Although it will be marketed exclusively in Europe, it will find its way to South Africa too.
Later on the the five-door launch models will be joined by a range of station wagons and sporty three-door hatchback models from September and December 2007, respectively.
Created especially for European consumers, the new model will be Kia's strongest-yet contender in the C-segment challenging hatchbacks suchs as the VW Golf, Opel Astra and Renault Megane.
According to Kia the 4.2-metre long ED's long wheelbase of 2 650 mm results in "class-leading interior space".
From launch, a range of four engines will be available, including 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre CVVT petrol engines and an all-new 1.6-litre VGT diesel engine.
The ED will be produced at Kia's first European manufacturing facility at Zilina in Slovakia.