DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: KIA GT4 Stinger concept

The rear-wheel drive Kia GT4 Stinger concept is evidence that Kia is looking to combat the wildly successful Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ sports cars.

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine banging out 235kW, the nuggety little concept shows that Kia is serious about developing an affordable sports car.

Displayed for the first time at the 2014 Detroit motor show, the sporty Kia is based on the same rear-drive platform as the Genesis Coupe, and rides on large 20-inch alloy wheels shod with Pirelli P-Zero tyres measuring 235/35 at the front, 275/35 at the back.

Styled at the Kia Design Centre America by chief designer Tom Kearns, the new model weighs just over 1300kg, with weight distribution 52:48 front to rear.

"Driving enjoyment was the number one priority in designing the GT4 Stinger," said Kearns from the Detroit show.

"It’s about purity, simplicity and timelessness. The GT4 Stinger is a throwback to days when driving a car was a visceral experience that wasn't muted by electronic gimmickry," he said.

The designer also hinted that the concept car's chassis is capable of dealing with even more power than its 235kW output.

"Our Optima racecars use the same engine and can produce more than 294kW," said Kearns. "So why not infuse our concept with the kind of power that will make people take notice?"

Get the latest motoring.com.au news from the Detroit motor show

See all the photos in our 2014 Detroit show gallery

Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...

Don't forget to register to comment on this article.