Diesel Kias? Close, But No Cigar
During the press launch of the 2017 Kia Sportage, I had the opportunity to talk with some of the company's spokespeople about future products.
Seems like we were about to get diesel-powered Kias in North America! A few short months ago, Kia had a very nice surprise coming for us. According to people within the brand, there was a batch of Diesel Sorentos in Korea pretty much ready to embark on containers bound for our continent.
But something happened.
Volkswagen's Dieselgate happened.
Within a few days, the word diesel became taboo: every single TDI was pulled off the shelves, and even the other brands suffered. For example, Chevrolet had to delay the launch of its Duramax-powered Colorado because the EPA wanted to run additional tests.
Dieselgate seriously hampered the arrival of diesel Kias here. Even though those engines would likely pass emission tests, the public's opinion just isn't good enough for this type of fuel.
So what about the future? Kia North America might still decide to sell their diesels later on, when the whole Dieselgate affair dies down. If you suddenly lust for a Diesel Optima, Sorento or Forte, follow the results of Volkswagen's investigation and trial, as that will likely determine the fate of diesels in North America.
- Check out our Kia Zone
- More information about Volkswagen's Dieselgate