Nope. Koup should be slightly faster although the difference is pretty negligible in everyday driving.

It's probably the "feel" that gives the illusion of it being slower given its sporty exterior; but it is after all a two door version of the sedan rather than a purebred sports coupe.

The GEMA 2.0 Theta II is a naturally aspirated engine designed for C-segment sedans which (on paper) provides the most punch amongst its rivals. None of the other current C-segment sedans will provide the same kind of output as the newer GDI engines, let alone turbocharged units which many German carmakers are implementing.

Unless, the Koup gets the concept KOUP's turbocharged engine. Or Kia decides to use the Optima/Sportage 2.0T's engine to produce a more higher spec version of the Koup although it'll be less powerful than the KOUP. The Genesis coupe follows this route with an entry level 2.0 and a 3.8 V6.

The Koup is the only one in its segment - it's been a while since other carmakers released affordable two door coupes eg Civic Si and Lancer coupe/Putra. You buy the Koup for the feel good factor, but probably will lose pretty much every traffic light drag to riced-up sedans or hatchbacks. It's a good move by Naza to only bring in the Koup now instead of launching it together with the Forte 2 years ago - 6 speed tranny is more attractive not to mention the LED rear lamps.

This post has been edited by StarGhazzer: Apr 1 2011, 07:13 AM