Autoblog UK

The Kia Sorento has so far enjoyed huge success in Europe. Its successor is already on the starting blocks in Korea and has an altogether more dynamic look and feel than the outgoing model. Head Designer Peter Schreyer has somehow conjured a smile into the grille. In addition, the side profile with its narrower windows now manages to look both more delicate and more dynamic at the same time. For the Auto Salon in Seoul, which opens its doors to the public between 2nd and 5th July, Kia have promised to bring along a 2.2-litre diesel version that delivers around 200bhp and complies with the Euro 5 emissions standard. A 2.4-litre petrol model plus an LPG-compatible 2.7-litre engine are also due to go on show. Seoul will show whether the old Kia slogan still holds true: A lot of car for not much money.

One of the major draws at this year's Autosalon in Seoul (2nd- 5th July) is bound to be the KND-5 concept car from Kia. A luxury saloon squeezing into the gap between Magentis and Opirus, it is due to arrive in the showrooms this autumn – Korea first, of course. Kia obviously want their slice of the flourishing luxury market and, in the KND-5, they have come up with a virtual Hyundai Genesis look-alike.

The special features of the KND-5 are its large, glass sunroof (seamlessly integrated with windscreen and pillars), LED main beams and 20-inch aluminium wheels. Several striking design details underline the concept nature of this Kia which, according to the manufacturer, represents an innovative approach to the design and technology of high-end luxury vehicles.

Hyundai first presented their Veloster concept back in 2007. At 4.10 metres in length and 1.45 metres in height, it is a 2+2 seater sports car with front-to-rear glass sun roof and a two-litre engine. The name Veloster was cobbled together from 'velocity' and 'roadster', with the aim of emphasising the sporty characteristics of the vehicle. The prototype was built at the company's own Design and Technical Center in Namyang. At the Auto Salon to be held in Seoul during the first week of July, the Veloster will be shown off in its final form. It is due to start rolling off the assembly lines in 2010.

The Koreans go from strength to strength. After sending the new Genesis saloon out onto the streets of Asia and the USA, Hyundai have now brought out its coupé sibling. With a bit of luck, we Europeans may also get to see this two-door model, which is every bit as robust as it is stylish. We should find out more at the Seoul Auto Salon (2nd - 5th July) when Hyundai unveil their smart and sporty coupé. And unlike its saloon counterpart, this model has all the necessary attributes to be a big hit here in Europe.