The concept, currently named Project Snowflake, is being developed by former Audi TT designer--and current Kia head designer--Peter Schreyer. (Pictured is the new Audi TT.) According to the Auto Express article, the sports car will be powered by a 2-liter turbo coupled with front-wheel driver. Kia is also developing another vehicle to go head to head against the Ford Festiva. Both vehicles are expected to go on sale in 2009.
Our take? While we in the press and enthusiast circle have been aware for some time that Kia's parent Hyundai wants to take the brand in a sportier direction, we thought it would be against comparable brands like Mazda. Apparently, Hyundai is aiming at loftier targets (i.e., Lexus, Audi).