Kia Koup concept

One of the surprises in New York was this Koup concept unveiled by Korean automaker Kia. Speaking with Kia's head of design Peter Shreyer, CDN was told that the show car actually previews a forthcoming sedan set to be revealed by the automaker in two years, if public reaction is positive. Designed at Kia/Hyundai design center in Irvine, California, the Koup is much less conservative than previous Kia designs. Lead exterior designer Kurt Kahl told CDN his brief was to create a car that was emotional and sporty but also retained an aspect of simplicity. One of the most notable aspects of the design when seen in profile is a ‘whiplash' element that sweeps over the roofline from the C-pillar - there is no B-pillar - joining the A-pillar before coming back toward the rear below the DLO. This creates a subtle forward-lunging motion, adding dynamism. The body side wraps around to the A-pillar and also becomes part of the hood at the front. The grille design is similar to that first seen on the Kee concept, minus the chrome surround, while airscoops in the side of the bumper and a hood bulge emphasize power. The rear also displays sporting cues with dual exhaust tips protruding from a carbon fiber lower valence. Inside, the red-lit cockpit is driver oriented and the IP features a cutout that hovers above it, making it appear lighter. The chunky steering wheel is trimmed in leather and Alcantara, as are the multi-colored seats with horizontal ribbing. Lead interior designer Andrew Cort explained how the color used on the interior continues the sporting feel of the exterior, complete with door panels that mimic the shape of the front grille. The Koup clearly demonstrates Kia's design direction is gaining momentum as the company creates its own brand identity.

Love this design. I can't find one flaw with it, other than the wheels aren't my thing, and it would be a Kia. :D I love the headlights. Really cool. And, the integrated fogs and brake intakes is brilliant. This is what a new Celica should look like. The grill and heads look a lot like the early Celicas.

 

wow , did they almost exactly copy the civic si or what?

I don't liek the new honda and this KIA isn't any better albeit I bet it's cheaper , but it's a TRUE copy car.


the rear is new gen civic si mixed 50/50 with rsx.

 

Yep the Civic coupe and the Kia Koup are very similar. Not exactly an exact copy tho. Koup's better look'n.

 

Is that copy of SI?

 

I love those headlights!

 

It's alright, everybody is all copying each other now and days. It's a kia so the price should be very descent I believe. Other than that its an ok car.

 

front = civic , back = lancer.

 

^^Yea that's what I thought too. Those biters...lol

 

Id say it takes alot of cues from the TC, fellas. I dont really see much of the Si in it.

 

Kinda remind me of the Evo X.

 

i'd get one..

even though i am partial cause i work for kia, I still like the look of the car, heck just change the logo's out no one will know.... lol jk

but i still love scion, so i am sticking with them.

 

that rear end is pretty hawt...

 

that looks like bastard child of a Lancer and a Civic

 

Sad looking ripoff design, but it does look kind of cool.