Web version also available | December 2011

The head-turning Kia Soul which features in the popular and successful hip-hop hamster commercial has been given a makeover.

Due to be released in New Zealand early next year the new 2012 Soul model has already won critical acclaim for its finessed styling and the introduction of a more efficient six speed automatic transmission (previously four speed).

The Soul's designers have updated the exterior with subtle changes to the front and rear bumpers to project a wider stance, while the new LED daytime running headlamps and taillights project a more modern look. Packed with a range of features that you have come to expect from Kia, the 1.6L Soul includes reverse warning sensors, six airbags, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity – just to name a few.

Combining its distinctive design-led looks with the practicality of a cross-over vehicle the Soul offers something different for everyone. Contact your local Kia dealer in the New Year to experience the Soul for yourself.

Kia is introducing America's award-winning, music loving hamsters to promote its 5 Year Warranty Programme in New Zealand.

Since they first made their appearance on US TV screens in 2009 to launch the Kia Soul with a rap song, the hamster characters have become among the most-watched ads on TV screens across the States. They have also gathered a huge following on You Tube, with more than 9 million hits. You can view the Soul hamster commercial here.

Kia is returning to the tennis courts for a fourth year as titles sponsor of the ASB Classic from 2-7 January 2012 and as the official vehicle sponsor for the men's Heineken Open the following week.

January also sees the tenth anniversary of Kia becoming the major sponsor of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. This is one of the best global Grand Slam events and runs from 16-29 January 2012.

The two local events match well with Kia's involvement with the Australian Open, as well as support of Davis Cup Tennis and the brand's global tennis ambassador, Rafael Nadal.

This year's ASB Classic women's event will have one of the best fields in the tournament's history with Venus Williams adding the superstar element.

Local Kia ambassador Marina Erakovic also returns with a 61 ranking after starting the year at 350 following injury and a long recovery.

Currently back in New Zealand training for the ASB Classic, Marina is once-again behind the wheel of a Kia Soul, which she helped to launch in this market two years ago. Other players will also get to experience Kia vehicles when they are in Auckland, as Kia provides 8-seater Kia Carnivals to transport players for the ASB Classic and the Heineken Open in luxurious comfort, with event officials utilising Kia Ceratos.

Kia recently caught up with Marina, back in New Zealand for the up-coming ASB Classic tournament in January.

Q: Good to see you back in Auckland, it must be very pleasing to be injury-free and in good form going into your home tournament at the ASB Classic.

A: Yes, I am very happy to be home. I always love playing this tournament and it is fantastic to be playing in front of my home crowd.

Q: There's always pressure to perform, but the expectations of the local crowd make it that much harder, how do you handle that?

A: I just look at it as another event. The routines are the same, plus it is great to have a huge crowd behind you. It makes a big difference.

Q: With so many tournaments being played around the world and so much travel involved, you must find it hard to avoid injuries and remain healthy, as well as motivated? How do you cope and what do you do to relieve the stress and strain?

A: When I am not playing I am focused on other things just like a regular person. I am doing a bit of study, I play the guitar, I read. There are many activities I love to do aside from playing tennis, plus I think it is very important for the body and the mind to have other hobbies.

Q: You're staying with Mum and Dad while you are home and I see you're driving another Kia Soul, as part of the sponsorship from Kia Motors. You were the face of Soul when it launched two years ago, you obviously still love it?

A: I really do and I miss it quite a bit when I am travelling. In Florida I see quite a few Kia Souls being driven around. I just want to grab one and take it for a spin. It reminds me of home.

The newly refurbished Winger Kia dealership in Greenlane, Auckland has undergone a massive design transformation.

Located just metres along from its previous location, the new standalone site features a modern showroom and customer lounge, plus a large outside yard featuring over 30 new and used Kia vehicles. The dealership now boasts six staff,all with in-depth knowledge and experience of the Kia range at both a sales and service level.

"The sales growth and demand for Kia vehicles over the last four years has been astounding and our investment in the new showroom is a reflection of our long term commitment and support to the brand. We are thrilled with the new Winger Kia site and the huge road presence it has created and have already seen a significant increase in foot traffic and customer enquiries for the Kia line-up", says Justin Purkiss, Sales Manager.

We're excited to announce that Kia will be supporting the popular REAL Women's Series for 2012.

Kia is actively involved in supporting a number of sports throughout New Zealand and the REAL series complements our desire to encourage active participation at all levels. The non-competitive event series includes a duathlon, or a triathlon or a 5km walk/run and will be held in nine venues across New Zealand from February to May.

Make sure you look out for the brightly sign-written all-new Kia Rio driving to the REAL events from December onwards. For more information on the REAL Series click here.

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