Much as we love talking about how green Kia’s fleet is, we also like it when we hear news that is genuinely exciting. The last time Kia really wowed us with something hot was with the GT4 Stinger Concept at the North American International Auto Show way back in January, and while it stole the show in many ways, all we could do was beg them to put it into production with only a slim chance it would become reality. That chance is apparently too slim for now, but in the words of Yoda, “There is another.”
First debuted in 2011 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Kia GT Concept has now been greenlit for production and will probably make landfall in the US some time in 2016. In concept form, this car is a real stunner. Decked out in sleek silver, smoothed over on all edges, and boasting aggressive flared fenders, this four-door coupe was equipped with a 3.3-liter turbo V6 worth 389 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque.
Those numbers are impressive and absolutely crucial to competing against the targets Kia has set: the Audi A7 and the Porsche Panamera. If anything like the concept ends up in showrooms, we think it definitely has those two beat based on looks. The real challenge, as with the K900, will be coaxing buyers away from marques that are already established in the segment.
In related news, another item from our wish list will also be popping up some time next year. Kia will be turbocharging the Soul. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine from the Forte will be fitted to everyone’s favorite hamster-mobile, upping the Soul’s output to 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It’s even rumored that Kia might bestow all-wheel drive upon the boxy compact. Time will tell.
We don’t have exact dates for either of these cars, but if you follow our blog and social media outlets, we’ll let you know when to expect them in our showroom. Until then, if you need any service or repair on your current Kia model, don’t hesitate to stop by Leith Autopark Kia in the Raleigh area.