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2017 Kia Sportage hits LA in US spec

Kia gave us our first look at the all-new Sportage back in August ahead of its global debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. But with the LA Auto Show opening this week, the Korean automaker has now released the full details on its new compact crossover. The 2017 Kia Sportage represents a ground-up redesign of the model, adopting a more rounded look compared to the crossover it replaces. The tiger-nose grille makes it instantly recognizable as a Kia. And though it clearly takes a different design approach, its upright quirkiness (to our eyes) makes it a more suitable bridge between (and distinct stablemate to) the unconventional Soul and the larger Sorento. Now entering its fourth iteration, the new Sportage stretches 1.6 inches longer than its predecessor and rides on a 1.2-inch longer wheelbase, but maintains the same width. That means a more spacious cabin for both occupants and cargo, done up with more upscale materials and with the latest technologies buyers have come to expect. The increased use of high-strength steel helps optimize rigidity and weight in the latest iteration of Kia's longest-running nameplate, helping it launch a more concerted assault on the increasingly competitive compact crossover market. Buyers will be able to choose between three trim levels, labeled LX, EX, and SX Turbo. The first two derive their power from a 2.4-liter four good for 181 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, while the latter steps up to a 2.0-liter turbo kicking out a more prodigious 241 hp and 260 lb-ft. Both promise improved efficiency, and can be had in front- or all-wheel drive, but either way they transmit their power to the road through a six-speed automatic transmission. Pricing for each model is set to be announced closer to their arrival in showrooms sometime in the new year.

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.

Ward's releases 10 Best Interiors list for 2014

While we're still a ways off from the automotive awards season proper, where things like North American Car and Truck of the Year, Motor Trend's Car of the Year and Car and Driver's Ten Best are named, that doesn't mean there aren't trophies being handed out to deserving automakers. Ward's 10 Best Interiors being one of them.
As the name might imply, the magazine focuses on the very best interior treatments in the US market. Whereas some awards purposely exclude extreme, high-dollar offerings, Ward's considers them - the only requirement is that a vehicle has a "new or significantly redesigned interior."
Ward's offered up the list of winners in simple, alphabetical order, and it only seems fair to do the same: