6 Best Tips to Avoid Extensive Car Repair Bills

Posted on December 13, 2016 by himi

Who would like paying long and extensive car repair bills? Nobody! Not even billionaires.

Okay, may be billionaires don’t care and they’ve a reason not to.

We should because I’m not a billionaire and neither are you.

Obviously, you want your car to keep running smoothly but not on the expense of huge bills.

Following are some really useful tips to help you avoid extensive car repair bills.

How to avoid extensive car repair bills

Car repair bills 1.Be Loyal

Sticking to one mechanic or garage creates a sense of trust between you and the mechanic. The mechanic would never overcharge you for anything, because they know if they do, they’d lose a good, loyal customer.

If you go to a new garage every time your car needs repairing, the chances of cheating would be high.

2.Be Mr. Know-it-All

Even if you don’t know what’s wrong with your car, don’t reveal it. Act like you understand what your car needs.

It is wise to do your homework before you take your car to the mechanic, so that if they try to tell you there are more issues than just the one you’re talking about, you would know that’s not the right place for repairs.

3.Buy auto parts on your own

If you depend on the mechanic to get the auto parts for you, they will definitely charge you extra in terms of “service charges”. Buy the parts yourself from AUTODOC.co.uk and save your precious money.

4. You are insured, remember?

Make use of your car’s comprehensive or collision insurance to pay off the big repair bills. A word of advice here is to select a low deductible for your car insurance, so it could cover most of the repairs.

5. Help yourself

It is not necessary to take your car to the garage for the simplest repairs and issues.

For example, you can change your car’s filters yourself, replace the spark plugs, clean the air conditioner etc.

Why do you think people post tutorials on the internet? For you, of course. Moreover, keep yourself updated on the latest auto news.

6. Check the bill thoroughly before paying

Don’t just check the sum of the costs and give away your hard earned money. Check what cost you what, and open a dispute if you find anything unnecessary.

Be upfront if you feel you’re being ripped off.

Kia Teases Their Fastest Car Ever; 5.1 Seconds From 0-62 mph

Posted on December 13, 2016 by himi

What is the fastest Kia car?

We all know that Kia are planning to launch a new performance sports sedan at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show, but exactly what it may be is something we don’t know.

It appears Kia is enjoying this little teasing game, as they have now released a second trailer for the mystery car.

The first glimpse of the performance model showed it being put through its paces at the fames Nurburgring test track, but this video is all about speed.

The trailer shows a Kia vehicle that will be capable of 0-62mph in just 5.1 seconds.

This video also gives us some very brief views of the vehicle, but the cutaways are quick, and the camouflage being worn makes it hard to discern much of anything.

What we can tell is that we are looking at a 4-door fastback sedan very much in the mold of the GT Concept.

As we mentioned in our previous post about this new car, Kia have opened a dedicated website for it, where you can find the two teaser trailers, as well as other bits of information that will be regularly released right up until the official unveiling in Detroit.

What all of this tells us is that Kia seem to be determined to move up the auto industry totem pole, as they move into the premium category with their vehicles.

This is something that they have already started doing with their latest versions of the Optima and Sportage.

The future has been made very clear to the consumer on the launch materials for the new vehicle, where Kia say: “The curve ahead is all about potential. The potential to clip every apex, and consume every straight. To take on each twist and turn with agility, speed, and progressive design.”

That intent was pushed even further forward with the first teaser trailer for this model.

There was little to see other than the control panel of the car and some engine growls, but the fact that it took place at Nurburgring said everything we needed to know.

Kia fastest car teaser video

There is little to tell right now, but Kia has said that December will be filled with news about this model, so we will keep you posted with updates as they happen.

2017 Kia Cadenza Color Options (Exterior & Interior)

Posted on December 10, 2016 by himi

The 2017 Kia Cadenza is already on sale at your local Kia dealerships, so let’s have a look at some of the important features and specs it delivers.

In this Kia news post, we are going to take a look at all available Kia Cadenza colors.

If you’re in the market for a new premium sedan, such as the 2017 Cadenza, you’d probably want to know what color choices does it offer.

Here’s the table of all 2017 Kia Cadenza exterior color options currently available.

Also published are pictures of Cadenza models in different colors.

Colors	Premium	Technology	Limited

Snow White Pearl	X	X	X
Aurora Black	X	X	X
Silky Silver	X	X	X
Platinum Graphite	X	X	X
Gravity Blue	X	X	X
Moss Gray		X	X
Granite Brown			X

2017 Kia Cadenza in Pearl White and Aurora Black colors

2017 Kia Cadenza Limited Snow White Pearl & Aurora Black

2017 Kia Cadenza in Gravity Blue and Moss Gray exterior color

2017 Kia Cadenza Gravity & Blue Moss Gray

Hopefuly, we have helped you answer your questions about all the available Cadenza paint shades.

Now let us hear your thoughts.

Which exterior color do you like the most?

The 2019 Kia Sportage Comes In Red Color

Posted on December 10, 2016 by himi

Kia Sportage in red color – is it available in 2019?

Whe you purchase a new vehicle, you want people to be impressed by your decision.

The 4th generation Kia Sportage makes that task easy, as this is a compact crossover vehicle that begs to be noticed, thanks in large part to an aggressive body style that is sporty and ready for action.

Another way to stand out is to look at the Kia Sportage color options and choose one that really jumps out.

There are 8 great exterior color options to choose from, which can make the decision a little bit tougher, but it has to be said that the 2019 Kia Sportage in Hyper Red color is the one that really catches the eye.

Kia Sportage Red Color Picture You can’t help but notice this vibrant hue, and choosing the Hyper red color probably says quite a bit about your personality too.

Choosing the red Kia Sportage suggests that you may be bold, and will be in possession of a bright personality.

This is a color that will truly stand out in a busy highway, and once people get a glimpse of you on the road, they will quickly see just how beautifully desinged the 2019 Kia Sportage really is.

Kia have gone out of their way to deliver a new generation model that is superior to what came before, and they have succeeded in that goal.

If bright colors are what you love, then we suggest you take a closer look at the picture of Hyper red Kia Sportage shown above.

Tricked Out Kia Spectra5 Photos & Owner Interview

Posted on December 9, 2016 by himi

The latest in our Kia owners interview series is a little different than what you have come to expect in that it does not focus on a current Kia model.

Gavin, a 34-year old father of two from Utah, is the proud owner of a Kia Spectra5 that has been in the family for 9 years.

He confesses to loving his first Kia model, and he has gone out of his way to make upgrades and enhancements that truly make it his own.

The Spectra 5-door hatchback has served him well during that time, with most of the work done on the vehicle being of the aesthetic variety.

Gavin gets a lot of compliments on his vehicle, but he does also get some negative feedback, which he believes is something to be expected when you are putting together a build that is truly personal.

He has joined a couple of Kia clubs to show off his car, and it’s there where his tricked out Kia Spectra gets most of its love.

Gavin has a Kia that has a one-off Halo EFX dip color on it, and he has added a carbon fiber hood, gold rims, and an iPad mounted in the dashboard.

He has also installed a ton of accessories to give the Spectra a sportier look, but admits that there is still more work to be done.

If you want to learn more about this cool ride, the changes made to it, and the ones that are still to come, be sure to read the interview in its entirety.

Kia Spectra5 specs & info

Engine: 2.0 4-cylinder
Color: red
Year: 2006
Model: Spectra5
MPG: 25 city 33 highway

Kia owner Q&A

1. Tell us something about your Kia Spectra5 ownership experience.

I looked for a Spectra5 for about 6 months and it’s what I wanted. It’s been a great car no major issues with it be really reliable.

2. How long have you owned your ride?

9 years.

3. Honestly, what was your intention when you bought your Kia Spectra?

I wanted to modify something that no one would think of doing. I like to be original.

4. What do you like the most about the car?

The room it has for being a hatch back. You can fit 3 people in the back with no issues.

5. What do other people say about your Kia car?

People say that it is something they would not expect to look like it does. I get a lot of hate and a lot of complements about it.

But you have to take the good with the bad. I didn’t build it for them I built it for me.

6. What is it that makes your tricked out Kia Spectra look unique?

My Kia has a one off Halo EFX dip color on it. I also have an IPad in the dash. It has gold rims and a wrapped carbon fiber hood.

My car is very unique from a lot of other cars out there and it’s all done by me.

7. What Spectra5 accessories have you installed so far / do you have any future plans?

Installed:

Meagan Header and downpipe
Megan Coilovers
Colt Cams
Magnaflow full exhaust
18 in ADR Sokudo Wheels
K&N Typhoon short ram intake
Memphis audio 10 in subwoofers
6 in Memphis 3 way speakers in the rear
5 ½ Memphis component speakers in the Front
5000 watt MB quart 5 channel amp
Sound stream audio processor with Bluetooth
IPad mini in the dash
Halo EFX customer dipped
Vinyl wrap black rear side panels and lower parts of the doors
Carbon Fiber wrapped hood

Future plans

I am going to put on an air ride suspension this summer.
I am going to take off the Carbon Fiber wrap on the hood and put Matte black to match the roof.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Gavin! Keep up with great work & have fun modifying your Kia Spectra5!

2018 Kia GT Teaser Showcases Turbo Engine, Side Vents

Posted on December 2, 2016 by himi

We have been showing you guys the teasers for the upcoming, as yet unnamed, Kia GT model, and now we have the 4h and final piece for you.

We get to see some more of the interior and exterior detail in this teaser.

The hood vents were revealed in earlier clips, but now we can see that side vents are also present, which isn’t a huge surprise given that they appeared on the 2011 GT concept.

Another similarity between these two vehicles are the vertical vents up front, although we have to say that the finished look on this model is better than on the concept.

It is worth noting that the teasers have been showing off the top of the range models, so expect lesser trims to be a little less sporty.

This top of the line Kia GT model will come with quad exhaust tips, as well as glossy black accents on several body parts, including the previously mentioned hood vents and the side mirror caps.

Kia GT turbo engine

While it doesn’t reveal the true identity, the clip does show that the flagship model will come with a turbocharged engine.

Our best guess is that it will be the 3.3-liter V6 turbo used in the Genesis G80, which means a power output of 365 horsepower and 376 lb.-ft. of torque.

There is always the chance that engineers will tweak the engine to deliver a little more power.

The clip also reveals that it will be an automatic transmission mated to the engine, combining to deliver the fastest accelerating model that Kia has delivered to date.

The GT will go from 0-62 mph in a blisteringly fast 5.1 seconds, and will deliver a top speed of 151 mph, which was revealed in the initial teaser clip.

Kia GT AWD

Kia will add AWD and RWD versions of the GT, depending on the trim level, with the lower trim models featuring 4-cylinder engines.

We expect that the European-spec Kia GT model will get a diesel engine, as well as a 6-speed manual option.

We will get to see the 2018 Kia GT model in all its glory this coming Sunday at 6 PM EST when it is unveiled in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show.

2018 Kia Sports Sedan Teased Ahead Of Its Detroit Motor Show Reveal

Posted on December 1, 2016 by himi

2018 Kia sports sedan teased ahead of its official unveiling!

The 2017 Detroit Motor Show is just around the corner, and Kia has delivered a teaser video that shows off a new performance sedan set to appear at the event.

The best bet here is that the car in question will be the new Kia GT sports sedan that we have been hearing about for a while and it must be said that the North American International Auto Show in January is a great launch venue.

Kia are playing their cards close to the vest with this one, although the new model does have a dedicated teaser website, where we can expect to see frequent updates in the days and weeks leading up to the 2017 Detroit Motor Show.

Detroit was where Kia showed off the GT4 Stinger concept back in 2014, hinting that a sports sedan might be in the works.

The introduction of such a Kia performance sedan, as well as all the hoopla surrounding it, is a sign that the carmaker is making an ambitious move in the premium segment.

The groundwork for that move has already been laid with the release of the latest top-of-the-range Optima and Cadenza models.

The Kia sports sedan launch material used for the upcoming model say it all with this blurb: “The curve ahead is all about potential. The potential to clip every apex, and consume every straight. To take on each twist and turn with agility, speed, and progressive design.”

The Nurburgring test track is where the first teaser video for the new Kia sports sedan takes place.

Being on that track says all you need to know about Kia‘s intent, although we don’t see much beside the vehicle’s instruments and its exhaust sound.

It’s not very much to go on, but the dedicated website promises much more in December, so we will keep you posted.

2018 Kia sports sedan teaser video

Stay tuned for more news about Kia… (photo: motorgraph.com)

2018 Kia Sorento Towing Capacity Explained

Posted on November 28, 2016 by himi

You may not necessarily use your 2018 Kia Sorento for towing, but it is certainly nice to know that it has some real power should you need to do so.

All three engines – the standard 4-cylinder, turbo 4-cylinder, and V6 – can all pull some weight, but they do have a different towing capacity.

So, how much can you tow with Kia Sorento?

The least that you can expect, based on your engine choice, is a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, but that number will take a rather significant jump when you move up to the more powerful engine options.

2017 Kia Sorento Towing Capacity The turbo and V6 engines can both tow as much as 3,500 pounds when equipped with front wheel drive – FWD.

Go with the 2018 Sorento AWD option on the V6 and that towing capacity number moves up to a rather hefty 5,000 pounds.

The table below provides official data about Sorento towing, so let’s check what is the towing capacity of each model.

What is the Kia Sorento towing capacity in 2018?

Model	L	LX	LX V6	EX	EX V6	SX V6	SX L
FWD (lb)	2,000	2,000	3,500	3,500	3,500	3,500	3,500
AWD (lb)	-	2,000	5,000	3,500	5,000	5,000	5,000

Kia also has several towing accessories available for the Sorento so owners can improve their hauling experiences.

Tow Hitch – Custom designed to fit the Sorento, the hitch is mounted directly onto the frame to add a higher level of durability and security when towing larger loads.
Tow Hitch Chrome Cover – Add a little flair to your trailer hitch when it isn’t in use.
Tow Hitch Bike Attachment – Being able to take your bike on a family trip or weekend adventure is a great option, and your Sorento SUV can carry 2-4 bikes with this attachment.

If you still need more space for cargo, then you may consider choosing one of the many Kia Sorento roof racks or cargo boxes available.

Kia Niro Crossover: 23,000 Orders Placed In Europe

Posted on November 22, 2016 by himi

It’s still very early in the game, but it’s already looking as though Kia may have a hit on their hands with the Niro, a low-emissions hybrid crossover.

The vehicle was launched in Europe midway through the year, and it has already had over 23,000 orders placed.

If that pace continues, this could prove to be a runaway success for Kia Motors Corp.

Of the orders places, Kia has been able to deliver a total of 5,815 units to their customers.

The remaining units are all scheduled to be delivered before the end of the year, all of which will be in Europe.

Now that we know all the orders and sales numbers, let’s take a closer look at how it all breaks down.

Private buyers have accounted for 46% of the units that have been delivered so far, with the other 54% going to businesses and fleet buyers.

That is a little different than the numbers that Kia usually post in Europe, which sees 43% of the vehicles sold go to fleet buyers, with the remaining 57% going to private buyers.

Kia were looking to make some inroads into the fleet market with the Niro, so they must be pleased with what is happening so far.

The Niro is a low emission, affordable vehicle that also happens to look great, which is sure to be a big hit with many businesses who may have no previous experience with the Kia brand.

The Niro is set to arrive in the US sooner rather than layer, and we will be sure to keep you up to date with the numbers as they happen.

For updated information, be sure to bookmark this Niro blog post: http://www.kia-world.net/niro-sales-figures-us/

2017 Kia Cadenza Priced, MSRP Start At $31,990

Posted on November 17, 2016 by himi

Let’s check how much does the 2017 Kia Cadenza cost (pricing table for each available trim level).

The all-new Kia Cadenza is about to head into its second generation, and you may be surprised that it’s going to cost less than the previous model whilst also offering more standard features.

It’s not very often that a new model comes at a lower price, but that is exactly what will happen with the fully redesigned Kia premium sedan.

Scheduled to hit the US showrooms by the end of November, the 2017 Kia Cadenza MSRP will start at $31,990, which is $1,000 less than the outgoing model.

2017 Kia Cadenza pricing table

Trim level	Powertrain	MSRP
Destination Charge: $900
Cadenza Premium	3.3L GDI V6 - 6 A/T	$31,990
Cadenza Technology	3.3L GDI V6 - 6 A/T	$38,990
Cadenza Limited	3.3L GDI V6 - 6 A/T	$44,390

Kia has kept it simple in terms of price points and standard features, making it easy for us to break down what you get for your money with each trim level.

There are three different Cadenza trim levels available, so let’s take a closer look at each of them.

Cost of 2017 Cadenza Premium

The base 2017 Kia Cadenza Premium pricing start at $31,990, and you can get a panoramic sunroof and interior LED lighting for an additional $1,000.

For an extra $3,000, you get the Luxury Package with blind spot detection, parking sensors, power folding mirrors, and a 12-speaker audio system.

Cost of Kia Cadenza Technology 2017MY

The Cadenza Technology is next up the ladder, and it starts at $38,990. With the extra investment, you get a ton of active safety features that includes forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, LED headlights with automatic high beams, and a top-down Surround View Monitor.

Price of Kia Cadenza Limited 2017MY

The top of the range is where you will find the Cadenza Limited and its starting price point of $44,390.

This is a fully loaded Kia Cadenza, and includes all the features on the other trims, as well as heated rear seats, Nappa leather seats, automatic trunk opener, and some cool new wheels.

Regardless of trim level, the Kia Cadenza 2017 MY (model year) comes with a single engine option, which is the 3,3L V6 that delivers 290 horsepower and 253-lb.-ft. of torque.

It is mated to an 8-speed automatic, and you can expect fuel efficiency of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

Note: Kia Cadenza prices above exclude the $900 destination charge!

Kia Soul Used As A Company Car – Owner Interview

Posted on November 15, 2016 by himi

The latest in our Kia Soul owner’s series takes us to Windsor, Canada, where we spoke to Nicole, the owner of a small business named Candid K Nines Treats.

Nicole joined a family of Kia owners, with her brother and father both also fans of the brand. This dog lover believes that the decision to go with a Kia was a good one.

One of the main reasons that she went with the new Kia Soul was because of the need to have a vehicle that was roomy enough to carry supplies and trade show items, whilst also still being fun to drive.

The Soul crossover vehicle fits that bill to perfection.

One thing that has come as a bit of a surprise to this Kia owner is the amount of interest that here vehicle of choice has sparked.

She constantly gets questions about all aspects of the Soul, from the amount of cargo space to gas mileage and leg room all of interest to folks.

The Soul is a unique looking vehicle, but a little bit of customization can make it stand out even more.

Nicole decided to go bold by choosing the Solar Yellow exterior color, but has added to that by wrapping it with company logo’s, as well as the logo of Lally Kia, who sponsored the vehicle for 3 years.

The work was done by RPM Designs, and they made the work totally unique by making the wrapping reflective, which is not something you see very often.

Read on to learn more about this ownership experience.

Kia Soul specs & information

Engine: 2.0L I4 engine
Color: Solar Yellow
Trim: Ex
Model Year: 2015
Tire Size: 17” Alloy Wheels
Average Mileage / Charge: 28 City, 37 Highway
Miles Driven So Far: 35,000

1. Tell us something about your Kia car ownership experience so far?

My Kia car ownership has been positive. The staff at Lally Kia, where I bought my car, are incredible!

From the sales team to the service department, I’ve had nothing but a positive experience. Five star rating here for sure!!!

2. How long have you owned your ride?

I purchased my Soul on December 31 2014. So I have owned it for approximately 1 year and 11 months.

3. Honestly, what was your intention when you bought your Kia Soul?

I own a small business and I was looking for a vehicle that was reliable, roomy enough to hold all my deliveries and trade show boxes, but also something that was sporty and fun. The Kia Soul was a perfect fit.

4. What do you like the most about the car and what would you change about it (if possible)?

I love everything about my Soul. It’s comfortable and fun to drive. All the upgrades and things I would change already come in the SX with the Luxury Package.

Since I drive an EX, I would love to move up in a package, and if it came in purple that would be awesome!

What do other people say about your car?

I drive a LOT and I’m often stopped and asked about my Soul. People usually want to know about gas mileage, leg room, how big the cargo area is, and if I would recommend it. Absolutely I would!

6. What is it that makes your ride look unique?

My Soul is solar yellow, which even for a soul is unique; you just don’t see too many yellow ones around.

My Soul is also wrapped in my companies logos, and I have Lally Kia as a car sponsor (three year deal, I’m currently on year two). When RPM Designs wrapped my Soul, they made the wrap reflective, which is very unique.

7. What Kia Soul accessories have you installed so far / do you have any future plans?

I have Weather Tech mats, a remote starter, a hitch and cargo basket, and a front LED Kia emblem.

I would like to add a bug deflector, side visors, and paint the rims. Are ground effect lights still a thing . . . if so count me in!

Kia GT Sedan Production To Start In 2017

Posted on November 11, 2016 by himi

The covers are off, as the third teaser video of the upcoming new Kia model shows some exterior shots.

The previous videos showed that the vehicle would be able to hit 100 kmh in just 5.1 seconds, and that the top speed would be 244kmh.

The third video is short, but it may well be the most revealing one yet.

The vehicle we see is most likely the top of the range, judging by the addition of quad exhaust tips, dual vents on the bulging hood, a lowered sports suspension, LED lights in front and back, as well as what looks like 19-inch alloy wheels.

While we already knew that a more practical liftback would feature on the new production model, it also appears that there will also be a rear spoiler in place.

Kia GT teaser video

The vehicle shown in this video will almost certainly be the one sporting the GT badge, and we can probably expect that it will have the 3.3-liter V6 turbo used in the Genesis line-up.

The engine used in the G90 cranks out 365-hp, but there is always the chance that Kia engineers may have tweaked things a little for this sporty model.

This model will be offered as a RWD, but there are sure to be some versions that come with an optional AWD setup.

Models further down the range will have a variety of 4-cylinder engines to choose from, including a diesel variant for the Euro-spec model.

It’s unclear yet whether the vehicle will be strictly automatic, or whether a manual transmission may also be offered as an option.

These questions will all be answered in early January when the car arrives at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

We can expect another teaser video before that happens, and we expect that will land next week.

Kia Soul Problems And Possible Issues

Posted on November 10, 2016 by himi

Fans of the Soul “hamster car” will go out of their way to tell you what a great vehicle it is.

They are not just talking about how it looks and drives here either, as they will also talk a lot about the reliability of the funky Kia Soul.

It shouldn’t really come as a surprise to learn that the Soul is a reliable ride, and not just because you keep hearing it from owners.

In the most recent J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Survey, Kia became the first non-luxury brand to land at the top of the list.

It should also be noted that the Kia Soul came out on top in its segment.

Common problems with Kia Soul Kia have really gone out of their way to improve their overall quality in recent years, and the entire line-up has benefited from their R&D efforts.

Even if you do run across problems with Kia Soul, or any other vehicle that Kia makes, you still have the backing of the amazing 10-year/100,000-mile warranty that the Koreans deliver.

That said, you would still hope that problems would arrive later in the lifecycle, as opposed to sooner.

What we are looking to do here is get some feedback on Kia Soul issues that you may have had to deal with.

We want to hear about those specific issues, and how quickly into the ownership experience they began.

Here is a brief example of some of the things we are talking about.

Possible Soul issues

Kia Soul engine problems: These complaints should come from those of you who have followed the recommended maintenance schedule, but have still managed to be forced to deal with some engine problems.

Kia Soul clutch problems: Does the clutch stick when you are trying to shift gears, or does it just not feel as though you are getting a smooth transition up and down? We want to know.

Kia Soul electrical problems: Problems starting your car or issues with the battery maintaining a charge could be a sign of electrical issues. Have these been a problem for you?

Kia Soul suspension problems: One of the biggest selling points of any vehicle is having it deliver a smooth, comfortable ride. This isn’t possible when you have issues with the suspension. Has this been a problem with your Kia Soul?

Kia Soul paint problems – Chips or scratches on the exterior paint that appear to come from nowhere are an issue. The paint job is the first thing that people see on your car, which is why you want it to be perfect.

Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid To Gain e-4WD system

Posted on November 9, 2016 by himi

Some exciting news to report in the Kia world, as we have learned that the new Kia Niro hybrid / plug-in hybrid will be offered as an AWD model.

It should be noted that this is not the AWD system that you might be used to, but rather the electric 4WD system that has been developed by Hyundai Wia, a South Korean automotive parts maker tied to the Hyundai-Kia group.

Kia Niro e-4WD system

In a standard 4WD system, you need a shaft and a transfer case to send power to the rear wheels, which results in a reduction of interior luggage space, as well as poorer fuel efficiency.

The E-4WD system uses an electric motor mounted between the rear wheels to deliver that power.

The positioning and size of this unit means that more cargo space is freed up inside, and improves fuel efficiency and leg room.

What is e-4WD and how it works

e-4wd-system e-4wd-how-it-works

The electric 4WD systems are relatively new technology, and currently only seen in a small number of vehicles.

The automakers that do use this system usually do so in hybrid plug-in models.

Some of the vehicles you will find E-4WD in include the Volvo XC90 plug-in, BMW i8, Lexus RX hybrid, and Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid SUV.

As plug-in hybrid models become more common, so will this system.

To be used in a range of Kia, Hyundai vehicles

Don’t expect the use of the e-4WD system in the Kia Niro plug-in hybrid to be the last time that we see the Koreans use it, as it will almost certainly show up in other Hyundai and Kia models.

It would make sense for the Kia Sportage and the Sorento SUV’s to start using the system, and it may also end up in the next-generation Soul crossover vehicle.

After all, the Soul Trail’ster concept vehicle from last year had this system fitted.

Pricing: 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid vs. Plug-In Hybrid

Posted on November 7, 2016 by himi

Kia have done a fantastic job of filling us all in with the details of the new Optima hybrid and plug-in hybrid models.

We know what they will look like, the colors that will be available, and all the fuel ratings and specs have also been revealed.

There is a lot of information available to help you make a buying decision, but the one thing that has been missing up to this point is the official Optima hybrid pricing.

We now have some answers to the pricing question, although what we do know at this point is reserved for the 2017 Kia Optima hybrid (HEV) model alone.

Pricing of the new Kia Optima hybrid car (UPDATE: we have received the pricing details of the Optima PHEV!)

There has been no official announcement in regards to pricing for the 2017 Kia Optima plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, but we will certainly keep you up to date on the pricing for that model as soon as we know more.

The reason that Kia are so keen to get the pricing out for the Optima hybrid is because they expect it to be in showrooms before the end of this year.

Price of Kia Optima hybrid / plug-in hybrid

Model	Trim level	Cost

2017 Optima hybrid (HEV)	Hybrid	$25,995
2017 Optima hybrid (HEV)	Hybrid EX	$30,990
2017 Optima plug-in (PHEV)	Plug-In Hybrid EX	$35,210

Kia Optima hybrid car MSRP – 2017MY

The 2017 Kia Optima hybrid comes in a pair of distinct trim levels, and the pricing for each is $25,995 for the base Optima Hybrid, and $30,990 for the EX trim level ($850 destination fee not included!).

Each of the two Optima models comes loaded with a wide number of safety and premium features, but there are also some additional ones available although at an extra cost.

2017 Optima Hybrid Convenience Package cost

You only get one available package option with the base hybrid model, which is the $1,795 Convenience Package.

This comes with a rear park assist system, 12-way power driver’s seat with memory, additional USB ports, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and laminated front door windows.

There are two exterior colors on the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid to choose from, and you can add special white or black hues for an additional $395.

2017 Optima Hybrid EX Technology Package cost

The top of the range EX comes with a single optional package, which is the Technology Package at a cost of $5,000.

That may seem like a lot of money, but when you look at what you get with the package, it’s a good value proposition.

Included in the package are the following: LED headlights, blind spot monitors, panoramic sunroof, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, heated rear seats, air conditioned front seats, rear cross traffic alert, and more.

Conclusion

As mentioned earlier, the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid will be available before the end of the year, and this pricing is sure to be well received.

It’s a price that may well see it appear in many driveways with Christmas ribbons attached this December.