Kia Rio

A jury of influential motoring writers from 12 Eastern European countries has voted the Kia Rio winner of the prestigious ‘Autobest 2006’ award for being ‘the new car most suitable for the needs of the population of the region, thoroughly modern with new technology and affordable to buy.’

Announcing the 2006 winner, Autobest Chairman Mr. Dan Vardie commented, “This year’s competition was very tight, and the Kia Rio emerged as the winner thanks to its fantastic value for money, great versatility, and the important strides made by Kia in developing an excellent dealer network across all of Europe.” With a total score of 706 points, the Kia Rio comfortably surpassed its shortlisted contenders -- the Ford Focus (659), Renault Clio (599), Chevrolet Spark (467; known as Matiz in some markets) and Suzuki Swift (449) -- to claim the crown. The 2006 shortlist of finalists was selected after each jury member proposed five all-new models they regarded as the ‘best’ cars of the year that cost less than €15,000.

“The Autobest 2006 award for the Kia Rio is a splendid achievement for the growing Kia brand,” commented Jean-Charles Lievens, Senior Vice President Kia Motors Europe. “Jury members from the emerging Eastern European countries have given our B-Segment newcomer the strongest possible endorsement as the ideal car for motorists in this region.”

KIA Sorento

The KIA Sorento CRDi Diesel

KIA’S TOP OF THE LINE SUV

The new KIA Sorento CRDi Diesel, the only 4x4 awarded the maximum ‘5 Star’ rating in the UK’s annual JD Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction Index Survey, is out to assert its presence in the Philippines’ mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) market.

Felix J. Mabilog, Jr., chief operating officer of Columbian Autocar Corporation, manufacturer and distributor of KIA in the Philippines describes the Sorento as “pound for pound, the best looking SUV in the market today.” He said the Sorento approaches its performance tasks with power that overwhelms the roughest terrain, but glides over paved roads in serene smoothness. It reflects the relentless drive of KIA to achieve its goal of global prominence through advanced engineering and design.

Produced by the Korean carmaker made famous by its compact cars Picanto and Rio that were runaway bestsellers in Europe and the Americas in 2004, the Sorento offers a wise option for buyers who prefer a relatively bigger vehicle that doesn’t have the menacing presence of massive SUV’s.

“With this engine configuration, any road condition for the Sorento is a stroll in the park,” Mabilog says proudly. “Besides, in KIA, vehicles customers get excellent value for their money, metal for metal. They get to enjoy all these qualities and conveniences without feeling a dent in their pockets, “he adds.

At the heart of the 4,567 millimeter (mm.) long, 1,863 mm. wide and 1,740 mm. height sleek exterior is a Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) engine with turbo charger intercooler. It has an accelerating power off the starting block and solid overtaking power provided by an engine that pumps out a maximum power of 140ps at 3,800 rpm and a hefty 32.0 kg-m torque at 2,000 rpm. A double wishbone, coil spring with strut damper in front, along with a five-ring, coil spring damper on the rear, keep the bounce smooth and easy.

Features like leather seats, electrically heated rear window, power side mirrors and windows, CD audio system with six speakers, front-row cupholders, and tilt adjustable steering wheel are standard.

Matching the Sorento’s power and performance is a sleek interior that compares with any SUV in the market today. The gauges and other controls are easy to locate and clearly marked. It has comfortable, supportive front seats with eight-way power drive seat. It has ample head and legroom for above-average size adults. Step-in height is reasonable for an SUV while wide doors reveal roomy, comfortable seating for rear passengers.

The Sorento’s powerfully built 225/75 R16 steel belted tires on alloy wheels add to the brawny look which comes in clear white, silver, radiant red and ebony black.

KIA is acknowledged as one of the most improved brands in reliability studies conducted very recently. It offers world-class quality and value and its cars are winning more and more awards for quality and safety.

All-new Honda City 2009

All-new Honda City 2009

THE STYLE AHEAD
Outer strength and inner spaciousness united. Look closer at the City of the future. You´ll see bold exterior innovation that embodies remarkably strong yet relaxing qualities. Note the sharp front mask formed by a continuous design motif running from grille to headlights. The tense look and dynamic energy of a drawn bow, ready to fire. The short, sporty rear deck that leaves a lasting impression. It´s a memorable image of style with bold strength to surmount the challenges of time.

THE RELAXATION ROOM
An embracing feeling of security. Welcome to inner space styled to surround you with comfort. The new Honda City 2009 cabin encloses sharp strength in soothing ease for pure relaxation. From the doors to the instrument panel, interior surfaces are smoothly structured and softly covered to emphasize curved lines and surfaces around you. The driver´s seat gives you comfortable support for stabilized posture and reduced fatigue even after long hours of driving. Equal consideration is shown in every corner of the cockpit, including a fuel consumption meter and display that offers a variety of useful information.

POWER AND COMFORT
For great relaxation in motion. Get behind the wheel of this breakthrough vehicle, and feel the exhilaration of power and soothing relaxation in action. Its ingenious i-VTEC engine combines strong power and low fuel consumption, teamed with a class-surpassing 5-speed automatic transmission, Drive-By-Wire engine and transmission control, and newly designed suspension. The result is rapid acceleration for strong starts, assured passing power in highway driving, and a special sense of pleasure in stress-free power and comfortable cruising. Experience city driving enjoyment at the heart of innovative performance.

UPERIOR SAFETY
Driving, turning, stopping. The new Honda City 2009 inspires confidence in all-around protection. Active safety features include ABS, EBD, and Brake Assist systems, as well as reduced blind areas. Evolutionary advances in G-Force Control technology provide enhanced passive safety shielding.

ADVANCED AUDIO
Car audio for digital media. Many of today´s audio enthusiasts prefer the latest style of music listening via digital media files. Now, there´s an innovative way to enjoy your music while driving. The new Honda City 2009 introduces the revolutionary Advanced Audio, especially designed for digital media.

THE SPACE STYLIST
A class-leading sense of ease. A breakthrough vehicle should be innovative to the core. You´ll find that the new Honda City 2009 is a unique car from its distinct sharp styling to its astonishing inner space. Get in, stretch out, and discover the pleasure of extra leg room, headroom, and roomy distance between front and rear passengers. You´ll be amazed by a new dimension of space that allows all occupants to relax in comfort. What´s more, the interior is designed for all-around freedom, with a high-performance air conditioner and superb cabin quietness. Think of the cabin as a relaxing lounge with open freedom and a feeling of security. It cools the body and soothes the spirit.