Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Peter Schreyer sketches the design elements that define a luxury sedan – Kia K9

Courtesy of Kia Buzz

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Kia K9 Design – Elegant Simplicity and Balanced Proportions

Have you ever liked a particular luxury car design, but found it difficult to explain why? What makes a premium luxury sedan look and feel like a premium luxury sedan? According to Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, it’s about elegant simplicity and balanced proportions. At a media event held last week in Seoul, Korea, Peter explained the design philosophy behind the upcoming Kia K9 (domestic Korean model name for the new Kia luxury sedan). We reposted an awesome video sketch and explanation from the event on our official YouTube channel and wanted to repost it here and breakdown some of the key points and takeaways for our Kia-Buzz readers.

Decoding the K9’s Luxury Sedan Design

Here are some design highlights and takeaways we pulled from Peter’s K9 explanation.

Generous wheelbase – Starting with a long wheelbase helps setup the right proportions needed for defining luxury design. The large wheels also create a strong stance and feeling of power, and Peter mentions that designers are always happy when they get to use big wheels.

Strength, Confidence and Power – Rear wheel engines sit further back from the front tires, which permits a greater length from the front wheel’s center to the first door cut, known as the ‘prestige distance’ in Germany. This in turn, pushes the A-pillar further back and creates a longer hood, which drops down to a shorter front upright overhang. These lengths help define the right proportions to instill a feeling of power and dignity. Peter describes the upright overhang and front section as having the strength, confidence and power of a boxer’s attack stance. It’s an analogy he often shares with fellow designers when they are working on projects.

Sheet Metal to Glass Ratio – The greenhouse, or glassed-in upper section of the car’s body, is tensioned to create the ideal sheet metal to glass ratio. This smaller glass area helps produce sense of privacy and safety while giving the car a sporty expression.

All the elements and proportions mentioned above in addition with a long sweeping shoulder and long rear overhang all work together to give the K9 a premium and luxury feeling, which may remind others of modern European rear wheel drive packages.

K9 Design Focus Summary

  • Balanced Proportions
  • Sheet Metal to Glass Ratio
  • Elegant Simplicity – Window Graphics and Surfaces
  • Strong Stance
  • Length of Overhangs
  • Position and Size of the Greenhouse.

“This combination of power and styling for the K9 is a breakthrough for Kia, and it’s a breakthrough into new customer segments. The K9 signals our ability to be successful in competition with the European luxury brands. And for Kia, our customers, and for me – this car is like a dream” – Peter Schreyer

Monday, April 23, 2012

Schedule your next service appointment online, today!

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Monday Maintenance Tip: While you can’t always control ownership costs such as fuel, repairs and insurance rates, one thing you do have power over is making your car last longer and maintaining its value - Schedule your next service appointment online, today!

Friday, April 20, 2012

Thank you Michael, for taking the time to share your experience!

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"I was really impressed with this dealership. They gave me the best price upfront. Gabe, Christian and the GM all contacted me AFTER my purchase to make sure I was satisfied. Also received a surprise tin of cookies at my office that I was able to share with my co workers. They were fantastic. Thanks again for a great experiance. I love my new Altima." - Michael B.

Click HERE to read more reviews!

A big thanks to all of our awesome customers for sharing their experiences!

Dealer_rater

"Was very pleased with my experience buying at Commonwealth. They're price was the best around and the entire process was fast and simple, and they answered every question or concern I had. Would buy another vehicle from Commonwealth Honda in the future." - Customer

"This was the best buying experiance I have had in my 40 plus yrs of purchasing cars. The entire staff was extremly helpful and very professional thru the entire transaction. I was was quoted a very good price based on my research. I did not have to go back and forth as I asked for his best price possible without the dickering. Internet sales Jim Volpe did just that. When I got to the showroom I was greeted with smiles by everyone and was handed over to salesman Chris Drew. Chris was very personable and professional. He took me on a test drive answered all my questions and worked with the price I was quoted online with out any games. I signed the deal and was sent in to the Finance Mgr. John Murray who worked me thru the processing fast and efficent and had me on my way back to work promptly. The next day they handled all the paperwork and had my vehicle waiting for me right on time as promised. Another salesman walked me thru the entire book and walked me thru every option on the vehicle effortlessly. They even took the time to pair my cell phone to the bluetooth saving me a lot of time reading how. One last stop to the Sales Mgr to make sure everything was to my liking and I was on my way. Truely a great experiance and I would recommend this group/dealer to anyone that is in the need for a great buying experiance.

PS I have been a Nissan customer for the last 20 yrs and this group blew them away. I am now a Commonwealth CUSTOMER" - Customer

"We worked with Lamar McLaughlin and had a great experience at Commonwealth Motors. He took the time to explain each type of model that we were interested in and helped us determine the best car and payment plan for our family. Lamar was wonderful and we're excited to work with him again in the future." - Customer

"our experience with commonwealth motors was great. martin helped out a lot by telling all about the car and showing me the features about it." - Customer

"I went into Commonwealth to purchase a new vehicle. From the moment I entered the door all of the salesmen greeted me and asked how they could be of assistance. I ended up purchasing a 2012 Honda Civic, which I am completely in love with!!! My salesman and the manager worked very hard t get me the best deal possible. I loved the fact that they went through every piece of information with you and always had an answer to your question, or went out of their way to find someone who had the answer. My salesman was Luis Cruz, he was completely amazing; always smiling, respectful and more than willing to answer my questions and go over my every concern! I would definetly return to Commonwealth to purchase another vehicle and I recommend them to all of my friends!" - Customer

"Every time we get our vehicles serviced at COmmonwealth MOtors we always get an exceptional customer service, that explain the process through out, the most important they are very affordable too.
They are the best. I'd recommend them without hesitation
" - Customer

"I was really impressed with this dealership. They gave me the best price upfront. Gabe, Christian and the GM all contacted me AFTER my purchase to make sure I was satisfied. Also received a surprised tin of cookies at my office that I was able to share with my co workers. They were fantastic. Thanks again for a great experiance. I love my new Altima." - Customer

"Overall excellent experience. I would definitely recommend this dealership to friends and family. I will purchase my next car there as well. My new car purchase and trade in went very smoothly." - Customer

"I brought my car in on March 31 for a sticker on a Sat afternoon. I was treated respectably and promptly. I expected quite a wait as it was the last day of the month. I was out of the dealership in about an hour. The service area was very comfortable and the coffee was fresh." - Customer

 

for more reviews, go HERE

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Kia K9: Interior Pictures and Promo Videos

Courtesy of Motorward

Kia K9 is the Korean car maker’s new flagship model, a rear-drive luxury saloon that features a whole new design philosophy and introduces Kia to a whole new market beyond everything they’ve ever experienced. The car first launches in Korea, before reaching other markets around the world under a different name. Now, Kia just released the first pictures of the K9′s interior.

 

The cabin too is a first by Kia, both design-wise and in terms fo quality and finish. Up to the minute gadgets, soft touch materials everywhere, luxurious feel and look, a BMW-like gear lever, and a Mercedes-like knob for controlling the infotainment system, these are just some of the evidences Kia K9 features an interior that can rival that of the finest German saloons.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Kia Motors America Partners With Wounded Warrior Project To Provide 2012 Soul To A Disabled American Veteran

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At the 2012 New York International Auto Show opening ceremony this weekend, Kia Motors America (KMA) joined forces with the Wounded Warrior Project, a national organization dedicated to providing help and raising public awareness for injured service members, to donate a 2012 Kia Soul hatchback to disabled veteran and United States Army Corporal Christopher Melendez. Melendez was injured in the line of duty while on routine patrol in Iraq by a "six pack shape charge" IED, resulting in severe leg and arm injuries. Working with the organizers of the New York International Auto Show, the Soul was modified to meet Melendez's specific day-to-day needs. This donation comes directly on the heels of Kia's donation to Camp Pendleton Armed Services YMCA's Operation Hero program in coordination with brand ambassador and professional women's golfer Michelle Wie.

"Kia Motors understands that it is not only important to show our commitment to the U.S. market through investment and job creation, but also to support the servicemen and women in our country's armed forces," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "The Wounded Warrior Project provides invaluable services to the men and women who have been injured in the line of duty, and it is an honor to donate one of our most popular vehicles to Corporal Melendez as a way to show our appreciation and support for those who have sacrificed so much."

The 2012 Soul, retrofitted by New York-based Bussani Mobility Team was modified specifically to allow Corporal Melendez to continue with his daily activities through modifications that assist when flexibility is limited. The modifications include a steering wheel device that allows him to turn the steering wheel using one hand, while maintaining complete control of the wheel and car at all times, however all alterations are easily removable to allow others who do not need them to drive the vehicle safely.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest growing global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality2 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking3. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan4. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

Monday, April 9, 2012

$1500 Cash Back

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Buy any trim 2012 Kia Sorento and receive $1500 cash back for a limited time. See dealer for details.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Heels On Wheels : 2012 Kia Soul Review

Courtesy of Kia Media

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INTRO TO THE SOUL VEHICLE
The Kia Soul is proof fun things do come in small – and square – packages. This five-passenger mobile device offers unique urban styling and peppy performance at incredible prices. Numerous improvements have sharpened up the Soul’s drivetrain technology and interior conveniences for a compact that knows how staying competitive means perfecting value.

I drove a 2012 Kia Soul with the upgraded 164-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission with an Active Eco System. Available in quirky trims represented by punctuation marks, my top-of-the-line “!” trim came with the following standard equipment: eighteen-inch tires; remote keyless entry; Bluetooth connectivity; UVO infotainment system; a rear camera display; Satellite radio; leather-wrapped steering wheel with controls; sunroof; and heated mirrors. Vehicle price came to $19,600. Yet a few options such as a $2,500 Premium Package (navigation system, push-button start, leather upholstery, and heated seats), $50 rear bumper appliqué, and a $50 cargo net brought the price to $22,220.

The 2012 model gets a refreshed exterior on the outside and a new audio system for the inside. In regards to drivetrain, throw in an all new six-speed transmission, a gasoline direct-injection engine, and Idle Stop and Go (ISG) technology. Main competitors are an assortment of other compact boxy rides, including the Nissan Cube, Scion xB and Honda Element; but can extend to the new Fiat 500.

HEELS ON WHEELS REVIEW CRITERIA

Stylish But Comfortable Results: Inside, the Soul feels roomy with a surprising amount of head and legroom. Pop in a rear car seat, and your front passenger will still find the dimensions acceptable, unlike what’s experienced in the Fiat 500 or MINI Cooper. The touch-screen graphics are vivid and modern, with the voice-recognizing UVO system (standing for “Your Voice”) being very user-friendly and streamlining your calls, text messages and music from all your media sources in seconds. The liftgate has a wide girth for loading, unlike some competitors. You get much more cargo room with the rear seats folded down than your typical compact, which is a major selling point with these taller, boxy rides.

Reliability & Safety Factor: The Soul features a nice list of safety standards: dual front seat and full side airbags; anti-lock brakes with brake assist; ESC; electronic-brake distribution; traction control; tires pressure monitoring; front and rear crumple zones; side impact beams; LATCH; front three-point seat belts with force imitators; and Hill-start Assist Control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) lists the Soul as a Top Safety Pick. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives it an overall rating of 4-Stars, fairing best in side impact crash tests.

Cost Issues: A base price of $13,900 is hard to beat – so is just $22,220 for a completely decked out Soul ! trim with all the bells and whistles possible. A base Cube starts at $14,980 and a base Scion xB at $17,030.

Activity & Performance Ability: The Soul’s cutting edge drivetrain represents where all compacts currently need to be. Fuel-saving ISG technology automatically turns off the engine if the vehicle is not in motion and restarts when the brake pedal is released. A second 1.6-liter engine with gasoline direct injection leaps from last year’s 122 to 138 horsepower with resounding speed and excellent fuel consumption at 27 miles-per-gallon city and 35 highway. At highway speeds, I detected a noticeable a reduction in noise, vibration and harshness, or NVH, qualities – a common issue with these smaller cars.

The Green Concern: The Soul’s fuel economy estimates stretches to 29 miles-per-gallon city and 36 highway with the Eco Package, which features low-rolling-resistance tires and the ISG technology. If you’re looking for something better, the Ford Focus SE trim offers a Super Fuel Economy package that includes unique aero wheel covers, low-rolling resistance tires and rear disc brakes to achieve 40 highway.

FINAL PARTING WORDS
An excellent fully loaded price, cutting edge drivetrain technology and a retro compact shape means the 2012 Kia Soul is a hard to choice to pass up. Go ahead and test out the other boxy rides, but chances are this ride is your perfect “Soul” mate.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Get an awesome deal on a Kia Rio SX for only $19,069!

Thank you for this awesome review!

Yahoolocallogo-newyork
I can t believe I have found a reliable and trustworthy dealer, but it is true. I purchased a Toyota Camry in January of this year from this dealership. It had low miles for a price that suited me. Everyone who helped along with the process cared about finding something that I liked and didn t try to sell me a bad car. It has been two months now and I still am blown away. I highly recommend this dealer to anyone looking for their next car! - Samantha