New York 2008: Kia Koup Concept Sparks Interest

kiakoupconcept-3.jpg picture by willfusion

Wait, wait, wait… Do not turn away just yet! This is not your typical little Kia submission for concept consideration. For once less dismiss the hyperbole and cut straight to the numbers. Beneath the tiny candy-coated shell of this singular little Koup would be Kia’s new 2.0 liter Thetta II turbo-charged engine, with direct injection and built in cooled intake, that pumps out an impressive 290-hp and 289-ft lbs of torque. No, those are not big power numbers in the grand scheme of things, but for a small, two-door Kia that kind of output is an aggressive statement.

Whether or not Kia’s intent for the wedge-shaped design was to inditacate their intention to insert themselves into the small-car market by force, their Koup appears poised to go head-to-head with any other cars in the destined segment. The large grill opening and extra two air-ports on both sides of the grill is meant to indicate that the Koup’s powerful engine needs room to breath. And Kia’s race inspired interior gives the indication that this car is built for spirited driving, while also looking production ready.

The best compliment for the Kia Koupe concept’s design is that it appears complete from front to back. The headlights and taillights carry a similar form and wrap around appearance, and the sleek curves of the body carry from front to back without losing their liquid-like flow. While the exhaust port-holes emerging from a carbon-fiber surround with its row of air fins seems unlikely to make it clear to production, we would recommend that Kia maintain that appearance with at least black plastic if this car survives its concept stage. This car looks road ready and if the mechanics and engineering are there to support the appearance what a great challenger to the Honda Civic Si you could have here.   …Check out the full gallery of photos and official Press Release from Kia after the leap… (more…)



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