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Kia Optima Hybrid and Plug-In detailed ahead of launch

Kia wants to be a leader in the green car world in the next five years, and the global launch of the Optima Plug-in Hybrid (pictured above) is an early step in that $10.2 billion plan. The company also has tech updates ready for the Optima Hybrid. However, both new models essentially copy Hyundai's latest improvements for the Sonata Hybrid and PHEV. According to a UK press release, the Optima PHEV will arrive in some global markets in the second half of 2016 with a 9.8-kWh lithium-polymer battery and a 67-horsepower electric motor – just like the 2016 Sonata PHEV. Kia will also aim for an EV range of 27 miles. There will be a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 154 horsepower and 140 pound-feet under the hood for a total system output of 202 hp, and power will get to the road through a six-speed automatic. The company will expect its Hyundai sibling's 99 US mpge fuel economy, too. The PHEV will wear a few unique parts like a charging panel at the front of the driver's side, chrome side sills, and different wheels. Updated instruments will provide info about the electric powertrain, and a charge indicator on the dashboard that will let drivers check the status even when outside the sedan. The updates for the Optima Hybrid will also generally follow the electrified Sonata with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 51-hp electric motor, and total output of 192 hp. It will go on sale in "the majority of Kia's global markets in the first half of 2016," according to the release. However, we don't yet know whether the US will be one of those regions. Autoblog asked Kia Motor America spokesperson James Hope about both of these vehicles, and he told us: "KMA has made no announcement regarding the Optima hybrid. We will have more to share at a later date." HYBRID FUTURE PLANNED FOR NEXT GENERATION KIA OPTIMA New Optima range will include Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models Optima PHEV to combine high-capacity batteries with 2.0-litre GDI engine, offering more electric range than any other PHEV saloon Targeting 10% greater fuel economy for new Optima Hybrid Kia aims to improve average fuel efficiency by 25% over 2014 by 2020 Kia Motors has today revealed details of a range of advanced new powertrains planned for the all-new Optima, as part of the company's ongoing commitment to broaden its global range of low-emission vehicles.

Kia recalls 260k Souls for possible steering failure

Kia will recall 256,459 examples of the 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV for a steering failure problem. The affected models have production dates between Jan. 18, 2014, and Sept. 30, 2015. According to a chronology (as a PDF) posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are five warranty claims from this issue as of Oct. 29 but no reports of accidents or injuries. On these hatchbacks, the adhesive that secures the steering pinion gear and the steering gear assembly can potentially separate, and if this happens drivers lose control. Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and replace the pinion plug if necessary. They'll also install a set bolt to further reinforce things. The campaign will begin Dec. 22. RECALL Subject : Steering Gear may Separate Report Receipt Date: NOV 06, 2015 NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V736000 Component(s): STEERING Potential Number of Units Affected: 256,459 All Products Associated with this Recall Vehicle Make Model Model Year(s) KIA SOUL 2014-2016 Details Manufacturer: Kia Motors America SUMMARY: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Kia Soul and Soul EV vehicles manufactured January 18, 2014, to September 30, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the adhesive used to secure the steering pinion gear to the steering gear assembly may have insufficient strength, and as a result, the pinion gear may separate from the steering gear assembly. CONSEQUENCE: If the pinion gear separates, there would be a loss of steering which could increase the risk of a crash. REMEDY: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the pinion plug that secures the pinion gear. Dealers will also install a set bolt for additional reinforcement. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 22, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC125. NOTES: Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov. Related Video:

Kia confirms Soul EV headed to US, cue the electric hamsters

Kia has been toying with the notion of an electric vehicle for years now. In the two years since the Korean automaker revealed the Ray EV concept, rumors of a battery-powered production vehicle have persisted, evidenced most recently by spy shots showing an electric version of the Soul hatchback this past July. Now Kia has officially announced that the Soul EV is heading for production.
Although Kia has yet to reveal official photos or specifications, this is the first confirmation we've received that the Soul EV is indeed headed for a showroom near you. Set to arrive sometime next year, the Soul EV promises to pack an as-yet unspecified arrangement of electric motors and batteries and visual cues that aim to improve the vehicle's aerodynamics and differentiate it from the conventionally powered Soul.
We'll have to wait until its debut approaches at an undetermined upcoming auto show in the US for more details, but for now you can delve into the official announcement below and scope out those same spy shots in the gallery above.