| Preview | Frankfurt Motor Show | Kia Pro-cee'd |
Kia has released the first image of its new C-segment challenger, with hopes of further expanding into the European market. Named the Pro-cee'd, the three-door hatch is closely based on the earlier
pro-cee'd concept shown at the
Paris Motor Show in 2006.
Under Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, the production car has kept the same grille profile as the concept along with sculpted lower flanks. The car also shares design characteristics with the
five-door Kia cee'd in an attempt to build a distinctive family appearance.
Jean-Charles Lievens, Senior Vice President of Kia Motors Europe has promised: "Longer, lower and lighter than its five-door sister car, the new Kia Pro-cee'd is going to be a great drive".
The three-door hatchback from Kia has tough competition though. Vauxhall has the
Astra Sport Hatchas well as Ford's acclaimed
Focus, renowned for its handling capabilities and solid build quality. A factor that is likely to swing in Kia's favour is a price tag that should undercut the vast majority of its rivals, and place it firmly against Korean family members from Hyundai.
Kia's route to establishing a firmer foothold in European markets rests on its Slovakian plant's production of the new Pro-cee'd in November, with customer sales beginning in early 2008. We'll get our first taste of the hatch at the
Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
Kyle Molyneux - 25 Jul 2007