Only in Canada: Kia Forte Koup R

“Only in Canada, you say? Pity!” Well, not for Canadians. Our American friends can’t get one, but you can get the Kia Forte Koup R Performance Package added to your Koup to set yourself apart from stock Koup owners.

Available on either the SX or EX model, your Koup can get a serious handling package upgrade including a performance exhaust, performance air filter by AIM, stiffer springs and a strut tower brace. What’s more, for improved handling and upgraded looks the R gets18-inch Europa wheels shod in Yokohama S-Drive performance tires.

Adding to the wow factor are deeper front skirts, more aggressive side sills and a rear spoiler, not to mention an R badge to finish off the look.

While Kia is a separate entity under the Hyundai-Kia umbrella, it’s interesting to note that the Korean brand’s familial rival also offers a Canadian-exclusive performance tuning program, although one that’s much more advanced. Hyundai Performance Parts (www.hyundaiperformance.ca) offers performance and visual upgrades for numerous models within its lineup, all not interfering with warranty coverage. It’s possible that Kia has similar plans, and that further upgrades will become available.

The R package will become available in mid-May, and no doubt dealers will create Koup Rs of their own and display them on their showroom floors. And take heart, current Koup owners, your loyalty in buying first will be rewarded too, as any Kia parts counter will sell you the kit and all service departments will be trained to install it for you.

Photograph by: Staff, Canadian Auto Press