The new Kia EV4 GT spotted in Korea

Kia revealed its brand-new EV4 GT at the Brussels Motor Show, and we are already seeing the first units drive on public roads. The new model is part of a big plan by Kia to make high-performance versions of almost every electric vehicle they sell. From the small EV3 GT to the massive EV9 GT, the carmaker wants to prove that electric cars can be just as fun to drive as gas cars.

The EV4 GT is a special project for Kia because it is their first attempt at an electric "hot hatch." The EV4 comes in two flavors: a classic hatchback and a sedan version called the Fastback. While the car was recently seen wearing camouflage to hide its final look, we already know a lot about what is under the skin.

When it comes to speed, the EV4 GT does not disappoint. It uses a dual-motor system that gives the car all-wheel drive. The front motor produces 145 kW, which is about 194 horsepower. The motor in the back adds another 70 kW, or 94 horsepower. When you put them together, you get a total of 215 kW, which equals 288 horsepower. That is a lot of "go" for a car of this size. It can go from zero to 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds.

To keep those motors running, Kia installed a large 81.4 kWh battery. While we do not have the final official numbers for how far it can go on a single charge yet, we can make a good guess. The standard version of this car can travel up to 362 miles before needing a refill. Since the GT version is built for speed and uses two motors instead of one, it will likely cover a little less distance than that.

Inside the cabin, Kia made sure drivers feel like they are in a sports car. The EV4 GT comes with semi-bucket seats that hold you in place during sharp turns. It also gets a special three-spoke steering wheel and a digital screen that looks different from the standard models. And then there's the Virtual Gear Shifter. Since EVs usually do not have gears, Kia added software to make it feel like the car is shifting. It even makes fake engine noises through the speakers.

If you are wondering about the price, Kia has already started taking orders in South Korea. The EV4 GT starts at 55.17 million won, which is about $38,000. For comparison, the smaller EV3 GT starts at roughly $37,000, and the larger EV5 GT is priced around $39,000. These prices are quite competitive for cars that offer this much technology and speed.

Unfortunately, if you live in the United States, you might have to wait a very long time - or forever - to buy one. Kia has put the brakes on bringing the standard EV4 to the US market for now. This is mostly because of new taxes on imported cars and changes to government rules about the $7,500 tax credit. While the EV3 might still make it to American shores later this year, the EV4 GT seems destined for Europe and Asia for the time being.

Via