First shown at the 2008 New York Auto Show, the Kia Koup was a Spectra-based two-door with obvious production intentions. Now Kia World, an apparent alternate universe where the Korean brand rules with an inexpensive, but heavily-warranteed fist, has procured photos of an actual prototype.
As expected, the production prototype looks very similar to the show car. It retains the unique rear window line that defined the concept and looks to be about the same size as well. A boring set of production wheels and tires is the most obvious change and we would bet there's not a turbocharger on the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder under the hood. ,
Look for the production version this new Spectra-based coupe in showrooms late this year.
ctpax says:
10:07 AM, 02/ 5/09
how is this different from honda civic?
tmanz says:
10:13 AM, 02/ 5/09
I'm sure it will cost less and even has slightly better lines to it.
dougtheeng says:
11:15 AM, 02/ 5/09
Its similar to the Civic, but i think much better executed. The Civic is awkward.
roar02ram says:
11:38 AM, 02/ 5/09
The front end is cleaner, but the side is raggedy because Kia didn't slope the windshield as steeply. The rear side windows are particularly poorly shaped.
A ripoff Civic.
firstwagon says:
11:42 AM, 02/ 5/09
I agree it looks better then the Civic but I seriously doubt it will drive as nice.
albook says:
01:49 PM, 02/ 5/09
The Civic looks better hands down. This does look like a rip pff, but if you are going to copy, why not go fo the best? The Civic is the only good thing Honda's done in years.
jederino says:
04:42 PM, 02/ 5/09
Is this a genuine hard-top? Looking through the windshield, there does not appear to be a b-pillar.
dg0472 says:
08:33 PM, 02/ 5/09
You need to click on the Kia World link to see the actual production version. It definitely has a b-pillar.