Kia GT Concept production confirmed for 2013

Kia’s V6-powered GT concept car was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this month. Kia said that production of the new Kia GT Concept will begin in 2013 and that it is working on a high-performance version of the Kia cee’d. The automaker said that this model will start production after its lineup of six mass-market models had all been overhauled. According to Paul Philpott, the chief operating officer of Kia Europe, a halo car such as a Kia GT offers “greater sporting credentials” that would encompass the entire range.

Philpott said that the company will come up with sporting versions for more models and it will start with the new c’eed. He explained that Kia wants to be famous for sport and design and so these cars are “critical.” Philpott implied that other sporting models may be possible. He said that Kia will examine the niches between a hot hatch and rear drive coupe.

There were reports earlier that a V8 unit would power the concept version of the Kia GT but actually, it would be equipped with a 3.3-litre turbocharged petrol V6 engine. This has an output of 390bhp and 394lb ft of torque. Its drive could be transferred through the rear wheels through its eight-speed automatic gearbox. This concept, which was built in Kia’s Frankfurt design studio, is indicative of what Kia plans for its expansion. This concept also provides the blueprint for Kia’s new design direction as led by chief designer Peter Schreyer.[via : 4wheelsnews]

photo : Kia GT Concept