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Kia Rio 2011-2012 Replacement ?

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Comments

  • hcalcathcalcat Member Posts: 30
    Phil, I hate to break it to you but the strong Canadian dollar is worth about 4% more than our slip sliding US dollar. This means that if their prices translate over, you have to add about $650 dollars to the prices provided by conwelpic in Canadian dollars. And rumor has it that our dollar will slide even further making it inevitable that the Korean (and Japanese and German) companies will increase their prices even more. Look out if the rating agencies lower the US bond rating a notch or two. Who knows where it will be in November when the Rio5 is sold in the US. Bottom line is that you will need to add at least another $2K (with D&D) to the prices provided by conwelpic. Guess my 2012 Accent SE is looking better and better. :cry:
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    edited August 2011
    Well, I`m can`t tell you how happy I am for you are your recent purchase of your 2012 Hyundai SE Hatchback. The devaluation of the US Dollar thanks to the Tea Party pushing Standard and Poors to downgrade our credit rating from AAA to AA+ has already happened since you Posted. If you acknowledge the now 6% DROP in value of the US Dollar against the Canadian Dollar, not only will the new 2012 Kia Rio5 Hatchback be priced higher, but the 2012 Hyundai Accent Hatchback as well, right? Your a Genius to have anticipated the future and bought your new 2012 Hyundai Accent (before) the future Price Increases. Regardless, I would like to remind you, for those that are looking for more "option & content availability" the Accent has so little to offer compared to its sibling, the Rio. If "price" is the only consideration, like it appears to be for Poster, "nucarshopper" then perhaps purchasing a New Vehicle with its immediate steep depreciation might not be such a wise idea and buying a one year old previously owned vehicle might be more prudent. If, like myself, your going to be "married" to your newly purchased vehicle for 5 years or more, you might as well get exactly what options and content that is important to you rather then suffer, (buyers regret), after such a large purchase. Some folks want more then just safe,dependable&reliable transportation. The 2012 Kia Rio5 sales should begin late Sept or early Oct here in the US, not Nov if all goes as planned. The first shipment arrivals have already hit some US Ports and lots more are on their way across the "pond". For a while, they will be in very short supply and I expect will be the hottest newly launched vehicle since the Mazda Miata Convertible was almost 2 decades ago. Availability, color selection and option content coupled with almost guaranteed full MSRP PLUS Dealer Fee`s will make many, including myself to wait it out a few months and be prepared to pay even a bit more as the US Dollar continues to regress against Foreign Currencies.
  • hcalcathcalcat Member Posts: 30
    Phil, granted the 2012 Kia Rio5 has an options and features list a mile long but the 2012 Accent SE is not exactly what anyone would consider "bare bones". The only feature that I miss that is available on the Rio5 is the rear backup camera (the Accent's rear window is tiny). I like the driving dynamics and quietness of the Accent which is still an unknown on the Rio5. Apparently there are some folks out there that agree with me as the Accent was the hottest selling sub-compact in July, outselling the Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa and Honda Fit.

    Actually my plan was to wait on purchasing the Accent and see a Rio5 comparison (ride and driving dynamics) but the Hyundai dealer made me an offer I couldn't refuse and it was exactly the color and model my wife wanted. I was surprised he was willing to negotiate because it was the first SE he received and it actually sat inconspicuously on the lot for a week. I know that it will be/is a hot seller but maybe people in my area don't know about it yet. All 7 of the 2012 Accents they received so far are gone now and they continue to just dribble in. Which begs the question, is it better to purchase a hot new model at introduction or wait until the supply builds up and the demand subsides? In most cases the latter approach results in a more favorable price but now with shifting tastes (more people are moving to small cars), a dropping greenback, increasing worldwide demand, and limited production, you may have a long wait and still end up paying more. The times they are a changing. ;)
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    Just like a friend of mine`s very wealthy Dad once told me, " You can`t be Too Smart"! Your fortunate that you found the exact vehicle you and your wife were looking for when the Hyundai Accent SE Hatchback was launched and even luckier that your Hyundai Dealership negotiated a good deal with you. With very limited inventory with any new car introduction, most Dealers will hold out for not only Full MSRP but add on additional "Dealer Fee`s" sometimes as high as $700. extra. Years ago they called in Dealer Prep, where the new vehicle you purchased got a (wash job) and the buyer got a (hose job). Now in most States where it is allowed, Dealerships have the so called Dealer Fee`s already printed on their Purchase Agreements and steadfastly tell the Consumer that (all) must pay it, like its the "Holy Grail" and if they deleted it from one customer and then charged it to another, they would be liable for "discrimination claims". Now to negotiate that "Fee" off the Purchase Price they would have to give you that allowance for that so called Dealer Fee as a price adjustment either as an additional cash discount or as an added (trade in value allowance) in order to compensate for the added invoice amount.
    On the matter of the "drivability" differences between the 2012 Hyundai Accent and the upcoming 2012 Kia Rio, I don`t expect (any) significant changes since they share almost all of the same mechanical components. The claim I made of the new Accent being a "Bare Bones" decontented vehicle compared to the Rio is too long to list in its entirety. Although these options and features may not be of interest to (you or others) depending on the added price of the features, at least they are available for those that want them. LED Daytime Running Lights and LED Tail Lights, Power Moonroof, Adjustable Steering Wheel (all positions), Leather Interior, Navigation System, Idle/Stop/Go Technology, Exterior Mirror Directional Signal Indicators, Heated Mirrors,Steering Wheel, and Front Seat, (Like I need that here in SO FL) and a host of other features and options that are (all) N.A. on the 2012 Hyundai Accent regardless of what Model/Trim Level you choose. Curious that Hyundai did not offer the Rear View Camera Monitor as an option since it will be mandated as Standard Equipment in (all) US vehicles within the next 2 years. Anyway, enjoy your new ride, and I hope for you and your wife`s sake you don`t end up suffering from "Buyers Regret" once the 2012 Kia Rio5 is launched next month.
  • hcalcathcalcat Member Posts: 30
    Not a chance of buyer's remorse. If they become popular options on the Rio5, the Hyundai will add them later to the Accent. When I purchase a car, one of my criteria is resale value. Consequently, I have owned many Hondas. When it comes time to sell, it is both easy to unload and you get top dollar. Case in point is my wife's 2006 Honda Civic EX 4 door. In my area, the average private party asking price is $12,340 for a car that sold new for $18,300 (before tax and license). That is a depreciation cost of only $6000 in almost 6 years or $1000 per year. I expect the 2012 Hyundai Accent will have similar great value retention and ease of sale so when it comes time, it won't be painful to unload.

    Have you checked the value of the US dollar today? Both it and the Euro dropped 5% against the Swiss franc. The Canadian dollar and South Korean wan are strong currencies so prices of their products relative to our dollar will inevitably rise. As a hedge, you can buy their currencies or better yet, if you believe in Hyundai market growth, you can invest in their stock. It is down about 20% recently from its peak but I am confident it will spring back and upward barring any catastrophe.

    Dan Neil, one of my favorite automotive journalists, wrote an interesting article in Saturday's WSJ on the Accent and Hyundai. He's writes in a very engaging style and is usually right on. Here's the link in case you are interested:

    link WSJ title
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    hcalcat; Thanks for the (Link). Great Article, and since I too am an owner of a 2011 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback since July of 011`, I could`nt agree more. I have no problem with the Hyundai product, I traded in my 06` Sonata for my new Fiesta, and I still drive my 06` Kia Rio5 Hatchback, that I`ve owned since new and driven almost 70K without hardly any mechanical issues to speak of. Thats why I`m looking forward to replacing it with the upcoming 2012 Kia Rio5. Even if the new Accent Hatchback had the options and content that the Rio will have, I still would have opted for the Kia primarily because the Accent Rear looks too much "Fiesta Like" and I much prefer the Euro look of the Rio5. I have to admit though, I do prefer the "Instrumentation Cluster" of the Accent over that of the Rio. That Kia 3 "Bullet Cluster" instrument panel does (not) do it for me as well as the "Red Illumination". That misplaced "cubbyhole" to the right of the Rearview Camera/Entertainment Display Monitor is another "faux pas" IMO. But, since Peter Schreyer, former Audi Designer had the final say, who am I to say he`s wrong with his past (track record). Like everything else in life, its all about adding up all the pluses against all the minuses and then determining what works best for you. Again, enjoy your new Accent and I will certainly "Post" my experience and impressions of the 2012 Kia Rio5 on this Blog as soon as I`m able to find the one I`m looking for that has all the options and content that I want and in the color choice (both interior & exterior) I prefer. I think I`m in for a bit of a wait. Even if I locate the vehicle, negotiating a (reasonable) price will be another matter. I still remember the hysteria that followed the launch of Mazda Miata 2 seat Convertible 2 decades ago. History tends to repeat itself, it seems.
  • hcalcathcalcat Member Posts: 30
    Nothing wrong with waiting. In fact, at the rate cars are improving these days, patience is a virtue and can reap big dividends. Case in point, the new 2012 Mazda3 will feature Skyactiv technology in its drivetrain which is able to squeeze more mileage and power out of its engine. Sounds sweet. Here's a link to some details:

    2012 Mazda3
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    that's exactly what the new 1.6L GDI engine does that's in the 2012 Rio, Accent and Soul.
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    this link has now been added to the Kia Canada website as we get close to official launch

    http://www.kia.ca/rio/english/flash/index.html
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    To correct an earlier Posting I made pertaining to the release of all the pertinent information regarding the U.S. version of the upcoming 2012 Kia Rio5, I stated it would be released either on Mon Aug. 15 or Tues Aug.16, I got an update from my contact at Kia Media, "S.H." it (will) be released tomorrow at (9:00) AM, PST Aug 17. Vehicle should hit U.S. Dealerships by late Sept or early Oct. The wait is almost over! Hooray!
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    Replying to my own Posting yesterday, unfortunately it was nothing more then a rehash of the same announcement that was made in late April at the New York International Auto Show. The only difference is that it was dated Aug. 17, 2011 from Kia Headquarters in Korea. The wait for details of the U.S. version of the 2012 Kia Rio5 continues! So much for the new Media Release information that was promised. I`m flying up to Montreal, Quebec CA next week on vacation. Probably see one in a Kia Dealership before I leave to return home.
  • philantzphilantz Member Posts: 1
    Is there gonna be a SAT NAV option in Canada? Like we see on every promotional pictures of the Rio5...
  • ecotrklvrecotrklvr Member Posts: 519
    I also just read the "new" announcement, and was disappointed. Nothing really new. AND, even more disappointing, the new announcement does not mention the DSG/Dual Clutch Auto Trans. The 3012 Soul is getting the 1.6L GDI, and is picking up a tilt/tele steering wheel on higher trims. FWIW
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    see #39 in this thread for full details on the Canadian Rio 5. No Nav for the Canadian Rio.
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    your right, but full tech details are now available on KGIS, so maybe that will keep you entertained till your trip to Montreal.
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    various manual now available for the 2012 Rio under "Glove Box Materials" on KGIS
  • puffin1puffin1 Member Posts: 276
    What's d@d charge mean? Deliverery and prep? What about resale value compred to Focus, ,VW Golf Fiesta, and Mazda HB? Mazda uses too much gas though.
    How's that stop and go work ?Is it like a golf cart?
    Thanks, Puffin :shades:
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    now that ISG is going to be available in the new Rio, this, courtesy of KGIS will give you a condensed version of how the ISG functions:

    Idle Stop and Go (ISG) Description

    Idle Stop and Go (ISG) function automatically switches off the engine when the car is at a standstill and starts it again as soon as the brake pedal is released. This not only reduces fuel consumption, it also lowers emissions. Idle Stop and Go (ISG) function also has a built-in sensitivity to driving safety and comfort.
    The engine is not switched off if certain conditions relating to safety and comfort have not been fulfilled (for example, when the engine oil is still cold, when the battery is running low or when the outside temperature is below 3º C or 37F). It can be deactivated by pressing the ISG OFF switch on the crash pad lower panel.

    Sample scenario:
    vehicle moving
    the transmission lever position is in D-range. The brake pedal is released
    the engine is running (vehicle moving)
    the driver brakes until the vehicle comes to a standstill
    the transmission lever position is in D-range. The brake pedal is pressed
    the engine stops. The symbol “AUTO STOP” lights up in the instrument cluster
    the driver wants to continue the journey
    the transmission lever position is in D-range. The brake pedal is released
    the engine is running again. The symbol goes out.

    Operation Condition for the ISG Function
    Will function if these conditions are met
    - ISG OFF Switch is off
    - switch (seat/door/hood) closed
    - lever position in D or N range
    - brake pedal pressed or released
    - vehicle speed after driving higher than 8kmph (5mph)
    - a/c system operating correctly
    - engine coolant temperature over 78º C (172.4º F)
    - brake pressure not below 35kpa
    - battery SOC over 77% and temperature in the range of 2-55ºC (35.6-131ºF)
    - Steering wheel – operating angle below 180º
    - Parking condition – slope up hill Won't function if:
    - large steering angle when car is stopped
    - low brake operating pressure
    - turn on the a/c with max blower
    - when battery condition is poor (low SOC)
    - active defroster of front or rear glass
    - unfasten driver's seat belt or open the door and hood
    - on a steep slope
    - with ISG system errors and other diagnosis
    - ISG OFF switch is on
  • puffin1puffin1 Member Posts: 276
    Seems to me the Canadians make out better with cold package options.
    My Type S Acura didn't come with heated seats, but the Canadian Type S did as well as fogs. I "m next to Canada (Maine) Je suis Francais aussie. I'd have to see it and all I saw on the specs was a heated steering wheel. I don't just want heated seats, but multi level seats that warm your butt and back.
    I don't know how to buy a Canadian car and with all the boarder problems ,you can't just walk across the bridge anymore and buy your medecines W/o a passport even if your cousin is a crossing worker.They check the Holy Water you bring back from St.Annes or Mount Royal. :)
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    Seriously puffin: Who the hell can predict what the not yet released (resale values) of the 2012 Kia Rio5 Hatchback will be compared to the Ford Fiesta, VW Golf, etc. Only time will tell. I`d bet the VW Golf will likely return the highest percentage of residual value based on previous Volkswagon models, but only time will tell. As far as the d@d charge, it also depends if it`s a surcharge added on Canadian vehicles as a government added (tax) or here in the U.S. where its is called by a million different names such as Dealer Prep-(wash job), Dealers Fees or Dealer Documentation Fees which is basically only adding but additional profit margins on to the original MSRP where the buyer gets absolutely "nothing" and the Dealership and Salesmen pocket the difference after sodomizing you with the ridiculous monies offered for the Trade in Vehicle, if one is involved in the transaction. As anyone who has sold (new or used) cars will tell you the old truism, "How do you know if you got a good Deal on the Car you just purchases? If you indeed bought it, you got screwed". Nothing will ever leave the (lot) regardless of the "BS" thats exchanged without the Dealership being the big winner. You have a better chance at a Casino with (even) their odds.
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    And speaking about your dismay that the U.S. does`nt get the same "cold package options" as Canada, what about a "hot package option" for those of us like myself who live in South FL, New Orleans, Texas, Arizona, etc? You think that I need (heated exterior mirrors) to remove the moisture due to the humidity?
  • puffin1puffin1 Member Posts: 276
    you need to take a cold shower. Canadian cars most if them come with a cold pkg Std., well the good cars like BMW, Saab,Vovo, Audi ,Acura etc;.Who's dumb enough to buy a Kia w/o Michele Wie in it? KIA is a bad investment.You might as well buy an Aveo.
    I think VW Polo will be the best rinky dink car in the GTI version. :shades:
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    I hate to get personal puffin1, but what is wrong with you? You are attempting to compare BMW, Saab,Volvo,Acura, etc in the same class/price group as "KIA"? That damn 2012 Kia Rio5 will have a MSRP of under 20K, the other vehicles you just mentioned will cost (at least) 10K more to start with, and thats a stripped down model with few if any options! Buy another sweater, a down filled jacket, and a pair of gloves. You seem to have a taste for 30 year old single malt scotch with the ability to purchase cheap wine or beer. Get your facts straight before you start bashing Kia and making yourself look so stupid! I though all the Idiots were located here in the U.S. and belonged to the Tea Party. Guess I was incorrect. You might be interested in a "Value Meal" at McDonalds or Burger King.
  • puffin1puffin1 Member Posts: 276
    well, I have a 2011 BMW 3 series coupe vermilion red 2011RWD 328I.A 2009 lexuus IS and a 2010 V dub optioned out. No, I have the ability to buy cars every 2 or 3 years. I buy cars that you can get the colors and toys you want except for the VW.I needed a home depot car. Should of read my profile and checked my sites.
    Americans want cars such as the Mini that has all the bells and whistles , Nav, leather, Moonroofs ,usb ,12v ports, but a Harmon K radio.
    this and that and alot of tech. Right now Ford , Hyundai and the biggest little seller the Cruze are working 48 hour weeks to get them out.In other words Americans, are alot more destitute now than a few years ago. Small cars are here for good ,and so is $3.50 to $4.00 gallons.
    Yup, America has to show me they can compete with the Japanese,and Germans. Hundai is coming along. I'd Say better than KIA
    lousy timing belts). For all u do Phil this Guiness is for you. :shades:
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    Puffin1, actually my preferred "Biere" is Laurentide to go with a Smoked Meat Sandwich and an order of Poutine. I was in Montreal this past week, had a lovely visit as usual, but unfortunately was unable to find Laurentide anywhere. Has Molson stopped marketing it? Getting back to your Post. I agree with basically everything you mentioned but still find it unexplainable how you can mention Kia or for that matter Hyundai vehicles along side of that previous long list of (luxury) automobiles and their content. I currently own a 2011 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback that I custom ordered in Mar. of 2010 and took delivery of in July 2010. I ordered it with many options including the available Power Moonroof. I too appreciate a smaller car that gets over 40 mpg highway, has plenty of upgradeable options and looks good as well. My other vehicle is a 2006 Kia Rio5 which I purchased new and it will be replaced by the upcoming 2012 Kia Rio5 as soon as they are launched. Funny how you arrived at your conclusion that Hyundai is a superior product then its sibling, the Kia. They share virtually identical mechanical components, the same warranty, and are both manufactured by HKAG. The main difference being is that the upcoming Kia Rio and Rio5 Hatchback has vastly more upgradeable option content then its Hyundai counterpart, the decontented 2012 Accent. Here in the U.S., you cannot get a Power Moonroof, Redundant Exterior Mirror Indicators, Push Button Keyless Ignition, and a host of other features, I`m sure if you check out the Canadian Spec 2012 Kia Rio vs the 2012 Hyundai Accent, you will find that the Kia has much more to offer. Also funny you mentioned lousy "timing belts", I have 70K on my 06` Kia Rio and it is still on its original. The new 1.6 ltr GDI engine in both the 2012 Accent & Rio now have a direct gear (diamond coated) timing assembly replacing the previous "timing belt".
    PS: Hopefully sometime in late 2011 or early 2012, the U.S. will (finally) get the MercedesBenz B200 that Canada has had now for several years. They may once again scrap the idea since the US Dollar is falling against both the Euro and well as the Canadian Dollar which may make it unattractive to market here in the States due to its increasing price caused by currency fluctuations.
  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,704
    doesn't your 2006 Kia Rio5 need it's timing belt changed out then?

    Also funny you mentioned lousy "timing belts", I have 70K on my 06` Kia Rio and it is still on its original. The new 1.6 ltr GDI engine in both the 2012 Accent & Rio now have a direct gear (diamond coated) timing assembly replacing the previous "timing belt".

    Those usually need change-out at only 60,000 miles. Just mentionin'.

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • loaddownloaddown Member Posts: 1
    I wonder what the impressions out there are on the electric assisted steering on these compacts. I drove a Ford Focus (not a direct comparison) and found the steering light, with very little feedback. A complete difference from hydraulic assist. Today I drove a new Accent SE and found the steering clueless. You could point the car down a straight street and take your hands off the wheel. Even the curvature of the road didn't affect it. Of course, this impression was after getting out of my Infiniti G35, quite a difference. I am seriously considering an Accent SE or Rio5, but wonder if you can relax while driving them with this contrast in handling. Any experiences?
    Also, don't forget to turn off the Eco mode when testing. The car was a wimp with it on and I didn't get to try it much otherwise. I love the room and utility for the price. I am comparing it to the Fit. which needs a wake-up call with it's mpg currently.
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    edited October 2011
    Now that prices and options have been released on the Kia USA site, I find it odd that Kia has in someways kept prices very close to its sibling Hyundai Accent but taken away content. As an example, the 2012 Hyundai Accent GS, its (base) model 5 Door Hatchback, has a MSRP of $16,550 which includes the Automatic Transmission (and) Power Windows,Mirrors, Door Locks and Remote Key Fob. and Cruise Control. The 2012 Kia Rio5 LX , its (base) model 5 Door Hatchback has a MSRP of $16,445 adding the Power Package to get the Power Windows, Mirrors, Door Locks and Remote Key Fob, (But) does not include the Cruise Control! I mere $105 savings and you loose the Cruise Control but gain the 15`` Tires and Wheels instead of Hyundai`s 14``. Both have Wheel Covers. IMO, the Kia still has the definite edge with better exterior styling and design, but as they say, "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder".
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,382
    just got the latest issue of car and driver yesterday, and they have a comparison test of "B" class cars. They included a Rio5 (AT) and Accent (stick). Tested against the Sonic, Fit, Yaris, Versa and ( think 1 more.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    edited October 2011
    stickguy; Guess they are not very fond of the Kia/Hyundai products over at Car and Driver Magazine, you think? I own a 2011 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback which I have driven 13K over the past 14 months. I love the car, it gets great fuel economy, 33 mpg city and 41 mpg highway consistently. Has plenty of power, good handling and braking, and IMO, wins the Swim Suit Competition, hands down. Now, getting (back) on Topic, I`m still going to purchase a 2012 Kia Rio5 as soon as I can locate one, at a reasonable price without paying all that Dealer`s Fee`s and "Limited availability Crap. I want a (Base) LX in Clear White with Beige Cloth Interior, added Automatic Transmission, with the added Power Package(Windows, Locks, Mirrors, and Remote Key Fob) plus Carpeted Floor Mats. I think for a MSRP of $16,445, including Freight, its a (very) excellent value, regardless if its a half second slower in the zero to 60 or quarter mile testing then the others vehicles they evaluated. Its priced right, looks very sharp (better then the Hyundai Accent GS) and should get excellent gas mileage. What more does C & D expect? It is what it is! A "B-Segment" Sub Compact,period. You want more, spend 50K and buy an Audi. The Honda Fit is a very nice well built car that has lots of room, great reliability,excellent trade in value but looks "old and outdated" too. Plus, the 5 year/60K Bumper to Bumper Warranty that Kia/Hyundai offers (plus) the 10 year/100K Drive Train Warranty given to the (original) purchaser, simply can`t be beat.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,382
    it was more cruiser than sports sedan, which always hurts it with C&D.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    edited October 2011
    Perhaps since Kia opted to eliminate the 6 speed Manual Transmission from the new 2012 Rio5, except in its limited availability Base LX line, it provoked (their) rathe. If they rate that cheap imitation of the Ford Fiesta, the Mazda 2, better then either the Accent or the Kia, its pure and simple "Bias". I`m a Dog lover and it makes me sick knowing that they are being served, "on the plate" everyday in Korea, but you have to give credit for HKAG Group building some very fine (affordable) vehicles with the (best) Warranty in the Industry.
  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,704
    are they still eating dogs over there? Yikes. That's pathetic. :sick:

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    edited October 2011
    I need the help of someone who`s speciality is "Electrical" and or works at a Kia Dealerships service department or perhaps one of you Canadian readers can advise me. I`m awaiting the arrival of my 2012 Kia Rio5 LX and I am determined to have Daytime Running Lights installed on this vehicle. Only the SX Trim Models in the U.S. gets the LED DRL`s. As usual lower Trim Models like the LX and the EX get no DRL`s. Odd, that here in the U.S., Hyundai only puts DRL`s on two of its vehicles currently, Sonata & Elantra. Kia here in the U.S. only puts the LED DRL`s on its top of the Line SX Models in its Kia Rio, Sportage and Sodona. I know that in Canada since its been mandated by Law, (all) vehicles must have DRL`s regardless of Model Trim. I would be just as happy having the regular DRL`s work off the vehicles headlights at 75% power as most cars do. Kindly tell me if there is a Part # for a DRL Module that can be quickly and inexpensively installed on a 2012 Kia Rio5. "conwelpic" you seem to be up on lots of Kia specifics, can you hook me up so I can get those Daytime Running Lights up and "running" as soon as I take delivery of my vehicle? Thanks for anyone that can be of assistance. If its a Part Number for the Module that is only available through Kia Canada Parts Department, if it can be retro-fitted into a U.S. spec Kia Rio`s wiring harness, I`ll get one shipped down here to Florida from Canada. And NO, I don`t want to accomplish that function by driving around during the "daytime" with both my headlights and tail lights burning in order to get the desired effect.
  • conwelpicconwelpic Member Posts: 600
    sorry I can't help you just do not have "mechanical" connections. It's been mandatory in Canada for about 20 years now. Maybe you could check out on KGIS to see if you can find difference between the model that has the DRL and the ones that don't.
    You would think it would be something relatively simple so that they can easily make a Canadian model in production that has to have this feature.
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    I`ve waited for almost a month and had my name on a "wait list" at (7) local Kia Dealerships awaiting their arrival of a 2012 Kia Rio5 in Clear White with Beige interior with Automatic Transmission. Preferred the base trim LX (with ) the optional Power Package or would have settled for the same in EX trim with just standard equipment. One dealer called yesterday as an LX that fit my exact specifications, was just be rolled off the Car Carrier Truck. Got down to the Kia Dealership yesterday evening an closed the Deal just as they were shutting the doors at 9:00 PM. Plan on taking delivery either Wed or Thur evening. I Will Post first impressions within a few days. Boy, they are certainly trickling in very slowly. The Ships that drop off the Kia`s at the Port of Tacoma, WA can usually hold between 5000 to 9000 vehicles for a trip that normally takes 10 days to arrive from Korea. Then a trip by Rail to different regional drop off junctions. Funny, I was prepared to travel up to 150 miles to locate this vehicle and I ended up buying it locally. Go figure.
  • ecotrklvrecotrklvr Member Posts: 519
    Congrats on the purchase! I bought a Hyundai Santa Fe in January, here in Orange County, CA. After having called 6 different Dealers in a 100 mile radius, I simply drove to the nearest decent-sized Hyundai Dealer, and they had the exact model, with the exact port-installed accessories already on it, sitting there. Oh, and they had it, in my favorite color Radiant Silver, in both Manual and Auto Trans versions. Both with Mudguards, iPod cable, and Cargo Net already installed. We're both lucky, I guess.

    The LX with that package is the best value. If I had waited a year, I'd have ended up with that Rio5 (or maybe the refreshed Soul) as they are both more fun-to-drive than the Santa Fe. It's great that small vehicles have gotten so much better, and now up to 40 mpg in comfort and style.

    Best of luck with the new car !
  • phill1phill1 Member Posts: 319
    ecotrklvr; Funny how "smart" Minds think (alike) !
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