( MA ) - Kia has taken the wraps off a new two-door concept at this week's New York Auto Show that previews the shape and evolution of the carmaker's future models. Designed by Kia's America Design Center in California, the Koup concept showcases a new fluid design theme as well as an aggressive look for the Korean carmaker.
The concept features a classic wedge profile and is adorned with carbon fiber, black chrome and LED head and taillamps. Alluding to its sporty intentions, the concept also gets a carbon fiber chin spoiler, lamp lenses, cowl panel, side-view mirrors, rear bumper insert and rear diffuser. Completing the performance theme are flashy twin-spoke wheels and Brembo brake callipers biting cross-drilled rotors.
Under the hood sits a 2.0L Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290hp and 289lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 4,000rpm. The engine also debuts Kia's new GDI direct-injection technology. Drive is sent to the front wheels and the whole thing sits on a unibody frame with coil springs and stabilizer bars for improved handling. These complement an independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts and an independent dual link rear suspension set-up. Other technical highlights include an engine-speed-sensitive steering system and a set of active dampers.
The cabin continues the sports theme with carbon fiber trim, race-inspired steering wheel, engine starter button and six-speed automatic transmission with steering column-mounted paddle shifters.