Kia Set to Unveil Hot Rod Cee’d GTs

Kia Motors Corp. will use the Geneva auto show in March to introduce Europeans to GT versions of its supermini Pro_ceed coupe and Cee'd sedan.

Kia describes the models, neither of which will be offered in the U.S., as the company's most performance-focused production cars ever. The coupe will compete with Volkswagen's Golf GTI.

Both models will be propelled by the 1.6-liter, 201-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine used in the Veloster Turbo sport coupe made by Kia's parent, Hyundai Motor Co. The engine delivers 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque through a six-speed manual transmission. Kia says the cars can accelerate from zero to 100 kph in a leisurely 7.9 seconds.

Exterior features include dual exhaust pipes, 18-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers and LED daytime running lights. Inside, the cars will be equipped with alloy pedals, more extensive instrumentation and Recaro sport seats.

The vehicles were designed in Europe and will be produced at Kia's plant in Zilina, Slovakia. The company expects production to begin there in mid-May.