Kia’s first sports car proves its mettle on the world’s most daunting track

By Andrew Hard December 1, 2016

The Curve Ahead – Episode 1 (Twists and Turns)

Kia is gearing up for the launch of its very first sports sedan, but ahead of its reveal at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show in January, the brand is building anticipation with a series of teaser videos called The Curve Ahead.

The debut film makes a great first impression, as we primarily see a perspective of the track from inside the vehicle as it tears up the iconic Nürburgring in Germany. The video doesn’t feature any shots of the car’s exterior, but we do get a clip of the speedometer as the vehicle carves through the legendary track at 244 kph (152 mph). Needless to say, if you’re going to introduce your first homegrown sports car, this is how you do it.

“The Curve Ahead is all about potential,” Kia explained. “The potential to clip every apex, and consume every straight. To take on each twist and turn with agility, speed and progressive design. With a new paradigm of performance on the horizon, Kia’s newest vehicle takes to the grueling Nürburgring to realize its full potential.”

Kia GT concept — Kia GT concept Image used with permission by copyright holder

Kia has also set up a dedicated website for the car that will eventually be populated with photo galleries, additional videos, and a webcast world premiere that goes live at 3 p.m. PT on January 8. The Korean automaker has yet to divulge official details, butwe expect the vehicle to wear the GT badge and feature styling heavily influenced by the GT concept (above). It should also share its rear-wheel drive platform with the upcoming Genesis G70, which puts it in line with the BMW 3 Series in terms of size. Kudos to Kia for aiming high.

In terms of engines, the GT will likely offer the 315-horsepower four-cylinder from the GT4 Stinger concept and a frugal turbodiesel, but the 365hp, 3.3-liter V6 from the Genesis G90 isn’t out of the question either. Stay tuned for the full reveal on January 8.

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