kia 2012. 2012 Kia Rio First Drive

Driving the 2012 Kia Rio around its Seoul, South Korea, homeland makes us appreciate how far this entry-level compact car has come since its arrival in the United States more than a decade ago.

It's an odd feeling since we doubt many people here like to drive. Traffic is terrible even in the wee hours of the morning and although everyone slows for the speed cameras, stopping for red lights is a judgment call. Why bother designing a good car for this semi-lawless slog when everyone could just take the subway?

Yet, the 2012 Rio rises above conditions on the ground. New drivetrains improve acceleration and fuel economy, while a lengthened wheelbase and an overhauled suspension give it a more refined ride quality than ever before.

kia 2011 . 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid Full Test

n paper the 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid looks like a sure thing. The recipe appears simple. Take one Kia Optima — a terrific car in its own right — add a hybrid powertrain, then drive away in blissful EV silence on your way to unheard-of fuel economy.

The reality is not so straightforward.

A Sonata Hybrid at a Costume Party
Let's back up a bit. This is Kia's first-ever hybrid, and under the skin it's virtually a clone of its kissing cousin the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. There's a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine that's backed by a conventional six-speed automatic gearbox and a 40-horsepower electric motor fed by a state-of-the-art lithium-polymer battery pack.

Kia GT Concept @ 2011 . kia GT Concept news

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• The Kia GT Concept, a 390-horsepower rear-wheel-drive sedan with suicide doors, was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show.
• It showcases the Korean automaker's ambitions, with Kia's chief designer declaring, "It's exactly the kind of car Kia should be making."
• Power comes from a 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 engine linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Kia GT Concept, a 390-horsepower rear-wheel-drive sedan with suicide doors, was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. It showcases the Korean automaker's ambitions, with Kia's chief designer declaring, "It's exactly the kind of car Kia should be making."