Kia to Launch Sportier Forte Koup SX-R in Canada

Très Bien: Kia to Launch Sportier Forte Koup SX-R in Canada

The good: the new Kia Koup has just gotten a bit sportier as the Korean automaker has announced a new 'R' package with styling and performance accessories for the SX model. The bad: the 'R' package is available only to Canadian buyers

The aesthetics of the Koup are beefed up with a five-piece bodykit that includes a pair of front lip spoiler, chunky side skirts and a discreet boot lid spoiler. The two-door model's looks are complemented by a set of neat 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Yokohoma S-drive tires, and 'R' branded badges and door sills.

While the R treatment does nothing to the Koup SX's 173-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, it does add a sport exhaust, AEM air filter, new springs that lower the ride height by 1.3'' and a strut bar to improve handling.

The 'R' package will be available in Canada as a dealer-installed kit starting from mid-May.

Via: Forteforums

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Ford and Geely Hit "Snag" in Volvo Deal

Ford and Geely Hit "Snag" in Volvo Deal

Trouble's a-brewin' in the Ford/Geely Volvo sale, or so Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Chairman Li Shufu implies. The good news is it doesn't sound too serious.

Automotive News states that there may have been a "snag due to problems at Ford Motor Co."; regardless, Chairman Li says, "We're ready to seal the deal...If the deal fails, the problem is not on our side. We have not violated any part of the agreement."

The report goes on to say that Geely's plans for taking ownership of Volvo within the second quarter of 2010 have not changed. If that's the case, and the deal goes through, Chinese Geely will have Volvo safety, engineering, and design to spread throughout its portfolio.

Safe Chinese cars that look good? Maybe they're getting ready to take over the world after all.

- By Phil Alex