Kia releases teaser for new Soul concept

Kia has released a teaser image for an all new concept based on its Soul hatchback, despite details for the production version, due next year, already being released. Kia has announced that it will be showing the all new Soul concept to compliment the trio of concepts seen earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, as well as the original Soul concept seen in 2006.

Kia claims that the all-new concept is more than just a re-packaging treatment, as it will demonstrate the flexibility of the original Soul design.

Currently, the production Kia Soul is due to go on sale in the U.K. market from March 1, 2009 and in the U.S. market in the second half of next year. The engine lineup will consist of a 120hp 1.6L unit and a 140hp 2.0L option, both of which will have an estimated fuel economy of around 30mpg and will be available on four different trim levels - Soul, Soul+, Soul! (exclaim) and Soul sport.

Kia is hoping to double its sales in global markets by 2010 with the introduction of several new and updated models. The first of these will be a facelifted Sportage SUV in July, followed by the Soul and two new sedan models next year. The carmaker is also scheduled to open its first U.S. plant next year and is planning to build up to 300,000 vehicles per year at the Georgia site.

The latest concept will make its debut next month at the Detroit Auto Show.