Critical Knowledge:

2010 Kia Forte: The 2010 Kia Forte sedan replaces the Kia Spectra and competes against the likes of the Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Key standard features include 3 free months of satellite radio, auxiliary audio input jack, USB port, and Bluetooth hands-free calling. Stability and traction control are also standard, along with ABS, and the Forte delivers 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway when properly equipped.

2010 Forte Kia Koup: The 2010 Forte Koup is Kia's first coupe model, based on the new Forte sedan's platform and powertrains. Standard features include stability control, Bluetooth hands-free calling, USB port and auxiliary jack with full iPod control, and a free 3-month subscription to Sirius satellite radio. Buyers looking for more vroom should choose the more powerful, better handling SX model.

2010 Kia Optima: The 2010 Kia Optima receives minor changes after a significant refresh for 2009. Models with a V-6 engine under the hood are distinguished by a blacked-out lower rear bumper for 2010, and the V-6 can be equipped with push-button starting for the first time.

2010 Kia Rio: Kia upgrades the 2010 Rio Sedan and Rio5 Hatchback with new styling, and buyers will appreciate the standard USB port and auxiliary audio input jack. Later in the year Bluetooth will be offered on all but the base Rio Sedan.

2010 Kia Rondo: Every 2010 Kia Rondo features a third-row seat now that the 5-passenger model has been discontinued. A reversing camera is available in the optional Premium package this year, and a new Ecominder light helps drivers maximize fuel efficiency.

2010 Kia Sedona: The 2010 Kia Sedona's standard V-6 engine is revised to improve fuel economy to 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, and the long-wheelbase LX and EX models are equipped with a standard back-up warning system for 2010.

2010 Kia Soul: Kia's new entry-level 5-door hatchback has plenty of personality, a great powertrain warranty, generous roadside assistance plan, lots of safety features, and standard technology that today's youthful buyers crave: USB port, auxiliary audio input jacks, and a free trial subscription to satellite radio.

2010 Kia Sportage: After receiving numerous changes for 2009, the 2010 Sportage carries over with two updates: A back-up warning system is newly optional, and the dashboard gauge cluster has a new Ecominder light to help the driver maximize fuel efficiency.