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

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The Charm Of The Kia Sedona Minivan

Since the year 1999, Kia Motor has been producing the Kia Sedona. This vehicle is an entrant to the minivan segment and it has been created with four doors. It takes the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyseey, Dodge Caravan, Ford Galaxy, and Renault Espace as its competition in the auto market, especially in the minivan segment.

What makes the Kia Sedona a very popular vehicle is that it holds a price tag that is not too high despite the fact that it can carry both cargo and people comfortably. Other minivans would be asking for a great amount but the Kia Sedona does not. And it delivers well. It even took home the award as Auto Express’ 2006 Used Car. Certainly, it just goes to show that the Kia Sedona has become quite a market favorite.

This vehicle can take in seven grown ups in its interior. And without having to feel cramped and crowded inside. Practicality is one characteristic that the Kia Sedona offers. Not only through the features that it offers, but also through the quality yet inexpensive Kia auto parts available in the market just in case you do need to have some replacement parts. And even used Kia Sedona parts are still popular and selling like hotcakes in the auto market.

There are petrol-powered Kia Sedonas in the market and there are also some powered by diesel. And between the two, the petrol Kia Sedonas are much cheaper. Those vehicles manufacturer before 2002 also have to be maintained more frequently compared to those manufactured starting 2002. However, practicality still stands out and keeps the Kia Sedona an amazing vehicle at that.

And if you think that the Kia Sedona is a boring vehicle, then you should probably think again. It offers entertainment features that would keep you up and alert while you enjoy the ride. And you do get to shell out only a small amount for everything that such a charming vehicle has to offer you. In the market, you most probably can buy a new Kia Sedona for around $20,000, which is a price way lower than most minivans.

By Terry Brown