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Kia’s popular Sorento mid-sized SUV, including the sought-after 2.5-litre CRDi models, is now available for a limited time with $3,400 worth of extra equipment that makes Sorento perfect for your next trip, whether it’s circumnavigating the world or just going away for the weekend.

Styled along the lines of the Kia Sorento used by Swedish adventurer Christer Gerlach in his 2005 solo circumnavigation of the world and his retracing of the route for the cancelled 2008 Paris-Dakar rally earlier this year, the new Sorento Global Circuit is packed with lots of must-have equipment for no extra cost.

The limited edition Sorento Global Circuit pack, with a retail value of $3,400, adds a towbar with wiring, nudge bar, roof bar set, genuine tailored carpet mats, rear parking sensors, alloy side steps, rubber cargo mat, ARB recovery kit and unique Global Circuit badging – at no extra cost.

“In Australia, Sorento appeals to buyers who want 4WD capability, strong towing capacity, comprehensive equipment, outstanding value and the confidence of a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty,” said Bill Gillespie, Director of Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors Australia.

“Sorento now offers a choice of 2.5-litre common rail diesel or 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine, with lower running costs and emissions, renowned quality and higher levels of safety.

“Christer Gerlach, considered by many to be the most experienced solo endurance driver in the world, has proven the strength and reliability of Sorento across thousands of kilometres of the roughest terrain.

“He drove it solo around the world via Mongolia and Siberia, he drove it through some of the toughest environments in Africa, and he’s earned entries in the Guinness Book of Records for his feats.

“This limited edition Global Circuit pack recognises the significance of his achievements by bringing together some of the equipment most sought by Sorento customers who want to undertake their own big adventure.

“Best of all, this equipment comes at no extra cost – it’s a great deal,” said Mr. Gillespie.

The new limited edition Sorento Global Circuit pack is available through Kia dealers across Australia from July to October this year.

Priced similarly to many compact SUVs, the new Sorento range offers real 4WD capability, best-in-class towing capacity of 2,800kg, and the choice in all grades of an efficient 3.3-litre petrol V6 engine producing 180kW or the new, torquey 2.5-litre turbo-diesel with common rail direct injection (CRDi) producing 125kW.

Sorento features a ladder-frame construction and a dual-range transfer case 4WD system – serious 4WD credentials when most competitors offer only ‘soft-roader’ torque-split 4WD systems.

The Sorento range comprises the base model Sorento LX, the mid-range Sorento EX and the top-of-the range Sorento EX Limited. All models are available with a five-speed tiptronic-style automatic transmission, with a five-speed manual transmission also available on Sorento LX CRDi.

Sorento has been a global success story for Kia since it was launched late in 2002, with more than 750,000 sold around the world, and continues to rack up awards around the globe.

In 2007, it was recognised as the “Leading mid-sized SUV” in the Strategic Vision Total Quality Index in the USA and as the “Best Medium Off-Roader” by Planet 4×4 in the United Kingdom. In 2008, Sorento has already been recognised as “Best All-Wheel Drive over 1800 kg” in the Towcar of the Year awards in the UK.

“I believe the Sorento Global Circuit is probably the best value, fully-featured medium SUV on the market at present,” concluded Mr. Gillespie. “It offers the luxury, standard features, comfort and style for which you’d expect to pay many thousands of dollars more, and adds $3,400 worth of valuable equipment for no extra cost.

“The new Sorento Global Circuit limited edition model is such a smart buy – the mid-sized SUV with all the features, but without the badge premium.”

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Having made its global debut earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Kia Motors America (KMA) today officially launched the 2009 Borrego midsize SUV. Borrego is one of the first production offerings based off of the new design direction Kia continues to unveil through concept vehicles including the Kue, KND-4, Kee and KOUP. Given a straightforward and clean look, Borrego is intended for those who enjoy an active yet uncomplicated lifestyle.

Outstanding Performance and Capabilities

Borrego is offered with a DOHC, all-aluminum 3.8-liter V6 as well as Kia’s first-ever DOHC 4.6-liter V8 engine, also all-aluminum; both engines are more powerful than any in Kia’s line to date. While the V6 produces a competitive 276 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 267 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, the all-new V8 generates a class-leading¹ 337 horsepower at 6,000 rpm with 323 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm – more powerful than the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and GMC Acadia.

Borrego runs on regular unleaded fuel compared to the Pathfinder, which requires premium unleaded. Both engines also are available in either two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).

With class-leading towing of 7,500 pounds when partnered to the V8, and 5,000 pounds with the V6, the new midsize SUV offers unmatched capabilities for a weekend of camping or outdoor lifestyle activities. Borrego models with 4WD feature the second generation full-time Torque-on-Demand® system from BorgWarner, which uses electronic sensors to monitor road conditions and distribute power to the appropriate wheels. Improvements have been made to deliver a fast response and a quieter operation. The result is responsive, sure-footed performance in varying road conditions, all of which is practically seamless to driver and passengers.

Combining its impressive horsepower and torque with the unique-to-Borrego and new-to-Kia six-speed automatic transmission mated to the V8 engine, the midsize SUV is able to achieve best-in-class² fuel economy for an engine of its kind with an EPA rating of 15/22 city/highway for the V8 with 2WD and 15/20 city/highway for the 4WD – perfect for families on the go as well as for long road trips. When the V6 is under the hood, Borrego is able to achieve competitive fuel economy of 17/21 city/highway (2WD) and 16/21 city/highway (4WD).

Borrego’s muscular exterior sits on a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension matched with coil-over springs. The front suspension integrates shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar, while the rear incorporates a damper and stabilizer bar, providing an optimal riding experience, on- or off-road. Borrego is built on a hydro-formed frame structure that increases durability and rigidity. Improved fuel efficiency because of its lighter weight is a result of the hydraulic forming process as opposed to traditional welded press forming. Its body-on-frame construction and insulated rubber mounting provide improved reduction in noise, vibration, and harshness, and help absorb vibrations from the road surface and powertrain yielding a smooth, quiet ride for driver and passengers.

Powerful, Persuasive Exterior

Embodying a certain rugged refinement, Borrego’s aggressive, wide stance evokes an image of stability and strength while flared back headlamps, an upright grille and chiseled hood project a strong presence. LED side view mirrors and chrome accents add to its polished look. Contemporary front and rear fascias suggest modern luxury while optional 18-inch alloy wheels offer increased off-road capabilities, allowing consumers to live an energetic life in style whether it’s cruising around town or trekking through the mountains.

Built on a platform with a wheelbase of 114.0 inches, an overall length of 192.3 inches and overall width of 75.4 inches, Borrego stands wider and longer than the Chevy Trailblazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner. Its wide stance allows for a roomy, comfortable interior with standard three rows of seating for up to seven adult passengers.

Luxurious and Functional Amenities

Available in LX and EX trims, Borrego’s spacious cabin comes well equipped with a slew of standard convenience features, including: air conditioning; power door locks, windows and mirrors; keyless entry; cruise control and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 six-speaker audio system to keep its passengers entertained and comfortable. Complementing the audio system, Borrego comes standard with USB and auxiliary input jack and is the first Kia vehicle to offer SIRIUS Satellite Radio with three months of complimentary service for hours of uninterrupted amusement³.

Adding even more refinement and upgrades, the EX trim level includes an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, four-way power adjustable front passenger’s seat, floor mats, dual-zone automatic climate control, Homelink® with compass, steering wheel audio controls, trip computer, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The new midsize SUV also offers Kia’s first voice-activated navigation system, with a Rear Seat Entertainment Package that includes an eight-inch widescreen television (EX models) for passenger entertainment during long car rides or around-town adventures.

With the EX trim level, consumers also are optioned with the Luxury and Premium Packages. The Luxury Package includes: nicely appointed leather seats; heated front seats; power tilt and telescopic steering wheel; and memory settings for the driver’s seat, outside mirrors and steering wheel. Progressing to the Premium Package includes everything in the Luxury Package in addition to a sunroof, a 10-speaker Infinity audio system, rear air conditioning with controls, running boards and a rear camera display for enhanced visual assistance.

In the fall, Borrego will offer the top-of-the-line, Limited trim level in addition to the LX and EX trims, which will come only in a black monotone exterior with black interior trim. Exclusive features to the Limited edition include push button start/smart key, Supervision™ meter cluster, power adjustable pedals, chrome accents on outside door handles and rear garnish, heated second row seats, Bluetooth®, Limited exterior badging and floor mats. Limited trim also includes the Luxury and Premium package content, less the running boards.

With Borrego’s 156.8 cubic foot interior volume, it offers more room for its seven passengers than Explorer, Pathfinder, 4Runner, Grand Cherokee and the all-new Pilot. Depending on passenger or driver requirements, Borrego comes with a sliding second row for easy ingress and egress to the third row, as well as fold-flat second and third row seats to optimize cargo space, which measures an impressive 12.4 cubic feet with all seats utilized, 97.6 cubic feet with all seats folded flat.

Exceptional Standard Safety

Borrego ups the ante in safety, offering the same high level of standard safety equipment as all Kia vehicles, including additional features exclusive to the midsize SUV. Standard equipment includes front advanced airbags, front seat mounted side airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags for all three rows and driver’s knee airbag (V8 models only), four-wheel disc brakes with an antilock brake system (ABS) including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control system (TCS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist system (BAS) and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Borrego’s technologies all work together to provide a technically sophisticated safety package for the driver and passengers.

Working with the standard ABS with ESC, EBD and TCS, the system can apply individual brakes selectively to control oversteer and understeer as needed to help the driver maintain control on slippery surfaces or during certain emergency maneuvers. Being able to control any or all of the brakes allows the ESC system to provide responsiveness, control and enhanced accident avoidance capabilities to help the driver, although ESC is not a substitute for safe driving procedures.

The TCS uses brake and engine torque intervention to enhance traction during launch and acceleration on road surfaces. If the ABS system detects wheel slip, it signals the engine control unit to adjust engine torque output accordingly. TCS also senses when one or more wheels spin faster than the vehicle’s speed, and if this condition is present it applies the brakes to that wheel or wheels. Working together, the two systems limit wheel spin and help the driver maintain control.

A standard back-up warning system provides an audible warning using ultrasonic sensors to detect and help prevent hitting hard-to-see objects. Borrego also includes Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), which helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when trying to pull away from an uphill gradient, as well as Downhill Brake Control (DBC), which helps keep the vehicle moving straight and steady down steep grades. Both functions are new to Kia.

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Borrego is covered by a comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a five-year or 100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan is also part of the comprehensive coverage program.

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Kia Motors Corporation has confirmed that its all-new production model, the Kia Soul, will be marketed globally with a choice of three highly efficient engines (depending on individual markets), when it goes on sale in early 2009.

The most powerful engine will be a 2-litre gasoline unit. A smaller capacity 1.6-litre gasoline engine will be offered in most countries, alongside a 1.6-litre diesel engine featuring a VGT (variable geometry turbocharger).

Both the 1.6-litre, four cylinder, 16-valve DOHC power units are based closely on engines fitted to the hugely successful, European-built, Kia cee’d.

Kia has also confirmed that the new model, which will be available exclusively as a five-door hatchback with front-wheel drive, will have an overall length of 4,105 mm, and a 2,550 mm wheelbase. Height will be 1,610 mm and width 1,785mm – excluding door mirrors.

To be manufactured in Korea from November 2008 for overseas markets, the Kia Soul will defy conventions and appeal especially to the young and the young-at-heart – whatever their age.

Kia Soul is not a replacement for an existing vehicle and is destined to play a unique role within Kia’s global product line-up. Kia Soul will provide a creative platform for buyers to individualise and match their car to their own personality.

The World Premiere of the Kia Soul will be celebrated on 2 October 2008 at the Paris Motor Show. The exciting new Kia model is scheduled to go on sale in Europe during February 2009, with sales in the USA and remaining overseas markets beginning in April 2009.

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Summer has finally arrived and Kia has a whole host of offers to keep you cool whilst the days are still hot.

Kia has launched two new Chill models this summer, Picanto Chill and Rio Chill. The Picanto Chill starts from just £6,995 and comes complete with air conditioning, remote central locking, full iPod compatibility and a choice of funky colors, including Cool Blue – exclusively available on Chill models. With only four seats this Picanto emits just 118 g/km making this Chill even cooler on the wallet.

The Rio Chill comes with a choice of 1.4 liter petrol or 1.5 liter CRDi and starts from just £7,995. The 1.5-CRDi engine emits just 119 g/km and comes with air conditioning, central locking and front electric windows, as well as a spoiler and 14” alloys to keep this Rio looking so cool it has almost got frostbite.

The cee’d family is also extending its line-up this summer with the introduction of two special edition models.

The ZR-7 means that the pro_cee’d is being offered with a 1.4 liter petrol engine for the first time from just £11,995 OTR. This entry level model comes with 16” alloys, air conditioning, metal interior finish, black bezel headlights. remote central locking and to top it all off it comes with one years free insurance. It’s the perfect start to the stylish pro_cee’d range.

The cee’d SR-7, with a choice of 1.4 liter or 1.6 liter petrol engines, brings the unique Mars Red from the pro_cee’d range to the five door cee’d for the first time, along with an exciting choice of other colors, both solid and metallic. With this unique look the cee’d SR-7 also adds a 6CD changer, USB/Auxillary socket, unique 16” alloys, air conditioning and front fog lights. With a starting price from just £10,995 and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions there is now a cee’d to match everyone’s needs.

Kia Soul Production Version Debut At Paris
2008 Kia SOUL Burner Concept

To mark the 100-day countdown to the start of the UEFA European Football Championship (UEFA EURO 2008), Kia Motors Corporation, a maker of quality vehicles for the young-at-heart, announced today the rollout of interactive, user-orientated web tools on a new micro-site to help leverage its role as an official global sponsor of this year’s tournament.

Through Kia’s micro-site (http://euro2008.kiamotors.com), football fans will have an opportunity to attend a match featuring their team at this year’s tournament through Kia’s ‘Drive for Glory’ and the ‘Be Kia, Be Together’ competitions. Furthermore, young fans will have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams as a Kia Official Match Ball Carrier via a variety of events held by participating Kia dealers. Through this sole and exclusive UEFA sanctioned program, 31 selected ball carriers will personally carry the official match ball to the referees on the pitch just before kick off at every match of the UEFA EURO 2008 tournament.

Each official ball carrier and a guardian will receive a hospitality package from Kia Motors.

Hyoung-Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President and COO of Kia Motors Corporation, said, “This year’s tournament – with its slogan ‘Expect Emotions’ – is a great fit for our young-at-heart brand. As with our other major sports marketing activities, like the Kia Fan of the Day at the Australian Open, we like to find ways in which fans can interact with the Kia brand in a meaningful and fun way.”

The Kia ‘Drive to Glory’ road show encourages football fans to design custom body artwork for the Kia cee’d – Kia’s first car designed and built by and for Europeans. 16 winners, one representing each qualified country participating in this year’s tournament, will then take part in a 16-vehicle cee’d convoy from Kia’s recently opened and state-of-the-art production facility in Zilina, Slovakia to Vienna, Austria. Each winner will also receive a hospitality package from Kia Motors. Special customized vinyl wraps will be used on each cee’d vehicle to represent the winning entrants’ designs. Entrants can enter via the website or at a participating Kia showroom.

The ‘Be Kia, Be Together’ competition will also offer a Kia Motors hospitality package to 16 lucky winners. The competition encourages fans to come up with a creative, inspiring and fun slogan cheering on their favorite team. Winning slogans will be used on giant Kia T-shirts to be displayed at the official EURO 2008 Fan Zones in Zurich and Vienna.

The Kia micro-site will also feature the latest news, scores and tournament information for this year’s tournament.

Kia’s UEFA EURO 2008 sponsorship also entitles the carmaker to promote its brand on perimeter boards around the stadiums and through official UEFA TV broadcast partners during the event, and use the event’s official logo in company media materials. In addition, Kia will provide official vehicles that will be used during the event. The sponsorship also deepens its relationship with football and allows the company to actively build its global brand through its support of the most popular sport in the world.

Kia’s stylish and sporty pro_cee’d is no stranger to Germany’s Nürburgring having been extensively tested there during development but this weekend is back to prove itself in the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

The barely modified three door pro_cee’d has been entered into Europe’s toughest and most legendary long-distance race by a team from Continental Italia who are hoping to triumph over the competition with as few tire changes as possible. In fitting ContiSportContact 3 standard tires to the pro_cee’d rather than race tires, the team expect to have an advantage over those that have to swap tires with each change in weather conditions.

The pro_cee’d is powered by Kia’s strong, flexible 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 138bhp at 4000rpm and 305Nm of torque all the way from 1800 to 2500rpm, giving instant, strong response throughout the rev band and outstanding performance.

During development, the handling on pro_cee’d was fine tuned on all kinds of roads and in all types of weather conditions in Germany, France, Spain and Sweden so the likely rainfall this weekend will not hinder the Kia’s progress. Test tracks also played an important part in the dynamic development of the all-round independent suspension, with pro_cee’d being put through its paces on circuits and proving grounds such as Nürburgring, Boxberg and ATP/Papenburg, Ladoux and Idiada.

Four drivers will share the 1,900km journey between them – Dr Alberto Bergamaschi who already has 360 races under his belt; Gianni Bellani – an experienced long distance race expert; and two of the most experienced touring car drivers, Paolo Cecchellero and Edo Varini. Their motto for the race is simple: As few tire changes as possible, as many changes as necessary.

The Continental Italia pro_cee’d will also be supported by Castol as the market leader for special oils for extreme use. Kia Motors and Continental were brought together by the UEFA EURO 2008 as both companies are official sponsors.

Kia Motors Corporation has confirmed that its all-new production model will retain the spirit and name of the SOUL concept cars shown earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, and the first SOUL concept debuted at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. As well as confirming the name, Kia has released the first official photograph of the production car, which will be called the ‘Kia Soul’.

“Reaction from the media and public to the three SOUL concept cars first unveiled at the Geneva Show in March and shown subsequently at other international events, has been overwhelmingly positive,” enthused Mr. Hyoung-Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President and COO, International Business Division, Kia Motors Corporation. “This reaction, plus the fact that both physically and emotionally the SOUL concept cars are so closely related to the new Kia Soul production car, made it a natural choice to retain this evocative name.”

“The SOUL concept cars reveal a whole new ‘fun’ side to Kia. They signal that our new Kia Soul production model is poised to defy convention and offer buyers a ‘world of possibilities’ for expressing their personality. This new model will reach out to a new group of consumers, appealing especially to the young and young-at-heart,” added Mr. Lee.

The three concept cars – SOUL Burner, SOUL Diva and SOUL Searcher – were created by Kia’s European design team led by Gregory Guillaume, under the guidance of Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer. They were developed from the original SOUL concept car designed jointly by Kia’s California and Korea design studios and unveiled in 2006 at Detroit.

Speaking about the choice of name for the original 2006 Detroit concept car, Tom Kearns, chief designer of Kia Motors America commented, “We wanted to inject some life into this car’s design and give it a soul. And of course ‘Soul’ also is a homophone for the home city of Kia Motors headquarters, in Korea so it’s a fun play on words.”

Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, strongly endorsed that name choice at the Geneva Show earlier this year, commenting, “The name SOUL accurately reflects how people will be able to ‘express their spirit—their psyche’ with this new product. Through a variety of options, accessories and colours, they will be able to personalize their Kia Soul and create a sense of individuality, making the car a true reflection of their personality.”

Looking ahead to the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Gregory Guillaume observed, “Because the new Kia Soul is not a replacement for an existing vehicle and is destined to play a unique role within the Kia global lineup, it can be a bit of a rebel! The trio of Geneva concepts were ‘appetisers’ for the new model introduction at Paris, and you can be certain that the new Kia Soul model will retain the core DNA of the three exciting concepts.”

The all-new Kia Soul defies classification but its design will encourage customers to build an emotional bond with this rebellious new car. To be made in Korea from September 2008, Kia Soul provides a creative platform for buyers to individualise and match their car to their own personalities.

The new Kia Soul production car will make its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show October 2008.

2008 Kia SOUL Burner Concept

Kia announces new KEE_wii concept with revolutionary wireless driving system
Kia unveils electronic high-tech driving system

-Steering wheel replaced by games console-style handset
-Set to revolutionise driving for the future
-Kia demands driving entitlement for children as young as eight
-Kia Motors has announced a unique development of its Peter Schreyer-designed sports coupe concept – the KEE_wii.

First seen at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007, the KEE was a clear indication of the design direction of Kia product. However, the latest upgrade to KEE will make sure it is one step ahead of the competition with a new, dynamic and more involving drive system that removes the need for a steering wheel and pedals.

Franz Josef-Hicks, head of the Advanced Propulsion Research Institute and Laboratory at Kia Motors New Zealand, explained; ‘We have taken inspiration from current computer gaming technology to create a completely new steering and pedal system called Dynamic On-Road Kinetics. The traditional driving controls are replaced by a small ‘controller’ which fits comfortably into two hands. Making steering motions with the small controller will turn the car in whichever direction the driver likes whilst accelerator and brakes are button operated. It is a very simple and intuitive system.’ added Mr Josef-Hicks.

Kia believes there is an added advantage – passengers can take the controls and enjoy the dynamic drive of the KEE_wii from any seat in the car. “This is ultimate flexibility,” enthused Mr Josef-Hicks. “If you are travelling in left or right-hand drive countries you will be able to control the vehicle from the correct seat and if a passenger knows a road particularly well they can take control and make the journey more efficient and faster. We have patented this newly developed wireless system known as Full Orthopaedic Operating Logic. Okay, so visibility is a minor issue for those in the back seats, but we don’t think this will be a problem as a lot of people don’t really look where they are going when they drive – and we have built in a fail-safe security system called Independent Driver Input Operating Technique that utilises radar to avoid accidents.”

The KEE_wii dynamic control system will be available on new Kia cars a year from today and will then be optional on forthcoming generations of models as they are updated or replaced.

Alongside unveiling the updated KEE_wii, Kia also announced it plans to lobby governments to change driving test regulations. Mr Josef-Hicks added ‘Every parent is embarrassed at the sharp and speedy computer driving skills of their children – it seems obvious to us that if children as young as eight can drift, rally and race their way to multiple world championships on a games console, then this new driving system will be simple enough for anyone to use. Even from the back seat. With this new KEE_wii driving system we want governments to consider changing real word driving tests for computer simulations’.

The KEE_wii provides clear indication; Kia Motors does indeed have ‘The Power to Surprise’.

Design Cues, Indicative of an Emotional and Powerful Driving Experience, Reflect Brand Evolution

- Distinctive “check mark” shape furthers the performance-inspired appearance
- Realistic interior design makes KIA KOUP a true driver’s car

Combining youthful exuberance with a sporty and sleek design, Kia Motors America (KMA) today globally debuted the Kia KOUP concept at the 2008 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) during a press conference at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Illustrating the shape and evolution of future Kia vehicles, the simple yet bold and aggressive Kia KOUP exterior is complemented by its realistic and sleek interior design. Originating from the Kia Motors America Design Center in Irvine, Calif., the Kia KOUP concept embodies Kia’s philosophy of “Exciting and Enabling” with its balanced proportions and fluid design set to evoke an emotional driving experience.

“The Kia KOUP concept represents the future of the Kia brand and its dynamic vehicles that speak to our core philosophies,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer of KMA. “Kia strives to appeal to the emotional side of car enthusiasts who seek adventure and want to take a leap into the future with style and advanced technology, and the Kia KOUP effectively delivers.”

First Glance

Curb appeal begins with the Kia KOUP’s balanced proportions and fluid design. From the tab-shaped and purposeful upper grille to the high-tech and pragmatic headlamps, the front fascia’s form gives the vehicle a bold and aggressive stance.

The Kia KOUP features an uncomplicated yet dynamic wedge shape along its sides stemming from its glowing, carbon fiber and black chrome enhanced LED lamp lenses.

While the KOUP’s overall form is simple and precise, it makes a design statement with positive tension created by a “swoosh” that swoops from the “C” pillar forward, down to the “A” pillar and flares all the way back around to the rear deck lid. A trailing horizontal lip along the deck lid tapers up toward the outer ends to meet up with the swoosh from the beltline. The rocker sill has a distinctive “check mark” shape and prominent wheel flares that give the Kia KOUP a strong, lowered stance. The short overhangs and wide stance reflect its well-balanced and responsive character.

No element of high-style design is missing in the KOUP concept as illustrated by its greenhouse-integrated, panoramic-view glass with two panels extending from the windshield through the roof to the backlight, appearing as two parallel pieces of glass – similar to a fighter jet cockpit. Segregating the glass panels, an interior mood light runs the full length of the greenhouse. To further the performance-inspired appearance with sporty elegance, carbon fiber enhancements accent the Kia KOUP’s chin spoiler, lamp lenses, cowl panel, side-view mirrors, rear bumper insert and rear diffuser, while flashy twin wheel spokes include carbon fiber inserts paired with an open design to show off the Brembo® calipers and cross-drilled rotors.

Inside the Cockpit

Conceived artfully and with graphic precision, the KOUP’s interior hones in on the desires of auto enthusiasts from the inward lean of the dashboard and Supervision instrument panel, enhancing the performance-inspired driving experience to the custom-designed, race-inspired steering wheel in front of a three-gauge instrument cluster. Carbon fiber accents on the shifter plate and seat tilt-adjust mechanism reinforce sporty performance.

Audiophiles and car enthusiasts alike will take heed of eight speakers, including large rear deck speakers matched to a juke box audio system, further harmonizing the driving experience. A built-in Bluetooth-enabled navigation system with Map On Demand (MOD) is just the beginning of the telematics services, including safe driving, car maintenance and life/assistance offerings.

The KOUP features a realistic interior design that integrates high-style materials, including rich and supple seat fabrics accentuated with concrete- and black-color trims. As a true driver’s car, the front seats contrast the rear seats with opposing colors and patterning and horizontal, padded silicone bars occupy the seat backs for extra comfort. High-tech details are integrated into the interior, including convenient smart key with push button start, and a six-speed automatic transmission with steering column-mounted paddle shifters.

Taking Flight

Powered by a commanding 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower paired with a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) twin scroll turbocharger for greater power and efficiency, the Kia KOUP delivers astonishing torque of 289 lb-ft at a low 2,000 rpm sustained to 4,000 rpm. By 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.

Built on a front-wheel-drive 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. In keeping with the KOUP’s sporty essence, 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.

Safety

The Kia KOUP concept features all of the standard safety features offered in Kia’s regular production vehicle lineup including six standard airbags and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) paired with CDC stabilizes the KOUP for maximum contact with the pavement. The large 245/40ZR19 tires complete the KOUP’s impressive package. Also included is adaptive front lighting and cruise control, adding to the KOUP’s advanced safety technology.