Custom Kias at the 2009 SEMA Show

Kia's press conference started out with a mysterious vehicle hidden under a cloak. From the silhouette, we can tell that the vehicle is a Forte Koup, but in what direction will Kia take this model?

As the cover was peeled back, it was obvious that Kia now has its ambitions set on racing.

To be fair, this KONI Challenge Koup features a host of modifications that are well outside of the realm of your average weekend wrench turner.

Hoosier racing slicks and lightweight wheels make sure the KONI Challenge Koup sticks to the road as well as its front wheel-driven chassis will allow.

Other racing modifications include a full roll cage, gutted interior, and a fuel cell to replace the gas tank.

Keeping with the racing theme, Kia also displayed a Soul that's been modified to serve as a safety car in US Touring Car Championship races.

Kia also displayed a myriad of accessories for modifying its Soul and Forte models.

The Antenna Soul has been customized by Antenna Magazine as a display of tuning accessories, fashion accessories, and consumer electronics.

20-inch MMR wheels feature a very cool bronze color and are wrapped in Nitto tires.

The Antenna Soul was bathed in a custom baby blue paint by Lux Motorwerks.

The stock calipers have been painted to match the body, but they look pretty puny behind the mammoth wheels. Time for an upgrade, Kia.

The back of the Antenna features a motorized shelving display that can disappear beneath the floor.

The most docile Kia of the day is this tuner-style Forte sedan. This vehicle is the closest representation of what your average tuner Kia will look like and features upgraded suspension components, a Kia Motors body kit, and 18-inch 5Zigen wheels.

Inside, the TS Forte features an nine-speaker Infinity audio system and a host of Kia Motors accessories.

This Soul, dubbed "Sinister," features stealthy matte black paint, dark wheels, and--well--dark everything else.

Smoked headlamps complete the Sinister look.

Out back, the Sinister Soul features a full audio system by Infinity, which puts the drivers, subs, and amplifiers on display.