While the regular Kia Rio has the Renault Clio and Ford Fiesta in its sight, the GT version will go hunting for their performance-oriented RS and ST versions.

Based on the fourth generation model that surfaced online recently prior to its Paris Auto Show presentation, the hot hatch supermini will sport a bolder front fascia and rear end, adorned with the GT badges, and a larger set of wheels, similar to what X-Tomi did in this rendering.

On the technical side, a stiffer suspension will allow it to corner faster over the standard variants, while bringing the body closer to the road. There aren’t any details on the powertrain yet, except for a rumor about a three-cylinder turbo, though if it’s to match the likes of the 180 PS Fiesta ST, we’d hedge our bets on a four-banger.

Development of Korean-made hot hatches won’t end once the new Kia Rio GT will break cover, as sister-brand Hyundai has an ace up its sleeve too – the i20 N, a more hardcore vehicle underpinned by the same platform, which will be part of the new N performance division.

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