Kia Kue Concept: Pure Korean Power

By Motoring Channel Staff - 17/Jan/2006

Detroit, USA — As the South Korean automaker, Kia, goes from strength, attracting new customers with an improving design portfolio, it displayed a show stopping exhibit at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, best described as a demonstration of raw power.

Kia isn't known for creating sports cars or performance SUVs, but the new Kue crossover concept is a very strong model, motivated by a 4.6-litre supercharged V8 that gives the car 298kW (400hp) at the crankshaft.

The 4x4 vehicle employs a different approach to the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment by taking elements of what makes a CUV to a new level, namely performance, said Kia.

Kia says that the Kue was designed first and foremost as a driver's vehicle, and that while possessing SUV characteristics and capabilities, it focuses more on giving the driver an exhilarating driving experience on the way to the home improvement center than on how much it can haul.

"We’ve instilled confidence and integrity in our consumer base with vehicles that provide value, quality and safety," said Len Hunt, executive vice president of Kia Motors America. 

"Kue embodies the next phase of our brand evolution, which will instill pride and passion in our customers through great design," added Hunt.

While the design is easy on the eyes, one of the best bits of the new concept is the DOHC, supercharged 4.6-litre V8 that inhabits the engine bay. As well as a 298kW power peak, the engine also belts out 542Nm of torque, which is about the same as an HSV GTS, which is powered by a 6.0-litre Chevy V8.

The Kia Kue's favoured environment is the road, rather than the wilds of unexplored jungles, which is evidence by the monocoque frame and the large 22-inch wheels.

Related articles:
- Kia cee'd (2007)
- Kia Multi-S (concept)
- Kia Sportage (2005)