A few months ago, it was revealed that Kia was close to finalising a new production model that was based on the GT concept that they showed off back in 2011 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, replete with a bold futuristic design, low roofline and perhaps some pretty decent performance and handling.
The concept had rear ‘suicide’ doors, but we’re fairly confident the showroom versions won’t include that, though it would be a fun addition.
Fast forward to the present day and we’re still some time away from the official debut but via a stealthily executed photo and subsequent leak, we now have our best glimpse yet at what will be the most exciting Kia to emerge in recent years.
This photograph comes from Kia-World.net, where it says the car will be called ‘K8’ while internally it’s known as ‘CK’ and shares its underpinnings with the Genesis G70 (formerly known as the Hyundai Genesis). While we’re familiar with other Kia’s adopting a similar nomenclature in other markets, such as the Cerato K3 and Optima K5, the K8 name suggests it will sit below the Kia K9 but above the Kia K7/Cadenza - both of which are sold in North America.
The four-door rear-driven coupe, as seen here inside the factory where other early prototypes are doubtless lurking, looks to have remained quite faithful to the concept car from 5 years ago. In those terms, the car should look quite dated, but contrarily is every bit as futuristic and sleek as it did when the covers were freshly pulled off.
There’s still no word yet on what engine Kia has chosen to live under that bonnet, though, but there are some ideas about the shortlist, including a twin-turbocharged Lambda V6.
For more on Kia vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
