Some of the words and phrases often associated with the KIA brand include reliable, assured, considered, and comfortable. However, exciting and adventurous are two words that don't spring to mind, at least not yet.
However, come November 3, when the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show gets underway in Las Vegas that could all change.
The Korean carmaker has already announced that it will be embracing its spirit of adventure for this year's event, and the first teaser images of what exactly this constitutes are now official -- and they don't disappoint.
Potentially the star of KIA's stand will be the A1A Optima. Based on the standard Optima sedan, it has been reimagined to make a serious statement while coursing through the Florida sunshine. So it is roofless and boasts rear passenger suicide doors, just like a 1960s Lincoln Continental or current Rolls Royce Phantom.
A drop top is one of the few vehicles that KIA doesn't have in its range and the concept, called the A1A in honor of the Florida highway, shows that the Optima is a surprisingly good donor car for a bit of convertible surgery.
As well as chopping the roof, the front windshield has also been cut down for a more rakish appearance. The car is noticeably lower too, sitting on highly polished 20-inch alloys that contrast nicely against its sky blue paint finish and butter cream leather interior. The cabin is also full of custom touches including a one-off center console and two individual rear seats for extra comfort.
And although it's just a customized concept, KIA says that the A1A is properly strengthened, just like a production soft-top, in order to retain the rigidity and safety that's lost when the roof is removed.
But KIA's sense of adventure doesn't stop with a solitary convertible. In total, the company will be showcasing six hand-built concepts at this year's show, each of which takes its inspiration from a different region of the US and its predominant car culture.
Alongside the A1A, the company has also offered a glimpse of the Forte Koup Mud Bogger, which represents the "adventurous American South and the inexplicable joy of getting dirty on four wheels."
So the Koup's ground clearance has been increased massively thanks to 28-inch off-road tires and the wheel arches flared to cope. To boost visibility, the roof is panoramic and has a fold-back vinyl hatch; inside the cabin is dressed in a special protective coating that can be washed down after each adventure. The final touch is a roll cage to protect the most exuberant of off-roaders.
