Kia Australia has launched its first performance model with the introduction of the Kia Cerato Koup Turbo.
The last of the Cerato family, the Koup is available in four configurations comprising two engines and two transmission choices.
The entry-level Kia Cerato Koup Si is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine that delivers 129kW of power and 209Nm of torque. It’s available with either a six-speed manual transmission (7.3 litres per 100km) or six-speed automatic (7.4L/100km).
The turbocharged Koup comes with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder TGDI petrol engine (currently found in the Hyundai Veloster Turbo) that delivers 150kW of power and 265Nm of torque. It will go from 0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds when coupled to the six-speed auto, but is also available with the six-speed manual, which completes the dash to triple figures in 7.8sec.
The twin-scroll turbo runs at 2.2 bar of pressure and force feeds cylinders one and four separately to two and three. Turbo models also get a dual exhaust system which Kia has specifically tuned for a more performance-oriented sound.
As with all recently launched Kias, the Koup and Koup Turbo have been specifically tuned for Australian road conditions. The front is 20 per cent stiffer and the rear 40 per cent stiffer than the sedan and hatch models, but given the use of a coupled torsion beam axle rear suspension it’s specified more like a grand tourer than a hot-hatch.
The steering rack is quicker, with a 15.1:1 ratio (2.8 turns lock to lock), resulting in a 10.6-metre turning circle and a more responsive feel behind the wheel.
The Kia Koup is 4530mm long, 1780mm wide and 1410mm tall, and weighs between 1284kg (naturally aspiratedmanual) and 1360kg (turbocharged automatic). The 2+3 seating configuration has been designed in such a way that accommodating two adult passengers in the rear is actually possible.
Naturally aspirated models come with 17-inch 215/45 alloys;black chrome grille; body-coloured door mirrors and handles; single exhaust muffler; cloth seats; leather steering wheel, instrument cluster and armrest; cruise control, and a 4.3-inch LCD screen with Bluetooth audio and telephone connectivity.
Turbocharged models are differentiated with 18-inch 225/40 alloys; 300mm front brakes (n/a models get 280mm); LED daytime running lights; front fog laps with LED surrounds;chrome radiator grille; carbonfibre-look bumper garnishes at both ends; black door mirrors and handles; side skirts; LED rear lights; dual exhaust; smart key with push-button start; artificial leather bolsters for the seats;electrochromic rear-view mirror;cooled glovebox; alloy pedals; and chrome speaker highlights.
The Kia Cerato Koup starts from $23,990 for the naturally aspirated model and $27,990 for the turbocharged variant when coupled to the manual transmission. The optional six-speed auto adds $2200.
Kia is also offering a Touring Pack for an additional $2200, which adds a seven-inch screen with satellite navigation, dual-zone climate control and leather seats.
