Kia GT Concept: Turbo V6 Puts 395-HP to the Rear Wheels [2011 Frankfurt Auto Show]

Kia has been changing what people think about Korean cars for well over a year now thanks to some impressive designs, and now the automaker is looking to add some performance to its lineup with the new GT Concept – the first ever rear-drive vehicle by Kia.

Set to be unveiled tomorrow at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, the GT Concept is a rear-drive coupe-styled sedan that we can now confirm is powered by a turbocharged and direct-injection 3.3-liter V6 making 395-hp and 394 lb-ft of torque. Helping get power to the ground in a smooth and fuel efficient manner is an 8-speed automatic transmission.

“This concept allows us to explore exciting new design directions, as using a rear-drive layout creates very different proportions compared to a front-wheel drive car,” says Peter Schreyer, Kia’s Chief Design Officer. ”The classic front-engined, rear-wheel drive layout of a performance saloon has distinct appeal not just for the domestic Korean audience, but also for the European and American markets.”

Said to be inspired by iconic GT cars of the 1970s, the GT also takes design cues from the Kia Kee concept that debuted in Frankfurt back in 2007. Measuring 185-inches in length this 4-seater is roughly a foot shorter than the Hyundai Genesis sedan (on which it is believed to be based), putting it right in the same size category as the BMW 3 Series.

Will Kia build the GT Concept.. or something like it? You bet! “One of the great things about working on this project was that this is a very real car,” says Schreyer. “It felt good to be working on a car that could roll down the road tomorrow. Yes, it would be a dream to put this into production – it has a logical layout, with four seats, and good luggage space, and it’s also engaging and dynamic and makes a strong statement. It’s exactly the kind of car Kia should be making.”

Look for more details and live photos tomorrow at AutoGuide’s official Frankfurt Auto Show page here.