This new Kia will likely embarrass a Golf R in a drag race
Unlike Hyundai with its N division, Kia doesn’t have a dedicated performance arm. That doesn’t mean it’s without a few spicy models, which typically have the “GT” moniker added to their names.
Another one is on the way, with Kia having just released official camouflaged images of the upcoming EV4 GT. Kia recently re-entered the hatchback segment with the boldly styled K4 Hatchback, but the EV4 GT electric hatch is expected to be a far more potent prospect.
Related: Kia’s Most Affordable Electric Hot Hatch Is All But Ready
Design Details Hidden Behind “GT Foil”
Kia EV4 GT Kia
Kia calls this camo wrap the GT Foil, which is an interplay of black, gray, and neon patterns covering most of the electric hatchback’s body. We’ve seen the EV4 Hatchback, though, and the design flair of that model is on display here too, from the bulging front fenders to the sporty alloys and boomerang-shaped rear lights.
In GT guise, the EV4 gets Acid Green brake calipers and appears to sit a little lower to the ground. And, while there’s a roof-mounted spoiler at the back, nothing about it is over-the-top or obnoxious.
Powertrain details are unknown, but it’s unlikely it’ll step on the toes of the larger EV6 GT, which produces up to 641 horsepower from its dual motors; an output of about 200 hp less than the EV6 GT is likelier. A special GT driving mode, bigger brakes, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential are other performance-enhancing additions that could be inherited from the EV6 GT.
Sporty Hatch Not Destined For America
Unfortunately, Kia only plans to sell the quirky EV4 sedan here, not the hatchback, which effectively rules out the EV4 GT for this market. A performance version of the sedan is much less likely, as all that’s been announced is a single-motor version with up to 201 hp. Unlike the EV4 GT, which is expected to use all-wheel drive, the EV4 sedan planned for launch here will stick with a more efficient front-wheel-drive layout, yielding a range of up to 330 miles.
Smaller electric hatchbacks are few and far between in the United States, too, and the ones that do exist are focused solely on value, not performance. These include the Nissan Leaf and upcoming Chevrolet Bolt.
Related: Kia Tops Tesla and VW in EV Battery Life Study
Will Kia Ever Get A Performance Division?
Hyundai Motor Company, which owns Kia, seems content to leave a full performance division to Hyundai. Albert Biermann, who headed up performance development for Hyundai and Kia, previously said that Kia is “good for everything” and doesn’t require a separate sub-brand.
This is despite the fact that the brand had great, enthusiast-pleasing cars like the Stinger and Forte Koup, not to mention the modern K5 GT, one of the only mass-market, midsize performance sedans around.
No matter what it’s called, though, the new EV4 GT has a strong team behind it and may just poach a few Golf R customers when it arrives.
