Kia has unveiled the next wave of its GT high-performance electric vehicle (EV) models at the 2026 Brussels motor show today, in the forms of the EV3 GT, EV4 GT and EV5 GT. These will join the existing EV6 GT in the carmaker's portfolio, with production of all three newcomers due to commence in the second quarter of this year - though Irish-market availability has yet to be confirmed.
Are they as powerful as the Kia EV6 GT?
Not quite, but they've got a significant upturn in performance over the regular models, as part of Kia's plan to ensure the GT cars "pair emotional driving with advanced digital experiences" across the EV range. To that end, all three have GT-exclusive drive modes, electronically controlled chassis systems, digital lighting, personalised interfaces and performance-themed soundscapes. They all also sport the Neon Green detailing that is a Kia GT hallmark.
The EV3 and EV4 GT models share the same hardware as they're closely related in the product line-up. They both use a 215kW dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system - split into a 145kW front propulsion unit and a secondary 70kW item on the rear axle - that is allied to an 81.4kWh battery pack. Peak power is therefore 292hp, with electronically controlled and GT-specific suspension said to improve the cornering stability of the cars - as do 20-inch alloy wheels, offering larger contact patches with more grip, thanks to performance-oriented tyres.
Both have the Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system seen in the EV6 GT, which can mimic the power delivery characteristics of an internal-combustion powertrain with simulated gearchanges from the electric drivetrain (it's a momentary interruption of the flow of torque), all overlaid with the noises of an engine 'revving' up and down.
Finally, both the EV3 GT and the EV4 GT have striking exterior designs with sportier flourishes, as well as the inclusion of semi-bucket seats up front. And, as we've already said, lots of Neon Green flourishes to further lift the cabin ambience.
How about the EV5 GT?
This has a slightly meatier 225kW dual-motor AWD powertrain, which means a peak output of 306hp - and that's plenty for what is, ultimately, a C-segment SUV. Again, like its two smaller stablemates announced at the Belgian show, the EV5 GT has a specific chassis configuration, once more featuring electronically controlled suspension and high-end tyres.
What's the history behind Kia using GT badging for performance?
Originally, the pioneering GT-badged Kias were combustion-powered, with the 204hp Ceed GT and Proceed GT (the former a five-door, the latter a three-door) hot hatchbacks of 2013 heralding Kia's first performance models. These were then followed, in 2017, by one of Kia's best driver-focused efforts of all: the Stinger GT. This charismatic big fastback used a twin-turbo 3.3-litre V6 to deliver 370hp and a sub-five-second 0-100km/h time to boot.