Kia's First Ever 'Hot Hatch' Gets 201bhp And Looks To Die For

This handsome devil is the Kia pro_cee'd GT, the Korean manufacturer's first foray into the world of performance vehicles. Carrying on this theme of 'firsts', the 1.6-litre T-GDi is also the first turbocharged petrol engine Kia has offered in the UK.

Based on the engine found in the standard pro_cee'd, the forced induction dramatically raises power to 201bhp and 195lb/ft torque, with 0-60mph dispatched in 7.4 seconds. Foot flat to the floor, the GT will hit 143mph. The six-speed manual gearbox features revised ratios and a lower final drive to improve fuel consumption.

The GT also gets beefier looks than the standard car, including a lower, wider front bumper and air dam, black gloss inserts and 'ice cube' LED daytime running lights. Out back, the GT gets a 'rear diffuser' and a dual exit exhaust. The 18-inch graphite grey alloy wheels are a particular highlight.

Inside the sportiness continues with Recaro seats as standard on all models, which come wrapped in part leather and suede, with red contrast stitching. The leather steering wheel has perforated grip areas, while the stainless steel pedals continue the premium sport theme.

There are three trim levels available. The 'entry level' GT model is loaded with kit, such as automatic lights, reversing sensors, Bluetooth phone connectivity with music streaming and voice recognition, a six speaker radio/CD player with iPod connectivity and privacy glass on the rear windows and tailgate. Plump for the 'GT Tech' model and you'll get heated seats and a 7-inch touch screen with sat nav and reversing camera built into the dash. Kia is also offering a limited run 'GT 1st Edition', of which only 500 will be made.

Drawing comparisons with the GT's rivals is tough, as despite the Recaro seats and sporty exterior, Kia is pitching this below traditional hot hatches. The natural rival on price and size would appear to be the Focus ST, however the GT's USP is comfort, equipment and usable power.

Car Throttle Editor Alex is currently on the launch of the GT in Nice, and can confirm that the hottest cee'd is "decent fun, well specced, pretty rapid and great value for money."

The pro_cee'd GT goes on sale in the UK on July 1st, with prices beginning at £19,995 for the GT model, £22,495 for the GT Tech, and £23,995 for the 'GT 1st Edition'.