Currently reading: Quick news: Kia desires sporty model, New options for Defender

Kia chief “desires” a sporty model; Land Rover has added more options and colour schemes to its Defender; Ford Focus models outsell Corolla in 2012

Kia UK chief executive, Paul Philpott says the firm has a desire to launch “a sporty and dynamic” car to complement its core range, but exactly which type of car it should be is yet to be decided. “The desire is there, but it has to work on a global scale”, he said. “Whether it’s a GT car, a coupe or a roadster is out of our hands [in the UK]."

Land Rover Defender buyers can specify a new, more supportive and stylish seat premium seat design. The base audio system can now be upgraded to incorporate Bluetooth connectivity and a 150W Alpine subwoofer. Additionally a choice of four new contrasting roof colours, including white, black, silver, grey or red can be ordered alongside new paint finishes: Barolo Black and Havana.

The Ford Focus has sold more than any other model in the first six months of 2012. Research by HIS Automotive found 489,616 Focuses were sold, compared to the next nearest model, the Toyota Corolla, which sold 462,616 units. The research doesn't make the European and North American Focus number one though: the Focus nameplate appears on a variety of models, including versions of the second-generation model, which ended production in Europe in 2011.

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