What 2014 Kia Is Top of Your List?

The 2014 line-up for Kia features great vehicles for all driving styles and driver needs. From the Optima, to the Sorento, to the fan favorite Soul there is a lot to love.

We wanted to see what vehicle you are most excited about, so we created the following poll.

What 2014 Kia Model is Your Favorite?

Optima

Forte

Sedona

Sportage

Sorento

Soul

Cadenza

Poll Maker

For all of your Kia needs, visit our website and find the perfect vehicle for your needs: Van Griffith Kia

Wallpaper Wednesday: Three Beautiful Kia Photographs

Kia Takes Us On a Tour of the Modern Automobile's Progression

Looking at today's automobiles, the amount of technology, features, and safety devices are astonishing, especially when compared to the cars that started the personal transportation revolution. Consider for a moment, that the three-point safety belt was not put into full production until 1959, and that gas gauges were not installed until a good 30 years after the automobile made its debut.

Check out the following video, in which Kia takes us on a tour of how the modern car came to be the modern car.





What, in your opinion, is the biggest advancement in the auto industry thus far?


For all of your car needs and to enhance your driving experience, visit our website: Van Griffith Kia

When We Learned to Drive

It's unavoidable, at one point we all had to learn how to drive. No matter the knowledge or experience we have now, we started in similar ways. We thought it would be fun to hear some of your "student driver" stories. Share them with us in a comment below!

3 KIA Commercials to Jump Start Your Wednesday

KIA commercials are unique, and truly demonstrate what the brand is all about. We hope your Wednesday is off to a good start, and wanted to give it a boost with these three awesome commercials. What KIA ad is your favorite?

Top-5 KIA Soul Accessories

The KIA Soul, since its debut, has been a car built by and for individuals. With many different options to choose from, and the ability to personalize your Soul in a virtually endless list of ways, it gives drivers the opportunity to create a truly unique driving experience.

We wanted to share our top-5 picks for accessories that enhance the look, feel, and functionality of the Soul. No matter what you are looking to accomplish, there is an accessory for your wants/needs out there!

1) KIA Soul Cargo Net: For those that like to carry a lot around with them on the road, the KIA Soul is the perfect model. For that added organization, check out the cargo net and keep your gear in order.

2) KIA Soul Interior Lighting Kit: This option provides the added ambiance and style you have been looking for in your vehicle. Although some professional wiring is required, this option is definitely viable for any driver.

3) KIA Universal Electronic Holder: For those tech fans and music lovers, this option is a great addition to your vehicle. It keeps your tech devices safe and allows you to drive without handling your devices.

4) KIA Soul Headlamp Accents: These provide that extra flair and style to the exterior of your vehicle without breaking the bank for a body kit, or new paint.

5) KIA Alloy Fuel Door: Another great way to improve the look of your ride on a budget. This is a popular option and adds style-points to your ride.

To learn more about the available KIA accessories, visit our website and get in contact with us: Van Griffith KIA

KIA pro-cee'd GT at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Take a look at the new pro_cee'd GT and all that it has to offer in this awesome video from the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. We think it shows a glimpse into the future of design and performance that we can come to expect from KIA. Let us know what you think of the pro_cee'd GT in a comment below.


To find the perfect KIA vehicle for you, and experience our top quality service for yourself, browse our website then stop by the dealership: Van Griffith KIA Main Page

KIA's Homage to the Justice League

KIA is an auto maker that isn't afraid to have some fun with their vehicles. For example, taking some of the most notable superheros and creating a whole line of concept cars in their image. Pretty awesome, right? The twelve-year-old in me is going crazy right now!

Check them out:

To see about getting your own KIA to customize, visit our website and see what options are out there: Van Griffith KIA

It's Time to Pick Pumpkins at Arison Farm

Starting Friday, October 4, Arison Farm will be hosting a pumpkin patch event that will last all weekend. Hay rides, live music, food, and great family fun await. If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend, round up the family and head to Arison Farm.

Visit this link for more info: It's Pumpkin Picking Time at Arison Farm

Here is a map to help as well

Also, make sure your vehicle is in working order so that you can get out and about this weekend. Visit our website to check out current service specials: Van Griffith KIA

Sgt. Stephens Memorial Run - September 28, 2013

In honor of Sgt. 1st Class Riley G. Stephens, a 5K Run will be held Saturday 28, 2013 in Tolar, TX. There will be a 5K timed race, and a 1 mile fun run as well, so that participants of all levels can have fun and get involved with the event.

For more details, visit the Riley Run website here: http://rileyrun.org/

All proceeds go towards the scholarship fund created in Sgt. Stephens' name, which helps graduating seniors get funding for university and/or vocational school.

Help give back to the community, support Sgt. Stephens and his family, and have some fun while you run at your own pace.

Kia Racing

Kia Racing is developing a strong tradition within the racing circuit, and with each race they make headway in chasing titles and winning races. If you drive a Kia, the racing series is a good way to gauge the top end performance of Kia manufacturing.

With drivers like Nic Jonsson and Mark Wilkins, Kia racing has a solid foothold, and will continue to impress audiences all over the world. We encourage you the check out the link below, and learn more about the team, vehicles, and statistics.

http://www.kia.com/us/#/motorsports 

Navigate your way to family fun and less headaches on the road

Family road trips, and long drives in general have their own unique nuances. Does one stop for directions? How many bathroom breaks before Albuquerque?  Is it really 115 degrees in Phoenix, AZ?

Fortunately, navigation is one less headache, and with hands free devices one can remain safe while being confident they are still on course. If you don't have a built in navigation system in your current vehicle, there are many great options that will be worth the money spent and then some. Updates such as weather, traffic, and gas efficiency make modern GPS devices a great investment for your vehicle.

Some top brands across the market are:

1. Garmin (producer of the Nuvi)
2. TomTom (producer of the XL and XXL)
3. Magellan (producer of the Roadmate)

In addition, housing units that turn smart phones into hands free navigation devices are great for individuals who already use navigation applications on their phones. Remember safety is important but that are many options that will keep you safe and on course.

Visit the Van Griffith Kia website to look at new vehicles to utilize your hands free devices, and to look at options for built in navigation! 

Little Known Maintenance Fact

Did you know?

Filling up your vehicle while the tanker is filling up the tanks at your gas station can be potentially damaging to your engine.  The turbulence from filling up the tanks kicks up dirt and sediment that normally rests at the bottom and can decrease your engine's life.  So next time you see the tanker, head to the next station down the street instead.

Visit us online for all of your automotive needs. 

Top 5 Texas Destinations to Visit in Your Kia

It's late August and that means it's the prime time for planning your next summer road-trip or day trip! Van Griffith Kia is proud of our grand state of Texas and you should be too! Think there isn't much to do or see in the Lone Star State? Think again! 

We have compiled a few of our favorite destinations to visit in your Kia: 

USS Lexington

Located in Corpus Cristi, it’s called the Museum on the Bay and has lots to keep kids entertained including a flight simulator.

Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island National Seashore has some of the best beaches in Texas.

Natural Bridge Caverns
Take a tour through one of the best natural attractions Texas has to offer.

The River Walk 
The River Walk is a great place to soak up some of San Antonio's charm with plenty of places to eat and souvenir shops.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth 
Parents and teens especially will enjoy this attraction.

Which destinations have you been to in Texas? We want to hear from you...share with us in the comments below! In case you are looking for the perfect Kia to plan your next road trip in, visit Van Griffith Kia! 

Van Griffith Kia: Top 2 Family-Friendly Vehicles

Did you know August is Family Fun Month! If you are challenged with limited capacity vehicle for your growing family, it's time to consider a Kia! You may be surprised at the luxurious, yet durable options available at Van Griffith Kia. 

Check out our Top 2 Family Friendly Vehicle Picks: 

2014 Kia Sorento

Featuring optional 3rd row seating, a 2nd row sunscreen and roof rails, this SUV is the perfect edition for an adventurous family!

2014 Kia Sedona

Offering comfort and reliability, this is not your average "soccer mom" van and can easily accommodate a growing family.

Like what you see? Consider stopping by Van Griffith Kia soon to see them in person! Visit the Van Griffith Kia website for more information! 

Kia 2013 JD Power Awards: SPORTAGE

The Kia Sportage received highest honors in the sub-compact CUV segment.  The Sportage combines innovative available features, like push-button start and voice-command navigation, with available luxurious amenities including leather seat trim and a panoramic sunroof. Combined with its available class-leading 260-horsepower 2.0L GDI Turbo engine  and up to 30 MPG highway, it's the perfect crossover for the road ahead.

See the complete listing of Kia Sportages at Van Griffith on our website! 

Van Griffith KIA: Tire Special Offer

Tires are the car's only link with the asphalt. All the maneuvers you do while driving, traction, braking and steering depend on tires. If you are in the market for new tires for your vehicle, take advantage of our exclusive Tire Special! Buy 3 tires and get 1 for FREE!

Print the coupon below and bring into your next Van Griffith Kia service visit! 

Your Ticket to a Fun Weekend

Looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend?  Why not take a trip out to Dinosaur Valley State Park?  Enjoy the great outdoors and get out of town for the day.  What could be better?

Visit www.vgkia.com for all of you Kia needs.  

Like an angry bull waiting for its matador...

The Kia pro_cee'd GT (via Kia Motors Worldwide) 

Kia global sales up 2.6% halfway through 2013

Kia Motors Corporation announced today its global sales figures (export sales, domestic sales and sales from overseas plants) for passenger cars, recreational vehicles (RVs) and commercial vehicles through June 2013, recording a total of 1,383,759 units sold. This figure represents a 2.6% year-on-year increase for the first six months of 2013.

China experienced the highest cumulative gain to date in 2013 of 23.1% (291,125 units sold), followed by Europe with 3.7% (296,543 units sold). Korea, North America and general markets* experienced cumulative decreases of 5.3% (226,404 units sold); 4.3% (313,976 units sold) and 1.3% (255,711 units sold), correspondingly.

“Halfway through the year Kia is still posting positive sales results, and we are particularly pleased with the strong sales momentum in China, which further demonstrates the market as a rising star for the Kia brand,” said Thomas Oh, Executive Vice President and COO of Kia Motors International Business Division.

For the month of June, Kia’s bestselling model in overseas markets was the B-segment Rio (known as ‘K2′ in China) with 43,586 units sold. The Sportage compact CUV was the second best seller with 33,388 units delivered, while the C-segment Cerato (known as ‘Forte’ or ‘K3′ in some markets), Optima D-segment sedan and Sorento mid-size CUV followed with 32,696, 23,197 and 18,090 units sold, respectively.

Courtesy of Automotive World

Happy ‎#MotivationalMonday, fans! We hope you enjoy our quote of the day.

Kia Adventures!

Make your own path. Leave a trail for others. – The Kia Sorento

What kind of adventure will your Kia take you on this weekend? 

SPECIAL OFFER: Extra $$ for Your Trade-In!

Print this coupon for an additional $1000 added to your trade in value. Friday and Saturday only!

KIA MOTORS AMERICA ANNOUNCES JUNE SALES

Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported sales in excess of 50,000 units for the second straight month, as the all-new 2014 Cadenza reached the 1,000 unit mark for the first time following the launch of the flagship sedan’s national marketing campaign.  With 50,536 total vehicles sold, the U.S.-built* Optima midsize sedan was the brand’s best seller for the 19th consecutive month, and together with the Sorento CUV – also built in West Point, Georgia – accounted for more than 40 percent of Kia’s June sales.  The Soul urban passenger vehicle also recorded strong monthly sales of 11,287 units.

Kia is in the midst of launching seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles this calendar year, including the 2014 Sorento CUV and Cadenza and Forte sedans on sale now.  Later this year, all-new versions of the Soul, Forte Koup and Forte 5-door, as well as a refreshed Optima midsize sedan, are scheduled to arrive in showrooms.  Each of these new products continues Kia’s commitment to advancing value to new levels of sophistication by combining world-class design with cutting-edge technologies, premium amenities and affordable pricing.

Kia:  One of the World’s Fastest Moving Global Automotive Brands

Kia Motors America is one of only three auto brands to increase U.S. sales in each of the past four years, and in 2012 the company surpassed the 500,000 unit mark for the first time.  With a full line of fun-to-drive cars and CUVs, Kia is advancing value to new levels of sophistication by combining European-influenced styling – under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer – with cutting-edge technologies, premium amenities, affordable pricing and the lowest cost of ownership in the industry.  Kia recently joined the exclusive ranks of Interbrand’s “Top 100 Best Global Brands,” and is poised to continue its momentum with seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles scheduled to arrive in showrooms in 2013.  Over the past decade Kia Motors has invested more than $1.4 billion in the U.S., including the company’s first U.S. assembly plant in West Point, Georgia – Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia – which is responsible for the creation of more than 11,000 plant and supplier jobs. 

The success of the U.S.-built* Optima and Sorento in two of the industry’s largest segments has fueled Kia’s rapid growth and is complemented by Kia’s comprehensive lineup which includes the Cadenza flagship sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Sportage compact CUV, Optima Hybrid, the Forte sedan, 5-door and Koup compacts, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and the Sedona minivan.

	MONTH OF JUNE		YEAR-TO-DATE
Model	2013	2012	2013	2012
Rio	4,169	3,668	23,660	23,396
Forte	6,620	7,461	34,351	40,800
Optima	14,599	13,393	83,458	73,158
Cadenza	1,001	n/a	1,528	n/a
Sportage	2,405	3,950	15,374	20,582
Sorento	9,341	10,826	53,387	57,524
Sedona	1,114	1,829	2,562	10,612
Soul	11,287	10,199	63,031	63,635
Total	50,536	51,326	277,351	288,707

Courtesy of Kia Motors News

Maintenance Monday: Prep for Summer Heat

It's July 1st and that means the summer heat is quickly approaching! Protect your vehicle's interior plastic by parking in the shade, using a window deflector screen, and applying a UV protectant to prevent the plastic and vinyl from drying out.

The weekend is finally here...time to get your smile on! #TGIF

VIDEO: 2014 Kia Sorento

VIDEO: With an optional third row seat and lots of great features, the redesigned #Kia #Sorento is a great SUV for the road ahead, especially for National Camping Week! 

Follow the link for a complete listing of our Sorento inventory: http://bit.ly/1cs2hY6

Sound familiar? Let us know if you can relate to this!

KELLEY BLUE BOOK’S KBB.COM NAMES 2013 KIA SOUL TO LIST OF COOLEST NEW CARS UNDER $18,000

Kia Motors America’s (KMA) top-selling urban passenger vehicle, the 2013 Soul, was named to Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com list of the 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000. Chosen by the site’s editors, the 2013 Soul was celebrated for its fun and bold design, high-tech offerings and roominess.

“The Soul, which paved the way for Kia’s design led transformation with its fun and funky personality, quickly established a reputation as the spunkiest car in the Kia lineup, and now KBB has recognized it as one of the coolest vehicles on the market,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “Kia has always strived to provide customers with value, style and substance, and the Soul fulfills that promise with an extensive roster of standard features and unique design that has become iconic.”

The Soul placed third on Kelley Blue Book’s annual list of the coolest cars. Editors at Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com looked for new cars that were fun to own and drive. The Soul’s one-of-a-kind look and feel stood out amongst its competition.

“Born in 2010 and significantly updated in 2012, the Kia Soul has managed to keep its cool the whole time,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. “Like a small cargo van with bold lines and high tech, the Soul’s impressive standard equipment list includes Bluetooth®1 phone connectivity, an auxiliary audio input and iPod®2 integration.”

For more information about KBB.com’s 2013 list of the 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, please visit http://www.kbb.com/car-reviews-and-news/top-10/10-coolest-cars-under-18000-2013/.

About the 2013 Soul

Refreshed for the 2013 model year, the Soul features technology and styling upgrades, bringing a new level of cool with enhanced power and efficiency. New for 2013 are power-folding side mirrors, darkened chrome around the signature grille, upgraded leather on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, standard Bluetooth® wireless technology with steering wheel-mounted controls, standard steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and cruise control. The Soul also offers Idle Stop and Go (ISG) technology as part of the Eco Package, which senses when the vehicle is stopped and shuts off the engine to maximize efficiency and results in reduced engine load and less fuel consumption.

Kia’s Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors America is one of only three auto brands to increase U.S. sales in each of the past four years, and in 2012 the company surpassed the 500,000 unit mark for the first time.  With a full line of fun-to-drive cars and CUVs, Kia is advancing value to new levels of sophistication by combining European-influenced styling – under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer – with cutting-edge technologies, premium amenities, affordable pricing and the lowest cost of ownership in the industry.  Kia recently joined the exclusive ranks of Interbrand’s “Top 100 Best Global Brands,” and is poised to continue its momentum with seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles scheduled to arrive in showrooms in 2013.  Over the past decade Kia Motors has invested more than $1.4 billion in the U.S., including the company’s first U.S. assembly plant in West Point, Georgia – Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia – which is responsible for the creation of more than 11,000 plant and supplier jobs.  The success of the U.S.-built* Optima and Sorento in two of the industry’s largest segments has fueled Kia’s rapid growth and is complemented by Kia’s comprehensive lineup which includes the Cadenza flagship sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Sportage compact CUV, Optima Hybrid, the Forte sedan, 5-door and Koup compacts, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and the Sedona minivan.

Courtesy of Kia Media

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First Day of Summer!

Today marks the first day of #summer! Who will be cruising around with the windows down? #summersolstice

VIDEO: Kia at the 2013 Vans Warped Tour - Opening Day in the Kia Soul Lounge

#Kia is on tour for the sixth consecutive year as the #OfficialVehicle of the 2013 #VansWarpedTour. Follow along all summer long as their video blogger Tiffany Mink takes you behind the scenes.

Wallpaper Wednesday: 2013 Kia GT

For another edition of #WallpaperWednesday, COMMENT if you plan on switching out your desktop for this #KIA beauty!

Kia Back To Rock At Vans

Kia has a couple of cars it's pitching to younger people. What better place to do that than at the multi-stage Roman circus-style summer music happenings that have in recent years become the "s@#t", as it were. There are a bunch of these now, and you know what they are, even if you happen to be an aged Boomer, and call them "Bonarooma," "Coach Luggage,” or "JollyLollypaloozajalopy". 

Automakers with a vehicle they want to sell to young people are at a lot of them. One is Kia, which has been at the Moving Vans Tour -- I mean the Vans Warped Tour -- for a sixth year, including this one, as "Official Vehicle."

At the tour, which hits 39 U.S. cities, the brand gets both main stages (Kia Soul Stage and Kia Forte Stage), has its Soul Lounge on site, and its own show theme, "Rock and Roll. Punk and Soul." People can escape the mosh pit if they have a Kia VIP pass to a branded riser above the crowd.

In addition to having a DJ, and fun stuff at its "lounge," it will have its own acoustic music. For the first time, there's a photography element, "Share their Soul," where people who shoot photos get them posted on Kia's Instagram site.  

"Every year that we have done this we have evolved our social elements to keep up with technology," says Kathryn Cima, manager of events and promotions at Kia Motors America. She tells Marketing Daily that the Instagram component is paired with Facebook and Twitter elements. "It's much more evolved, and there's a much higher level of digital engagement." 

She says that, as was the case last year, Kia has the two vehicles posing near the stages. "They are woven into the experience; we don't shove a message down their throats. And  [with experiences and music events at its lounge], "we have almost become a destination."

Courtesy of Media Post

Maintenance Monday: 6-Month Car Care Tips

VIDEO: The Kia Forte Techathlete Games

WATCH the VIDEO below and learn about the The Kia Forte Techathlete Games: a tongue-in-cheek test of tech talent where players compete in a series of games to prove that they're worthy of the futuristic Forte.