Kia prices range-topping 2013 Optima SX Limited from $35,275*

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KIA MOTORS' RANGE-TOPPING OPTIMA SX LIMITED ARRIVES IN DEALERSHIPS

Fastest-Growing Automotive Brand in the U.S.1 Moves Upscale by Adding Premium Features and Materials to Critically Acclaimed Midsize Sedan

2013 Optima Limited builds on the foundation of Kia's award-winning, turbocharged Optima SX with enhanced appearance, technology, convenience and performance features

The top-tier Limited strengthens Optima's value proposition as the full Optima line provides exceptional residual values

IRVINE, Calif., July 2, 2012 - The 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited (SXL), which is the new top-tier trim level of the ultra-popular midsize Optima sedan line, is now arriving in dealerships with an MSRP under $35,000. First introduced at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, the upscale Optima Limited went into production at Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia* in early-June and builds on the Optima SX's existing foundation of class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency while adding a number of exclusive design and feature upgrades, including: 18-inch chrome wheels, red brake calipers, LED lighting and exterior brightwork. Within, the SXL boasts high-grade Nappa leather seating trim, rich wood grain accents and an electronic parking brake, which is exclusive to this trim level.

Top-of the-line Kia Optima SX Limited is now available with a host of premium features and materials

"With the arrival of the Optima SXL, the Kia brand propels itself into a more premium class, which is something consumers have told us they want to see when they walk into our showrooms," said Tom Loveless, executive vice president of sales, KMA. "This Optima shows buyers that value and upscale character need not be mutually exclusive. For this reason, the SXL stands apart from traditional competitors in the midsize segment."

The SXL trim arrives on the heels of the Optima's record-breaking sales success and exceptional residual value from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG), the industry benchmark for residual values and a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry. Contrary to conventional industry residual value trends, the Optima's residual values improved for MY12 and again for MY13 following its launch as a 2011 model. Specifically, the Optima SX trim's notable rating of 57-percent of original manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for 24 months of ownership is a full 10 points higher than the previous year.

The Optima SXL is based on the fully loaded turbocharged Optima SX, which Edmunds' Inside Line hailed as an "Editors' Most Wanted℠" mid-sized sedan. Including destination and handling, the manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Optima SXL is $35,275. Offered exclusively in Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Metallic exterior colors, the Optima SXL features many luxury details, including LED daytime running lights, chrome-accented rear spoiler and lower door sills, and wood interior trim. Standout red brake calipers can be seen through the Optima SXL's uniquely designed chrome 18-inch wheels while the 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine delivers class-leading 274 horsepower5 and achieves 22/34 mpg (city/hwy).

Inside the cabin, high-grade black or white Nappa leather adorns the seats, door panels, center console armrest and center fascia trim for a premium feel. Wood accents can be found on the steering wheel, interior door trim and shift knob, and a black tricot fabric lends a premium feel to the headliner, sun visor, and A, B and C pillars. The Optima SXL also boasts an electronic parking brake, which is offered exclusively on this uplevel trim. A first-aid kit and cloth door weather strip round out the SXL package.

Top-of the-line Kia Optima SX Limited is now available with a host of premium features and materials

Like every Optima, the SXL projects a refined, performance-oriented aesthetic with a sleek silhouette, aggressive stance and sculpted elements that embodies the styling language chief design officer Peter Schreyer has created for the brand. Every 2013 Optima comes well equipped with a generous roster of standard features, and the Optima SXL builds on the technology, performance and convenience features found on the Optima SX, including: unique front and rear lower bumper design, sport-tuned suspension, HID headlamps, Supervision™ meter cluster with LCD display, steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals, illuminated door scuff plates, panoramic sunroof, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory, four-way power front passenger's seat, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, navigation system with back-up camera and SiriusXM Traffic™ and Infinity® audio system and speakers.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality9 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking10. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan. Kia's value and technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are built in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

1 Based on 5-year cumulative growth between 12-month retail sales for periods ending April 2007 and April 2012 of all U.S. automotive brands.

2 MSRP excludes $775 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

3 Class-leading horsepower claim based on comparison of midsize sedans with (standard or available) engines as of January 2012.

4 Class-leading fuel economy claim for highway based on comparison of 2012 midsize sedans as of May 2012. EPA fuel economy estimates 22 mpg/city and 34 mpg/hwy for 2012 Optima SX. Actual mileage will vary.

5 Class-leading horsepower claim based on comparison of midsize sedans with (standard or available) engines as of May 2012

6 EPA fuel economy estimates 22 mpg/city and 34 mpg/hwy for 2012 Optima SX. Actual mileage will vary.

7 Sirius services require subscriptions, sold separately after 3-month trial included with vehicle purchase/lease. Subscriptions governed by SiriusXM Customer Agreement at siriusxm.com© 2011 SiriusXM Radio Inc. Sirius, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio Inc.

8 Infinity® is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.

9 Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study.

10 Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis.

Related Gallery 2012 Kia Optima SX Limited

News Source: Kia

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

Category: Car Buying, Sedan, Kia

Tags: 2013 kia optima sx limited, configurator, kia, kia optima sxl, optima, optima limited, optima pricing, optima sx

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Fisker and Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Collaborate on Sustainability

Published July 3, 2012

By Jeff Cobb

As the first recipient of a Karma in July 2011, and an equity investor in Fisker Automotive, Leonardo DiCaprio has further committed to a mutual promotional arrangement via his non-profit organization dedicated to global sustainability.

Today Fisker said DiCaprio and his Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation will participate in conversations on Fisker’s plans to advance sustainable, responsible vehicles and will work closely on marketing and promotional initiatives aimed at bringing attention to sustainability and environmental awareness.

“My foundation supports efforts to secure a sustainable future for our planet and all its inhabitants,” said DiCaprio in a statement. “I am delighted to be working with Fisker Automotive to promote this shared vision.”

Established in 1998 by DiCaprio and family members, the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation supports efforts to secure a sustainable future for planet Earth and its inhabitants.

The foundation works on a variety of environmental and humanitarian issues including wildlife protection, forest preservation, healthy oceans, water access, disaster relief and climate change.

In exchange for its support of Fisker, the automaker says it will support the charitable work of the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation around the globe, and its car already dovetails with its mission.

“The Karma sedan – Fisker Automotive’s first car - is built according to the company’s sustainable and Accountable Design™ philosophy, which represents a dramatic leap forward for the auto industry,” said Henrik Fisker, the company's executive chairman and chief designer.

“Fisker’s approach to responsible luxury goes well beyond minimizing fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions. Fisker uses renewable materials and the lowest-impact technologies at every stage of the engineering, production and marketing processes.”

Eco friendly features include reclaimed and recycled interior wood trim from either California wildfires or raised from the depths of Lake Michigan; animal-free interiors on the top-line Eco Chic model; the world’s largest solar panel roof; and “Diamond Dust” paint that uses flakes of recycled glass.

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Volt Records Second-Best Sales Month While Leaf Still Looks Withered

Published July 3, 2012

By Jeff Cobb

The Chevy Volt recorded its second-highest sales month since its December 2010 launch with 1,860 units sold, of which 90 percent were to retail customers. Its all-time high was in March, with 2,289 units sold.

And though GM has said it is “not in a race” with sales against Nissan’s Leaf which was launched the same month – and Nissan’s CEO Carlos Ghosn has recently said he’s not worried over slumping sales at this juncture – the Japanese rival again posted numbers of around one-third the Volt’s, at 535 Leafs sold for June 2012.

Whatever the case, things at the moment are decidedly picking up for the Volt as the Leaf’s sales are still withered, or just holding on. In June 2011, a mere 561 Volts were sold, compared to 1,708 Leafs.

Or sliced another way, the Volt is up by over 300 percent year over year, and last year the still rolling-out Volt and Leaf “race” saw Volt year-to-date deliveries at 2,745 versus 3,875 – representing 727 more Leafs in June 2011 compared to June 2012. Calendar year to date, Nissan has delivered 3,148 Leafs which is an average rate of around 6,300 per 12 months.

Even so, Nissan has defiantly said it will sell 20,000 Leafs this fiscal year ending in March 2012 considering that Tennessee production begins in December. However, if that’s going to be true, it will need to seriously quicken the pace for the rest of this year, or expect a major blitz at some point.

In contrast, GM stopped saying it will meet a previously specified – and even more ambitious – goal of 45,000 Volts for this calendar year. It has idled the Detroit-Hamtramck plant twice this year to trim supply to match demand. Nonetheless, it’s now in a healthier position, and the company’s mid-year sales of 8,817 Volts already now exceed its 2011 total of 7,671 for the entire year.

Sales for Volts are being helped by word of mouth, more advertising, and California Volts are now eligible for solo HOV lane access. Plus, it has been several months since a protracted spate of negative press set the Volt back to selling just 603 in January. Since then, it has easily topped 1,000 units per month, or specifically February: 1,023, March: 2,289, April: 1,462, May: 1,680, June: 1,760.

The Volt’s sales in June also rose as the aggregate of GM passenger car sales also rose by 12 percent year over year.

GM credits its passenger car sales progress to a 32 percent increase in Chevrolet Malibu sales and a 21 percent increase in Buick LaCrosse sales. It also noted combined sales of all seven Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac crossovers were up 30 percent versus a year ago.

But it’s all a relative comparison. With just around 3 percent of the total market share being held by all plug-in vehicles compared to mainstream automobiles, the Volt versus Leaf race – or not a race as the case may be – is a microcosm of the big picture.

The big picture for the small market is many wild cards yet remain to be played in months and years ahead. Globally, pressures are spurring demand for these and other electrified vehicles, as their makers continue to race toward technological improvements and work on getting their respective value propositions properly marketed and understood.

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Mazda seen raising production of CX-5 as Skyactiv engine capacity doubled

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Increase in Mazda CX-5 Production – Annual Capacity of SKYACTIV Engines Doubled

Hiroshima, 03 July 2012.

Mazda Motor Corporation today announced it will increase production capacity of its new crossover SUV, Mazda CX-5, from 200,000 units to 240,000 units per year. This will be achieved by expanding production from Ujina Plant No.2 to also include Ujina Plant No.1. Upgrades to the assembly line are based on Mazda's manufacturing system innovation called Monotsukuri Innovation and will enable production of new generation SKYACTIV products at Ujina Plant No.1 earlier than anticipated. The move is made in response to strong demand for the CX-5 in countries all over the world.

The CX-5 is the first model to fully incorporate SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It has gained a reputation for offering both excellent fuel economy and an exhilarating driving experience. Since sales began in February, Mazda has received orders far surpassing initial estimations and upgraded its annual global sales target from 160,000 to 190,000 units for the fiscal year 2012.

Mazda's representative director and chairman of the board, president and CEO, Takashi Yamanouchi said, "I am grateful for the high praise the CX-5 has been receiving from customers all over the world. This production capacity increase for the CX-5 demonstrates that we are working hard to deliver the vehicle to waiting customers as early as we possibly can. It will also help establish a flexible production system that enables us to produce new-generation SKYACTIV products at Ujina Plant No. 1. I believe that it shows Mazda is making steady progress in optimizing its automobile manufacturing processes."

Mazda to Double Annual Production Capacity of SKYACTIV Engines to 800,000 units

Production volume will be increased from 400,000 units to 800,000 units per year in October 2012. The plant produces SKYACTIV-D diesel engines and SKYACTIV-G gasoline engines. The capacity increase is made in response to increasing demand for cars incorporating the company's SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It is made possible by Mazda's continued pursuit of a highly efficient flexible production system using multipurpose equipment.

The SKYACTIV-G is a highly efficient, new-generation direct-injection gasoline engine. Mazda engineers overcame the problem of abnormal combustion, commonly known as "knocking", to achieve the world's highest compression ratio for a mass production gasoline engine for vehicles. It is presently available in the Mazda CX-5, currently being launched in markets around the world. It will also be available in the next generation Mazda6 to be released later this year.

The SKYACTIV-D is a new-generation clean diesel engine that complies with global exhaust gas regulations without the need for a costly nitrogen oxide (NOx) aftertreatment system. It achieves the world's lowest compression ratio for a mass production diesel engine for vehicles. The first model to be equipped with the SKYACTIV-D is the Mazda CX-5. It will also be available in the next generation Mazda6 to be released later this year.

Mazda intends to sell 1,700,000 units globally in the fiscal year ending March 2016. Models employing SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY are expected to account for 80 percent of total sales.

News Source: Mazda

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

Category: Car Buying, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Mazda

Tags: 2013 mazda cx-5, cx-5, cx5, mazda, skyactiv, skyactiv-g

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Ferrari 410 Superamerica (Serie 3)

V12 / 4.963 cc / 344 PS / 311 ft/lb (422 Nm) @ 5.000 / 0 - 62 mph (100 km/h): 5,6 s / 0 - 100 mph (160 km/h): 12,1 s / Vmax: 155 mph (249 km/h)

(click images for a larger view)

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EV Rental Cars Delivering Different Results

Published July 3, 2012

By Huw Evans

While leasing currently seems to be the most popular option when it comes to acquiring an electric vehicle, for those who don’t want that kind of commitment or don’t always need a car, some well-established rent-a-car companies are also offering shorter-term stints. Both Enterprise and Hertz have introduced EV programs, though one is having significantly more success than the other.

Hertz says that for corporate customers, the idea of renting EVs for short-distance journeys is a good way to promote sustainability for these organizations, as well as give its staff a chance to try out EVs to see whether or not they would be suitable for leasing on a longer-term basis. Currently the company has a small fleet of 50 EVs, though it said that if manufacturers could produce them, it could add 2,000-3,000 additional units.

Enterprise, by contrast, has been struggling to gain interest for its fleet of all-electric Nissan Leafs since first introducing them in 2010. Due to tepid consumer response, it has initiated a plan dubbed “EcoCurious,” targeting Leaf rentals at environmentally conscious Generation X and Y members living in largely urban centers.

Lee Broughton, head of corporate sustainability for Enterprise Holdings, believes that by targeting such customers, the company will be able to reach out to “early adopters,” people who understand the benefits of conserving energy and utilizing the latest in technology.

“They are really into smart decisions from a technology and efficiency perspective,” he said.

Dubbing the initiative as a “personal mobility petri dish,” Broughton believes that by tapping into a new demographic, as well as new marketing campaign this fall that will target short-term rentals (for a few hours instead of a few days), in urban centers such as Austin, Nashville, New York and Phoenix, Enterprise could finally give its EV fleet the traction it needs.

Wall Street Journal via Green Car Reports

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Fisker Hires Industry Veteran Jim Yost as CFO

Published July 3, 2012

By Jeff Cobb

As Fisker builds its distribution network for its extended-range electric Karma and the Atlantic to follow possibly by late 2013 or 2014, it is seeking more funding as well as wise allocation of existing resources. In light of this, yesterday it announced it has hired another industry veteran to the position of chief financial officer.

Jim Yost has 30 years of global automotive industry experience and in his third job since leaving Ford in 2001, will work closely with CEO Tom LaSorda and Executive Chairman Henrik Fisker.

Most recently, Yost worked for Dana Holdings as executive vice president and chief financial officer from 2008 through May 2012. Shortly after retiring from Ford in 2001, Yost joined Hayes Lemmerz, serving as executive vice president, chief financial officer from 2002 through 2008.

Before that he spent 27 years at Ford Motor Co. in North America, Europe and South America in roles including chief information officer and vice president of corporate strategy.

Fisker has been quiet on the news front as it is shoring up its position, and pushing out its niche vehicle, recently disclosing it delivered over 1,000 since launch last fall. Its Atlantic is delayed, and it did lose government funding, but has garnered the confidence of private investors.

Like Tesla, the private green energy car company is not fully disclosing sales figures, and when asked, says its plans are coming to pass, albeit slower than initially hoped.

Hiring another industry veteran in addition to LaSorda – who worked 23 years at Chrysler, and 9 years at GM – is hoped to help keep the company on track to viability and full recognition as a bona fide global car company.

“We are delighted to add a high caliber global automotive executive like Jim to the Fisker leadership team,” said LaSorda. “Jim’s extensive financial, operational and strategic skills as well as international experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to expand the global reach of the Karma sedan and prepare the path for the next generation Atlantic sedan.”

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