Kia unveils three new GT models
Until now, the South Korean manufacturer has offered the EV6 GT and EV9 GT, both of which are based on the 800-volt variant of the pure-electric E-GMP platform. These models feature all-wheel-drive systems with outputs of 478 kW (EV6 GT) and 374 kW (EV9 GT). The systems are rear-biased, as the 800-volt version of the E-GMP platform locates the primary drive unit on the rear axle.
In the 400-volt variant of the platform, designed for smaller and more affordable compact models, not only does the drive battery operate at a different voltage, but the primary drive unit in the currently available versions of the EV3, EV4, and EV5 is located on the front axle. For the GT models unveiled alongside the smaller EV2 in Brussels, this drive unit is supplemented by an additional, slightly less powerful electric motor on the rear axle.
The EV3 GT, EV4 GT, and its sister model, the EV4 Fastback GT, feature a 215 kW all-wheel-drive system. Kia specifies the front axle output as 145 kW (compared to up to 150 kW in pure front-wheel-drive models), supplemented by a 70 kW drive unit on the rear axle. The GT versions are only available with the 81.4 kWh ‘Long Range’ battery, while the front-wheel-drive models also offer a 58.3 kWh battery. Additionally, the GT models come with ‘electronically controlled suspension with GT-specific tuning, improved cornering stability, and 20-inch alloy wheels with performance-oriented tyres’ according to Kia.
The slightly larger EV5 GT boasts a system output of 225 kW, marginally higher than the smaller models. Here, too, GT-specific design changes are applied inside and out, along with a specially tuned chassis. The EV5 GT’s electronic damper control also includes a ‘road preview system,’ which, according to Kia, can detect potholes and adjust the damping accordingly.
All GT models share a special GT driving mode, which adjusts power delivery, steering feedback, suspension, and cockpit displays to provide a particularly dynamic driving experience.’ Derived from the ‘larger’ 800-volt GT models, the virtual gearshift system (VGS) and artificially generated engine sound are standard in the new GT models. “VGS introduces a tactile sensation during acceleration and deceleration, while active sound design dynamically responds to speed and load, generating a progressive digital soundscape that amplifies excitement,” Kia explained. “Together, these innovations deliver a forward-looking, emotionally charged driving experience.” However, these systems can be deactivated if desired.
Production of the three GT models is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026. Kia will announce the market launch dates at a later date. As a result, no prices have been released yet, but the top models will be the most expensive variants in their respective ranges. The most expensive EV3 GT-Line, with the 81.4 kWh battery and front-wheel drive, is currently priced from €48,690, while the EV4 with the same drivetrain configuration is available in Germany from €49,440. The EV5 GT-Line already exceeds the €50,000 mark at €51,990.
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