A rear-drive sedan from Kia? Wouldn't that just be a re-skinned Hyundai Genesis sedan? After closer inspection, we are pleased to say that the Kia GT Concept sits on its own chassis. In fact, it dimensionally shares more in common with the Genesis Coupe than the sedan. Overall length is 184.7 in., and the wheelbase is 112.6. The width of the GT, at 74.4 in., is similar to that of the Genesis sedan.

Video window may take a few moments to load...

And unlike the Genesis, the GT Concept is powered by a special version of Kia's own Lambda V-6, a turbocharged and direct-injected 3.3-liter. A healthy 390 horsepower and 394 lb.-ft. of torque is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Why was this striking Kia GT Concept built? Kia Design Chief Peter Schreyer has an answer: "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. 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."

The Kia GT Concept has a bit of the trendy "extended coupe" shape, with a long curved roofline, short rear deck and long hood. The GT's wheel placement gives the body the appearance of sliding off of its own wheelbase.

The meaning behind the GT's visual presence can best be described by Kia Europe Design Chief, Gregory Guillaume: "At the onset of this project, the design team was inspired by the spirit of iconic 1970s GT cars: sumptuous and elegant vehicles capable of whisking passengers from Paris to the South of France in effortless style and at high speed. We wanted to create something similarly graceful, athletic and confident, but not aggressive or overbearing."

The Details

On the contrary, we'd say car is very aggressive, what with its carbon-fiber and alloy wheels, carbon-fiber body molding and rear diffuser, and front windshield inset into a scalloped and bubbled roof. Peeking out of the wheels are copper-colored brake calipers that complement the copper window trim. Copper was chosen to contrast and enliven the stark futuristic look and feel of the Kia GT. Suicide rear doors and LED headlights add some flair.

Inside, the Kia GT Concept is typical show car stuff. The seats are futuristic one-piece units, while the instruments are OLED based, and embedded within layers of glass. This makes the digits and figures appear to float in front of the panel. Controlling the 8-speed automatic transmission is a twist-shifter, with an inset starter button.

Unlike the cool, almost sterile, color scheme used on the outside, the interior of the Kia GT Concept is filled with earthy tones. The shades of brown, bare metal and leather maker the interior have a warm, inviting, feel.

Here's the $1 million question: Will Kia build a production GT? Here's what Schreyer had to say: "One of the great things about working on this project was that this is a very real car. It felt good to be working on a car that could roll down the road tomorrow. Yes, it would be a dream to put this into production; it has 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."

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io