BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 16th May 2001
The electronically-controlled four-speed automatic kicks down directly to second gear from fourth gear when the throttle is floored
Credos has a drag coefficient of just 0.29 thanks to its flush- fitting doors and clean, smooth lines
The rear quarter panel has been integrated into the overall frame of the car for increased structural rigidity
A super efficient heater warms the cabin quickly on cold mornings and is controlled by an easy to comprehend Mercedes-style thumb wheel
High-strength steel is used in 31 per cent of the Credos's body components for increased strength and durability
The Credos has been built around the shortest possible nose and longest possible passenger compartment
The boot has a 350-litre capacity with the spare wheel in place
The top portion of the rear window has been ceramic glazed to reduce the amount of direct sunlight entering the cabin
It rides on 5.5x14 steel rims shod with 195/70R14 tyres
An option pack comprising leather upholstery, electrically- adjustable driver's seat, woodgrain dash, anti-lock brakes and alloy wheels costs an extra $3500
Kia used its own Cray supercomputer to locate the ideal placement for anti-intrusion beams in the doors
Rear headroom and legroom both measure a generous 960mm
A standard immobiliser with transponder is contained within the ignition key
The automatic transmission's electronics will lock out fourth gear for three minutes for quicker engine warm uP