Kia showed their newly redesigned Sedona minivan, announced the forthcoming long-wheelbase Sedona, and unveiled the all-new 2006.5 Kia Optima sedan at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. Larger and wider than the previous generation, Optima boasts one of the roomiest interiors in the class, besting rivals Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima. With a new standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 161 hp, optima claims class-leading 4-cylinder power beating rivals Toyota Camry and Chevrolet Malibu. A 185-hp V6, which delivers 10 percent more power than the previous generation, is optional. A 5-speed automatic is standard on all models except the 4-cylinder LX, which gets a standard 5-speed manual transmission. Standard features also increased this year. They include six standard airbags, active front head rests, a tire-pressure monitor, heated mirrors, steering-wheel radio controls, and keyless entry to name a few. Electronic stability control, traction control, a brake assist system, and abs are optional. While execs were mum on pricing, they claim consumers will be "pleasantly surprised" by Optima's new value when it hits dealerships this spring.

Kia's all-new soul concept car made its world debut at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. The Soul concept is a crossover-utility vehicle with an athletic look, recalling the design of dual skylights, wheel flares, stylish front headlamps, and a sloped roofline to convey soul's sporty attitude, which is intended to appeal to consumers with an active lifestyle. The interior is peppered with practical interior room and a reconfigurable cargo space. Housed in the glovebox is a notebook computer with a video game monitor. The rear liftgate includes a unique "drawer" for storing wet or muddy items. Power comes from a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability. The concept represents a collaborative effort between both American and South Korean designers.

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