NEW FOR 2015:
-No changes
Kia’s funked-up box on wheels carries over unchanged following a full redesign last year.
There are five distinct trim levels–LX, LX+ EX, EX+, and SX–that bring a choice of two engines and manual and automatic transmissions. LX and LX+ models get a 1.6L four-cylinder that makes 130 hp and 118 lb-ft of torque, which can be paired with either transmission in the LX, while the LX+ is manual only.
Move up to the EX or SX and you get a 2.0L engine making 164 hp and 151 lb-ft; these models are all automatic-only.
Standard features across all models include electric power steering with flex-steer, hill assist control, tilt-and-telescopic steering, six-speaker stereo with auxiliary and USB inputs and steering wheel-mounted controls, trip computer, map lights, rear centre armrest with cupholder, cargo area power outlet, body-coloured bumpers, side mirrors, and door handles, 16-inch steel wheels, fog lights, cloth seats, height-adjustable driver’s seat, power door locks, windows, and heated side mirrors, and windshield wiper de-icer.
Option the LX with the automatic transmission, and Kia throws in air conditioning, keyless entry, and the active eco fuel-saving system.
LX+ trim reverts to the manual transmission, but adds 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, heated front seats, side mirror-mounted turn signal repeaters, and an illuminated ignition switch.
EX trim brings the bigger engine and automatic transmission, and gets 17-inch alloys, and roof rails.
EX+ adds automatic projection headlights, front LED positioning lights, LED taillights, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter and leatherette door trim, centre armrest and gauge cluster shroud, the UVO infotainment system, backup camera, power-folding side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, gloss black interior trim, satin chrome inside door handles, a luggage net, and an LED flashlight that lives in the cargo area.
And EX Eco model gets Kia’s idle-stop-and-go system and 16-inch wheels with low rolling-resistance tires.
SX trim brings 18-inch wheels, black gloss bumpers and side mirrors, leather seats, heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, intelligent keyless entry with pushbutton start, cooling glove box, upgrade gauge cluster, and aero-blade wipers.
Finally, an SX Luxury model includes panoramic sunroof, HID headlights, ventilated front seats, power driver’s seat, heated rear seats, navigation with multimedia interface, upgraded sound system, LED map and cargo-area lights, and a cargo cover.
