Cool Concepts - Kia KOUP

My, what big letters your model name uses!

Like Saturn which names its models in caps, Kia is starting to show off a concept car that they hope will garner the Korean automaker plenty of attention. The Kia KOUP is a sexy, stylish concept car now making the rounds of the auto shows. If it is receives a green light for production, this car could go a long way toward reforming Kia's budget image.

Kia KOUP - What's With The Name?

The variation of coupe in the KOUP's name is likely to stir some controversy. Personally, I don't like it, but I do think that the car is attractive. This car reminds me of Kia's sister company's coupe, the Hyundai Tiburon, but the Kia model certainly has the better looking lines. Kia would do well to come up with another name should the coupe go into production.

The Kia concept is powered by 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.

These numbers put the KOUP squarely in Mitsubishi Eclipse territory, one of the car's likely competitors. The Eclipse has performed well for Mitsubishi and the KOUP could do the same for Kia. Besides, when you think of Kia the term "low-budget" comes to mind. The new coupe can help to burnish Kia's image like no car before it.

Where To See It?

Having made its debut at the 2008 New York International Auto Show, expect that Kia will show the car at major venues over the coming months. If public reception for the car is good, then expect that production will begin as soon as possible. This could mean that the oddly named KOUP will hit US streets as early as 2010, a car delivering good looks, performance, and fuel economy for a value price.

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