New Spectra will spawn Kia's first coupe model

Kia will launch its first ever coupe model next year with the launch of the next-generation Spectra (Cerato range). The new model, which is expected to draw heavy influences from the recently revealed Koup Concept (pictured), will replace the current Spectra and could even adopt a new name.

The car will first be launched with a regular sedan bodystyle but will be followed a coupe of months later by the new two door. A Spectra hatchback will be offered in some markets but according to the president of Hyundai-Kia’s R&D team, Lee Hyun-soon, the U.S. will miss out on the more practical model.

"We believe the coupe will sell better than the hatchback," Lee told reporters from Automotive News. The hatchback will be sold mainly in Europe as a replacement for the cee'd, he said.

The new coupe, along with the all-new Kia Soul, is designed to attract a younger target audience for Kia, especially in the U.S. where the brand could tap future Gen Y buyers. Several teaser shots of the new Spectra have leaked over the past couple of weeks, revealing a much sharper and more aggressive design for the South Korean brand. Click here to see out previous story, including the teasers.

2008 Kia KOUP Concept