New York Preview: Kia teases Magentis (aka Optima) midsize sedan

Arquivado em Kia, Others por admin em 22-02-2010

Kia is all set to debut the latest version of its Magentis midsize sedan at the New York Auto Show in April. Not familiar with the Magentis? Actually, you likely are – the Magentis is known as the Optima here in the States. We just saw spy shots of the next-gen Magentis earlier this month, and the Korean automaker has now seen fit to tease the car with some sketches that “[embody] a bold, athletic and sporty visual energy,” which, unsurprisingly, is not unlike the new Sonata from parent company Hyundai – though we’re sure the Optima will get its own unique look courtesy of designer Peter Schreyer.

Kia also tells us that its next midsize machine will be longer, lower and wider than the current car with a significantly longer wheelbase that affords “considerably more space for both people and luggage.” The 2011 Kia Optima will go on sale here in the U.S. this autumn while the European Magentis will hit the market in the spring of 2011. Check out the high-res teaser images below and hit the jump for the brief official press release.

WORLD DEBUT FOR NEXT KIA MAGENTIS AT NEW YORK

The next generation Kia Magentis will make its public world premiere at the New York International Auto Show on Friday 2 April 2010.

A fresh design from the ground up, Kia’s all-new version of its popular mid-size saloon is completely transformed and embodies a bold, athletic and sporty visual energy.

Longer, lower and wider than the previous model, the new Magentis features a significantly longer wheelbase and will offer considerably more space for both people and luggage.

The new Magentis will go on sale in the USA and in non-European markets – where it is known as Optima - from autumn 2010, while sales in Europe are expected to begin in the Spring of 2011. No on-sale date for the UK has yet been announced – keep an eye on www.kia.co.uk for details in due course.

The world premiere of the next generation Magentis will take place at the Kia Stand on Level 1 of the ‘Jacob Javits Center’ located between 34-39 Streets on 11th Avenue in New York City.

[Source:Autoblog]


Geneva Preview: 2011 Kia Sportage gets stylish new duds

Arquivado em Kia, Others por admin em 04-02-2010

When Kia introduced the original Sportage in North America in the early 1990s, the best thing it had going for it was a low-ball price. There was nothing particularly compelling about the way it looked or drove, though it was at least passable on both counts. When the Geneva Motor Show opens up next month, the third-generation Sportage will finally bring the compact crossover to the head of the class in appearance.

Looking like a 5/8-scale version of the recently introduced Sorento, the new Sportage incorporates the Peter Schreyer-penned Kia design language in an an aggressive looking package that should stand out among the Escapes, Rav4s and CR-Vs of the world. The new model is longer, lower and wider, but Kia hasn’t released any other details yet.

We expect that the Sportage will have the same 2.4-liter inline-four found in the new Hyundai Tucson when it arrives Stateside this fall, although other markets will get a range of gas and diesel power options from which to choose. Full press release after the jump.

World premiere for all-new Kia Sportage at Geneva

Bold, athletic and sporty all-new Sportage to make its world premiere in March 2010
Marking a shift in design direction for the popular SUV

(Seoul) February 3, 2010 – The all-new Kia Sportage crossover will mark a dramatic shift in design direction for the brand’s popular SUV when it makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on 2 March.

Embodying Kia’s newfound visual dynamism, the new Sportage is a fresh, bold, athletic and sporty design that successfully blends the key features of an SUV – the commanding driving position and heightened sense of security and raised ground clearance – and envelopes them in a sleek and urban-friendly design with global appeal.

Longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the new Sportage will offer more space for people and cargo, with an improved ride quality thanks to a longer wheelbase.

The all-new Sportage crossover will be available at Kia dealerships later this year, with a range of highly competitive diesel and gasoline engines.

The world premiere of the new Sportage will take place on 2 March (8:45AM, CET) at the Kia Stand (No. 6441) in Hall 6 at the Geneva International Motor Show.

[Source:Autoblog]


Geneva Preview: 2011 Kia Sportage gets stylish new duds

Arquivado em Kia, Others por admin em 03-02-2010

When Kia introduced the original Sportage in North America in the early 1990s, the best thing it had going for it was a low-ball price. There was nothing particularly compelling about the way it looked or drove, though it was at least passable on both counts. When the Geneva Motor Show opens up next month, the third-generation Sportage will finally bring the compact crossover to the head of the class in appearance.

Looking like a 5/8-scale version of the recently introduced Sorento, the new Sportage incorporates the Peter Schreyer-penned Kia design language in an an aggressive looking package that should stand out among the Escapes, Rav4s and CR-Vs of the world. The new model is longer, lower and wider, but Kia hasn’t released any other details yet.

We expect that the Sportage will have the same 2.4-liter inline-four found in the new Hyundai Tucson when it arrives Stateside this fall, although other markets will get a range of gas and diesel power options from which to choose. Full press release after the jump.

World premiere for all-new Kia Sportage at Geneva

Bold, athletic and sporty all-new Sportage to make its world premiere in March 2010
Marking a shift in design direction for the popular SUV

(Seoul) February 3, 2010 – The all-new Kia Sportage crossover will mark a dramatic shift in design direction for the brand’s popular SUV when it makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on 2 March.

Embodying Kia’s newfound visual dynamism, the new Sportage is a fresh, bold, athletic and sporty design that successfully blends the key features of an SUV – the commanding driving position and heightened sense of security and raised ground clearance – and envelopes them in a sleek and urban-friendly design with global appeal.

Longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the new Sportage will offer more space for people and cargo, with an improved ride quality thanks to a longer wheelbase.

The all-new Sportage crossover will be available at Kia dealerships later this year, with a range of highly competitive diesel and gasoline engines.

The world premiere of the new Sportage will take place on 2 March (8:45AM, CET) at the Kia Stand (No. 6441) in Hall 6 at the Geneva International Motor Show.

[Source:Autoblog]


Kia Ray plug-in hybrid concept teased ahead of Chicago show

Arquivado em Concept Cars, Kia, Others, hybrid por admin em 21-01-2010

Kia is hoping to steal the spotlight at what may be another relatively quiet auto show in Chicago next month with a new plug-in hybrid concept dubbed the Ray. The teaser image sent out by Kia last night shows off what looks like a four-door sedan, possibly with a solar photovoltaic roof to aid in charging the battery or cooling the interior.

The concept was created at the Kia Design Center America and is the first from the Korean brand based on this powertrain architecture. We’d guess the powertrain is similar to the Hyundai Blue-Will concept that was shown at the Detroit Auto Show last week. That car is based on the same configuration that will go into a production hybrid Sonata later this year, but with a bigger motor and battery that is claimed to give a 40-mile electric driving range.

[Source: Kia]

[Source:Autoblog]


European Registry pulls wraps off 2011 Kia Sportage?

Arquivado em Kia, Others por admin em 18-01-2010

The European Registry must be a bigger thorn in the side of automakers than the likes of Brenda Priddy and her minions. After all, the new-vehicle images the Registry keeps in its database are devoid of camouflage, and the latest to show its face (and rear, and roof, and flanks) appears to be the 2011 Kia Sportage.

Based on these images, the new Sportage looks to be a big step up from the friendly but aged current model. Underneath slick new sheetmetal that’s in keeping with Kia’s current family design themes, the Sportage will likely share much with the just-unveiled Hyundai Tucson. No word yet on when we’ll see the trucklet’s official unveiling, but given that Kia’s usually good for a significant reveal at the New York Auto Show, we’ll wager that at the very least, we’ll see the Sportage’s North American debut in the Javits Center in late March/early April. Stay tuned.

[Source:Autoblog]


LA 2009: Meet the “all-American” 2011 Kia Sorento

Arquivado em Kia, Others por admin em 03-12-2009

Perhaps the most important fact about the all new Kia Sorento isn’t that it’s a “right-sized” compact CUV. If Kia’s boundless enthusiasm is any indication, the most important fact is that the 2011 Sorento is the first Kia designed and built in entirely in the USA. In fact, Kia claims that their all-new West Point, Georgia manufacturing plant will not only create 2,500 jobs (eventually – 1,200 for the moment), they say it is the most advanced Kia manufacturing facility in the world.

Then there’s the vehicle they just started building in Georgia sixteen days ago, the 2011 Sorento. Kia’s calling it “right-sized,” and pointing out that Americans are leaving their biggie SUVs in droves and moving to CUVs, specifically compact CUVs. But not that compact – the Sorento is designed to sit five adults comfortably or seven full-size persons “occasionally.” That’s our kind of euphemism! The Sorento, however, is not just a schlepper. It’s got a MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link suspension setup for the rear.

Coupled to a 276 horsepower V6 and an all-new built in-house six-speed automatic, the Sorento is able to get up and boogie a bit. Or at least as much as a top heavy CUV can boogie. Check out our First Drive of the Kia Sorento (a pre-production model from Korea) for more details. Long story short, a base Sorento will start at under $20,000 – about $1,500 less than the outgoing body-on-frame model.

Hyundai’s making a big media push, taking out a Sorento ad in Times Square that will be visible when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve. They’re also put together a short commercial some of you may have seen in movie theaters over the weekend. This spot, featuring a young all-American boy on a bicycle, will be airing until January. Kia is also co-sponsoring the Chick-fil-A and the Outback college bowl games. As Kia mentioned repeatedly during the presentation, they feel the brand’s got some momentum going. If the Sorento drives and works anywhere close to where Kia says it will, they might be right.

[Source:Autoblog]


Frankfurt 2009: Kia c’eed spiffs up basic transportation

Arquivado em Kia, Others por admin em 16-09-2009

The Kia c’eed has come in for a voluminous number of changes, all of which are explained in the massively massive press release after the jump. The short of it is a restyled exterior, new interior elements, new mechanical structures such as a revised subframe for better NVH performance, the addition of hill-assist, a new diesel engine among the 5-engine range… see what we mean? This is not the Kia c’eed you knew…

What you really need to know about the new c’eed is that it takes a rightful place among the lead group of entry-level hatches in Europe. Sometimes you get in a cheap car and it looks cheap and feels cheap. That isn’t the Kia c’eed – a little car that gives you a 6-speed manual to make the most of what power it offers. As has been the case with Hyundai and Kia lately, this one’s probably going to be another good one.
PRESS RELEASE

NEW KIA CEE’D

1. INTRODUCTION

‘New-look’ for best-selling Kia cee’d range

Created especially for European consumers, the original Kia cee’d marked a major turning point in Kia’s history. It was the start of a new era, the first-ever Kia designed and produced in Europe. Manufactured in an all-new factory, it introduced a qualitative revolution for the brand as the highest standards of engineering and European-style aesthetics were applied to every aspect of its design.

Unquestionably, the Kia cee’d family, which grew to encompass wagon and coupe (pro_cee’d) body styles, has proved to be the brand’s strongest-ever contender for top C-segment honours. It offered consumers an unprecedented choice of engines, body styles, exterior colours, interior trims and options. It was backed by an industry-leading, 7-Year Kia Warranty – the best warranty ever offered by any car manufacturer, on any vehicle marketed in Europe.

Now, with more than 230,000 examples sold across Western Europe, it is time for Kia to launch the ‘new-look’ cee’d. The brand’s top-selling model in Europe has been thoroughly re-engineered and restyled under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, to feature the latest version of the company’s signature grille – an evolving expression of the brand’s design DNA – and to adopt a more distinctive road presence.

Comprehensively updated, the new Kia cee’d range delivers a host of customer benefits, with numerous exterior and interior design refinements and upgraded standard equipment. Kia is confident that these significant enhancements will enable new cee’d to capture an even higher share of the C-segment market in Europe next year.

Technical innovations being introduced with new cee’d enhance the driving experience while also significantly reducing fuel consumption and cutting CO2 emissions to a low of 110 g/km (estimated) and by an average of 5% across the cee’d line-up.

Fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology is now available on both gasoline and diesel engines for the first time, a hill-holder function for the ESC is introduced and brighter projection-style headlamps are fitted. The suspension has been fine-tuned for a more comfortable ride, without any loss of agility and the steering response has been sharpened.

The existing range of five engines, which includes 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre CVVT gasoline engines and 1.6 and 2.0-litre CRDi diesel engines, is carried over. But the 1.6-litre diesel is an all-new, super-efficient engine from the ‘U2′ family and is matched to a new six-speed manual transmission. In some countries lower-power versions of the diesel and gasoline engines will be available to suit local taxation regulations.

Kia’s New cee’d range will reach Kia dealer showrooms all across Europe during September 2009. The range offers three body styles, five engines, three trim/equipment levels (LX, EX and TX), will be available in a choice of 12 distinctive exterior finishes – including five new colours.

2. STYLING & DESIGN

Restyled with Kia’s evolving DNA for a stronger presence

The ‘new look’ Kia cee’d has been thoroughly restyled in order to keep the brand’s best-selling model in Europe ‘fresh’ and maintain its strong appeal to consumers.

Working under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, Kia’s European design team have made a number of changes to the exterior of the five-door hatchback and wagon models, to give both cars a more distinctive road presence while incorporating the company’s evolving design DNA and retaining the original cee’d family styling connection.

Briefed to enhance the original models’ ’sporty and strong’ appearance, the cee’d team at Kia’s Frankfurt-based Design Centre Europe, headed by Chief Designer, Gregory Guillaume, set out to make the new model’s ‘face’ appear more striking and impactful, while refreshing the whole car. Ultimately, the only new metal panels are a new bonnet and new front wings on models where the repeat turn indicators are moved to the door mirrors.

New look cee’d adopts the company’s signature grille, also featured (with small variations), on the all-new Sorento SUV and all-new Venga MPV being unveiled at the Frankfurt Show.

On New cee’d, the grille stretches the full width between the front headlights, which combined with the new trapezoidal lower air intake and completely redesigned lower front bumper, makes the car seem wider, lower and more purposeful. Completing the changes at the front end are redesigned, projection-type head lamps and square fog lamps which give a more high-tech and luxurious feel.

The grille’s finish varies with different trim/equipment levels as a way of visually differentiating between models. Most models feature an all-chrome edge to the grille, while models with the Sport Pack will have a Piano Black high-gloss edge with a contrasting chrome strip to the grille’s inner edge.

Overall length of New cee’d is increased by 25 mm on the hatchback and 20 mm on the wagon. The new front bumper and grille (common to both models), extends the nose by 20 mm, while at the rear the hatchback features an all-new bumper which adds 5 mm to the rear overhang. The hatchback’s bumper also features new shape lower reflectors and this body style has new LED-look rear lamp clusters with a subtly revised shape. The profile of the cluster’s top and side is unchanged, but the lower edge is raised (compared to the original cee’d) and consequently, the bumper is slightly deeper. On the wagon, the shape of the rear clusters is unchanged, but the lamps incorporate the new LED-look.

The profile of New cee’d appears sleeker, thanks to the extended nose, new, lower mounted door mirrors, a range of new-style 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Sport Pack models of the hatchback are fitted with the Piano Black high-gloss front grille, plus a deeper central front air intake (also in Piano Black), black headlamp bezels and, at the rear on the hatchback, a black ‘venturi-style’ panel set into the bumper.

As with the original model, the final appearance of European-designed New cee’d was fine-tuned in Kia’s world-class full-size aero-acoustic wind tunnel at the Namyang R&D Centre in Korea. The new model’s aerodynamic drag figure is Cd 0.33 (bettering the VW Golf and Ford Focus) while its lift coefficient figure (Cl 0.01) is a class-best result that enhances vehicle stability at high speeds.

For New cee’d, five new exterior colours will be offered – four metallics: Phoenix Silver, Sirius Silver, Infra Red and Byte Blue, plus one solid colour, Clyde Blue.

The seven most popular colours from the original cee’d palette will be carried over so that New cee’d can also be ordered in: Cassa White, Machine Silver, Dakar Yellow, Oil Blue, Pewter Beige, Piston Gray and Black Pearl.

3. COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

Upgraded kit and materials for a fresher cabin ambience

Interior style, execution, quality, fit and finish of the original Kia cee’d were specifically designed and developed to impress and satisfy European consumers’ needs and tastes. For the New cee’d, Kia has carried over all the key attributes while giving the cabin a fresh ambience by upgrading those zones with which the driver regular inter-acts and improving the environment for all occupants.

Facing the New cee’d driver is a new-style four-spoke steering wheel, which is becoming a Kia trademark feature, that can be adjusted for height and reach. It features sporty thumb-grips, alloy-finish lower spokes and remote control switches on both left and right spokes. When fitted with Bluetooth and a Trip Computer those remote controls are mounted on the lower spokes.

Another element of Kia’s developing design DNA – the ‘three-cylinder’ instrument cluster – can be viewed through the new wheel. The cluster is available in both Standard and optional Super Vision forms (depending on model), featuring all-red illumination and clear, precise graphics.

The ‘Super Vision’ cluster incorporates a new ‘message centre’ digital information display at the bottom of the centre instrument. This display gives information about average and instant fuel consumption, current fuel level, range-to-empty, average speed, elapsed journey time, engine temperature and low-pressure tyre warnings, as well as door and tailgate ‘open’ alerts.

Inside New cee’d, the standard interior colour scheme for the dashboard and cabin trim of all cars is Ebony Black, while a ‘Classic Grey’ option retains Ebony Black for the top half of the cabin and trims the lower half in grey.

The new Centre Stack is flanked by vertical panels featuring four air vents and these panels can be specified in a choice of Classic Silver, Caramel Bronze and high-gloss Piano Black finishes. These finishes are also applied to the gear lever surround trim and the door garnish strips.

A wide choice of seat upholstery is also available. Standard interior colour scheme on LX is Black with silver cloth inserts, with the option on EX models of contrasting Bronze or Blue cloth inserts. TX versions feature Chevron cloth with the option of the ‘Classic Grey’ lower dashboard and cabin trim.

Optional Full Leather trim and a Sport Pack – with Carbon tyre-pattern cloth seat trim, contrasting grey stitching, alloy pedals and footrest, plus a unique gear-knob – are available on both EX and TX derivatives.

The radio/CD player is all-new and similar to the system destined for the Kia Venga with a circular central ‘master’ control. The centre-top, red-on-black display panel has much better readability thanks to its Dot Matrix and is able to present information about the audio system, tyre pressures, door locks, external temperature, time, day and date. The centre-bottom heating and ventilation selectors now control the standard (depending on model), or optional new dual-zone air-conditioning.

For New cee’d, the gear lever is fitted with a re-styled knob, a button-type reverse selector (instead of having to lift a collar), and a 23 mm deeper skirt to minimize the gap between skirt and gear knob. The floor console around the gear lever is also re-designed, with ‘flying buttress’ style side sections linking to the centre stack. It houses an oddments tray (with USB and AUX iPod®* connections), gear selector and hand-brake lever, twin cup-holders and large-capacity storage box topped by a padded armrest.

In front of the passenger, the dashboard houses a 6.5-litre glove box which has 18% more capacity than the original model.

New convenience features available include ‘one-touch, triple-signal’ turn indicators – ideal for lane changing on motorways – and a speed-limiter function which enables the driver to pre-set a maximum speed at which the throttle is reduced and a warning buzzer sounds.

Following Kia’s tradition of delivering generous kit, top quality and great value, the New cee’d LX model comes with standard equipment that includes: front, side and curtain airbags, central locking, electric front windows, tinted glass, rear wash/wipe, RDS radio/CD player with four speakers, steering wheel mounted audio controls, glovebox and luggage area lamps, body colour outside door handles and 15-inch steel wheels with low rolling resistance 195/65 section Michelin tyres.

Standard equipment on EX models adds: front fog lamps, keyless entry, driver and front passenger seat height adjustment, driver’s seat lumbar support, two tweeter speakers, ‘active’ head restraints, manual air-conditioning, front centre console, rear cup-holders, body coloured door mirrors – electrically adjustable and heated.

The range-topping TX models also come equipped with: 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 tyres, ESC with hill-start assist, dual-zone air-conditioning, part-leather seats, leather trimmed steering wheel, gear lever and hand brake, Piano Black high-gloss interior trim, turn repeater lights incorporated in the door mirrors, rear centre armrest and luggage-retaining net.

As well as the three equipment levels, customer will be offered a wide range of options – depending on individual markets. Main options include: cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free communications, 6.5-inch full-map satellite navigation with touch screen, auto light controls, auto wiper controls, leather trim, water-rejecting Hydro-phobic door glass, parking sensors and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

All cee’d models are fitted with a 60/40 split rear seat cushion and backrest. To increase luggage space, the cushions tip forwards and the backrests fold complete flat, aligning neatly with the trunk floor. Slots to store the detachable rear head restraints when the seats are folded are provided in the underside of the cushions.

The New cee’d hatchback and wagon models offer the same, generous interior space, as the original models:

Interior, Front Hatch Wagon
Headroom 1020 mm 1020 mm
Legroom 1105 mm 1105 mm
Shoulder room 1410 mm 1410 mm

Interior, Rear
Headroom 980 mm 995 mm
Legroom 900 mm 900 mm
Shoulder room 1385 mm 1385 mm

Behind the rear seats, New cee’d has a large and practically shaped luggage compartment. With the rear seats upright, maximum capacity is a competitive 340 litres (hatch) and 534 litres (wagon), which can be increased to 1300 and 1664 litres respectively, with the rear seats folded.

4. REFINEMENT

Improving on a ‘best-in-class’ NVH performance

In the lead-up to launching the original cee’d, Kia Motors made an unprecedented commitment to improving its all-new C-segment model’s refinement and durability. The company was determined that cee’d would constitute a ‘qualitative revolution’ for the brand.

Kia’s cee’d engineering teams at the company’s R&D Centre in Russelsheim were tasked with creating a new C-segment challenger that matched or beat competitor vehicles for minimising noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

They achieved their original goal and now the same teams have made painstaking, small detailed changes throughout the New cee’d to reduce cabin noise even further – by between 0.5 dB and 1.0 dB, depending on model.

The bodyshell for New cee’d is carried over from the original and makes an excellent foundation on which to build a low NVH vehicle. Torsional (twisting) stiffness is 42 Hz and flexural (bending) rigidity is also high. The resulting strong structure delivers numerous benefits in terms of controlling NVH, enhancing occupant crash protection, and providing a firm base for the fully independent suspension.

A significant reduction in the transmission of road noise is achieved by the use of a front sub-frame to support the engine, transmission, suspension and steering, and a rear sub-frame for mounting the rear suspension – delivering many positive effects on NVH and isolating the cabin from vibration sources.

Aerodynamically, New cee’d is a smooth, slippery and efficient car with a Cd of just 0.33 – minimizing airflow disruption over the car, and consequently achieving low levels of wind noise. The perception of low wind noise from within the cabin is aided by the fitting of multi-layer rubber seals around the doors and tailgate and one-piece weather strips around all windows.

Revised suspension settings and bushes, plus a new Michelin tyre structure, means that New cee’d is better able to absorb vibrations and shocks from imperfections in the road surface.

Kia engineers focused their NVH-reduction push on minimising vibrations, both at source and by extra dampening, over a wide range of frequencies. Each panel of the cee’d bodyshell was scrutinised to identify areas which could be modified for New cee’d to reduce noise generation at source. Hollow sections of the shell, especially in the A, B and C-pillars, were injected with sound-proofing foam, while isolation pads, made in new advanced materials, were placed in key locations.

Models fitted with the all-new 1.6-litre ‘U2′ diesel engine and new six-speed manual gearbox, also benefit from the improved refinement offered by this powertrain.

5. ENGINES

All-new U2 1.6 diesel joins five-strong engine line-up

Although Kia’s New cee’d will be offered with the same engine choice as the original model – three gasoline and two diesel engines, ranging in power output from 90 to 143 ps – all the powertrains deliver significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 output. This is the result, partly of more refined engine tuning and partly because most models are fitted with low-viscosity engine and transmissions lubricants and new Michelin low rolling resistance tyres. Across the New cee’d range, the average of reduction is 5%.

The popular 1.6-litre diesel is replaced by a new engine from Kia’s new ‘U2′ family, designed and engineered at Kia’s R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany and manufactured in Slovakia, especially for use in this important Kia newcomer.

Making its debut in New cee’d, the U2 1.6-litre diesel has the latest generation common rail diesel injection system and is fitted with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT). It is cleaner, quieter and more fuel-efficient than its forebears, while still ensuring a responsive and lively performance.

U2 1.6L has been developed to deliver best-in-class power and torque outputs over the entire rev range to ensure optimum driveability. Crucially, more than 90 per cent of the maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm, for strong and smooth acceleration almost from idle.

Maximum power is 115 ps (84.5 kW) at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 255 Nm (26.0 kg.m) across a wide rev band, from 1,900 to 2,750 rpm.

U2 uses high pressure common rail injection with a variable swirl control system (up to five injections per cycle), electronically-controlled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), a variable geometry turbocharger, and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to ensure it meets Euro 4 emissions regulations – depending on market.

NVH is well controlled and U2 engine noise has been reduced by 1.1% (to 92 dB at 4,000 rpm). Thanks to the fitment of a chain-driven timing system, owners will benefit from extended (to 30,000 km or one year) service intervals.

Fitted in New cee’d, the U2 with the new six-speed manual gearbox emits just 110 g/km (hatchback with Start/Stop) and 119 g/km (wagon with Start/Stop) of CO2. This represents an 8% improvement over the previous 1.6-litre ‘U1′ engine, and brings both cee’d models below the crucial 120g/km threshold applicable for taxation purposes across European countries, meaning many owners will be able to enjoy paying reduced or no vehicle taxation, and free parking or other benefits, in some markets.

Alongside the U2, buyers will be able to choose between four ‘carry-over’ engines – a 2.0-litre 140 ps diesel and three gasoline engines, a 1.4-litre (90 ps), a 1.6-litre (126 ps), and a 2.0-litre (143 ps), each fitted with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) to ensure greater engine efficiency in all operating conditions. Lower power versions of these engines are available in some markets to meet local taxation requirements.

Start/Stop (ISG) available for three engines

In addition to using the latest technologies to enhance the efficiencies of each engine, Kia is offering its fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) system – which automatically switches off and then restarts the engine in congested city driving – as an option on 1.4 and 1.6 gasoline engines, plus the 1.6 U2 diesel engine.

Working in conjunction with other technologies as part of Kia’s new ‘EcoDynamics’ package, Start/Stop helps reduce fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions, enabling certain cee’d models to cut their CO2 emissions to just 110 g/km (hatchback). Other innovative technologies fitted to New cee’d include an Eco Driving Guide (gear-shift up/down indicator) to encourage an economical driving style and a power-saving alternator management system.

6. TRANSMISSIONS

New six-speed manual delivers customer benefits

Kia’s New cee’d is available with a choice of either five- or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearboxes. Manual transmission is fitted as standard on all models, with the automatic available as an extra cost option on some engines.

An all-new six-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard on all cee’d models powered by the new U2 diesel engine. Made in Europe, the new transmission is lighter, has taller gearing, uses low-viscosity oil and provides a marked improvement in gear change ‘feel’ for a more rewarding driving experience.

Both the five-speed and six-speed manual transmissions incorporate several innovations, including triple axis gear train and multiple-cone synchroniser (on first and second gears), for faster, smoother gear shifts. Rather than having to lift a spring-loaded safety collar before selecting reverse gear, drivers now depress a button on the leading edge of the gear lever.

Although manual transmission will be the standard equipment on New cee’d, two gasoline models (1.6 and 2.0) and one diesel (1.6) will be available with automatic transmission as an extra-cost option.

The automatic for New cee’d is a four-speed gearbox, featuring an electronic controller, which monitors a range of parameters including acceleration, deceleration, engine speed and road speed, ensuring safe gear changes with excellent shift quality, and also adapts the transmission’s characteristics to suit an individual’s driving style.

7. SUSPENSION & RUNNING GEAR

Fine-tuning an already competitive Ride & Handling package

When they developed the original Kia cee’d, Kia’s European chassis engineers based in Germany were determined to ensure that the newcomer was among the ’segment-best’ for ride and handling – targeting the Ford Focus and VW Golf as the models to match or beat.

Now, with New cee’d those engineers have taken the opportunity to fine tune the C-segment Kia’s already competitive ride and handling package with minor modifications to the suspension and running gear that deliver valuable customer benefits for real-world, everyday motoring.

While retaining the same subframe-mounted MacPherson Strut (front) and Kia’s subframe-mounted ‘in-wheel multi-link’ (rear) fully independent suspension layouts, engineers were briefed to improve riding comfort and steering response, without altering the car’s overall handling balance.

After extensive testing, revised suspension settings were devised for New cee’d including softer front and rear springs and dampers, reduced friction in the front strut springs, modified anti-roll bars and suspension bushes, plus new bump stops.

Kia’s precise MDPS ‘electric’ power steering

To save fuel and deliver responsive handling in everyday driving, New cee’d retains Kia’s Motor Driven Power Steering system (MDPS). This electric power-assisted rack and pinion steering has relatively high gearing, requiring just 2.69 turns of the wheel from lock-to-lock. This system gives a fuel saving of 3% compared to conventional hydraulic assistance.

Although the steering hardware is carried over, the steering effort is reduced. A new Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) programme is introduced with improved electronic communications between the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system and the MDPS steering controller. The VSM reduces the amount of assistance if the driver is applying too much steering effort – and increases assistance if the driver is applying too little effort.

Powerful braking for rapid stopping

The Kia cee’d has a power-assisted all-disc braking system which delivers excellent stopping power that is highly competitive in the C-segment. The large diameter 280 mm ventilated front discs and solid 262 mm rear discs, are backed-up by four-channel, four-sensor ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which is standard fit for all cee’d models.

Available as part of the ESC package, the emergency Brake Assist System (BAS), senses when a driver is making an emergency stop and applies maximum braking effort. It is standard equipment (with ESC) on New cee’d TX models and optional on others. The standard braking system delivers powerful, secure and stable braking performance with consistent pedal feel.

Multiple choices for wheels – all with Michelin tyres

Maintaining a policy adopted early in the original car’s evolution, Kia continued to develop the New cee’d chassis and running gear using Michelin tyres exclusively, so that its engineers could tune the new model’s characteristics precisely for a specific type of tyre size, compound and construction.

The close collaboration between Kia and Michelin also allowed technicians to optimise the cee’d tyres to minimise rolling resistance and maximise fuel economy – without compromising road holding, handling, ride and refinement.

The standard wheels for LX and EX New cee’d models are 15-inch diameter 5.5J wide steel wheels with 5-spoke full-cover plastic trims. LX models are equipped with 185/65 R15 tyres, while EX models feature fatter 195/65 section tryes. Range-topping cee’d TX models have 16-inch, 6.0J alloy wheels and 205/55 R16 tyres – as standard.

In most European countries, New cee’d models will be offered with a wide choice of optional wheels and tyres, including a 16-inch steel wheel with 10-spoke plastic trims, three designs of 16-inch and two of 17-inch alloys – including new ‘D Type’ 17-inch 5-spoke wheels finished in Hyper Silver and supplied as part of the factory-fitted optional Sports Pack.

The 16-inch diameter wheels will be fitted with 205/55 tyres, while the 17-inch wheels will have 225/45 tyres. All cee’d models come with a steel space-saver spare wheel – located in the trunk floor well.

8. SAFETY & SECURITY

ESC with new Hill-Start Assist available for every New cee’d

Kia’s engineers have worked hard to ensure that New cee’d is one of the safest cars in the C-segment and has the highest levels of active and passive safety, to fully satisfy the ever increasing consumer expectations about this aspect of car design. The original Kia cee’d achieved a 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2007 and Kia anticipates that the New cee’d will perform equally well in the tougher tests now being applied to new cars.

New cee’d has many stress-reducing features to help maintain driver alertness, plus its active safety features, such as stable handling, precise steering, and powerful braking, result in drivers of this Kia being fully equipped to avoid potential accident situations and cope with everyday motoring hazards.

As before, every New cee’d has a powerful all-disc braking system featuring ABS anti-lock with EBD electronic brake force distribution. The ESC system, which now incorporates a Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) programme to prevent roll-back, is standard on TX models and available as an option on all others. ESC comes with a Traction Control System (TCS) and BAS. The system is fully automatic and operates at all times, in all weathers, reducing under-steer or over-steer and returning the car to the course intended by the driver.

Three options boost safety performance even further. The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will trigger an instrument cluster display indicating which tyre is punctured or has low pressure.

Kia’s Park Assist System (a rear parking aid), has four sensors and enhances safety during low-speed manoeuvres. The system gives the driver an audible alert when reversing towards an obstruction. The intensity of the warning increases as the car gets closer to the person, animal or object.

Unique to the Kia cee’d family, innovative ‘Hydro-phobic’ glass is an option for all door glass. Coated with a water repellent film, the hydro-phobic glass enhances safety by encouraging rain to flow away quickly, leaving the driver with greatly improved visibility.

Safeguarding occupants to maximise protection

If an accident is unavoidable, New cee’d is engineered to safeguard the occupants with a robust bodyshell and a range of passive safety measures to offer its occupants maximum possible protection. All five seats have manually adjustable head restraints and three-point seatbelts as standard. Integrated ‘active’ head restraints are standard on both front seats in EX and TX models. During a rear impact, these head restraints move forwards to reduce whiplash injuries to the neck or back. The system is available on LX models as an optional extra.

Every New cee’d hatchback and wagon is equipped with six airbags – dual front airbags, front side airbags and full-length curtain airbags, protecting the occupants in both seat rows – as standard.

All safety systems work together to provide full passenger protection, so simultaneously with an airbag inflation, a signal is relayed to the other airbags and to the seatbelt pre-tensioners, activating them if appropriate. The passenger side front airbag features an on-off switch so it can be deactivated if children occupy that seat.

The rear side doors of cee’d are fitted with child safety locks and two ISOFIX anchor points are fitted in the back row seats for the attachment of child safety seats.

Security and peace of mind

In the modern world, vehicle security is an important aspect of personal safety and New cee’d is comprehensively equipped to resist thieves. Central locking with all-door override is standard on all models, with speed-sensing automatic locking. Keyless entry and an anti-theft alarm and dash-top security lamp are standard on EX and TX models.

Every cee’d engine is fitted with an advanced electronic immobiliser that was developed in tandem with the Thatcham Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre in the UK, and targets a top-level anti-theft protection rating. Every model has a battery saver which switches off any interior or exterior lights that have been left on after the engine has been turned-off, preventing draining of the battery.

9. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

New Kia cee’d

Body & Chassis
Five-seater with choice of hatchback and wagon bodystyles. All-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Choice of five transversely-mounted gasoline and diesel engines driving the front wheels via a five-speed, or six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission (depending on model). Choice of three equipment levels (LX, EX and TX) and 12 exterior colours (depending on market).

Engines (availability may vary by individual markets)

Diesel Engines
2.0 CRDi 140 ps (136 ps)*
Name ‘D’
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with VGT
Capacity 2.0-litres, 1991 cc
Max power 140 ps (103 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Max torque 305 Nm (31.0 kg.m) @ 2000 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 4

1.6 CRDi 115 ps (90 ps)*
Name ‘U2′
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with VGT
Capacity 1.6-litres, 1582 cc
Max power 115 ps (85 kW) @ 4000 rpm
Max torque 255 Nm (26.0 kg.m) @ 1900-to-2750 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 4

Gasoline Engines
2.0-litre 143 ps
Name ‘Beta’
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
Capacity 2.0-litres, 1975 cc
Max power 143 ps (105.2 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Max torque 184 Nm (19.0 kg.m) @ 4750 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 4

1.6-litre 126 ps (115 ps)*
Name ‘Gamma’
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
Capacity 1.6-litres, 1591 cc
Max power 126 ps (91.9 kW) @ 6200 rpm
Max torque 154 Nm (15.7 kg.m) @ 4200 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5 (optional depending on market)

1.4-litre 90 ps
Name ‘Gamma’
Type DOHC, four-cylinder in line, with dual CVVT
Capacity 1.4-litres, 1396 cc
Max power 90 ps (66.2 kW) @ 6200 rpm
Max torque 137 Nm (14.0 kg.m) @ 5000 rpm
Emissions class Euro Stage 5 (optional depending on market)
*Lower power versions available in some markets to meet local taxation regulations

Transmissions
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel
Manual 6-sp 6-sp
Automatic —– 4-sp
2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 5-sp 5-sp 5-sp
Automatic 4-sp 4-sp —–

Suspension & Damping
Front Fully independent by subframe-mounted Macpherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
Rear Fully independent by subframe-mounted compact multi-links, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
Steering
Type MDPS electric power-assisted rack & pinion
Overall ratio 13.2:1
Gearing 2.69 turns lock-to-lock (most models)
2.58 turns lock-to-lock (2.0D and all with 17-inch wheels)
Turning circle 10.34 metres (most models)
10.80 metres (2.0D and all with 17-inch wheels)

Brakes
Power Single 10-inch booster
Front 280 x 26 mm ventilated discs
Rear 262 x 10 mm solid discs
ABS 4-Channel anti-lock system with EBD
ESP Stability Program with hill-start-assist to prevent roll-back
BAS Delivers maximum braking in emergency situations

Wheels & Tyres
Standard
(LX) 15 x 5.5J Steel 185/65 R15 tyres
(EX) 15 x 5.5J Alloy 195/65 R15 tyres
(TX) 16 x 6.0J Alloy 205/55 R16 tyres
Optional 17 x 7.0J Alloy 225/45 R17 tyres
Spare (standard) Temporary wheel & tyre

DIMENSIONS (mm)
Hatch Wagon Coupe
Exterior
Overall length 4260 4490 4250
Overall width* 1790 —– —–
Overall height 1480 1490 1450
Wheelbase 2650 —– —–
Front track 1546 —– —–
Rear track 1544 —– —–
Front overhang 885 885 875
Rear overhang 725 960 725
Ground clearance 150 —– —–
*excluding door mirrors

Hatch Wagon Coupe
Interior, Front
Headroom 1020 —– 990
Legroom 1105 —– —–
Shoulder room 1410 —– —–

Interior, Rear
Headroom 980 995 940
Legroom 900 —– —–
Shoulder room 1385 —– 1360

Capacities
Hatch Wagon Coupe
Fuel tank 53 53 53 litres (all models)
Luggage (VDA) 340 534 340 litres
Rear seats folded 1300 1664 1300 litres

HATCHBACK (manual models)
Curb weight (kg)*
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel
Manual 1458 1367
Automatic —– 1374
2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 1341 1263 1263
Automatic 1349 1291 —–
*excluding driver

Performance & Fuel Economy (litres/100 km) *
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel 115ps (ISG) 1.6 Diesel 90ps (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 188 172
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.3 11.5 14.0
Combined cycle 5.4 4.4 4.2
CO2 g/km 142 115 110

2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline (ISG) 1.4 Gasoline (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 192 187
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.4 10.8 11.6
Combined cycle 7.0 5.9 5.5
CO2 g/km 167 139 132

WAGON (manual models)
Curb weight (kg)*
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel
Manual 1438 1344
Automatic —– 1351
2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline 1.4 Gasoline
Manual 1397 1317 1317
Automatic 1409 1334 —–
*excluding driver

Performance & Fuel Economy (litres/100 km)*
2.0 Diesel 1.6 Diesel 115ps (ISG) 1.6 Diesel 90ps (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 188 172
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.3 11.5 14.0
Combined cycle 5.5 4.5 4.5
CO2 g/km 146 119 119

2.0 Gasoline 1.6 Gasoline (ISG) 1.4 Gasoline (ISG)
Top speed / kph 205 192 187
0-to-100 kph / sec 10.4 10.8 11.6
Combined cycle 7.1 6.0 5.7
CO2 g/km 168 142 135

*iPod is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc.

[Source:Autoblog]


Kia Soul, Toyota Prius and Honda Insight earn IIHS Top Safety Pick awards

Arquivado em Kia por admin em 14-08-2009

News comes today by way of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety that the 2010 Kia Soul, Toyota Prius and Honda Insight have all earned the group’s coveted Top Safety Pick Award. That means each of the three vehicles managed to score the agency’s highest rating of good in front, side, and rear tests and are equipped with electronic stability control (standard on the Prius and Soul, optional on the Insight).

Of course, this news also means that hybrid vehicle shoppers can rest assured knowing whichever hybrid hatchback happens to be on their wish list is a safe bet. See below for our complete galleries of the Kia Soul and Honda Insight being crash tested by the IIHS. No photos of the 2010 Toyota Prius crash test were available from the IIHS.

[Source: Autoblog]


Rumormill: Kia Amanti making switch to Genesis RWD platform?

Arquivado em Kia, Sedans/Saloons por admin em 10-07-2009

From its divisive baroque styling to its status as the court jester of the rental car circuit, the Kia Amanti has so far lived a less than charmed life. The Amanti’s tough luck story could change in a big hurry, however, if a new story from Motor Trend is true. MT is reporting that the Amanti is will be going rear-wheel drive as soon as late 2011 on a smaller version of the Hyundai Genesis Sedan platform.

Since Kia is more value-oriented as a brand than Hyundai, most expect the new Amanti to be a few thousand dollars cheaper than the Genesis Sedan. The current Amanti has a lofty starting price of $26,045, but boatloads of incentives are needed to move them off dealer lots.

Motor Trend speculates that the 375-hp Tau V8 engine probably won’t make its way under the hood of the next Amanti, with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the 3.8-liter V6 being the more likely powertrains. We’re thinking that a range of four- and six-cylinder engines would be sufficient, especially when considering tough new fuel economy laws scheduled for 2011 and beyond.

We do have one question, however. With such a radical rethink apparently in store and not having a great deal of brand equity tied up in the Amanti brand, wouldn’t Kia be better off finding a new name? They haven’t seemed too reluctant to change model names in recent years when bringing out new models, so perhaps they’ll consider a change in designations.

Either way, with its hip and stylish Soul, the surprisingly competent Optima, along with the pretty new Forte and Koup models, Kia’s lineup has gotten a radical overhaul for the better. If the next-gen Amanti is anywhere near as good as Hyundai’s Genesis Sedan, the competition should keep a very close eye on boys from South Korea.

[Source:Motor Trend]


CONFIRMED: 2010 Kia Forte Koup will go on sale late summer

Arquivado em Coupes, Economy, Kia por admin em 09-07-2009

After strapping ourselves behind the wheel of Kia’s new Forte sedan for our initial drive, we came away thinking that the new Korean was a stylish, reasonable alternative to the scads of Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas populating America’s roadways. Now it’s time for Kia to follow the handsome sedan up with its first-ever two-door coupe Koup, which the automaker has now confirmed is slated to hit a dealership near you later this summer.

Underneath the attractive (if derivative) sheetmetal will be seating for five thanks in part to the same 104.3-inch wheelbase that underpins the sedan. The Koup does sit lower than the four-door, though, and Kia says the ride and handling has been retuned for a sportier feel and features beefier L-shaped lower arms propping up the expected McPherson struts in front. Sixteen-inch alloy wheels and speed-sensitive power steering come standard and an uplevel SX trim stiffens things up even further.

Powering the Koup is the same set of engine options as the sedan, meaning that the base and LX models get a 2.0-liter with 156 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque mated up with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, while the top-level SX gets a 2.4-liter mill with 173 horsepower and 168 lb-ft torque that can be ordered with either a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual. EPA fuel mileage estimates range from 25/34 with the base engine to 23/31 with the larger engine and automatic transmission.

All Koup models include all the expected safety gear plus standard Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls, a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with Sirius, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, a driver’s seat height adjuster and tilt steering. Options include a sunroof and heated leather seats. Want to know more? Click past the break for the full press release.
Live photos copyright ©2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc

PRESS RELEASE:

KIA MOTORS AMERICA LAUNCHES ALL-NEW 2010 FORTE KOUP

Striking Design and Modern Interior
Highlight Kia’s First-Ever Two-Door Coupe

# Forte Koup’s crisp, clean and powerful exterior styling exudes speed
# Kia’s newest vehicle offers same distinctive Kia style, value and safety features as sedan

SEOUL, July 9, 2009 – With performance-inspired, aggressive and sleek styling, the all-new 2010 Forte Koup joins the Kia Motors America (KMA) lineup later this summer as the company’s first-ever two-door coupe. Following the recently launched Forte compact sedan, Forte Koup embodies the brand’s design-led evolution and raises the comfort, convenience, performance and standard safety feature expectations in the segment

“As the dramatic two-door sibling of our flagship model, and the first coupe in company history, Forte Koup is further evidence of Kia’s style transformation and our continued commitment to offering consumers sophisticated, good looking, and fun-to-drive vehicles,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing, KMA. “The addition of the performance-inspired Koup to our lineup gives Kia Motors the ability to offer our design, value and safety story to an entirely new consumer base of automotive enthusiasts.”

Technology Comes Standard

Surrounding Koup’s occupants with the latest in must-have technology, all Forte Koup models feature Bluetooth® connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls that enable voice-activated hands-free operation for compatible cell phones and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system outfitted with SIRIUS Satellite Radio and three months of complimentary service¹. For added listening convenience, steering wheel-mounted audio controls also come standard on all models, as well as USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit or steering wheel-mounted controls.

Curb Appeal

Based on the KOUP concept vehicle that debuted at the 2008 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), and voted a “Best in Show” by MSN Autos after its official unveiling during this year’s 2009 NYIAS, Forte Koup’s fluid lines and balanced proportions closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same refined and athletic stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile. Available in two trim levels (EX and SX), Forte Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design. Even from behind, Forte Koup exudes attitude with slim, wrapped tail lights, dual exhaust outlets and a rear diffuser.

Standard exterior features are plentiful throughout the Forte Koup EX, including body-color bumpers, power heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators and 16-inch alloy wheels outfitted with P205/55R16 tires and five-spoke alloy wheels. The SX trim offers an even more powerful profile with 17-inch alloy wheels paired with P215/45R17-sized premium tires and 10-spoke alloy wheels. Buyers can choose from an exciting array of exterior colors, including Titanium, Spicy Red, Corsa Blue, Copperhead and Racing Red.

Smooth and Vibrant Ride

With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 176.4 inches, an overall width of 69.5 inches and overall height of 55.1 inches, the Forte Koup body is 2.4 inches lower, 2.0 inches shorter and 0.4 inches narrower than its sedan sibling, but with the same 104.3-inch wheelbase as the sedan, Koup provides comfortable seating for up to five passengers. Koup’s lowered stance provides better aerodynamics for a more exciting and spirited ride with a highly competitive drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.31 and aerodynamic lift coefficient (Ci) of just 0.21.

The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte Koup taut, responsive handling, a smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors. Tuned in the U.S. to appeal to sportier driver preferences, the Kia-developed suspension is refined for responsive and predictable handling on snaking roads. Built on a lightweight, hydro-formed subframe, Koup’s front suspension employs MacPherson struts similar to the sedan, but with wider L-shaped lower arms for enhanced high-speed stability and an increased caster angle, which provides greater self-centering and a sharper steering feel while driving. The SX trim also comes with a sport-tuned suspension set to provide a firmer ride with reduced body roll and improved handling.

An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system with high gearing adds the finishing touch for precise handling to help provide the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. Smart front suspension design results in a highly competitive turning circle of just 33.9 feet, or 35.4 feet when outfitted with 17-inch alloy wheels.

Additional refinements are utilized throughout Forte Koup to help ensure a comfortable ride while significantly reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Koup is equipped with a lower bumper bottom lip, underfloor airflow detectors ahead of all four wheels and an engine bay cover, which all assist in achieving reduction in drag. Additionally, all-new noise-lowering materials are used in the engine bay bulkhead and rear parcel shelf, including the injection of sound-dampening foam into hollow sections of the bodyshell at strategic noise-transference points and improved door and window seals.

Refined Performance

Truly a driver’s car, Koup is more powerful than the base Honda Civic Coupe, Ford Focus Coupe or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe and is driven by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque² that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which allow for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque³ , more than the Scion tC. Expanding upon the dynamic look and feel, Forte Koup’s engine benefits from dual exhaust outlets outfitted on both trims.

Like the Forte sedan, four transmission options are available for 2010 Forte Koup models: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive (EX models), while the SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and Sportmatic®.

Forte Koup fuel economy is not sacrificed for performance as both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway). The 2.0-liter engine offers 25/34 mpg (city/highway) when mated with either the five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. Those opting for the more powerful 2.4-liter engine can expect an economical 22/32 mpg with the six-speed manual and 23/31 when paired with the five-speed automatic transmission.

Striking Interior

With a surprisingly spacious interior for a two-door coupe, Forte Koup provides a comfortable and class-leading 90.7 cubic feet of interior volume, larger than the 2009 Honda Civic Coupe, Scion tC or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe. Driver and passengers have an impressive 38.7 inches of headroom and 43.6 inches of legroom in the front seats and 35.3 inches of headroom and 33.9 inches of legroom in the rear seats. Trips to the beach and weekend getaways will be a breeze with ample cargo space of 12.6 cubic feet, enough to accommodate luggage and belongings of all passengers, while 60/40-split folding rear seats that fold nearly flat extend the available amount of cargo space even further.

Forte Koup continues the luxury treatment with a host of standard interior features, beginning with supportive, nicely appointed sport seats outfitted with more aggressive bolsters on the seat cushion and seat back for optimal comfort. Additional standard equipment on all Koup models includes air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, a driver’s seat height adjuster, adjustable rear seat headrests, tilt steering column, rear defroster, center console with dual cup holders and storage area, dual map lamps with ceiling-mounted, drop-down sunglasses holder and variable intermittent windshield wipers.

Progressing to the SX trim offers additional standard touches such as: unique sport cloth seats with vibrant red stitching, a tilt and telescoping steering column, speaker lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, metal pedals and metal finish trim. Both EX and SX trims also offer an optional power sunroof with tilt.

An optional Leather Package is available on both EX and SX trims. When combined with the EX trim the Leather Package adds leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and heated seats. When paired with the SX trim, it includes leather and heated seats in addition to the standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

A Supervision™ gauge cluster with trip computer, standard on SX models, further enhances Koup’s energetic personality with its red-hued glow and message display shown at the bottom of the cluster. This display includes information on distance to empty, engine coolant temperature, elapsed time, door-open alerts, fuel consumption, average mpg and instantaneous mpg.

Standard Kia Motors Safety

Forte Koup offers the same class-leading level of standard safety equipment as the sedan, with features such as front active headrests, dual advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted and side curtain airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, side impact door beams, front and rear crumple zones, four-wheel disc brakes with an Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Industry-Leading Warranty

Like all Kia models, Forte Koup 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.

[Source:Autoblog]