2008 New York Auto Show: Kia Koup

• Looks like: A flashy Honda Civic coupe
• Defining characteristics: Wedge styling, 290-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder
• Ridiculous features: Silicone seat implants, neoprene floor, six-speed automatic transmission
• Chance of being mass-produced: It sure looks ready to go, and we think Kia would be smart to give it the green light

The Kia Koup is a sporty-looking two-door concept that features its share of show-car elements, like a neoprene floor, but it wouldn't take much in terms of styling tweaks to turn the Koup into a production car.

The Koup's front end has a bit of a scowl to it. It has thin, angled headlights, a large lower grille and bumper intakes. Under the domed hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that features direct injection and makes 290 hp and 289 pounds-feet of torque, all to the front wheels. Potential production versions would likely offer normally aspirated engines, but it's nice to see Kia going big by putting a turbo engine in the concept. Rather than a traditional manual transmission, Kia has saddled the concept with a six-speed automatic that features shift paddles ahead of the steering wheel.

The cabin has four bucket seats, with white accents for the front seats and rear seats that are completely black. The backrests have silicone padding to enhance occupant comfort, according to Kia. For more photos, check out the gallery below.

Comments

You look at this and then look at the 2009 Optima...quite a difference in styling. I like the look - hope they bring this syle to their other cars.

I love this car but it will never look like this when put into production. They'll fug it up. Look at the Mesa concept which turned into the fugly Borrego.

This is obviously not that far from production. The interior is clearly related to the Ce'ed/i30 in architecture, which is usually a good indicator of production intent.

It'll be more conservative of course, and the shape is a little plain. But it's certainly attractive.

The profile is reminiscent of the now defunct RSX/Integra. ...And yeah, the Civic Si was supposed to assuage the Integra crowd, but let's be honest - they're all looking for the next Type-R from Honda/Acura and will always be with no respite. I think this has a great chance of being competitive since no one else has made it into the Civic Si class with any appropriate offerings. The Cobalt SS? ...riiiiggghhhtt. Go for it Kia! Your sister Hyundai's heading upscale and with much success. There's nothing stopping you from trying!

6 speed automatic, ridiculous?

Why has VW been using it since the 2003 model year.
6 speed automatic is the standard.

The fact that the concept has an automatic transmission instead of a manual is the ridiculous part, not the gear count.

Looks sharp, but I hope this doesn't mean we won't get the Sport Coupe that was shown in Geneva (?)