Kia Spectra Replacement Tease Photo Released

Compact Kia Should Sport 139 Horsepower

Under shadows, and faintly cast light, Kias new family hatchback lies hidden. Presenting a glimmering profile, displaying what looks to be a rakish design, leaves much to the imagination.

These official photos of the upcoming four-door compact tease Kia fans waiting for the Spectra/Shuma replacement to make its debut at the Busan Motor Show - for Asia what Detroit is to North America and Geneva to Europe.

Called the Cerato, it will be the first of a new wave of Kia cars designed with the sole purpose of shedding the bargain brands cheap image, much like how the Sorento SUV has improved perceptions of the Korean brand in the eyes of sport utility buyers.

Though its difficult to comprehend what it looks like on the whole, Kia has already announced the engine lineup to be used. Two diesel (Europe) and two gasoline power units will be available upon release.

Borrowed from Hyundai, the 1.5 and 2.0 liter oil burners feature common rail diesel technology and turbochargers. The larger of the two creates 113 horsepower. Despite rising fuel prices North Americans cant expect the diesel options at least until 2006, when low sulfur diesel fuel makes its debut.

On the gasoline side, Kia will offer 1.6 and 2.0 liter engines, the larger of the two, making 139 horsepower, expected to be the only engine to be offered in North America. This will be the first Kia to be equipped with their CVVT continuously variable transmission.