IRVINE, Calif., April 16, 2009 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the all-new 2010 Kia Forte Koup, unveiled just last week during the 2009 New York International Auto Show, has been chosen by the editors at MSN Autos as a “Best in Show” pick.
Vehicles that made the list offered impressive style, value and overall potential to help move the automotive industry forward.
“As the New York Auto Show offers a number of concept and production introductions, we are pleased that MSN Autos recognized Forte Koup as a “Best in Show” for its bold styling and immense value,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing, KMA. “The all-new Forte Koup, combined with the recently launched Soul urban passenger vehicle and soon-to-be launched Forte sedan, really drives home our current strategy to create a full lineup of value-laden vehicles with a distinct and attractive Kia design.”
MSN Autos, the largest global network of online automotive sites providing consumers with comprehensive research, buying and ownership services, recognized the Forte Koup for its sleek styling and extensive offerings for a good value. The all-new two-door also was noted for its competitive power and fuel efficiency.
Based on the design styling of the KOUP concept vehicle shown during last year’s show, the all-new Forte Koup’s fluid lines and balanced proportions closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive 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.
More powerful than the Honda Civic Coupe, Ford Focus Coupe or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe, Forte Koup EX is driven by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, while the SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine delivering 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, more than the Scion tC. Both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway), with estimated fuel economy of 25/34 (city/highway) for the 2.0-liter when mated with either the five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. The more powerful 2.4-liter offers an economical 22/32 mpg with the six-speed manual and 23/31 when paired with the five-speed automatic.
Kia Motors America Product Line
Kia Motors America offers a dynamic and diverse product line of 12 vehicles to meet the needs of all lifestyles. The vehicle line features the functional Rondo CUV and award-winning Sedona minivan along with a wide variety of popular passenger cars, including the refined Amanti full-size sedan, purposeful Optima midsize sedan, versatile and compact Spectra and Spectra5, and sporty yet fuel-efficient Rio and Rio5 subcompacts. The vehicle line also features the affordably luxurious Borrego, rugged Sorento and value-packed Sportage SUVs. The 2010 Soul further complements the lineup as it arrives in dealerships, as will the 2010 Forte and Forte Koup.
Source: Kia