2006 Kia Soul Concept

(from Kia Press Release) Kia Motors America (KMA) will add another vehicle to its line-up in 2008, the Soul crossover utility vehicle (CUV). Announced at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit that it will become a production vehicle, the Soul was originally unveiled as a concept car during the 2006 Detroit show. A collaborative effort between Kia’s design studio in California and design studio in Korea, it will go on sale at the end of 2008.

“The Soul’s aggressive and youthful styling is raising the bar for vehicles in its segment, and we are excited that it will be joining the ever-expanding Kia line-up in 2008,” said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA. “The flexibility, function and utility this vehicle provides, as well as its dynamic appearance, further demonstrate Kia’s commitment to producing vehicles that create passion with consumers.”

The architecture of the Soul’s stance is reflective of its sporting and confident character. A wrap-around windshield, muscular wheel flares, stylish front headlamps and a sloped roofline help convey Soul’s athletic appearance, which is geared toward satisfying customers with an active lifestyle. The Soul’s exterior exudes an athletic presence, while several design cues lend a svelte, edgy look indicative of urban attitude.

The front-drive Soul is powered by a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. The powerplant is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability and adaptive cruise control for active driver control and convenience.

Kia Motors America – the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea – offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States.

© Source: seriouswheels
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