Sporty design is a Koup for Kia

The Koup's low profile and aggressive stance earned it a ``best in show'' award at the New York Motor Show. Photo / Supplied

South Korean carmaker Kia is evaluating for sale in New Zealand the car that wowed audiences at the New York motor show.

The two-door Koup is a sportier version of the Cerato sedan unveiled here a few weeks ago. It picked up a "best in show" gong in New York and goes into left-hand-drive production for the US market shortly.

Kia Motors NZ general manager Todd McDonald says he is already talking to the factory about right-hand-drive schedules.

"Production for countries like New Zealand is still some months away, but we have started working with the factory on what drive train and specification we would need for our market," he said.

"The Koup represents another exciting step in the design-led evolution of Kia and we think it would sit nicely alongside the new Cerato."

The production model mirrors the design cues of the study car, offering the same low profile and aggressive stance, the swept-back, wrap-around headlamps, and prominent grille and air intakes. The car is slighter shorter and lower than the Cerato and has a better aerodynamic wind-flow factor, says Kia.

The standard engine is expected to be a 2-litre unit producing 116kW at 6200rpm and 194Nm of torque at 4300rpm. A 2.4-litre will be optional in some markets.

Kia says the Koup will come as standard in all markets with six airbags, anti-lock brakes, tyre pressure monitors, and electronic stability control.