Kia has not only confirmed the development of a performance version of its all-new Pro_Cee’d hatchback, but has also given us a launch date, the first details on the engine and even a teaser sketch of the car that we will come to know as the Pro_Cee’d GT.
Aimed directly at Europe’s finest in the hot hatch category such as the upcoming Volkswagen Golf GTI, the three-door Pro_Cee’d GT will feature the Hyundai and Kia developed 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI engine and a six-speed manual gearbox driving the front wheels.
The Koreans did not release performance numbers, but we do know that in the European market Hyundai Veloster, the same engine produces 183bhp (186PS) and a peak torque of 195 lb-ft (265Nm). However, it is possible that Kia will tweak the four-cylinder unit lifting its output to 200 or more horses.
The teaser sketch gives us a first look at the car’s exterior goods, which will include a redesigned front bumper with larger vents and a red accent line, honeycomb inserts for the upper and lower front grilles, and bespoke alloy wheels.
Kia said it will launch the new Pro_Cee’d GT in Europe the second half of 2013. Look for the hot hatch to make its world premiere at the Geneva Auto Salon in March.
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