The dancing hamsters are back! This time they are time traveling in a 2013 Kia Soul

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Claim this coupon and receive a seasonal filter package for only $89.95! http://on.fb.me/NxT22t

2013 Kia Optima Review

The famous automotive leader Bob Lutz once said it costs as much to build an ugly car as it does a beautiful one. In the 2013 Kia Optima sedan, Mr. Lutz's words have been proven spot on. Costing no more than a comparably-equipped Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, the Optima for 2013 outshines its competition with stunning good looks, compact car-like fuel economy, a great warranty and ever-improving resale figures. Add to the mix a panoramic sunroof and heated and cooling seats, and the Optima might appear to be the bargain of the century. Models range from the well-equipped entry LX to the luxurious EX to the fuel-efficient Hybrid. There's even a high-performance turbo model that will shame some premium brands costing tens of thousands more.

You'll Like This Car If...
If you're looking for a fuel-efficient family sedan that isn't easily lost in a crowded parking lot, the 2013 Kia Optima is it. Combining stunning styling with an affordable price and an unbeatable warranty, the 2013 Kia Optima goes beyond the basic family sedan in features, performance and resale value.

You May Not Like This Car If...
The 2013 Kia Optima's styling may be a bit too over-the-top for some, and its sloping rear roof severely cuts into rear-seat headroom. Also, some of the Optima's interior plastics still look and feel a bit hard.

What's New for 2013
For 2013, Kia has added a Limited model to the SX trim than includes Nappa leather seating, LED daytime running lights, red brake calipers and 18-inch chrome wheels. The manual transmission on the LX trim has been dropped, as has the turbo version of the EX.

Driving It
Driving Impressions
After just a short time behind the wheel of the 2013 Kia Optima, we came away impressed, both by the car's driving dynamics and its 2.4-liter 4-cyinder engine. Confident cornering aided by nicely-weighted steering encouraged us to push the Optima sedan hard, and the electronic traction and stability controls always intervened when we pushed a bit too hard. The naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter engine develops an impressive 200 horsepower. This gasoline direct-injection engine is smooth, powerful and able to deliver 35 highway miles on a single gallon of gasoline. Whether it was passing slow-moving traffic or climbing steep grades, the 2013 Kia Optima's 4-cylinder engine never failed to impress us. There is also a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine for those who crave more power. Equally as smooth and quiet as the 2.4-liter engine, the 2.0 turbo pumps out 274 horsepower, but is mated to the same 6-speed Sportmatic manually-shifting automatic transmission.

Favorite Features
EXTERIOR STYLING
The 2013 Kia Optima sedan is one of the sportiest, most stylish mid-size sedans out there. We'd even put it up against the styling of some $40,000 European luxury brands.

TURBOCHARGED 2.0-LITER ENGINE
Who needs a V6 anyway? This four-cylinder engine has 274 horsepower and an EPA highway estimate of 34 mpg.

Vehicle Details
Interior

On upper-end EX and SX trims, customers can opt for such extravagant features as a dual-panel moonroof, heated and cooling front seats, heated rear seats and a voice-activated navigation and infotainment system similar to Ford's SYNC. While we love the look of the 2013 Kia Optima sedan's interior, some of the plastic on the dash and steering wheel still lack the quality look and feel found in Honda, Mazda and even some GM and Ford products. The front seats are pretty comfortable for tall folks, but the Optima's sharply-raked rear roofline may cause some headroom issues for the rear-seat passengers.

Exterior

Looking a bit like something from the sci-fi movie Tron, the Kia's 2013 Optima is a bold and original piece of work from the ground up. From its cross-hatch front grille and long sweptback headlight housing, to the weather-vane-style wheels on the SX trim, the Optima looks likes it's going fast even when it's parked. There is a duality about the Optima sedan for 2013, speaking to both luxury and performance all while masking its true nature to serve duty as a humble family sedan. Even base trims offer such nice features as heated side mirrors, chrome door-handle inserts and 16-inch wheels.

Notable Standard Equipment
Every 2013 Kia Optima family sedan offers Bluetooth phone connectivity, iPod/USB audio connectivity, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a cooling glove box that keeps drinks chilled. As for safety, the Optima has an impressive array of features including six airbags and electronic stability control. Like other base-priced models in its class, the entry-level Optima includes 16-inch steel wheels and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Notable Optional Equipment
Optional equipment highlights include a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, Nappa leather seating, Infinity sound system, touch-screen navigation system, UVO infotainment voice-active system and rearview camera. In addition to a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the top-of-the-line 2013 Kia Optima SX and SX Limited models offer a lightly sport-tuned suspension and more aggressive styling cues. The 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid features lightweight wheels in your choice of standard 16-inch or sporty 17-inchers, as well as the EcoMinder LCD panel with graphics and lighting that change to show when the car is achieving maximum fuel economy.

Under the Hood
The 2013 Kia Optima sedan doesn't offer the option of a V6, and why should it? The standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder is nearly as powerful as some V6 engines and gets far better fuel economy. In fact, it has more power and better fuel economy than many other 4-cylinder cars in the category, as well. Those wanting more power can opt for the turbocharged 2.0 liter (SX trims only). Only one transmission is offered: A 6-speed Sportronic automatic with manual-shift mode. The Optima Hybrid uses the 2.4-liter engine mated to a 40-horsepower electric motor for a combined output of 206 horsepower.

2.4-liter inline-4 (LX and EX trims)
200 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm
192 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle)
186 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250 rpm
181 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250 rpm (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/35 mpg

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (SX and SX Limited)
274 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
269 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/34 mpg

2.4-liter hybrid inline-4 + electric motor/generator (Hybrid)
166 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
40 horsepower @ 1,400-6,000 rpm (electric motor)
154 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250 rpm
152 lb-ft of torque @ 0-1,400 rpm (electric motor)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 35/40 mpg

Pricing Notes
The 2013 Kia Optima sedan starts at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of under $22,000 and stretches past $35,000 when fully loaded. The 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid starts around $28,000. Feature for feature, the 2013 Kia Optima sedan offers more for the money than the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion. Before heading to your local Kia dealer, be sure and check our Fair Purchase Price to see what the 2013 Optima is selling for in your area. As for resale value, we expect the newly- redesigned Optima to hold its value better than the Ford Focus, Dodge Avenger and Chevy Malibu, and to be only a few percentage points shy of the segment-leading Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Courtesy of Kelley Blue Book

Meet the 2013 Kia Forte!

This stylish sedan is a winner of the IIHS Top Safety Pick for receiving the highest rating of "Good" in all 4 of our crash worthiness tests (frontal offset, side, rear and roof strength). http://on.fb.me/MmD4Ys

Michelle Wie drives into success with the 2012 Kia Soul!

Whether you're hauling your golf clubs or hunting dogs, this stylish Soul is sporty and spacious!

Three cheers for the 2012 Kia Sportage! This classy car is a winner of the 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick!

The 2012 Kia Sportage received the highest rating of "Good" in all four crash worthiness tests (frontal offset, side, rear and roof strength) and for having electronic stability control.

The Kia Optima SXL is a handsome vehicle, both inside and out. Our Snow White Pearl tester looks especially classy!

The Kia Optima SXL is a handsome vehicle, both inside and out. Our Snow White Pearl tester looked especially classy, and the black and chrome accents didn't make it look too gaudy. Even with the eighteen-inch chrome wheels—a part of the Limited Package that comes with the SXL—it didn't look at all offensive, and actually appeared to be a tasteful use of the shiny stuff. Even the housings for the (power folding) side mirrors look nice on this car. Plus, the Limited gets a set of LED daytime running lights and red brake calipers to help set it apart form the rest of the crowd in a subtle yet fashionable way.

The interior of the Optima SXL is a nice place to spend time. The leather seats are heated in front and back, and the power front seats also have a cooling option included—a really nice feature for those Nappa chairs on a hot summer day. The leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel feel nice in hand, and the wood grain on the top section of the tiller sparkles pleasantly in the sun. The paddle shifters on the back of the wheel don't feel particularly substantial, but they are easy to reach and use.

The turbocharged Optima feels quick, and has no trouble at all reaching highway speeds or getting around other cars. Despite having 274 turbocharged horsepower, the power delivery of the 2.0-liter engine feels nicely stable. It doesn't really exhibit lag or peaks when climbing the rev ladder, but rather pushes the car to speed smoothly and predictably. Its tidy delivery of power means that occupants experience smooth acceleration that doesn't sacrifice promptness. Also, when driven around town, the power is really easy to manage, offering civil driving that requires no concentration to get right. Plus, being able to drive the car sanely and smoothly will only help to reach its stated 22/34-mile-per-gallon fuel economy figures.

In the corners, the Optima behaves itself the way a classed-up family sedan should. There isn't a lot of body roll, and what movement there is helps to suss out proximity to the grip limits. Turn-in isn't super sharp, and the steering feels tuned to offer a smoother turning experience rather than a twitchier response one associates with more sport-minded vehicles. The little bit of play on-center feels appropriate, and doesn't require a lot of corrections when cruising in a straight line at high speeds.

So, once again, Kia is proving that it is a brand not to be glossed over by those looking for a high-quality car. The Optima SXL is fairly fast and fun, very comfortable, and extremely rich in content. The one drawback to the Limited, though, is that it comes with a bit of a hefty price tag. Starting at $34,500 before delivery, it includes the Premium Touring Package, Technology Package, and Limited Package, meaning you're not going to have to tack on anything else to be happy with the car. Still, one can get into a turbocharged Optima for a base price of $26,800. At the SXL's base price, you're just two grand shy of a BMW 3-Series. It kind of makes you rethink your priorities, doesn't it?

2013 Kia Optima SXL
Engine: Turbocharged inline-4, 2.0 liters, 16v
Output: 274 hp/269 lb-ft
0-60 MPH: 6.6 sec (est)
Weight: 3385 lb
Fuel Economy, City/Hwy: 22/34 mpg
Base Price: $34,500 

Courtesy of Kia

The 2013 Kia Rio has received the US EPA SmartWay Certification Mark - given to the cleanest most fuel efficient vehicles! Reduce greenhouse gases in style and test drive the trendy 2013 Kia Rio today!

In honor of shark week, check out this jaw dropping clip of a great white shark soaring out of the deep blue! "Like" if you would ever go cage diving.

Buying a Kia is always a smart move, and right now it's even smarter, during the Kia Smart Move Sales Event! This video features the stylish Sorento SX, Optima Limited, and Soul!

Drive into success with this brand new 2013 Kia Optima EX. This car has the ultimate winning combination: a 4 cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission and 24 City/35 Highway MPG.

Forget the rest, choose the best! - Kia models ranked best in class for consumer appeal

Two car models from Kia Motors America, headquartered in Irvine, received the highest scores in a recent study by J.D. Power and Associates for consumer appeal. The Kia Optima and Soul were recognized as two of the most appealing vehicles within their class. 

In the “Midsize Car” category, the 2012 Optima ranked highest in a tie with the Volkswagen Passat. The 2012 Soul outclassed other vehicles in the “Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle” group.  

The 2012 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout study measures the vehicle buyer’s gratification with their recent purchase. Design, layout, performance and content are among the factors taken into consideration. This year’s study focused on buyers’ needs and preferences to downsize their vehicles without sacrificing quality or amenities. 

"As key entries in Kia's design-led transformation, the Optima and Soul have attracted new customers to our showrooms, and the results of the J.D. Power and Associates' APEAL Study illustrates just how delighted these new buyers are with the purchase of their new Kia vehicles," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications at KMA.  

Owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicles were gathered in the study, along with responses from more than 74,000 new car owners who had purchased a car within 90 days. 

"Both of these popular models, along with the rest of the Kia vehicle line, continue to deliver on a promise to offer U.S. consumers high-quality vehicles with an impressive combination of design, performance, comfort, safety and technology,” Sprague said.

Courtesy of OC Metro

Do you drive a lot at night? If so, follow these night time driving tips!

Use your lights courteously: When on the road, turn your headlights on one hour before sunset to make it easier for other drivers to see you in twilight, and keep your headlights on at least one hour after sunrise. In fog, use only your low beam headlights; high beams reduce your own ability to see and may temporarily blind other drivers. If your vehicle is equipped with fog lamps, use them with your low beams only when there is fog or inclement weather.

Avoid glare: Instead of looking at oncoming headlights, look toward the right side of the road and watch the white line marking the outside edge of the traffic lane. When headlights from vehicles following you reflect in your rearview mirror, use the "day-night" feature on the mirror (if equipped) or adjust your mirror to cut out as much of the light as possible.

Adjust your vehicle's interior lighting: If streetlights cause a lot of glare, dim your dashboard lights and use your sun visor. Avoid using any other light inside your vehicle.

Keep all windows and headlights clean: Dirty windows can increase glare, making it more difficult to see, while dirty headlights can reduce efficiency by as much as 90 percent. Be sure to clean the inside and outside of your windshield as well as your headlights.

Increase your following distance: Increasing your distance by four to five seconds can make it easier to spot potential problems on and along the roadway and give you more time to respond. In addition, proper lighting will enable you to react quicker and stop at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.

Use vehicle mirrors to your advantage: Exterior mirrors that are properly aligned not only reduce blind spots, they also reduce glare from vehicles behind you. The outside rearview mirrors should be adjusted so that the bodywork of the vehicle is just outside of the driver's view.

Courtesy of Motor Vehicle Lighting Council

Do you have an eye for design and wonder why our cars were designed a specific way? Check out this intriguing video featuring Kia's Chief Designer, Tom Kearns, as he talks about the inspiration behind Optima's striking design. http://bit.ly/O78Y8h

Can you name this car? Here's some clues: It contains a back up warning system, navigation with SIRIUS Traffic and heated front seats.

Cruise into the summer sunset with this 2012 Dodge Challenger! Stop by today to take this dashing car for a spin!

The Olympics are in full force and Dick Edwards Auto Plaza is following the medal count. Currently, Team USA is in the lead with 43 medals, including 21 gold medals! Way to go Team USA!

Kia Featured as a Top Car Under $30,000 With Five-Star Safety Ratings

Car shoppers interested in a safe new vehicle are wise to check out crash test ratings issued by the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That's because the government organization performs a battery of tests that include front and side impacts and a rollover protection assessment. To help car shoppers navigate which vehicles scored the best, we've rounded up our favorite cars with overall five-star safety ratings - and we've capped our budget at $30,000 to make our choices as affordable as possible. The Kia Sportage made the list.

Kia Sportage

Kia's recently redesigned Sportage can boast the distinction of being among just a handful of SUVs to earn a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. Thanks to a perfect score in the government's front and side impact tests and four stars in rollover resistance, the Sportage clearly proves that it provides safe transportation for up to five adults. But the SUV also features reasonable pricing that starts around $19,000 and a long list of standard safety equipment like four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, traction control and even hill descent control. Best of all, the Sportage claims fuel economy ratings of nearly 30 miles per gallon - even with its muscular 256-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant.

What it means to you: Several of today's best cars have been awarded five-star crash test ratings by the NHTSA.

Courtesy of Auto Trader