Kia Hired Former M Engineer To Build Range Of GT Models

Just this week we reported thatKia is finally building a RWD sport sedanrumored to be called the GT. Now, in another interview with Autocar, the automaker has revealed that a RWD sedan is not the only sporty model planned. In fact, Kia is planning a range of GT models which will be performance versions of mainstream cars. Its first GT model, the ProCeed GT, was made exclusively for Europe. But future vehicles will be sold globally, this according to performance boss Albert Biermann, who used to work for BMW's M division.

Biermann says that, "GT is not right for all Kia models." But it's apparently right for the Optima. The Optima GT will pack a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 242 hp. Kia is also planning a GT version of the Rio to rival the Ford Fiesta ST. Biermann says he would also love to do a Sportage GT, "but we need to make the case for it." Unlike theHyundai N division cars, which are also in development, Kia's GT models won't be built with track use in mind. This means that these cars won't get expensive technology like the electronically controlled limited slip differential that was developed for the Hyundai i30N. Biermann says the goal is to build cars that "drive as well as they look."