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Kia unveiled this neatly proportioned four-seat coupé at the New York Show, and although it was described as a “stand alone” concept vehicle it’s likely to make production in the next 18 months.
The Koup, which was designed at Kia’s California design centre, is based on the European designed and built Cee'd hatch – it shares the same 2650mm wheelbase. At 4445mm it’s 307mm longer than a TT but 167mm shorter than a Mercedes CLK.
The styling and concept is an evolution of the Kee concept from last year’s Frankfurt show; the Koup is effectively a near-production version of that car. Expect to see more of this look on future production and concept Kias.
It’s powered by a 286bhp version of Kia and Hyundai’s 2.0-litre Theta four-cylinder petrol engine, as used in the Optima saloon. A turbocharger and direct injection helps boost power and efficiency. But it’s the engine’s diesel-like torque figure that really stands out; 289lb ft from just 2000rpm
The six-speed auto transmission, driving the front wheels, is controlled by steering wheel mounted paddles. The cabin itself is closely based on the Cee'd’s, with the same dash layout and positioning of fixed feature such as the air vents.
It’s also clearly very close to a production version – lose the concept car alloy detailing and tone down some of the switchgear, and you have the real thing.
There’s no word yet on whether the production Koup will be available in the UK.
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