uses an 11.6-inch multi-touch screen to transfer music, contacts and directions between smartphone or tablets and the vehicle. Once the user’s smartphone or tablet is synced with the vehicle, many of the device’s features and apps become available through the IVI system.  The IVI system also allows users to charge devices without the need for conventional wired chargers.

Rumors suggest the car is destined for production in a more refined version to do battle with graceful sedans and hatchbacks like with names like Porsche Panamera, Audi A7, and founder of the four-door coupe genre, the Mercedes-BenzCLS, but with a much more sedate pricing.  Elements of Kia design shine through on the model with a Kia family style grille.

Dimensions indicate the GT is likely built on the family’s Hyundai Genesis and Genesis Coupe underpinnings. Under the hood is a new turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6 (390-hp) with new 8-speed automatic transmission, which debuted recently in the larger Hyundai Genesis and Equus sedans.

Back stage talk says, the GT will have a direct influence on a future flagship likely soon from the Korean automaker.   The GT design, which has hints of Audi A7 design, comes from the team of Kia design chief, German Peter Schreyer, who was one time an Audi designer and adds fuel to the rumors that Kia is headed upscale. Schreyer said in his closing remarks about the GT at Frankfurt, “It may be a dream now, but sometimes dreams come true.” 

Santa Fe, NM – One vehicle category we’ve come to enjoy for travel is the group of compact to mid-size SUVs, crossovers and similar vehicles.  In general, this group offers roomy interiors, comfortable rides, reasonable fuel economy and on occasion, the advantage of having all-wheel drive for occasional adverse weather or for exploring back roads.

On a recent trip to one of our favorite vacation locations, Santa Fe, NM we borrowed the compact Kia Sportage SUV.

Kia was actually one of the leaders of the compact SUV movement in the United States when they introduced the original Sportage in 1993, more than three years before the first Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4.

Moving into the third generation with the introduction of the 2011 Sportage, the sophisticated new CUV (compact utility vehicle) is a perfect illustration of how far this brand has come in less than two decades and it is a bellwether to the company’s future.

A product of Kia’s U.S.-based design center in Irvine, Calif., the Sportage takes strong cues from the Kue concept vehicle from 2007.  Starting from the signature Kia grill and composed of muscular lines, the Sportage has a look that reminds us of Samurai art.  The bodylines have strong dimensions, especially seen in the sculpted hood and pronounced wheel arches.  A surprisingly wide C-pillar, which creates a unique side silhouette, anchors the sweeping roofline but also hampers rear visibility a little.

New from the ground up, the Sportage was developed on a unibody frame with fully independent front and rear suspensions, which are more oriented toward ride than handling.

A 2.4-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine powers the new Sportage, delivering 176-hp driving a six-speed manual transmission (base model only) or the Kia-designed six-speed automatic.   On other occasions, we have driven the Sportage at near sea level elevations and the engine provided good performance levels.  However, at the 7,000-foot levels around Santa Fe, the little engine can run out of steam.  We noticed this especially at highway speeds on hills.  That problem is easily solved however by the new SX model, which has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260-hp.  We’ve since driven the SX at low elevations and it’s impressive.  It would be perfect in Santa Fe.

The standard drivetrain is front-wheel drive, with the new Dynamax™ all-wheel drive system as an option ($1,500).   Co-developed by Kia and Magna International, the Dynamax system drives the front wheels at 100 percent to maximize fuel economy.  When slippage is detected the system transfers power to the rear wheels as needed.  Dynamax can also be locked to distribute power evenly between the front and rear axles for better traction at speeds under 25 mph.

The Sportage is rated at 22 mpg for city driving and 28mpg for the highway.  With 0 to 60 mph acceleration time taking 9.8 seconds, we thought the power was about right for the average driver but lacked the performance to appeal to those wanting a vehicle for more spirited driving.  The turbocharged version drops the 0 to 60 mph time to 7.3 seconds with EPA fuel economy estimates of 21/25 mpg.

Sportage arrives with three trim levels – base, LX and EX, with base level pricing starting at $19,300, including the destination charge.  The EX AWD pricing starts at $26,200 and can go to $30,000 when outfitted with the Premium Package, navigation system with rear view camera and a couple of other available options.  Fully equipped, the Sportage sports a panoramic sunroof, premium Infinity audio system, backup sensors, leather seating with heated front seats and a cooled driver’s seat.

Sportage is the first Kia to be equipped with the new UVO hands-free in-car communications system powered by Microsoft.  The system is the Kia version of the Ford Sync system, which enables drivers and passengers to place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from several sources and create custom music programs.  Sirius® Satellite Radio is standard and the new HD Radio® is available.

A bit larger and more spacious than the previous generation, the new Sportage projects the look of quality – from the materials used in the interior to the solid tactile feel of the controls.  With the interesting styling, level of quality and exceptional value, we think the Sportage is a new leader in the compact SUV niche.

The Sportage was a great car for our vacation travel and would be an easy vehicle to live with on an everyday basis.  Our inclination would be to go for the turbocharged SX, but most drivers would be very happy with the standard engine.

The expansion project is expected to be completed in 2012.  The company has already hired 1,000 additional workers to staff a third shift.  That brings the West Point workforce total to 3,000 workers.

The $1 billion plant started production only 18 months ago producing the Kia Sorento SUV, and then soon added Kia Optima midsize sedan and the Hyundai Santa Fe crossover, which shares its platform with the Optima.

It doesn’t do anything differently than other vehicle. It doesn’t have a joystick drive system and it doesn’t read your thoughts and suggest radio stations you might like. It’s actually quite regular. But it does everything so effortlessly; driving becomes a calming, Zen experience.

At first glance, nothing really has changed on the Turbo model. Kia hasn’t fitted it with a wing, louvers, or skirting. The seats aren’t any sportier and the springs weren’t stiffened and therefore won’t fuse your spine together. It’s simply peppier but not obnoxiously so.

When some manufacturers fit a Turbo to a pre-existing model, a lot of the time they also fit lunacy to it as well and destroy the driving enjoyment (aside from hard acceleration). Kia hasn’t done that.

The Sportage Turbo isn’t a rocket ship. It’s delightfully quick but you won’t be passing Mitsubishi Evolutions on the rally course. You will, however, be able to merge into freeway-speed traffic without a second thought.

During the week I had the Sportage Turbo, I was moving across town. So aside from my truck, I used the Sportage to haul a few things. To my surprise, the back doors are big enough to easily fit a large moving box. The back end, too, was quite roomy.

Like all Kias, the Bluetooth virtually set itself up and the climate control was flawless. The Sportage I had was fitted with a panoramic moonroof, which made a rare sunny Portland day even more enjoyable. And the rear-view camera (which should be mandatory with all new cars) made paralleling painless.

The one detraction to the turbonic addition is the drop in miles per gallon. I averaged around 16 mpg and I really tried to keep my foot out of it. Ideally, I’d like to see at least mid-20s from a car as seemingly aerodynamic as the Sportage.

All well rounded features aside, the driving experience of the Sportage Turbo alone stood out. Driving the Sportage was second nature. I never wanted for more headroom. I never cursed a gutless motor. I never grimaced with fear during sudden braking. It all worked well–so well in fact that I never thought about it. I simply drove. I cannot remember the last time I drove a car that didn’t have me thinking, worrying, or cursing at some point. I was at one with the Sportage Turbo. And I loved every minute of it.

The Sportage Turbo won’t win beauty contests. It won’t set anyone’s heart afire. But it will never disappoint. You will never wish you had gotten something else because it is such a damned treat to drive.

Expanding on recent design success like the Soul, Sorento, Sportage and the Forte Koup, the KV7 takes a functional approach to a mobile gathering space by taking the concept beyond mere transportation.   With a single gull wing door on the passenger side opening to a spacious and adaptable interior space the KV7 becomes a great space for friends to gather, as well as go places and carry things.

The design is more box-like than swoopy expanding on the lines of the popular Soul.

“From the outset, we felt the category was in need of an honest reassessment due to the fact that everyone seems so desperate to attach the word ‘sporty’ to their minivan, even though vans, at their very core are simply a box,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer, Kia Motors America. “Rather than reject the box we chose to celebrate it, just like we did with the Soul, and the result is a straightforward yet sophisticated vehicle that retains the functionality vans are known for and meets the changing and diverse needs of today’s consumers.”

The wide stance, vertical windshield design, smooth exterior and 20-inch wheels combine to give the KV7 a confident look.  The concept’s most striking feature is its passenger-side gullwing door, which creates a massive point-of-entry to the lounge-like interior when opened in conjunction with the pillar-less front passenger door.

The modified Kia tab grille look is centered between a pair of vertical LED headlamps.  The KV7 uses multiple LED lighting elements in the design as a way for the design team to evaluate use on other future products.  The applications include a continuous line of LED fog lights that span the entire front end of the vehicle and directional turn indicators on the outside mirrors and the rear of the vehicle that pulse in the direction being signaled.

The KV7 concept’s distinctive windshield follows the unique designs found on the new Sportage CUV and Optima midsize sedan, and a series of near-continuous windows starting at the A-pillar provide uninterrupted views of a day at the beach or a night out on the town. And despite its non-traditional look, the KV7’s length (191.85 in.), width (80.0 in.) and wheelbase (122.0 in.) are consistent with the van segment and allow flexible seating configurations and a multitude of storage options.

In the process of rethinking what a van’s exterior appearance and image, Kia’s Southern California design team also envisioned an interior to meet the needs of an entirely new group of consumers – a group of people referred to as “Ringleaders.” Rather than using a van to transport children and their accompaniments, Ringleaders are busy organizing road trips, social outings and new adventures for themselves and their friends to experience together. As such, the KV7 concept’s interior employs four custom-built swiveling seats, including the driver’s seat, and a rear-corner mini-lounge with seating for three and integrated storage compartments to promote interaction in an open social environment.

When the KV7 concept’s push button start is engaged, the entire front dash moves more than six inches toward the driver, bringing all controls within easy reach, including the large multi-use display, which integrates infotainment, climate and navigation systems in one simple-to-use interface controlled by a trackball mouse mounted in the dash. Rear passengers have their own, separate interface in the form of a floating tabletop touch-screen computer display. The KV7 is Wi-Fi enabled, providing both the front and rear displays with Internet capabilities and the ability for multiple passengers to connect their smartphones to the vehicle at one time and sign on to social networking sites.

Building on the experimental use of LED lighting elements found on the exterior, the KV7’s concept’s interior also features multiple flush-to-the-floor accent illumination points and standout green LED lighting throughout the front dash, instrument panel and rear display area to compliment the vehicle’s color palette.

The KV7 concept is powered by Kia’s new Theta II 2.0-liter GDI turbocharged engine, which is capable of delivering up to 285 horsepower, and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.  The pair combines to deliver V-6-like power and performance while achieving better than 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

On one hand it was a gutsy move for Kia to offer the new mid-size Optima sedan without an optional V-6 engine, on the other hand it was visionary.  The Toyota Camry has a six-cylinder option, so does the Honda Accord, Ford Focus and all the other competitors in that midsize group.  (Okay, there is one exception, but it’s the Kia’s sibling, the Hyundai Sonata which uses the same engine as Kia.)

The base Optima engine is a 200-horsepower, 2.4-liter gas direct injection (GDI) four-cylinder which is competitive with the other mid-size sedans.   The Optima is a little quicker (0 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds) than other four-cylinder mid-level competitors and the fuel economy is an impressive 24 mpg city and 35 mpg on the highway.

The V-6 replacement is the Theta II, a 2.0-liter GDI using a twin-scroll turbocharger to produce 274-hp and 269-lb.ft of torque.  This is the first turbocharged Kia engine and the result is not the typical breathtaking response I have experienced from similar four-cylinder turbo engines used in cars like the Volkswagen/Audi or MazdaSpeed series.  Rather the Kia engine is more refined, but with less performance rush.  It is tuned to act more like a V-6 with strong performance, but no “Wow” factor.  It produced a very good 6.5-second 0 to 60 mph time and fuel economy nearly as good as the base model at 22 mpg/34 mpg.  That puts the Kia Turbo about in the middle of V-6 competitors in performance, but with a cheaper, lighter, much more efficient powerplant.

Two classic problems with turbocharged cars is turbo lag and torque steer.  The Kia engine has virtually no turbo lag and I had to turn the wheel and accelerate hard to get any hint of the torque steer that often affects many more powerful front-drive cars.  The turbo engine is only available with Kia’s six-speed automatic transmission, which comes with the Sportmatic® manual shifting mode.  The sporty SX model includes wheel mounted paddle shifters.

The turbo engine is available on both the mid-level EX and the sporty SX model.  The EX Turbo has a base price of $25,190 including the destination; that’s $2,000 more than the naturally aspired EX.  The sporty SX model is priced at $26,690, adding 18-inch low-profile tires, HID headlights, LED taillights, leather seating with woven trim and cosmetic enhancements.  Options for the SX include the Technology Package ($2,000) which adds navigation system, backup camera, premium audio and the Touring Package ($2,150) that includes panorama roof, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and some great looking wheels. For about $31,000 you get a very good-looking sport sedan wOne of the major appeals of the new Optima is the excellent exterior and interior design which has won high praise from most of the automotive press.  Pictures of the Optima show a stylish sedan with sweeping roof and high beltline, but it is actually much better looking in person.

The same goes for the interior, which looks busy and cluttered in photos, but once inside, the driver finds well defined work spaces for the various control systems, stitched trim panels and distinctive contemporary styling.

I think Kia is right on target with the Optima turbo, as long as potential buyers don’t go in thinking they are buying a turbocharged racer.  It is a great looking, fun-to-drive sedan with good power and fuel economy, a spacious comfortable interior and it is one of the best values in the middle sedan market.

Barbara –

Styled in Kia’s Frankfurt, Germany and Irvine, Calif. design studios, the Optima is not the product of cookie cutter design, it is fresh and sleek with a well-toned muscular silhouette.  The grille is unmistakable Kia with the bold tabbed family grille book-ended by projector headlights.  And on top of it all, it has one of those swooping four-door coupe rooflines that are such a rage.

Bill – My driving partner and I were taking photos of the Optima in front of a winery in the San Pasqual Valley wine region north of San Diego, when we saw a guy carrying a case of wine out of the tasting room.  He put the wine in the back of his car, then walked over to us and said, “That’s a Kia?  WOW! I would have never guessed.”  I couldn’t agree more, it is a head-turner.
After a spirited drive through the Southern California foothills, my ‘seat of the pants’ impression told me the beauty was more than skin deep.

Barbara – The interior isn’t as pretty as the exterior, but I give it top marks for function and organization.

As a charter member of Over Organizers Anonymous, I was impressed by how well the Optima cockpit is arranged with banks of associated controls gathered and well marked in a logical arrangement on the center stack, the door panels and on the steering wheel.  It’s one of the more intuitive organizations of car control systems I’ve seen.  It may even rival my kitchen, which my friends tell me is a work of art, but most of my friends are crazy.

For communications and entertainment, the Optima includes a standard panel on the lower center stack with two 12-volt charge outlets, a USB port and a plug for MP3 players – this appears to be something all the Kias are getting now.  A Bluetooth® wireless link is also standard on all models and includes steering wheel-mounted voice activation controls to easily access cell phones.

Bill – Built on an all new unibody platform with front-wheel drive and four-wheel independent suspension, the Optima shares mechanicals with its popular cousin the Hyundai Sonata.

Kia is phasing in three distinctive propulsion systems for the Optima.  The standard engine, which most people will buy, is a 200-horsepower, 2.4-liter gas direct injection (GDI) four-cylinder.  Rated at a class leading 200-hp, the Optima is a little quicker (0 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds) than other four-cylinder mid-level competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.  Fuel economy is an impressive 24 mpg city and 35 mpg on the highway.

In a surprising move, Kia decided not to outfit the upper level Optimas with a V-6 engine, rather they are offering a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged power plant, that will be available early in 2011.  The turbo bumps the horsepower by 74 and torque by 83-lb.ft. and it cuts the 0 to 60 mph time to an estimated 6.9 seconds with only a slight dip in fuel economy to 22/34 mpg.

The third propulsion option set to be available early in 2011 is Kia’s first hybrid. Capable of an estimated 40 mpg, the Kia Hybrid takes a different approach than competitors.  It is a full parallel hybrid system that can be driven up to 62 mph in the electric mode, briefly.  It uses a new lightweight lithium polymer battery and a unique Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED) layout.

The base model with the GDI engine is available with a smooth shifting six-speed manual transmission, however all other models, including the Hybrid, will have a smooth six-speed automatic with a manual shift mode.  The turbo versions will also get wheel-mounted shift paddles.

Barbara – All three Optima trim levels, LX, EX and SX, have abundance of standard features including air conditioning, power windows, keyless entry, tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a cooling glove box.  All models also include AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system with SIRIUS® Satellite Radio and a long list of safety features including stability control and hill start assist.

The Optima pricing starts at $18,995 for the LX with manual transmission; that is just $305 more than the previous generation base model.  For lease customers, ALG (Automotive Lease Guide) has assigned a residual value of 53-percent of the 2011 original MSRP for 36 months of ownership.  That’s a 66 improvement over the previous generation and a strong indicator of how the car should hold its value.

The EX starts at $22,495 adding leather seating, 17-inch alloy wheels and several more convenience features.  The turbocharged engine adds $2,000 and several more performance and cosmetic upgrades.

The top-of-the-line SX starts at $25,995 adding an even higher feature level including 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, unique lower body trim, HID head lights, LED tail lights, black leather and woven seat trim, Supervision™ meter cluster, steering wheel paddle shifters, carbon fiber interior trim, metal pedals, and illuminated door scuff plates.  Wow!  That’s quite a package.

Bill – A great deal of the impression a car gives comes from the way it feels and the sounds it makes.  The Kia Optima feels good with a firm solid ride, the steering is light and precise with a good road feel. There is a little under steer, but that’s typical of front wheel drive vehicles.  Another added bonus for me is the solid “thud” the doors make when closing.

The buttons, dials, stalks and other controls have a smooth, positive action with a quality feel – in other words, they don’t feel cheap.

Barbara – I have to give the Kia planners high marks for getting all my, mostly small, but important, features integrated into the new Optima. This includes an overhead passenger assist handle for me grab when Bill does something I think might be dumb. I also appreciate the extensions on the visors that help block the sun.  The drink holders are well positioned, and I especially like the ones in the doors.  And then there is my favor option, the heated front seats.  I am also a big fan of the optional navigation system which includes something I think every car should have – a rear view camera.

On the down side, I’d like to see a blind spot warning system to give me that extra security when I plan to change lanes, and I’d also like an active cruise control system, but that’s probably too much to ask for on a vehicle with a sub $30,000 sticker.

Kia has done a great job of getting the Optima right.  The styling, performance, value and attention to detail make it one of my favorites.

Bill – The Optima is a complete package of styling, comfort, quality and performance that moves it a step ahead of some very strong competitors.  I am anxious to spend more time in all the models, and especially the upcoming turbo and hybrid versions.  I will report back when we’ve had more time behind the wheel of this exciting new Kia.