Decoding the Kia GT

Like other concept cars, the Kia GT is a window into the future of Kia design and a hint of what chief designer, Peter Schreyer is thinking about so let us look at the various design features that may appear in future models from the Korean carmaker.

From the front we can see the evolution of the tiger-mouth grille, it is more stylised with the sides flared downwards and taking on a more vertical position in profile.

The overall styling language is moving away from the angular and flat surfaces to more rounded panels and flowing lines, we can expect this general design to start appearing in future Kia models.



Once this more organic shape begins to appear on Kia cars, the stylised grille design will also make its debut.

Clearly the distinctive c-pillar design that first appeared on the Optima is a key element of the GT's design, this indicates that it may become part of the Kia design DNA, together with the tiger-mouth grille.

Another element that is likely to  remain on board is the sculpted roof that is evident here. The twin crease running on the roof is a smile design cue that can make the cars distinctive while being easily incorporated into many designs, the main inhibitor will be the difficulty incorporating a sunroof into any cars with this design feature.

The tapered rear lamps and strong rear shoulder line is already a feature of their sedans, you can see this on the Forte and Optima and from the GT we can see that Kia is keen to maintain this crucial design element.

The interior is a lot more fanciful than the exterior so I take this as cue that Kia really wants us to evaluate the exterior for future design direction. We can take a look at the chrome and metallic elements in the interior design and colour scheme and use it as guidance for upcoming Kia cabins.

The strong and prominent main instrument binnacle  may see future use and the same goes for the metal finish on the three-spoke steering wheel.

That is our assessment of the Kia GT.

Oh by the way, Kia says the GT will have an all-new V6. That will probably power new Kia vehicles in the future, I think Kia will have an interesting selection of vehicles to offer in the next round of model change, which should start with the Forte sometime in 2013/14.