SEOUL, South Korea, July 9 /PRNewswire/ -- With performance-inspired, aggressive and sleek styling, the all-new 2010 Forte Koup joins the Kia Motors America (KMA) lineup later this summer as the company's first-ever two-door coupe.
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All Forte Koup models feature Bluetooth(R) connectivity with steering wheel-mounted controls that enable voice-activated hands-free operation for compatible cell phones, and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio and three months of complimentary service(1). For added listening convenience, steering wheel-mounted audio controls come standard on all models, as well as USB and auxiliary input jacks in the center console with full iPod(R)/MP3 controllability via the audio head unit or steering wheel-mounted controls.
Based on the KOUP concept vehicle, Forte Koup is available in two trim levels (EX and SX) and offers a muscular yet sophisticated design. Even from behind, Forte Koup exudes attitude with slim, wrapped tail lights, dual exhaust outlets and a rear diffuser.
With a wheelbase of 104.3 inches, an overall length of 176.4 inches, an overall width of 69.5 inches and overall height of 55.1 inches, the Forte Koup body is 2.4 inches lower, 2.0 inches shorter and 0.4 inches narrower than its sedan sibling, but with the same 104.3-inch wheelbase as the sedan, Koup provides comfortable seating for up to five passengers. Koup's lowered stance provides better aerodynamics for a more exciting and spirited ride.
The Kia-engineered body achieves high torsional stiffness giving Forte Koup taut, responsive handling, a smoother ride quality and greater refinement than its competitors. Tuned in the U.S. to appeal to sportier driver preferences, the Kia-developed suspension is refined for responsive and predictable handling on snaking roads. The SX trim also comes with a sport-tuned suspension set to provide a firmer ride with reduced body roll and improved handling.
An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system with high gearing adds the finishing touch for precise handling to help provide the most advantageous amount of assist for varying road conditions. Smart front suspension design results in a highly competitive turning circle of just 33.9 feet, or 35.4 feet when outfitted with 17-inch alloy wheels.
Truly a driver's car, Koup is driven by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque(2) that features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and multi-port electronic fuel injection, both of which allow for greater performance and fuel economy. The SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, also with CVVT, which delivers 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque(3), more than the Scion tC.
Like the Forte sedan, four transmission options are available for 2010 Forte Koup models: a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive (EX models), while the SX model features a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and Sportmatic(R).
Forte Koup provides a comfortable, class-leading 90.7 cubic feet of interior volume, while driver and passengers have an impressive 38.7 inches of headroom and 43.6 inches of legroom in the front seats and 35.3 inches of headroom and 33.9 inches of legroom in the rear. Beach trips and weekend getaways will be a breeze with ample cargo space of 12.6 cubic feet, while 60/40-split folding rear seats that fold nearly flat further extend the amount of cargo space.
Forte Koup offers a host of standard interior features, beginning with supportive sport seats outfitted with more aggressive bolsters on the seat cushion and seat back for optimal comfort. Additional standard equipment on all Koup models includes air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, driver's seat height adjuster, adjustable rear seat headrests, tilt steering column, rear defroster, center console with dual cup holders and storage area, dual map lamps with ceiling-mounted, drop-down sunglasses holder and variable intermittent windshield wipers.
Progressing to the SX trim offers additional standard touches such as: unique sport cloth seats with vibrant red stitching, a tilt and telescoping steering column, speaker lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, metal pedals and metal finish trim. Both EX and SX trims also offer optional tilting power sunroofs.
(1) Customers must renew SIRIUS subscription after trial period if they wish to retain service
(2) 2.0-liter SULEV-rated engine offers 154 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque
(3) 2.4-liter SULEV-rated engine offers 165 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque
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