Hyundai and Kia were known as affordable economy brands for the longest time. While they are both coming into their own, Kia is now threatening to come out ahead with a new hatchback model. Both companies started to post substantial sales figures around five years ago. These figures were given a boost because of the low cost of ownership. Hyundai and Kia were also known as reliable brands. No one should go around messing with a formula that works. However, Kia is bucking the system and developing a European style hatchback that some commentators feel is reminiscent of the VW Golf.

The vehicle is apparently based on the Kia Ceed. North American drivers may not be familiar with this vehicle since it has made much more of an impact in foreign markets. Ceed motor vehicles have been made in Russian and Ukrainian factories, but Kia must not have felt that the model had sufficient sales figures to end up on US lots. This might have saved them from irritating drivers who prefer to purchase new cars made in the United States. Companies like Kia and Hyundai have built many facilities in the United States, and this has certainly helped their popularity. If the new hatchback does land in American dealerships, Kia might want to produce the car here.

Interestingly enough, the engine could be slightly underpowered. Theta II 2.0-liter engine blocks generate 274 hp in the Kia Optima. The new hatchback probably wouldn’t feature a full sized Theta II. Then again, anything in that horsepower range is impressive. While Kia motor vehicles might be stereotyped as family cars, they’re actually pretty powerful. Advertising executives could play this up, especially if they want to go up against the used markets.

There are probably plenty of used VW hatchbacks for sale. Other makes are possibly becoming more popular as well. Drivers are definitely keeping their cars longer. People want practical cars that are going to last for a while. Hatchbacks can be rather efficient, and they feature plenty of space. Making a practical car flashy is an interesting idea. While many automakers have tried to make flashy cars into practical vehicles, few designers have focused on doing things the other way. Car owners who wouldn’t otherwise buy a serious vehicle could be attracted to this new Kia if it does indeed come on the market.