Kia is seriously weighing up the possibility of producing a B-segment crossover based on its Provo concept and possibly a rear-wheel drive GT as part of its aggressive five-year plan.
Speaking at the launch of the new Carens MPV and Procee’d, CEO of Kia Europe, Michael Cole, has suggested that the two models are options when it comes to the company’s intention to replace its volume-selling models.
According to Cole, Kia is “looking at a B-segment SUV through the Kia Provo concept that’s the real intense sector of the market and we could do it off the Rio base so that’s what I could see in Europe.” Cole further added that the new Soul could be revealed at the New York Motor Show and could potentially act as a future replacement for the Soul on the European market at a later date.
The Kia Provo was revealed at the recent Geneva Motor Show and was described as a sporty urban crossover, possibly hinting at a more sporty/purposeful future design language for Kia’s future models. It also served as a strong indication that Kia is seriously investigating a possible compact crossover to take on the likes of the Nissan Juke.
Another concept that could get the production nod is the company’s GT. Cole has stated that “we now have Peter Schreyer [Kia’s design chief] looking at a halo sports car – he’s keen on a GT.”
The Kia GT was revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The GT concept featured a 3,3-litre V6 turbopetrol (290 kW/534 N.m) coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission sending drive to the rear wheels.