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2016 Kia Soul EV gets $2k-cheaper base model

With the 2016 Kia Soul EV arriving at dealers in Washington, Oregon, Texas, Georgia, and Hawaii, the company is set to tap a huge array of new customers. Perhaps recognizing that fact, the South Korean brand has added a new base trim that allegedly slashes the electric car's starting price by some $2,000. Joining the former entry-level Soul EV and top-of-the-line EV+, is the new EV-e. While it's considered the base model, it still offers push-button start and a special driver's-side-only ventilation function for the HVAC system, on top of standard front heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The charging system – two ports, one for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, and another for DC fast charging – and electric motor/battery pack remains unchanged on the new base trim. As for the rumored pricing figure, it comes from Kia World, which claims the new EV-e will ring up at just $31,950 before and state or federal incentives. As we said, that's some $2,000 less than the current starting price, if the report proves true. Kia is also addressing the customers at the top of the Soul EV range, adding a new Sun and Fun package for the EV+. The new package adds a panoramic sunroof and LED speaker lights that match to whatever music is playing through the six-speaker stereo. Both features have existed on the gas-powered Soul for some time, but are welcome additions to the electric hatchback. As we reported previously, sales of the Soul EV in Oregon, Washington, Texas, Georgia, and Hawaii should be underway as of this month. It's not clear, however, when the new entry level EV-e will arrive in dealers. Related Video: 2016 KIA SOUL EV OVERVIEW Kia Expands Eco-friendly and Affordable Soul EV Lineup for 2016 New 2016 Soul EV-e trim1 adds new value to the electric vehicle segment New Sun & Fun Package for Soul EV+ (plus) adds a host of premium amenities, including panoramic sunroof IRVINE, Calif., July 8, 2015 – The 2016 Soul EV marks the second year of Kia's first mass-market zero emissions, battery electric vehicle. For 2016, the Soul EV is offered in three trims – Soul EV-e, Soul EV, Soul EV+ (plus) – up from two in 2015. Offering a long list of standard equipment at a lower price point, the Soul EV-e brings new value for those looking for a fun and funky alternative in the EV segment. The Soul EV+ continues as the range-topping trim, and is further enhanced for 2016 with the addition of the Sun & Fun Package.

Kia takes the wraps off new Sorento

We've seen the spy shots (twice) and we've seen the teaser images, but now Kia has finally revealed the finished form of its upcoming new Sorento crossover.
Taking some styling cues from the Kia Cross GT concept from the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, but with better proportions, the new Sorento packs a more pronounced grille in an altogether more aggressive (though not necessarily better-looking) front end than the model it replaces. Sheet metal is more sculpted all around, and despite the wrap-around taillights, the rear end looks familiar.
The new Sorento stretches 3.7-inches longer overall, on a 3-inch longer wheelbase, but sits half an inch lower, promising more interior space and of course updated equipment and features. The Eco Dynamics badge on the tailgate suggests the availability of green tech like stop/start ignition and such. Kia will reveal the new Sorento in Korea later this month ahead of its debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.

Kia previews drop-top Optima for SEMA

You don't see a lot of four-door convertibles these days, but that's just what Kia has in store for the SEMA show this year. It's called the A1A, and it's based on the Optima sedan you can pick up at your local showroom. Just don't expect this one to go into production anytime soon. The Kia Optima A1A concept is just one in a series of regional specials that the Korean automaker is preparing for the tuner expo in Las Vegas. It's already given us glimpses at a Sorento inspired by the Northwest Coast, and a Forte Koup that pays tribute to the South. The Optima A1A joins in on the action to represent Florida, adopting not only an open-air body-style but also suicide rear doors and 20-inch chrome wheels fitted on a dropped coilover suspension. It's all done up in bright teal with an off-white leather interior. The turbo four produces the same 245 hp as stock, but is fitted with a high-performance exhaust. It's one of six concepts - four of them never seen before - that Kia will be presenting at SEMA this year, and we're looking forward to seeing what the next one will look like before there'll all presented in full on Tuesday. Related Video: KIA'S 2015 SEMA PRESS CONFERENCE INFORMATION America's wanderlust is found from coast to coast and everywhere in between. The A1A Optima takes inspiration from the iconic Florida A1A highway by letting the sunshine in and taking the all-new 2016 Optima in a new direction with its sliced top, shortened windshield and room for four. Reinforced steel tubes have been discretely hidden within the body so that the vehicle retains a rigid structure. The back doors of the A1A Optima swing open on rear-mounted hinges, adding a touch of whimsy and fun while complementing the roadster style. A gleaming set of 20-in. wheels are bolted to a Ksport coilover suspension, which dramatically lowers ride height. Soft butter-cream leather bucket seats up front and custom double buckets in back are separated by extended armrests and a custom center console. The powerful 245-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine is combined with a high-performance exhaust. Kia Motors America will unveil four all-new custom vehicles at its press conference Tuesday, November 3 at 9:00 AM, booth #10809