The Kia GT4 Stinger is just a concept

Kia is being very honest about the GT4 Stinger concept’s prospects: there are currently no plans to put it into production. And that’s a shame because the coupé, unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, could have become a great halo model for the brand.

For starters the GT4 Stinger looks terrific. The styling is simple and elegant without any fussy details, plus the three-door body is well proportioned.

Add in a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that sends its 315 bhp (235 kW / 320 PS) to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and things become even more appealing.

However, while that motor is based on an existing unit, the GT4 Stinger’s bespoke chassis and exotic double wishbone suspension are the reality checks. Manufacturing such a unique rear-drive platform isn’t cheap, therefore Kia would have to be confident of selling sufficient volumes for the coupé to be affordable yet profitable. That said, the Mazda MX-5 and Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 prove it’s possible.

So the GT4 Stinger won’t be appearing in showrooms, but perhaps its legacy will be a new design direction for Kia?

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