Perhaps the word ‘Kia’ does not immediately bring to mind the notion of sporty cars, but images recently released by the car maker suggest that they may be modifying their style towards the sportier end of the market in the years to come. The pictures are of a new concept car from the South Korean company, which will be making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.
The only details released by the firm are that it has four-doors (the back doors are rear hinged), rear wheel drive and seating for four. It is believed that new vehicle will boast a V8 engine and will be based on a luxury saloon model that is due to be released in the United States next year.
Speaking about the new model, Kia Motors' chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, explained: 'I believe the car is a strong statement from Kia: we are ready to fast-forward to an all-new chapter.'
The new design might be compared to the Optima (due to be launched in the UK early in 2012), particularly in reference to the rear pillar and side windows. Others have noted that its styling bears some resemblance to the Aston Martin One-77 both in front and rear.
While the Kia has had its praises sung by many people across the UK and around the world, largely because it is unlikely to suffer a car breakdown and its models are often economical to run, the brand does not yet seem ready to enter the luxury saloon market. It will take time for people to stop connecting the brand to small, cheap cars and start thinking about it as a viable alternative to a BMW or a Mercedes. When we see the new concept car in the flesh in Frankfurt, however, we should get a better idea of exactly how sporty a Kia can get.
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