Kia’s 2011 GT concept, a four-door V6 fastback, has got the production go-ahead and is likely to arrive towards the end of 2016.
At the recent Paris motor show, executives confirmed to Autocar that a showroom version of the concept car is definitely in Kia’s plans, as the brand moves to develop a more sporting image.
Kia is also planning a more affordable sports model besides this high-end GT. A production version of the GT4 Stinger concept, a cheaper coupé revealed at the Detroit show this year, is one option.
Read about the Kia Stinger production car here
Kia UK boss Paul Philpott said that ideally he would like a two-seat sports car to rival the Mazda MX-5 but accepts that the global market is unlikely to be big enough to make it viable.
In concept form, the GT is powered by a 390bhp 3.3-litre V6 turbo petrol engine that drives the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic ’box. Whether the production version will get this engine is unclear, but European buyers will definitely be offered a diesel, possibly a version of the brand’s 2.2-litre four-pot.
The rear-hinged back doors of the concept are likely to be replaced by conventionally hinged doors for the showroom version. But Kia will be keen to preserve the concept’s fastback silhouette and much of the dramatic detailing.
A high-end and distinctively designed interior is a certainty and, as a showcase model, it’s likely to feature a wide array of electronic systems.
If Kia goes ahead with the GT4 Stinger, it will be more important for sales because it will be cheaper than the GT.
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