KIA RACING'S PIRELLI WORLD CHALLENGE OPTIMAS HEAD TO BELLE ISLE FOR SIXTH ROUND SLUGFEST

 

Kia Racing heads for Detroit June 1-3 for round six of its debut season in the Pirelli World Challenge Championships (PWC), pitting two turbocharged Optimas against some serious hometown muscle. With his top-ten finish in Monterey (Calif.), Michael Galati, driver of the No. 36 Infinity Audio Optima, is currently fifth in the Grand Touring Sport (GTS) points battle while Kia Racing sits fourth in the manufacturers championship. Mark Wilkins, piloting the No.38 Infinity Audio Optima, has his eye on the first two rows of the starting grid at the Belle Isle (Mich.) street circuit located along the shores of the Detroit River.
Kia Racing's Infinity Audio Optimas seek third-straight podium finish in round five of the Pirelli World Challenge Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. -->

The Kia Racing Optimas will need every ounce of the 22-pound diet they have undergone since Monterey – "Reward Weight" earned for podium finishes earlier in the season, which the team is now able to shed after finishing sixth and eighth in the last race – to compete with the Mustangs and Camaros on the tight temporary street circuit at Belle Isle. Located almost in the shadow of General Motors' global headquarters, and only minutes from Ford's world headquarters, the race is sure to draw a large (and potentially partisan) crowd. With that in mind, Kia Racing is approaching the weekend with cautious optimism.

"There is no doubt the fans will be behind their hometown heroes," said Galati, who lives in nearby Cleveland. "But we've surprised more than a few people in our debut season, and I feel the Optimas are up to the challenge this weekend." Galati will be working hard to score points in his bid for the 2012 driver's championship and attempting to fend off the challenge from Acura driver Nick Esayian, who is only eight points behind in the standing.

Mark Wilkins, following his Kia Racing debut in Monterey where he was quickly up to speed and turned in a solid performance, is anticipating a far different driving experience at Belle Isle. "Laguna Seca is about blind crests and wild elevation changes while Belle Isle is a street course and is by-nature quite flat," said Wilkins. "The Optimas should do quite well in this environment, but passing is always tough because the course is so tight."

Situated on a 982-acre island perched in the middle of the Detroit River, Belle Isle's street circuit was originally created for Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) competition and has also hosted IndyCar and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) off and on since 1992. Its straights nestle against the shoreline and help to create one of the faster tracks in the PWC series.

Round six of the PWC season at Belle Isle takes place June 3 at 3 p.m. ET. Check out live race status, photos and updates at www.facebook.com/kiaracing, and watch live streaming race coverage at world-challengetv.com. Race fans can also tune in for television coverage on the NBC Sports Network Saturday, July 7 at 5 p.m. ET. (Time and date subject to change. Check local listings).

Take a visual tour of the Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage builds dramatically on the success of its predecessor. It has a raft of integral safety features, a sleek, aerodynamic body, fantastic specification, a superior quality cabin– and most significant of all – an industry-leading 7 year warranty

See the full gallery on Posterous

KIA MOTORS AMERICA WINS BRONZE "EFFIE" AT THE 2012 NORTH AMERICAN EFFIE AWARDS

 

"Not Your Average Slam Dunk" Spot Featuring Basketball Superstar Blake Griffin Was Key Element of Largest New Vehicle Launch Effort in Company History

Youthful and energetic brand lauded for iconic moment that changed perception and consideration of Kia

Fastest-Growing Car Company in the U.S.¹ engages basketball fans and dramatically increases consumer awareness through powerful sports marketing

IRVINE, Calif., May 24, 2012 - When Blake Griffin leaped over a Kia Optima to win the 2011 NBA Sprite^® Slam Dunk contest, footage of the dunk immediately went viral online and Kia Motors America (KMA) captured the historic moment with a 30-second ad spot that began airing less than 72 hours later. Yesterday, "Not Your Average Slam Dunk" received the Bronze Effie award in the "Single Impact Engagement" category at the 2012 North American Effie Awards ceremony in New York. The annual Effie Awards (short for effective) presented by Effie Worldwide, Inc., highlight the most effective marketing communications efforts in the U.S. each year.

Kia Racing's Infinity Audio Optimas seek third-straight podium finish in round five of the Pirelli World Challenge Championships at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. -->

In the midst of the largest new-vehicle launch in company history, Blake Griffin's slam dunk over a Kia Optima generated more than five million YouTube views, garnered 385 media placements and increased consumer purchase consideration by more than 20 percent, all within 48 hours of the dunk. Following the multifaceted Optima launch efforts and iconic slam dunk, significant increases in consumer awareness and perception of the Kia brand have led to record sales of the Optima midsize sedan as April marked the fifth consecutive month that the Optima was Kia's best-selling vehicle. The slam dunk also was the perfect catalyst for Kia, the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA, to connect with Blake Griffin, who is now a global ambassador for the Kia brand and is the only professional basketball player with a global marketing relationship with an automaker.

"The unprecedented stunt of having a basketball star dunk over the Optima not only electrified spectators and sports fans everywhere, but landed the Optima in the center of a social media conversation that grew exponentially from the moment the ball went through the hoop," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. "It is an honor to win the Bronze Effie for the slam dunk that broke all conventions and the ad spot that created lasting impressions of the Optima for sports fans and consumers alike."

In 2011, the Kia Soul marketing initiative earned the Gold Effie after taking home a Silver Effie in 2010.

About the 2012 Optima
The 2012 Kia Optima stands apart from the crowd with its head-turning design, fun-to-drive performance, modern amenities and long list of standard safety features. Kia's second U.S.-built* vehicle offers drivers cutting-edge technologies, including a standard eight-speaker Infinity^®2 audio system, HD Radio^™3, and Kia's UVO powered by Microsoft^®4 voice-activated infotainment and communications system with a starting MSRP of $19,500⁵.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving 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 quality⁶ and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking⁷. 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 sedan*. 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, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Newly Designed Sorento Caught on the 'Ring w/spyshots

 

Click HERE to check out our full line of new Kia's, schedule a test-drive, set-up a service appointment and arrange financing.

Last year, the Kia Sorento took the honor of being the best-selling vehicle in the Korean automaker's stable. That pace has slowed somewhat in 2012, as both the Soul and the Optima push past the CUV for sales dominance, but the company's engineers are already hard at work on the next Sorento facelift.

Our spy photographers spotted the heavily camouflaged version of the tweaked crossover prancing around the Nürburgring. This is the second time we've seen the machine out in open air. As you may recall, the Sorento was last spotted romping around in the snow along with a few friends, including an Audi Q5 and a Mercedes-Benz GLK.

With those kinds of benchmarks, there's a good possibility the next-generation Sorento will offer significant improvements in ride and interior refinement. Word has it the next revision will also bring along a fresh fascia, complete with LED headlights, as well as a freshened rear valance with LED treatments of its own.

Kia Rio, 2013: Versatile subcompact offers great fuel economy, value

 

The sub-compact segment in the United States is competitive, with every carmaker offering an entry as gas prices rise. But how does a manufacturer break from the pack and impress target buyers? Several dimensions standout - performance, ride quality, fuel economy, driving dynamics, options, styling, price. With the 2013 Kia Rio, the carmaker is concentrating on style, fuel economy, price and value.

Driving Impressions

Squeezing 138 HP and 123 lb-ft torque out of a 1.6L four cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, the Rio is competitive against the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Chevy Sonic.

Sink your foot to the floor and the Rio does what's expected: a slow ramp-up of power. It won't win drag races, unless its against other subcompacts. The acceleration is decent, but not impressive.

Ride quality is decent, but not unexpected among current subcompacts. I renjoyed the steering feel of the Rio, which offers decent feedback and felt substantial but surprisingly not too light at highway speeds.

Styling

This is where Kia tries hard to stand out from the crowd, and I think it's the most styled offering in market segment. The Rio's lines are not as graceful as the Ford Fiesta, but it looks better than the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris or Chevy Sonic. The details in the headlight units look expensive and designed, especially with the included LED daytime running lights.

Interior Comfort and Ergonomics

Interior space on the Rio is surprisingly accommodating. There's plenty of cabin room for a dirver and three passengers, plus gear, A fifth passenger can squeeze in, but it's best if it's a close friend.

Kia does a decent job with steering wheel-mounted controls useful and not overwhelming. The test vehicle was equipped with backup camera and touch screen entertainment center - luxury features for a subcompact. The seats are supportive.

Conclusion

Starting at $16,500, the Kia Rio is not the cheapest in its class, with the Ford Fiesta or a Toyota Yaris available for less. But the Rio is better equipped with rear disc brakes and a warranty. I also like the hill assist feature available with manual transmission. The 2012 Rio offers above average performance in its class and has a unique look that won't blend in in a parking lot. KIa has targeted a young driving audience with the Rio and it's differeniated itself in that regard.

Spacious cabin
Modern styling
Great 40+ Highway MPG for a non-hybrid
Good steering feel for a class in this class

Who will get to meet Christina Milan? A Geocache Challenge in the Kia Rio 5 door

Watch two teams compete to meet Christina Milian in a geocache challenge across Los Angeles in the 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door! The Bluetooth system and USB input jack help them to discover clues and unlock codes to find their way from The Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, Amoeba Records, Rodeo Drive, Pink's Hot Dogs, and to the final destination - The Roosevelt Hotel!

The 8-Step Guide to the American Road Trip

Whether you hope to rediscover the back roads of your home state or retrace Route 66 all the way from Illinois to California, a successful road trip requires a mix of advance planning and flexibility while traveling. Here are eight steps to help you put together the perfect summer trip.

1.   The perfect vehicle

The perfect vehicle is essential to the perfect road trip and the choice all depends on the type of trip you will be taking. The choice could range from a fast 2-seater all the way to an RV. Either way you want something that will handle all your activities, keep you comfortable and last but not least get you where you’re going.

2. Choosing your travel partners

Choosing companions for your road trip adventure might be the most important decision you make. Remember, you'll be spending almost 24 hours a day, day after day, in close quarters together, so it's extremely important that everyone's personalities and interests mesh well.

3. Figuring out where to go

Brainstorming your itinerary is the fun part of trip planning, and you can do as much or as little of it as you like. "Some people just have a general idea about where they want to go and let their impulses drive them while others plan a general route and then improvise along the way," says Mercer.

You might start by studying maps or browsing guide books like Let's Go Road tripping USA. Or, there are countless online resources you can use to generate ideas:

• Find scenic roads around the country by visiting the website of the National Scenic Byways Program. The site covers 96 nationally designated scenic drives in the U.S. such as the Kancamagus Scenic Byway through the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Big Sur Coast Highway along Route 1 in California. Detailed information is listed for each route including maps and directions, points of interest, and events happening nearby.
• Link to the official tourism websites of all 50 states through the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory. State tourism sites include a wealth of information about state attractions, accommodations, events, weather, and more. Most also link to the visitors' bureaus of individual cities and regions within the state.
• Locate national parks by state or zip code using the interactive map on the National Park Service website. Each park has its own homepage where you'll find maps and information about activities, climate, and park services.
• Find obscure sites and landmarks in the U.S. through HamptonLandmarks.com, a site that allows you to search through a database of more than 1,000 U.S. landmarks by city, state, or category. The website also details sample road tours that combine visits to numerous sites such as the Diamonds in the Dust tour of baseball sites in the Midwest and the Smile and Say Big tour of photogenic landmarks in West.
• If you're really into visiting oddball attractions, you should also browse RoadSideAmerica.com, which lists more than 5,000 offbeat sites in the U.S. and Canada such as the "world's largest hairball" in Webster, SD, or "Prairie Dog Town" in Oakley, KS.
• Plan your itinerary around events and festivals happening around the country using WhatsOnWhen.com. Search by location, theme, keyword, or date to find reports on thousands of notable events.
• Read instructive and inspirational articles about road tripping on RoadTripAmerica.com. The site also has a forum where you can post questions and ask for suggestions.

Planning is helpful, but don't get carried away scheduling every moment of your trip. Part of the fun of road tripping is the serendipity of stumbling upon unexpected sites or interesting people.

4. Planning the route

If you prefer to let the road take you where it will, you can skip this part. But if you'd rather know where you're going in advance, there are several online tools you can use to map your route. Keep in mind, however, that no online planning tool is perfect and none are completely comprehensive or fully up to date, so bring along a separate road atlas and guide book.

Mark Sedenquist, the publisher and managing editor of RoadTripAmerica.com, recommends TripKing, a free planning tool that can be found on RV.com and several other sites. This tool can help you plan your trip hour-by-hour, allowing you to not only map out a route but also find restaurants, lodging, attractions, and other points of interest along the way.

Megan Edwards, the president and editor of RoadTripAmerica.com, also suggests a similar free planning tool, TravMatrix. "What makes this tool interesting is the amount of customized information a road tripper can gather about the availability of certain travel service amenities along a particular Interstate highway," says Edwards. "For example, it is easy to get a list of all of the hot tubs along a certain stretch of highway."

5. Finding cheap accommodations and dining

If you have friends or relatives who live in interesting places, a road trip is the perfect way to visit them. Not only will you fulfill those long-time promises to visit, you'll also cut down on lodging and food costs and have access to a free tour guide.

If you can't stay with friends, try mixing camping with occasional stays in hotels when you feel the need to clean up. For camping, Mercer suggests staying in official campgrounds rather than at rest stops or other locations. You can find and reserve camp sites in 44 states through ReserveAmerica, but to find out all the options, you may need to consult a guide book or ask around at a local gas station or visitors' center.

Find affordable hotels on your route by using a guidebook or a hotel-booking site like PlacesToStay.com or Orbitz. It never hurts to try calling the hotel directly to see if lower prices are available. You can also try looking for hostels on HostelWorld.com, but keep in mind that many U.S. hostels require an international passport.

One of the best parts of a road-trip is experiencing what the entire nation has to offer for food. This is your chance to hit up all those places you have seen on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

The cheapest way to eat is to stop at grocery stores and stock up on bottled drinks, sandwich fixings, and other snacks. You can always stop at fast-food chains, but you're on the road to experience new things. So, try to fit in some meals at local diners, farmer's markets, and the occasional restaurant.

6. Keeping gas costs under control

Gas may be your biggest expense, but there a few things you can do to reduce costs. Here are some ideas:

• Bring one or more friends along to split the costs.
• Choose a fuel-economy car over a gas-guzzler if you have a choice.
• Fill your gas tank and drive during the cooler parts of the day when fuel consumption is less, suggests Edwards.
• Find the lowest fuel price in any area of the U.S. or Canada using RoadTripAmerica.com's Fuel Cost Calculator. "[The calculator] allows road trippers to obtain fuel costs when comparing different types of vehicles, fuel efficiencies, and miles traveled," says Sedenquist.

7. Keep safe and happy on the road

Problems and tempers are bound to arise at some point along your trip, but keeping cool and being prepared can help minimize the trouble. To keep peace between yourself and your travel mates, Mercer says to not get too ambitious with your itinerary and to schedule time outside the car every day. Flexibility and the ability to compromise also go a long way. "Sometimes you get stuck in places unexpectedly and you have to leave yourself time to stop and enjoy where you are," says Mercer.

It's also important to treat your car well and be prepared for roadside emergencies. Keep an extra set of keys and carry basic repair tools, plus a safety kit with flares and extra water, says Mercer. Before traveling, you should also make sure your car insurance is up to date and look into roadside assistance services like AAA. Reading up about car maintenance and repair is helpful too.

8. Documenting your journey

Documenting your trip through journaling and photography is now easier than ever with digital cameras and travel blogs. Several free online travel blogs allow you to write journal entries, upload photographs, map your route, and keep in touch with friends and family as you travel. Before you hit the road, set up your personal travel blog on a site like TravelPod and TravelBlog and then write entries as you travel. Both sites automatically send e-mail notification to your friends and family when you update the blog.

Or, you can keep a written journal on the trip and then put together a scrapbook with photos when you get home. Include ticket stubs, maps, postcards, addresses of new friends, and other memorabilia from you trip. With a scrapbook, you'll have a tangible way to recall your epic adventure for years to come.

Would you buy a Turbo-Diesel Optima?

 

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

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

We have yet to meet a single member of the automotive press who wouldn't drive a diesel. Kia has a test group of millions on Facebook and they are correctly using social media in order to test the waters.

Top five reasons to buy the Kia Rio

Here are the five reasons to buy a Kia Rio
1) Cutting-edge style

2) Outstanding warranty

3) Great Value

4) Fantastic fuel economy

5) Inspired interior
What would be your top two reasons to buy this amazing hatchback?

Senate OKs mandatory black boxes in cars for 2015, House expected to follow

 

It's been working its way through Congress for years, but according to Car and Driver, an event recorder mandate could soon become law. The Senate has already voted to adopt a transportation bill that would make the so-called "black boxes" mandatory by the 2015 model year. According to the report, the House of Representatives is also expected to pass a similar statute.

While the specifics of the bills are "vague" – to use C/D's words – they're also likely to change before becoming law. What probably won't, according to the report, is the standard data set that the Department of Transportation has set forth, 15 measurements that include direction of acceleration, throttle position, and time that the airbags fired, among others.

This raises the specter of government snooping, of course. The Senate version at least specifies that the data contained in the little electronic box is actually owned by the owner of the vehicle, according to the report. Johnny Law can still come around with a warrant to gain access to it, however, and first responders and paramedics would be able to do so without the warrant, provided they needed the information to respond to the emergency.

 

 

The TOP-TEN Gifts for MOM!

Mother’s Day comes every year and most of the time we don’t know what we should get to express how much our Moms mean to us. Here is the top-ten things Mothers want for their special day. Stick to the list and you can’t go wrong.

No.10 Flowers

If sending these along to your mom wasn't the first idea that popped into your head, we'd recommend seeing a neurologist. That said, women have an uncanny ability to discern the quality of flowers, so don't think she won't know you opted for the cheapest bouquet you could find. Conversely, by taking the high road and shelling out for the FTD luxury collection, she'll know you've done something special and show her pleasure by placing them prominently in her home for everyone to see.

Why? Though it may seem trite, there's a reason why giving flowers on Mother's Day is popular. Like flowers, being a mom is a beautiful thing, and beautiful things definitely deserve each other’s company.

No.9 Candles

Loved by women for their flattering and soothing light, and mind-clearing aromas, you can never go wrong adding to your mom's candle stockpile. If you opt for this approach, make sure your selection is made from vegetable soy wax like that used in these Pacifica Perfume candles, because they burn better right to the very end.

Why?: A weekend at home smelling a yummy candle is much more appealing than noticing your or the family dog’s lack of hygiene

No.8 Gift card

This isn't the type of gift we recommend every day, but in the case of moms who spend the majority of time shopping for others, receiving a gift card to their favorite shop can often break down their selflessness for a change by giving them the treat to shop for themselves. Don't assume, however, that you can pass this relatively easy gift off without putting some thought into some attractive packaging and a well-written card.

Why? The saying goes "it's the thought that counts," but the fact is letting moms choose their own special gift will guarantee they get what they want.

No.7 Gift basket

This idea may seem better suited for a corporate convention, but not every gift basket is created equal. Packed with her favorite gourmet foods, and useful tools to make cooking them a real pleasure, a customized gift basket from Dean & DeLuca is a very classy gift. However, if you’re really looking to earn good-son brownie points, you should be the one to prepare this gift's goodies for her as an added way to show you care.

Why? Food is meant to be shared with loved ones, so if you play your cards right, she might just let your stomach benefit from your good taste in gift giving as well.

No.6 Home spa treatment

While celebrating all of her accomplishments as a mother, many women find themselves reflecting on all the time that has passed to get here. By giving the gift of home spa products like this pomegranate salt glow scrub from Aromafloria, she can treat herself to a relaxing day at home while marveling at all she has accomplished. More importantly, though, her day of home pampering will also give her skin a more youthful appearance akin to the days when she focused on herself and not her kids.

Why? Every mom needs to be reminded of the beautiful woman she is as an individual, no matter how much you'd rather not think about it.

No.5 Home decor

Men may brush these tokens off as pointless knickknacks, but unique home decor accessories such as this Swan's Island Merino throw are the kinds of gifts that detail-oriented moms love, because they help distinguish and freshen up the sanctuary that is her home.

Why? The old throw rug on the couch has started to resemble the Dead Sea Scrolls and this soft merino wool should provide her comfort even when you're not around.

No.4 Sweet treats

Unless she's in the extreme minority, your mom will always appreciate sweet treats. Chocolate, of course, is certainly a safe bet, but if you're really looking to impress, sending an edible arrangement of her favorite fruit dipped in chocolate takes this gifting concept from the minor leagues to the pros. Made to be as beautiful as they are tasty, they're also great for sharing when the family gets together

Why? Sending over a basket of treats will make her feel great and indulge her sweet-tooth urge she so often says no to.

No.3 Greenery

The process of caring for a living thing is an instinct that typically stays with moms long after they've kicked you out. To cater to this instinct, give her beautiful greenery she can also tend to, such as a gorgeously packaged BloemBox.

Why? Apart from adding color and wonderful fragrance to her home, raising plants doesn’t result in dirty dishes and unmade beds, the way raising you did.

No.2 Perfume

Some moms wear perfume every day, while others save it for special occasions. Regardless of what bucket your mom falls into, giving her a bottle of her own favorite fragrance will save her a trip to the department store and keep her smelling like she prefers. If you’re an inattentive son and don't know what she likes, giving her a bottle of the classic Chanel No. 5 might just save your bacon.

Why? Scent is the most powerful sense attached to memory, so make sure you always remember your mom in the best possible way.

No.1 Massage and spa treatment

Mother's Day gifts are all about making moms feel good, and nothing fulfills that goal more directly than giving mom a massage and spa treatment. Lucky for you, giving this gift just got easier thanks to SpaFinder, since there's no need to struggle with the hassle of finding a local spa. One universal gift certificate is accepted at over 5,000 spa locations and can be used for any service the spa offers.

Why? After a lifetime of making you feel good when you needed it the most, treating her to a day of relaxation is one small way of paying her back.

Ways to Save: Thirty Gas Saving Tips

The surest way you can improve your fuel cost problem is to change your motoring habits. Listed below under four categories are 30 effective methods of doing so... no need to buy expensive add-on equipment.

ENGINE WARM-UP

1. Avoid prolonged warming up of engine, even on cold mornings - 30 to 45 seconds is plenty of time.

2. Be sure the automatic choke is disengaged after engine warm up... chokes often get stuck, resulting in bad gas/air mixture.

3. Don't start and stop engine needlessly. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the gas amount equivalent to when you start the engine.

4. Avoid "reving" the engine, especially just before you switch the engine off; this wastes fuel needlessly and washes oil down from the inside cylinder walls, owing to loss of oil pressure.

5. Eliminate jack-rabbit starts. Accelerate slowly when starting from dead stop. Don't push pedal down more than 1/4 of the total foot travel. This allows carburetor to function at peak efficiency.

HOW TO BUY GASOLINE

6. Buy gasoline during coolest time of day - early morning or late evening is best. During these times gasoline is densest. Keep in mind - gas pumps measure volumes of gasoline, not densities of fuel concentration. You are charged according to "volume of measurement".

7. Choose type and brand of gasoline carefully. Certain brands provide you with greater economy because of better quality. Use the brands which "seem" most beneficial.

8. Avoid filling gas tank to top. Overfilling results in sloshing over and out of tank. Never fill gas tank past the first "click" of fuel nozzle, if nozzle is automatic.

HOW TO DRIVE ECONOMICALLY

9. Exceeding 40 mph forces your auto to overcome tremendous wind resistance.

10. Never exceed legal speed limit. Primarily they are set for your traveling safety, however better gas efficiency also occurs. Traveling at 55 mph give you up to 21% better mileage when compared to former legal speed limits of 65 mph and 70 mph.

11. Traveling at fast rates in low gears can consume up to 45% more fuel than is needed.

12. Manual shift driven cars allow you to change to highest gear as soon as possible, thereby letting you save gas if you "nurse it along". However, if you cause the engine to "bog down", premature wearing of engine parts occurs.

13. Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10%.

14. Drive steadily. Slowing down or speeding up wastes fuel. Also avoid tailgating - the driver in front of you is unpredictable. Not only is it unsafe, but if affects your economy, if he slows down unexpectedly.

15.Think ahead when approaching hills. If you accelerate, do it before you reach the hill, not while you're on it.

GENERAL ADVICE

16. Do not rest left foot on floor board pedals while driving. The slightest pressure puts "mechanical drag" on components, wearing them down prematurely. This "dragging" also demands additional fuel usage.

17. Avoid rough roads whenever possible, because dirt or gravel rob you of up to 30% of your gas mileage.

18. Use alternate roads when safer, shorter, straighter. Compare traveling distance differences - remember that corners, curves and lane jumping requires extra gas. The shortest distance between two points is always straight.

19. Stoplights are usually timed for your motoring advantage. By traveling steadily at the legal speed limit you boost your chances of having the "green light" all the way.

20. Automatic transmissions should be allowed to cool down when your car is idling at a standstill, e.g. railroad crossings, long traffic lights, etc. Place gear into neutral position. This reduces transmission strain and allows transmission to cool.

21. Park car so that you can later begin to travel in forward gear; avoid reverse gear maneuvers to save gas.

22. Regular tune-ups ensure best economy; check owner's manual for recommended maintenance intervals. Special attention should be given to maintaining clean air filters... diminished air flow increases gas waste.

23. Inspect suspension and chassis parts for occasional misalignment. Bent wheels, axles, bad shocks, broken springs, etc. create engine drag and are unsafe at high traveling speeds.

24. Remove snow tires during good weather seasons; traveling on deep tire tread really robs fuel!

25. Inflate all tires to maximum limit. Each tire should be periodically spun, balanced and checked for out-of-round. When shopping for new tires, get large diameter tires for rear wheels. Radial designs are the recognized fuel-savers; check manufacturer's specifications for maximum tire pressures.

26. Remove vinyl tops - they cause air drag. Rough surfaces disturb otherwise smooth air flow around a car's body. Bear in mind when buying new cars that a fancy sun roof helps disturb smooth air flow (and mileage).

27. Auto air conditioners can reduce fuel economy by 10% to 20%. Heater fan, power windows and seats increase engine load; the more load on your engine, the less miles per gallon.

28. Remove excess weight from trunk or inside of car - extra tires, back seats, unnecessary heavy parts. Extra weight reduces mileage, especially when driving up inclines.

29. Car pools reduce travel monotony and gas expense - all riders chip in to help you buy. Conversation helps to keep the driver alert. Pooling also reduces traffic congestion, gives the driver easier maneuverability and greater "steady speed" economy. For best results, distribute passenger weight evenly throughout car.

30. During cold weather watch for icicles frozen to car frame. Up to 100 lbs. can be quickly accumulated! Unremoved snow and ice cause tremendous wind resistance. Warm water thrown on (or hosed on) will eliminate it fast.

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Lease the 2012 Kia Soul for a very special price

We have an outstanding offer for you today. You can lease the 2012 Kia Soul for only $169 per a month! Click here for more details.

Check out the all-new Kia GT Concept!

The future is bright! Take a look at the Kia GT Concept and enjoy! Click here for more great concept vehicles.

What do the richest people in the world drive?

What would you drive if you have 50 billion dollars in the bank? I think most people would commission to have a flying car built or at least that is what we might have done. Beauty can be found in the ugliest cars, believe it or not. Some of us wouldn’t trade in our 5 or 10 thousand dollar car for the world, simply because we love it. Of course, most billionaires are very boring and stick to the traditional Bentley, Rolls, Lambos, Ferraris and Maseratis, but there are a few on our list that will surprise you.

When you’re done reading this article and your net worth is still under a billion dollars come in and check out some ‘real life’ vehicles. There are definitely some you may fall in love with, whether you’re wealthy or not.  CLICK HERE to schedule a test drive, a service appointment, or just to check us out. Also head over and LIKE our Google Plus page for some special offers and some pretty sweet content! https://plus.google.com/b/109892535084584401309/# 

See the full gallery on Posterous

1.       Carlos Slim Helu is the world's richest man, according to Forbes. The Mexican telecom giant drives himself to work in his Bentley Continental Flying Spur. But don't let his modest driving habit fool you: the price tag on the car is more than most houses at about $300,000.

 

2.       Bill Gates' Porsche 959 Coupe is one of only 230 in the world. It took a federal law signed by then-president Bill Clinton to allow the billionaire to drive the car because there was no crash-test rating. The price for such a car? $225,000 when new, they now go for well over $400,000.

 

 

3.       Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud, member of the Saudi royal family, drives a Rolls-Royce Phantom. The entry level version of the prince's car costs $246,000, while an upscale version a royal would surely need is a cool $447,000.

 

 

4.       Billionaire Larry Ellison, founder of Oracle, is famous for his many cars. Among his most prestigious is this McLaren F1. In 1998, the car was declared the fastest ever to hit the road and its invention is seen as revolutionary. Production of the cars stopped that year and now they can fetch up to $4.1 million each.

 

5.       Nike founder Phil Knight has a $120,000 Audi R8. Knight, however, went for a bolder approach and got a black model with a contrasting silver sideblade. A Nike employee snapped his car, seen here, at the company's headquarters in Oregon.

The NEW Kia Flagship Sedan out in Korea and coming to us soon!

The new luxurious K9 is full of technology, power and style. The new flagship sedan should show up state-side around October. CLICK HERE to visit our Facebook Page for the full K9 Photo Gallery.
Kia launches elegant and luxurious all-new flagship sedan
- Elegant simplicity and balanced proportions create a premium feeling
- First modern rear-wheel drive Kia has V6 power plus 8-speed transmission
- Introduces a host of advanced features and technologies new to Kia
- Striking sedan on sale in Korea from today with export sales later in 2012
(SEOUL) May 2, 2012 – Kia's all-new luxury flagship sedan goes on sale in Korea today (Wednesday), powering the brand into an entirely new segment of the global automotive market.
The striking new rear-wheel drive sedan will be launched in a number of key overseas markets starting in the fourth quarter of 2012. The new flagship tops Kia's global model range and is a true landmark vehicle for the company. Kia's first modern rear-wheel drive vehicle using its own platform combines stylish design with luxurious comfort, engaging driving dynamics and advanced high-tech features.
Known as the "K9" in Korea, the new flagship sedan will have a different name in overseas markets – to be revealed closer to its on sale date.
"K9 is our first rear-wheel drive large sedan for more than a decade and sets new standards for advanced design, new technologies and driving performance, representing the 'best of the best' of Kia," comments Soon-Nam Lee, Kia's Director of Overseas Marketing Group.
"Demonstrating once again our brand's power to surprise, K9 will entice an entirely new customer group of progressive, forward-looking consumers to Kia for the first time," adds Lee.
Designing for a rear-wheel drive platform has provided Kia with an opportunity for proportions that define luxury.
As a large rear-wheel drive vehicle, K9 boasts a long wheelbase which gives a generous first impression. As the engine sits further back, the A-pillar is also pushed back to create a longer hood and an impressive short front overhang. Consequently, the distance between the center of the wheel and the A-pillar, the so called "prestige distance," is increased.
Thanks to the long prestige distance and high shoulder line, the glass house sits far back and the sheet metal-to-glass ratio is significantly increased. The pushed-back position and the small size of the glass house give occupants a feeling of privacy and dignity, while the nice distinctive window graphics accentuated by a chrome inlay give the car a premium feel.
"K9 is all about elegant simplicity, balanced proportions and simple surfaces," says Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer. "The class-leading long wheelbase, the prestige distance, large wheels, sharply upright short overhangs and a long sweeping shoulder line all work together in a harmony to give K9 a sporty, athletic proportion and a confident stance quintessential to a premium large rear-wheel drive vehicle."
"While embodying a new generation of Kia design, K9 is a clear signal of our intention and determination to compete head-to-head with the European luxury brands. And for Kia, our customers, and for me – this car is like a dream come true," concludes Schreyer.
With a 5,090 mm overall length and 3,045 mm wheelbase, K9 offers generous front and rear occupant space. Overall width and height are 1,900 mm and 1,490 mm, respectively, which creates a spacious cabin environment, while efficient aerodynamics and close attention to exterior detailing result in a highly competitive Cd of 0.27.
V6 power and eight-speed transmission
Initially, K9 will be available in overseas markets powered by an upgraded 290 ps Lambda V6 3.8-liter MPI engine, with a 334 ps 3.8 GDI engine joining the global engine line-up next year.
For fitment to K9, Kia's engineers boosted the Lambda V6's power output, raised its efficiency and enhanced its refinement – making it well-suited to power the new flagship model. The normally aspirated twin DOHC 3.8-liter engines are equipped with dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) and a variable intake system (VIS).
Every K9 comes with Kia's all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The wide spread of gear ratios guarantees brisk acceleration and high-speed refinement, while shift-by-wire (SBW) technology with a joystick control delivers fast, smooth gear changes.
Rear-wheel drive characteristics
"With K9 we have achieved a near-perfect front/rear weight distribution, which has created a strong foundation for excellent balance and steering response, and a sophisticated blend of ride and handling qualities," comments Chang-Ky Kang, Senior Vice President of Namyang R&D Chassis Technology Center.
Together with the ultra-stiff bodyshell made with 74.3 percent high-strength steel, K9's electronically controlled air suspension with five-link front and rear suspension geometry has given the new flagship first-class ride and handling characteristics.
Four driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow) enable the driver to choose a preferred set-up of suspension, steering, engine and transmission ideal for various road conditions or driving styles.
"K9's excellent balance delivers a host of driver benefits – improved traction, greater road holding, enhanced braking stability, and enhanced turn-in. Adopting rear-wheel drive also enabled us to create a purity of steering response and feel," concludes Kang.
Advanced new features
When it goes on sale in overseas markets, K9 will premiere a range of advanced luxury features and technologies that are second to none. Depending on model, available active safety features will include fully adaptive all-LED headlamps, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), radar-based Blind-Spot Detection (BSD) and an Around-View Monitor (AVM) with four cameras.
Premium comfort features include a 12.3-inch full size Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD cluster, a HUD (head-up display), twin 9.2-inch monitors to entertain rear seat occupants and a remarkable 17-channel, 17-speaker Lexicon (by Harman) sound system and Smart Cruise Control (SCC) which adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain the distance from the vehicle ahead.
A special "VIP" option will offer twin heated and ventilated rear seats with a reclining backrest, sliding cushion and lower leg support for the "nearside" seat, together with a front passenger seat that slides forwards when unoccupied.

This is how to teach teens the perils of distracted driving

A European group called Responsible Young Drivers wanted to showcase the dangers of texting while driving, and got ad agency Publicis to help them out. The result: a two-minute spot that put trainee drivers in Belgium with an instructor who said part of their driving test would be to avoid an obstacle while texting a random sentence that he'd dictate.

Since nothing beyond a cone or two was hurt in the making of this video, we'll admit we laughed. That said, the message is clear.

Almost everyone is guilty of using their phone while driving. Please watch and share this video. Maybe we can cut down on the 1.2 million accidents caused by texting and driving and the video is pretty funny

And FYI, a driver training instructor in Belgium doesn't need to wear a seat belt on a closed course... though maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea.