The Kia Koup concept that debuted at the 2008 New York auto show accomplishes two things for Kia. First, it gives us a good idea of how the next-generation Kia Spectra will look, which is to say, a lot sexier than the current one. Second, it also reveals the new corporate “face” for Kia.

We caught up with Kia’s worldwide design director, Peter Schreyer, a veteran of Audi’s design studios, at Kia’s cocktail party near Javits Center the night before the official unveiling of the Koup. Kia positioned the car in a special presentation room that was awash in red lights, so it was difficult to tell what color the actual car is, because it looked kinda pink. This morning at the official unveiling, it became clear that the Koup is actually bright red, and it sports a full glass roof.

At the party, the Koup was draped, but the drape was teasingly pulled back enough to show part of the front-three-quarter view, the side greenhouse, and the rear flanks and trunk. With its muscular, defined corners and sharply drawn sheetmetal, the Koup looks great and is clearly much closer to production than, say, the Kia Kee that debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show last September. (more…)

Here are the latest spy shots of new Kia Soul taken by guys at Autoscoop.biz. Kia Soul prototype was spotted in Germany, when undergoing final phase of testing before it goes to production.

These latest spy shots and our production ready Soul images suggest that it won’t take long before Kia officially takes the wraps of the new Soul. Kia confirmed production version of Soul is scheduled to make it’s world debut at Paris Auto Show, held in September.

Along with the image above, came the information that Kia has already started trial production of the new car, code-named AM, at its plant in Gwangju, 329 kilometers south of Seoul. Production is estimated to reach 100.000 units per year. See more pics after the jump…

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Yesterday, in a blog wrapping up the New York Auto Show, Motor Trend’s Todd Lassa suggested that all the Kia Koup concept needs is a new name, a b-pillar, and it’s ready for production. Based on the front-wheel drive Spectra platform, the Koup has the potential to become a Honda Civic Si competitor in the not-so-distant future.

The Kia Koup’s interior and exterior are fairly realistic which means that, with the exception of pieces like the 3-color seats and 19-inch wheels, we might see a similar package arriving in dealerships before long. The concept is powered by the 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged four with direct injection, producing 290 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque from 2000 to 4000 rpm. The concept has a six speed automatic with paddle shifters, but if (when?) this concept does make it to production, we hope to see a five or six speed manual as well.

Another hint Kia may be developing an inexpensive FWD sports coupe with elements from the Koup is the concept’s focus on safety features like having six airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. The independent front suspension gets MacPherson struts while the rear suspension has a dual link setup.

If Kia can bring a quality Civic Si competitor under the Civic Si coupe’s $21,745 MSRP (including destination) with its five-year warranty, we think the company might have a winner on its hands. Granted, it has a long way to go before that happens, but it’s a possibility. Would you buy a toned-down production version of the Kia Koup? [Source: Motor Trend, March 21, 2008]

Kia Koup links: Images, technical specs, video preview, future Kia design

Euisun Chung, President, Kia Motors Corporation, was joined by Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue and other company and state dignitaries as they cut the ribbon today on the first building that will be part of Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Inc.’s automotive assembly complex in West Point, Ga.

“The opening of the Kia Georgia Training Center demonstrates the commitment and effectiveness of Georgia’s partnership with Kia,” Gov. Perdue said. “This center is the linchpin in providing both an opportunity for Georgia’s citizens and a quality workforce for Kia that will guarantee the success of this project.”

“The state of Georgia and especially Georgia Quick Start have provided exceptional support for our project,” said President Chung. “The quality of this training center is the best we have ever seen.”

More than 400 state and local officials attending the grand opening ceremony which was held at the new center. Joining Gov. Perdue and President Chung in the ribbon cutting were Byung-Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of Kia Motors America and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Inc.; Randy Jackson, director of human resources for Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Inc.; Ken Stewart, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development; and, Ron Jackson, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education (DTAE). Commissioner Jackson, whose agency led development of the center and will operate it through its Quick Start program, also served as master of ceremonies.

“We’re proud to provide a tangible link between the community and company with this facility,” said DTAE Commissioner Jackson. “This center is much more than a just a building – it’s a major step on the journey to a successful company and thousands of secure jobs our citizens can count on.”

The Kia Georgia Training Center is designed and equipped to provide pre-employment assessment training and job-specific training for team members at Kia’s $1 billion assembly facility which is scheduled to begin production in 2009. The center houses robotics, welding and electronics labs, classrooms and equipment for training on state-of-the-art programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Giattina Aycock Architecture Studio designed the building, and its construction was overseen by the DTAE and Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission.

Hi, I’m Steven. I’m from Singapore. 26yrs old this year. I work in the IT industries. I love to do up my car and take pictures of it. I love to DIY and help others too.

1. How long have you owned Picanto?
1yr and 9mths

2. What cars did you own before?
Picanto is my 1st car

3. Honestly, what was your intention when you bought your Picanto?
I wanted a small and affordable car. Easy to maintain in the long run. Picanto fitted the bill.

4. In a few words, describe the style of your Picanto?
I very much wanted to give it a cosy and elegant style. Is VIP a suitable description?

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Kia Koup links: 1.Image gallery, 2. Specs and details

Besides the exciting Koup concept car, Kia Motors America (KMA) also unveiled the 2009 Optima midsize sedan at the New York International Auto Show. Revised Optima now offers a completely modified exterior, which is more aggressive and dynamic than on previous model. Facelifted Optima is outfitted with a new engine that provides more power and better fuel economy! It goeas on sale in early fall.

For 2009, Optima also is larger than its predecessors, which complements its distinctive new styling and separates itself from other vehicles in the growing midsize segment.

“Optima is in a strong position to change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings,” said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of KMA. “Already known for its exemplary quality, safety and value, Optima’s sleek new redesign provides consumers with a sporty, fuel-efficient choice and showcases Kia’s commitment to providing the best all-around vehicle package.”

Engines, safety, interior and exterior details and more images…after the jump. (more…)

Sporty Kia Koup is 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 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.

Read more about engine specifications and other details after the jump… (more…)

Combining youthful exuberance with a sporty and sleek design, Kia Motors Corporation today debuted the 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 KOUP exterior is complemented by its realistic and sleek interior design.Originating from the Kia Motors America Design Center in Irvine, Calif., the 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 Kia Motors America (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 KOUP effectively delivers.”

Curb appeal begins with the 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.

Click image to enlarge!

 Find more Kia KOUP information after the jump.

New York Auto Show has just begun and Kia will be debuting an all new concept car, designed by Peter Schreyer and his team. We are revealing you the first teaser shots today and more is coming soon, so stay tunned!

Click image to enlarge!

UPDATE:

Last evening, guys from Autoblog and other automedia had been invited to check out this newest Kia concept even before it’s official unveiling. They took some great shots and I will dare to publish some of those here on KIA-WORLD, while you can see other teaser shots at their blog.

Newely taken images are revealing another breath taking concept from Kia. Two door concept car, named KOUP, will be debuting at New York today!

Kia’s press conference starts today at 9:40 AM EST and soon after that you’ll be able to find out more about the KOUP. We have some great official images, KOUP description and technical specifications prepared for you!

Photosource: Autoblog

UPDATE 2:

Photosource: Leftlanenews

KIA KOUP IMAGES AND OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE NOW AVALIABLE! (click here)

According to Automotive News, Kia Motors Corporation (KMC) is prepping to sell a domestic built mid-size pickup in the United States by 2011.

Kia has been studying the U.S. truck market for several years. In 2004 the South Korean auto manufacturer brought the KCV-4 Mojave concept pickup to the Chicago Auto Show. But Kia’s truck production plans have ebbed and waned during multiple management shakeups inside Kia Motors America (KMA). There have been four executive level changes in the past three years and seven since 1999.

Now sources say the pickup has finally gotten the buy-in it needs from Byung Mo Ahn, the new chairman and group CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). Mr. Ahn replaced ousted Kia Motors CEO Len Hunt in February 2008. He previously ran KMA from 1999 to 2001.

As we heard in 2006, the new pickup is reportedly based on the next-generation, front-wheel-drive (FWD) Sorento and will use that sport utility vehicle’s unibody platform and V6 engine. The current Sorento is rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and body-on-frame.

By building a unibody pickup, Kia’s strategy will follow the lead set by Honda’s Ridgeline instead of traditional small trucks like the Chevrolet Colorado or Toyota Tacoma. We’re expecting Kia’s pickup will also offer all-wheel-drive (AWD) like the Ridgeline. The Ridgeline uses FWD during dry-pavement cruising, for improved fuel economy, but can send up to 70-percent of the torque to the rear wheels in slippery conditions. (more…)

Besides the trio of exciting Soul concepts, Kia was also exhibiting two new green concept cars at Geneva. Called “eco_cee’d” the concept cars are a development of the highly-acclaimed Kia pro_cee’d (first shown at the Frankfurt Show last year) and the hugely popular cee’d five-door hatchback.

With the eco_cee’d models, Kia aims to achieve even better fuel consumption, with fewer emissions – while still delivering a lively, spirited and entertaining drive. Kia Motors has already confirmed that many of the technologies featured on the eco_cee’d concept cars will be progressively transferred to the cee’d family of production models, manufactured from December 2008.

“The rapid transfer of green-performance eco_cee’d concept features into production versions of the cee’d, demonstrates Kia’s vision for the way ahead,” enthuses Mr Paul Willis, COO Kia Motors Europe. “Our new ‘eco’ features also confirm Kia’s commitment to creating environmentally friendly production models – without losing sight of customer expectations for fun-to-drive cars.”

The impressive performance, fuel economy and emissions figures of the eco_cee’d cars result from numerous small but significant modifications. Fuel consumption is improved (just 3.9 litres/100km) and C02 emissions reduced – to just 104 g/km (down 17%) for pro_cee’d and 106 g/km (cee’d five-door).

Eco_cee’d gallery:

Kia Links: Cee’d Forum, Pro_cee’d Forum, More about Eco_Cee’d, Cee’d crash test video, reviews

Please welcome our second Kia owner who is participating in our weekly interview. His name is Mike and he’s a proud owner of an eye-catching, black Kia Sorento!

Mike’s info: My name is Mike (jaxsorento on www.sorentosite.com), I live in Florida (USA), 44 years old, I’m an electrical engineer. In my spare time I like messing with my Sorento (obviously), riding rollercoaster, volunteering and riding bikes.

1. How long have you owned your Sorento?
This is my second Sorento.. Got the first one in March ’03, sold it after “personalizing” it and got the ’05 I have now in March ’05

2. What cars did you own before Sorento?
Mazda’s, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Dodge

3. Honestly, what was your intention when you bought your Sorento?
I wanted an SUV that wasn’t huge, not overpriced and one that could pull my boat

4. In a few words, describe the style of your Sorento?
It’s sporty, fun to drive and fun to customize

Click image to enlarge!

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Click image to enlarge!

Kia Optima/Magentis officially unveiled at New York Auto Show!

Follow the link above for details and images of 2009 Optima

Kia Motors Corporation announced today that its global sales of passenger cars, recreation vehicles and light trucks in February 2008 recorded 103.002, representing a 12.5% year-on-year increase! (See the sales teble after the jump)

By region, Kia’s posted large year-on-year sales increases in general markets (17,082 units sold, a 33.6% year-on-year increase), China (10,770 units sold, a 20.9% year-on-year increase) and Europe (26,909 units sold, a 16.7% year-on-year increase). Meanwhile, sales of Kia vehicles in North America and Korea were 24,183 units (4.8% year-on-year decrease) and 24,058 units (12.4% year-on-year increase), respectively.

Cumulatively through the first two months of 2008, Kia’s global sales increased by 12.7% year-on-year and reached 206,120 units. General markets have experienced the largest gain, selling 33,603 units to date representing a 36.1% increase, while the China and Europe markets have showed cumulative year-on-year sales growth of 29.5% (26,324 units sold) and 20.0% (52,752 units sold), respectively. The Korea market has also shown a cumulative year-on-year sales increase of 3.8%.

So far in 2008, Kia’s best selling model in export markets has been… (more…)