204hp for Kia hot hatch...
...but still no proper pictures, dammit!
You see, the Pro_Cee’d is a handsome thing, and there’s every chance that a hot version thereof will be the first Kia to truly whet the appetites of hot hatch lovers everywhere. So it was with baited breath that we clicked open the latest press release from Kia to find ... another teaser.
This one does at least reveal a little more about the forthcoming temperate hatch, as it’s the first time we’ve had hints about the back end. There are strong hints of the outgoing Seat Leon here – no bad thing, as the Leon is a good looking car – as well as the now seemingly obligatory rear diffuser. Throw in some stylish light pods and a pair of chunky exhausts, and you’re pretty much there.
The good news is, Kia has backed up this teaser with some proper facts and figures, and they make for promising reading. The engine will be a strengthened version of Kia’s direct injection 1.6-litre, which will be equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger. Power will be rated at 204hp, with 195lb ft torque to match.
What’s more, Kia promises ‘significant’ upgrades to the chassis and suspension, which will hopefully give the GT a bit of extra handling sparkle. And for the first time, Kia has confirmed that the five-door Cee’d will be available as a GT too, with the same specification as the three-door; while that won’t make it any faster, it will at least mean there’s a practical alternative for those who need such things.
So far so good, then; all that’s left is to wait and see what it looks like in the metal.
You have to remember it won't be competing with the current Clio 200, not much can in that sector of the hot hatch market. It will be competing with the new one. And if Kia can nail the driver involvement they are on to a winner.
Also, Renault now come with a 4 year warranty, 4 years free servicing and 4 years breakdown.
Kia will take a very small number of customers from the RS Brand but not many IMO.
C
Butter Face you would say that wouldn't you
On a serious note I have no doubt the Clio will be a good car, but is just isn't pure enough any more mainly due to the loss of the Manual Gearbox.
C
The 3-door isn't out until 'spring 2013' according to Autocar so maybe it was the 5-door...
shockingly poor, to be fair the dealership are not at fault they wanted to do "a proper repair" but were unable to do so.
this is a large dealership,and I found out that a few of the longer serving mechanics won't work on the Kia cars,because of the warranty issues the garage has with Kia.
Gassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff