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Kia Hotbots come back out to play with 2014 Forte

Kia is bringing back its so-called "hotbots," the slightly disturbing female robots that traipse about the uncanny valley while hustling the new Forte and "respecting the tech," for three new, humorous animated spots.
The Hotbots first debuted during Kia's latest Super Bowl spot, which followed the debut of the 2014 Forte sedan at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. Each new spot follows the premise of the two originals, with the hotbots protecting the Forte while the oblivious owner stands by. Take a look at all three ads below, along with the two originals that kicked the series off.

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 12k 2016 Sorento models for faulty accelerator pedal

Kia is recalling 12,361 examples of the 2016 Sorento in the US because the accelerator pedal may stop working correctly. All of the affected vehicles were made between October 27, 2014, and January 29, 2015. According to the recall documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, a capacitor on the circuit board for the accelerator assembly may be improperly soldered. This can trigger a fault, causing the 2016 Sorento enters Limp Home Mode or in some other cases go into Forced Idle Mode, which only allows idling speed. In either situation, the check engine or electronic stability control lights would likely illuminate, according to Kia. Still, if this fault occurs, the lack of acceleration can put drivers in danger. To repair things, Kia will replace the entire accelerator pedal assembly with an improved unit. Changing out the parts will take about an hour, and obviously this will be done at no cost to owners. According to the NHTSA documents, there have been no accidents or injuries as a result of this problem. You can also read Kia's FAQ to owners and the full report on the recall in PDF format, as well. Related Video: RECALL Subject : Vehicle may not be able to Accelerate Report Receipt Date: FEB 13, 2015 NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V089000 Component(s): VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Potential Number of Units Affected: 12,361 All Products Associated with this Recall Vehicle Make Model Model Year(s) KIA SORENTO 2016 Details Manufacturer: Kia Motors America SUMMARY: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to January 29, 2015. Due to an improperly soldered component in the accelerator pedal assembly, the driver may not be able to accelerate the vehicle. CONSEQUENCE: If the vehicle is unable to be accelerated, there is an increased risk of a crash. REMEDY: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the accelerator assembly, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in February 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC115. 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.