Kia May Launch Production Version of Sport Concept Car

Kia Motors Corp. says it may introduce an ’06 production version of its Kia Sport concept car, which debuted at the Paris auto show.

Kim Yong-hwan, senior executive vice president and chief operating officer of Kia, says a production version will depend on consumer reaction to the flashy Sport.

“Depending on public reaction to this sensational show car, a full production version may be introduced in 2006,” he says.

Powered by a turbocharged 2L 200-hp gasoline engine linked to a 5-speed automatic, the front-drive Sport is based on Kia’s new B-class 5-door hatchback, codenamed JB, which goes into production in spring 2005.

“The design team in Korea has created a car that is young-at-heart and a bold but subtle embodiment of automotive styling,” Kim says. “It undoubtedly will appeal to our target customers, the 20- to 30-year-old group, who have exciting personalities and active lifestyles.”

The Sport’s front end features a wide air intake, air dam and linear grille graphics. It has prominent wheel arches, 18-in., 5-spoke alloy wheels, dual exhaust, sweeping rear lamp clusters and rooftop aerodynamic wing.

The Sport measures 163 ins. (414 cm) long, 71 ins. (180 cm) wide and 58 ins. (147 cm) high. It has a 98-in. (249-cm) wheelbase.