Kia Koup - What a Concept!
Kia has an image problem. Well, not really. The South Korean automaker is often found in the shadow of Hyundai, the automotive giant which owns a significant chunk of the company. Kia is actually part of the Hyundai Kia Automotive Group, which is based in Seoul and the two automakers share several platforms for various models.
In North America, we're familiar with the many different economically priced models including the Sorento, Optima, Rio, and Spectra, to name a few. Kia is also big on building concept cars, including the KOUP which made its debut at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.
The KOUP is an attractive sport coupe, reminding me of the Nissan SX cars and including expressive lines you see on today's iteration of the muscle car. Clearly, if the KOUP comes out as shown (please, toss the name!) it could be a landmark model for Kia.
A 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower paired with a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) twin scroll turbocharger designed to deliver superior power and fuel efficiency. By means of injecting fuel directly into the cylinder under high pressure using the Kia GDI system, the intake charge is cooled and combustion behavior is improved. Improved combustion assures excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Lower grille openings enable additional air intake for extra power. Kia claims that the KOUP delivers torque of 289 lb-ft at a low 2,000 rpm sustained to 4,000 rpm.
Kia says this about the the car: utilizing a FWD unibody frame, coil springs and stabilizer bars complement an independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts and an independent dual link rear suspension to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort and engine responsiveness. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling. Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for quick movements and sharp turns paired with a sport-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and strut tower bar offer a tighter grip for more spirited driving.
Will the KOUP go into production? Time will tell, but if the car is produced it could significantly improve Kia's budget image.
By Matthew Keegan
Visit the Blog about kia bergenKia Kue Ramps Up NAIAS
During the 2007 NAIAS, Kia Motors America (KMA) deemed that it would be the best time for them to unveil one of their newest concept vehicles. Kia proudly calls their new concept the Kia Kue and it has been created to be a crossover concept car. Len Hunt, the chief and executive vice president of KMA says, “We’ve instilled confidence and integrity in our consumer base with vehicles that provide value, quality, and safety. Kue embodies the next phase of our brand evolution, which will instill pride and passion in our customers through great design.”
The company also does continue to say that the Kia Kue is going to be one unique concept crossover. Drivers of the vehicle would be able to experience a different kind of feel while also basking in the awesome appeal of being able to hail much cargo. It uses a moncooque platform plus it also has a wheel base that measures more than 114 inches. With that, one can truly say that the Kia Kue has got not only appeal but also functionality and practicality. Space is surely something that the vehicle can afford to give in excess. Aside from this, the Kia Kue would be rolling on tires that measure some twenty two inches.
If this vehicle is soon going to be a production vehicle, Kia Motors has been hinting that perhaps soon enough in the near future, this crossover concept would be created and produced as a production vehicle. The design of the Kia Kue has also been deemed to be yet another milestone for the company and could be the base for future vehicles from the company. On this, Tom Kearns, the chief designer of the auto brand, says, “Good design shouldn’t look like you are trying too hard. The future Kia direction will incorporate the ‘less is more’ philosophy but still include a heavy dose of boldness to be distinct.”
Taking a quick tour in the interior of the Kia Kue, one would find the cabin to be clean yet having a tint of sportiness. It can quite graciously take in four passengers and seat then on custom-built bucket seats. The driver would also be having a grand time at its interface that has the best kind of technology you can find in the market. Passengers can also program the entire system of the Kia Kue so as to suit their whims and wants.
By Correy Putton
