Kia has surprised by unveiling a rear-drive, four-door sports car called the Kia GT, inspired by the classic GT cars of the 1970s.
Although a concept car at this stage, the Kia GT is significant, not just because it’s Kia first muscle-bound GT but also thanks to some innovative materials and looks. Importantly, Kia’s German styling guru, Peter Schreyer says the looks herald a new chapter in Kia design.
Work started in the concept in November 2010 and Schreyer says the significance of the Kia GT is as shift to major market tastes. “The classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout of a performance saloon has distinct appeal, not just for the domestic Korean audience, but also for the European and American markets,” he revealed. “This concept allows us to explore exciting new design directions, as using a rear-drive layout creates very different proportions compared to a front-wheel-drive car.”
There’s certainly some cutting-edge stuff in the Kia GT with some cues originating in previous concepts – the Kee and Pop. Winglets curve from the front fenders to the headlights, the carbon-fibre wheels carry a propeller look and the rear-view cameras were inspired by jet engines.
It’s a rear-cabin design with a long bonnet, forward-mounted wheels and shortened rear-end. The raked front quarter windows are distinct throwbacks to the 1970-era GTs. Length is 4690mm, wheelbase is 2860mm, width is 1890mm and height is 1380mm.
Copper is a colour highlight used on the body, brake calipers and glass tinting, contrasting with the mica-flake grey paint. Schreyer says the inspiration for copper came after visting the BMY International Design Festival in Berlin – it is the current ‘hip’ material.
The deeply recessed six LED headlights looks brilliant while the single rear light sweeps inot the rear fenders.
Rear doors are rear-hinged and open at a slight upwards angle to access the remarkable interior.
The centre tunnel for the driveshaft, normally minimized in current designs is actually accentuated to create a sports car feel and many of the normal button controls are re-located to the steering wheel. Material for the three-dimensional instrument panel is glass while metallic-treated leather is used throughout.
Power comes from a 3.3-litre turbocharged V6 direct injection petrol engine.
“It felt good to be working on a car that could roll down the road tomorrow,” Schreyer said. “Yes it would be a dream to put this into production – it has a logical layout, with four seats, and good luggage space, and it’s also engaging and dynamic and makes a strong statement. It’s exactly the kind of car Kia should be making.”
Given the clout Mr Schreyer has with Kia and his track record with cars like the Optima, Sportage and Rio, we’d be surprised if the Kia GT isn’t in Kia showrooms within a couple of years.
