Why Kia Meta Turismo Concept Failed
Kia dropped the Vision Meta Turismo concept jaws in December 2025, teasing a sleek EV GT between EV6 and EV9, but as a Jalna auto journalist, I spotted the red flags yesterday studying its renders against Maharashtra roads. This radical four-door could spawn EV7 or EV8 production, yet customer feedback decides—will India embrace it or stick to SUVs?
The Disappointment
I visualized driving this low-slung GT on NH-752H potholes—its aggressive fastback roofline and sharp splitter scream track, not daily Mumbai chaos. No confirmed specs, but concept hints at dual-motor AWD 650hp, 0-60 in 3.5s, yet long wheelbase for 99.8kWh EV9 battery means heavy kerb weight over 2.5 tonnes, worse than EV6’s 2.1 tonnes handling. Radical interior? Driver’s fighter-jet sidestick and yoke steering scream gimmick; passenger gets asymmetric seat for “different experiences,” but rear space crushes under sloping roof—family hauls to Shirdi temples? Forget it.
Kia’s current EV lineup feels “complete” with EV2 to EV9, all crossovers/SUVs dominating India sales. Meta Turismo blurs sedan-SUV lines, but without rugged clearance (est. 140mm vs EV6’s 160mm), it flops on flooded Pune streets. Production hinges on feedback, no timeline—could drag to 2028 like EV4 delays. Gaming modes (Speedster, Dreamer, Gamer) via AR HUD sound futuristic, but glitchy in heat? Pass for reliable EV3 commuters.
The Surprising Truth
Twist: This previews Kia’s post-SUV era, ditching boxy EVs for progressive designs per Europe design chief Oliver Samson. Slippery GT shape promises 400+ mile range (better than EV9’s 349 miles) with aero-optimized body, panoramic transparent roof flooding cabin light. Interior innovates: wraparound digital screens, floating console, bucket seats—driver cockpit with regen paddles on yoke feels Porsche Taycan-esque for highway blasts from Jalna to Aurangabad.
Rivals comparison:
Fits as Stinger EV successor, expanding beyond SUVs. Three modes alter AR HUD animations—immersive for gamers, practical for pros.
India-Specific Impact
India EV market craves SUVs (EV6 sells 500+/month), but Meta Turismo could disrupt premium segment vs Tata Harrier EV (Rs 25L). Est. ex-showroom Rs 70-90 lakh; Mumbai on-road Rs 80L-1.05 Cr (15% tax), Delhi Rs 75L-98L (lower reg). Range suits Mumbai-Pune (250km) on single charge, fast DC charging via NACS ports like updated EV6.
In Shirdi, low stance fails dirt roads to Sai Baba temple, but highways shine. Vs EV9 (Rs 1.3Cr, 7-seater), it’s sportier 4-seater for urban execs. Kia India eyes 20% EV sales by 2027; positive feedback could prioritize local assembly at Anantapur plant, undercutting imports by Rs 10L. Service network covers Maharashtra well—faster than BYD. City data: Pune charging infra supports 350kW, full in 18min; Jalna lags but expanding.
Rushi’s Verdict
I pored over Kia Vision Meta Turismo renders yesterday in Maharashtra, imagining it shredding highways—650hp thrills, but SUV-loving India might reject low-slung GT over practical EV6. Wait for feedback-driven production (2028?), skip if family-focused; buy for speed demons. Bold 8/10 concept—Kia innovates, but execution key.
FAQ
Will Kia Vision Meta Turismo go into production?
Possible as EV7/EV8 based on customer feedback; no confirmation yet.
What are the specs?
Est. 650hp dual-motor AWD, 99.8kWh battery, 650+km range, 3.5s 0-100kmph.
India launch and price?
2028 est., Rs 70-90 lakh ex-showroom.
Rivals in India?
Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 6, BMW i4, Tesla Model 3.
Gauge reactions—comment your take on Kia’s GT bet.
