The automotive world has felt a little less exciting since the Kia Stinger GT departed the US market after the 2023 model year. It was a car that defied expectations and offered a genuine rear-wheel-drive sports sedan experience from a brand previously known for economy cars. However, Kia recently took to social media to share a glimpse of a new vehicle that suggests the spirit of the Stinger might not be dead after all. The teaser image showcases a striking fastback sedan with a silhouette that looks suspiciously like a direct successor to the brand’s beloved performance halo.

While the automaker has remained tight-lipped regarding specifics, they have referred to the mystery model as a vision of the future. In industry speak, this usually translates to a concept car designed to gauge public interest or preview upcoming design languages. Given the incredibly sleek and aerodynamic profile visible in the teaser, it is a safe bet that we are looking at a fully electric vehicle. This aligns with hints the company has dropped previously regarding their interest in an electric sedan to fill the void left by both the Stinger and the K8 sedan.

There have been swirling rumors for some time regarding a model internally referred to as the EV8. Early in 2024, unconfirmed documents surfaced that outlined production plans for a high-performance electric sedan scheduled for arrival around 2026. The specs on paper were tantalizing, suggesting a powertrain capable of delivering over 600 horsepower. While subsequent reports hinted that the EV8 project might have been canceled or delayed, this new teaser rekindles hope that Kia is still committed to the idea of a flagship performance sedan.

If this concept does make it to production, Kia has a robust parts bin to raid. The Hyundai Motor Group has seen great success with its E-GMP architecture, which underpins the Hyundai Ioniq 6. The Ioniq 6 has already proven itself as a formidable competitor to the Tesla Model 3, and a high-performance N variant would provide the perfect mechanical foundation for a spiritual successor to the Stinger GT. While Kia and Hyundai often share platforms, as seen with the EV6 and Ioniq 5, Kia currently lacks a direct counterpart to the Ioniq 6 sedan.

Visually, the teased concept appears to be an evolution of the design language seen on the recent EV4 concept, but with a much more aggressive edge. The front end features a dramatic, low-slung nose with an ultra-short overhang that gives off distinct supercar vibes. The roofline arches across almost the entire length of the vehicle, terminating in a flat Kammback rear end. Lighting seems to play a major role as well, with a split headlight setup that integrates with a camera system replacing traditional side mirrors.

This design study arrives as Kia pushes forward with a massive electrification strategy. The brand has announced plans to field 15 electric vehicles globally by 2027. While we know a pickup truck and smaller crossovers like the EV2 are on the horizon, enthusiasts are crossing their fingers that there is still room in the lineup for a dedicated sports sedan. If this latest teaser is any indication, the future of Kia performance could be very bright indeed.