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Kia launching Uvo 2.0 in 2014 Sorento

Along with all the new model introductions hitting the stages of the LA Auto Show, automakers made plenty of announcements in regards to technology heading into the show. Chevrolet's MyLink will be adding Siri and Ford is reportedly preparing some more updates for its MyFord Touch and My Lincoln Touch, but now Kia has announced that it will be releasing the next version of its Uvo infotainment system in the 2014 Kia Sorento and later in other Kia models including the redesigned 2014 Forte.
Uvo is Kia's hands-free infotainment system, and now it will be adding a telematics "eServices" system including vehicle diagnostics, a parking location reminder for drivers and 911 Connect. Officially called Uvo eServices Infotainment System with Voice Command Navigation, this is essentially the "version 2.0" for Uvo, which came with voice recognition and hands-free control of mobile phones when it was introduced in 2010.
When the 2014 Sorento goes on sale, the new Uvo will only be compatible with iPhones, but Android phones are expected to work by the second quarter. Scroll down for Kia's press release on the updated Uvo system.

Superman-inspired Kia Optima Hybrid helps those affected by drought and famine in Africa

Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine worked as a team to develop this one-of-a-kind Superman-themed Optima Hybrid that made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show today. The joint effort is designed to raise awareness for DC Entertainment's "We Can Be Heroes" campaign, a charitable relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.
The metallic blue and red sedan, which thankfully manages to look better in person than it does in the pictures, is the seventh vehicle in a 10-month partnership between the automaker, comic book company and tuner as they build themed vehicles representing all of the Justice League heros. A yet-unseen eighth vehicle will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one.
There is no mistaking the blue metallic finish with red chrome accents, or the world's most recognizable superhero's chest emblem glowing on the hood, but you have to look closer to see the Superman logo on the rear fascia and catch the red glow from the headlights. The theme has been carried into the cabin, where occupants will find custom upholstery and Superman's iconic shield on the seats and airbag cover. While the hybrid sedan's gasoline-electric powertrain remains untouched, the Optima features flared fenders, oversize 22-inch wheels and a height-adjustable suspension that is controlled from the cockpit. Read more in the official press blast below.

2015 Kia Soul EV

You'd be forgiven if you weren't fully aware of this vehicle's existence. While the Soul EV is a big deal for Kia, as it marks the Korean brand's first foray into the world of pure electric vehicles here in the US, it simply has not a been able to garner much regard from the average car fan or, really, the automotive press.
As a green car, it has to be tough to compete with Elon Musk's remarkable ability to consistently hold our attention with nearly everything he touches at Tesla. Add that to the fact that the Soul EV doesn't offer a ton in the way of aesthetics to differentiate itself from its gasoline-powered sibling - save a few tweaks here and there - and its limited initial availability (CA only for now), and you end up with a vehicle that just isn't on a lot of people's radar. And that's too bad.
You see, none of the above is meant to imply that this is a bad car. In fact, as you read through our driving notes, you'll see that the reality is actually the opposite: Kia has a genuinely solid product on its hands.