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 cincinnatiKia Cars - A Legacy of Style and Affordability
The Kia brand aims to surpass customer expectations by the continuous innovation in automotives. Kia offers the world its ability to go across different market levels by creating vehicles that are very affordable. They are proud of their high quality, high value vehicles which are priced way below the competition. The affordability combined with excellent customer service and a 10-year warranty policy makes Kia a force to face in the industry of automotive manufacturing and worldwide sales.
The Kia range starts off with the Rio which is considered to be the most affordable sedan in USA. The Rio sedan has a sporty styling exterior and a 110 horsepower engine. Combined with its known roominess, it provides the all-practical sedan at a very economical price tag. The Rio5, on the other hand, provides a sporty look with its 15-inch alloy wheels, its body-color rear spoiler, and front fog lights. Spacious and comfortable, Rio5 also has leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, sports seat fabric, metal pedals, and lots of storage spaces. The Rio and Rio5 both exude practicability but with the option to go sporty and chic.
The Kia Sportage is in line with competition SUVs with its 4-cylinder engine, an option for 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive, and a 5-star crash safety rating. It offers safety features like the anti-lock brakes, six airbags including full-length side curtains, and Electronic Stability Control. The Kia Sportage is very competitive with other brand SUVs but at a very affordable price.
The Kia Optima is for those who want it sleek and elegant especially for city driving. Aside from the standard Kia features, it also boasts of its sumptuous leather seating, automatic temperature control, and 360-watt Infinity premium sound system. Those who want cars luxurious but with rare affordability, then Kia Optima is the car to drive.
Other cars on the Kia car leasing range are the Amanti for higher inspiration with its 3.8-liter, 264-horsepower V6 engine, the seven-passenger Kia Rondo SUV for an active lifestyle, the Kia Sorento SUV for ruggedness and luxury, and the mid-sized Kia Sedona with its luxurious DVD and surround speaker system for ultimate contract hire driving experience.
By Darrell Freeman
