2013 Kia Soul Wins Strategic Vision Award for Total Quality

Posted on May 22, 2013 by KiaCars

It’s no secret that Kia Motors America (KMA) has been one of fastest growing car companies in the US in recent years. One of the hottest, new, eye-catching passenger vehicles on the road today, the 2013 Kia Soul is a huge reason for KMA’s recent sales success. Recently Strategic Vision revealed their list of the 2013 Total Quality Vehicles and the new Soul was able to crack that list. The list was formed after getting feedback from new car buyers. The Soul received the top score for the small multi-function segment.

“Since its release in 2009, the Soul has been a prime example of Kia’s commitment to providing our customers with vehicles that feature world-class design, inspired driving dynamics and cutting-edge technology, all at an impressive value,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “The Soul being named as a Strategic Vision ‘Total Quality’ vehicle really illustrates how far the Kia brand has come in a relatively short period of time.”

The scoring was made up of a group of 17,000 buyers who purchased a 2013 car between September and November of 2012. The owners were then surveyed to calculate a score to determine total quality.

“Kia Soul being a leader in this segment is substantial, as the ‘Small Car Multi-Function’ segment is highly competitive and really requires that the leader have a great emotional impact on owners along with its superior quality features. Kia Soul provided all of this and more, as customers reported in our comprehensive study,” stated Alexander Edwards, president of Strategic Vision.

Strategic Visions’s 2013 Total Quality award winner, the 2013 Kia Soul is available now at Salazar Kia!

New Cadenza Comes with Complimentary Maintenance

Posted on May 15, 2013 by KiaCars

Kia Motors announced earlier this month that they will be offering a complimentary maintenance program for the 2014 Cadenaza premium sedan. The program will cover the first five factory scheduled maintenance appointments up to 36 months or 37,500 miles. It is available to customers who purchase or lease a new 2014 Cadenza and have the maintenance work be completed at participating Kia retailers. This complimentary maintenance program is for scheduled maintenance and does not include wear and tear items such as tires and brakes, but is an added benefit to Kia’s already industry leading 10 year/100,000 mile new-car warranty and Roadside Assistance program.

“The Cadenza competes in a class in which customers have higher expectations for their ownership experience. Our complimentary scheduled maintenance program – a benefit many would not have previously associated with the Kia brand – fulfills those expectations,” said John Crowe, vice president of service and after sale operations, KMA. “The program helps differentiate the Cadenza from its competition and illustrates Kia’s intentions of launching a credible contender into the emerging space between mainstream and luxury.”

The Cadenza is Kia’s first full-sized sedan and offers power, style, technology, and a sophistication. It is a great value starting at $35,000 and promises to be strong competion with others in its class. The complimentary maintenance program will set it apart from its competition even more.

The 2014 Cadenza is now available at Salazar Kia, located in Avondale, AZ.

Car Care Tips After Car Care Month

Posted on May 7, 2013 by KiaCars

In April we celebrated National Car Care Month to serve as a reminder of how important it is to keep your car serviced and maintained so it stays in great running condition. Salazar Kia thought it would be a good idea to provide you with some simple tips to keep in mind the rest of the year, not only extend the life of your vehicle but to save yourself money in the long run.

First and foremost, always remember to check your oil. Make sure the recommended changes are made. Nothing can screw up an engine worse than running on dirty, old oil.
Get a coolant flush at least once a year to prevent corrosion. It’s ideal to have an even mix of 50% coolant along with 50% distilled water.
Get your brake fluids replaced about once a year to also prevent corrosion due to a build-up of moisture.
Change transmission and other oils. Fluids should be changed consistently based on service intervals.
Keep all moving parts in your car greased up so they work together more smooth and effectively.
Apply a coat of wax a couple times a year to the outside of your vehicle to keep the paint looking shiny and protected.
Wash your car frequently. Not only does it look nice, but road grime and salt can really eat away at the exterior.
Park out of the sun whenever possible. The shade and some UV protective coating can help the vinyl and plastic in the interior looking good.

These simple tips can really go a long way to keep your car in great shape. If you’re in need of an oil change or any other recommended maintenance, don’t hesitate to stop into Salazar Kia today!

Exude Attitude in the 2013 Kia Soul

Posted on April 30, 2013 by KiaCars

There are many cars out on the road today that have a quiet, laid-back, almost boring personality. Sometimes drivers like to buy a car that is reflective of how they see themselves. For the hundreds of ordinary Joes and plain Janes in world, there are always a few people (or vehicles) that like to stand out and have a more vibrant personality. Kelley Blue Book wanted to give a shout out to the vehicles on the out there that don’t mind the extra attention. The trusted car review site recently unveiled their list of the top “10 Cars that Exude Attitude.”

Cracking that top 10 list is the 2013 list is a Kia Motors car that, in the words of James Brown, has “got soul” and is “superbad.” Yes, the 2013 Kia Soul is the vehicle we’re referring to. It’s been called an “urban crossover” and has been known for its incredible style and flair ever since it was launched three years ago. Kelley Blue Book says it “sports plenty of pizzazz with its practicality.” It’s also worth mentioning that the new Soul comes in some pretty snazzy colors to go along with its unique design.

The best part is the new Soul has an extremely affordable base price of around $15,000.

If you’ve got a fun personality yet find yourself driving something unfitting, then look no further. Salazar Kia has a wide selection of the attitude-exuding 2013 Kia Soul, so stop on over today and check them out for yourself.

2014 Kia Cadenza Coming Soon to Salazar Kia

Posted on April 25, 2013 by KiaCars

The new 2014 Kia Cadenza is a roomy, front-wheel drive sedan that provides drivers and passengers with plenty of space and luxurious features. Kia Motors America is calling it their “most powerful and technologically advanced vehicle ever.” The Cadenza is available with a special Luxury or Technology package

Standard features include 18-inch wheels, a navigation system, keyless entry, UVO eServices, Bluetooth wireless technology, and eight inch touchscreen, and a rearview camera. It also includes a free telematics system that can actually save a car’s location to help drivers find their Cadenza in a crowded parking lot using GPS.

Powered by an all-aluminum 3.3 liter V-6 engine, the Cadenza cranks out 293 horsepower while using gasoline direct injection technology to maintain strong fuel-efficiency without sacrificing performance.

“The all-new Cadenza is a world-class Kia for the emerging space between mainstream and luxury and will appeal to discerning shoppers in the market for an upscale sedan,” said Tom Loveless, executive vice president of sales, KMA. “We’re confident that Cadenza’s sophisticated styling, luxuriously appointed cabin and long list of available technology will make it a strong contender in the marketplace.”

The new 2014 Kia Cadenza offers a one-of-a-kind style, with a luxurious and spacious interior. The cutting-edge technological features are just icing on the cake.

Expect to see the all-new 2014 Kia Cadenza in Salazar Kia’s showroom very soon!

Average Gas Prices Expected to Drop this Summer

Posted on April 15, 2013 by KiaCars

Let’s continue to keep our fingers crossed as early reports from the U.S. Energy Information Administration are indicating that summer gas prices may be going down to a cost we haven’t seen in a few years.

The price for a gallon of regular gas is expected to be around $3.63 over April through September (which is considered summer driving season). Oil prices are expected to be lowered which in turn will contribute to the gas price reduction we should see at the pumps.

“The forecast reflects a small decline in crude oil prices and expected gasoline consumption, as well as higher gasoline inventory levels,” the EIA said in a statement.

Prices of course will change by the region. The West Coast is predicted to be around $3.89 which is 26 cents higher than the expected average across the country. However, the West Coast will still be enjoying the greatest price dip as compared to last year with the estimated $3.89 being 13 cents cheaper than 2012. While down south near the Gulf Coast, prices are expected to decrease to 16 cents lower than average but will only beat last year by 2 cents.

The overall consumption of gas in America is expected to drop 2% this year even though highway travel is expected to increase 3%. This is a direct result of fuel efficiency improvements that’s been seen recently in newer vehicles.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the demand for gas this summer is supposed to be the lowest it has been in 12 years. It’s actually 6% lower than 2007 when demand was at its highest.

Salazar Kia is hoping these price trends continue and is glad fuel-efficient vehicles like the Kia Forte are helping reduce gas consumption and demand.

Wonder Woman a Big Hit in the Big Apple

Posted on April 8, 2013 by KiaCars

Kia Motors collaboration with DC Entertainment continued as the latest Justice League Edition Kia was introduced recently at the New York International Auto Show. Unveiled was the Wonder Woman-themed 2013 Kia Sportage. This is just one piece of the 8 vehicle partnership between Kia and DC as they unleash Justice League models to raise awareness for DC’s “We Can Be Heroes” relief effort in the Horn of Africa.

“Like the rest of the Justice League-inspired vehicles, this customized Sportage signifies a meaningful collaboration between cars and pop-culture. And for the first time, here in New York, all seven vehicles are standing together in one place to raise awareness for DC Entertainment’s very worthy ‘We Can Be Heroes’ giving campaign,” said Sprague.

This Wonder Woman model, as expected, is mostly red and blue and includes white stars along the side. There is a golden trim around the vehicle which represents Wonder Woman’s main weapon, the lasso. Her chest plate emblem is featured in the vehicle’s grill and blue headlight beams are included to emphasize the heroine’s blue eyes.

“As one of the most well-known Super Heroes in the world, Wonder Woman portrays an impressive balance of power, agility and confidence, all of which are inherent characteristics of the Kia Sportage crossover,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA.

The other Justice League Edition Kias include Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman, Cyborg, and one that includes all 7 superheroes.

The Pet-Friendly 2013 Kia Soul is Available at Salazar Kia

Posted on March 29, 2013 by KiaCars

It’s no secret that we all love our pets. So much so that we take our dogs in the car with us everywhere we go, even on quick trips to the grocery store. Just as we look out for the safety of our passengers, pets should be looked after too, and some vehicles on the road today just simply aren’t safe to transport your furry companions around in. That’s why Edmunds.com came up with a list of the 10 best vehicles for pet safety. Cracking the list was the 2013 Kia Soul. Comfort and safety were taken into account when determining the list and affordability was just the icing on the cake. The 2013 Kia Soul starts with an amazing base MSRP of $14,400.

“The fun, funky and functional Kia Soul has been recognized for its many positive attributes since first driving onto the scene back in 2009, and we are pleased to be adding ‘superior pet safety’ to this long list of accolades,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “For many, pets are considered members of the family, and they deserve safe and comfortable transportation like the rest of us. The Soul delivers on both of these fronts while also letting our furry friends travel in style.”

The Soul features some of the best side curtain air bags for crash protection and also a rear privacy glass that help keep animals from getting too hot while left in the car. The shape of the Soul also allows for head room for the bigger pets to sit comfortably.

“Not only are these vehicles safe for pets, but they also offer a certain measure of convenience for pet owners,” said Edmunds.com Automotive Content Editor Warren Clarke. “And with each one of these vehicles starting at under $35,000, owners won’t have to chase their own tails to make ends meet.”

The pet-friendly 2013 Kia Soul is available right now at Salazar Kia so come on over and check them out!

Meet the New 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid

Posted on March 22, 2013 by KiaCars

Ever since the Kia Optima was introduced to the world it’s been racking up the awards and earning some pretty high praise along the way. The Optima Hybrid edition was introduced a couple years ago and that added amazing fuel-efficiency to the long list of impressive features that the Optima already has to offer.

The new 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid provides incredible fuel efficiency with a 47 HP electric traction motor, a more powerful Hybrid Starter Generator and a stronger 47 kW Lithium Polymer battery. There is extra room for cargo space and includes premium features. This performance-driven Hybrid also provides 199 horsepower and 235-lb-ft of torque.

The new Optima Hybrid comes in two different trims, the LX and the EX. The base model can get up to 36 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 38 combined. The EX model gets an estimated EPA of 35 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined. The EX model also includes a Rear-Camera display, 8-speaker Infinity audio system, head seats, a panoramic sunroof, and 17-inch wheels.

The new Optima Hybrid offers better fuel efficiency, lighter weight components, more trunk space, and better overall performance than ever before.

Salazar Kia loves everything the new 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid brings to the table and is certain you will too!

Reader’s Digest Tips Their Hat to Kia Soul

Posted on March 14, 2013 by KiaCars

The Kia Soul can add another award to its already crowded display case. Reader’s Digest recently named it as being one of the “Best Car Deals Under $15,000.” One of only five cars to receive that honor, the Soul separated itself from the pack because of its technological advancements and innovative design.

“The Soul is the vehicle that sparked Kia’s design led transformation back in 2009, and it has been a runaway hit ever since,” said Kia executive vice president of marketing & communications, Michael Sprague. “Inclusion in the Reader’s Digest list is another great honor for Kia, recognizing our funky urban passenger vehicle’s winning combination of technology and value. It’s gratifying that the vehicle that jumpstarted our unprecedented growth continues to resonate so well.”

The Kia Soul received the distinction of being the best car for high-tech drivers according to Reader’s Digest. It received that title for several reasons. Its base model offers Bluetooth hands free connectivity and USB connections. It also comes with an Eco package to maximize fuel efficiency.

“Reader’s Digest aims to enrich our readers’ lives by helping them navigate and discover high-quality products in the marketplace,” said Readers Digest chief content officer, Liz Vaccariello. “We chose the Kia Soul for tech-savvy drivers, based on its value, amenities, design and that it’s packed with new technology that will help simplify their lives.”

The high-tech, fuel-efficient, and affordable 2013 Kia Soul is available at Salazar Kia.

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