Kia has confirmed it is ready to introduce a new halo model to its global lineup, following another record-breaking year for worldwide sales, speaking with AutoExpress. The Korean manufacturer’s rapid growth over the past decade has cemented strong market share across key regions, supported by a diverse portfolio of ICE and electric vehicles. Now, Kia believes the time is right for a flagship model that will define its future design philosophy and technological direction.
Meta Turismo Concept Previews Kia’s Next Electric Flagship
The first hint of Kia’s ambitions arrived late last year with the unveiling of the Meta Turismo Concept. Initially revealed as a digital-only design study with little explanation, the concept has now been confirmed as a preview of a forthcoming all-electric flagship model.
Speaking with Jochen Paesen, Kia’s newly appointed Head of Advanced Design, it is clear the Meta Turismo represents more than just a styling exercise. According to Paesen, Kia sees this moment as an opportunity to push boundaries and explore new ideas that will shape future production models.
“Enough to say that we think it is the right time to explore those things,” he explained. “It is not the only answer, but we’re taking this as an opportunity to push these ideas, explore these ideas, work with these ideas, and find the answers we’re looking for.”
Following the Blueprint of the Kia Stinger GT
This strategy is not without precedent. In 2017, Kia launched the Stinger GT, a rear-wheel-drive performance saloon powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine. The Stinger marked a turning point for the brand, elevating Kia beyond its traditional reputation for affordable, mainstream vehicles.
With its luxurious interior, dynamic handling, and emotive design language, the Stinger GT reshaped public perception of Kia and introduced a more performance-focused brand identity. The upcoming electric halo model appears set to play a similar role in the EV era, redefining expectations of what a Kia can be.
Emotion, Performance and “Opposites United” Design
Paesen revealed that the Meta Turismo was originally an internal design study that later made its way into the public eye. Its purpose was to answer a fundamental question: how can Kia create a vehicle that is more emotional, yet still aligned with the brand’s core values?
“If you’re in the right mood it can be a performance machine,” he said, “but at the same time, how do you judge excitement in a digital world for those who have grown up in a digital world?”
This thinking aligns with Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, combining performance and comfort, emotion and usability, digital innovation and human-focused design. The concept also explores a shift away from screen-heavy cabins, instead offering less screens and a richer, more immersive user experience.
What Will Kia Call Its New Halo EV?
Kia has already trademarked the EV7 and EV8 names, suggesting future expansion of its electric lineup. However, for a true global flagship, the company may opt for a name outside its current EV hierarchy.
One intriguing possibility is a revival of the Stinger name, leveraging the strong brand equity and emotional connection built by the original model. While no official confirmation has been given, a reborn electric Kia Stinger could serve as the perfect halo product for the brand’s next chapter.
Kia’s Electric Future Comes Into Focus
With global sales at an all-time high and a growing reputation for bold design and advanced EV technology, Kia is positioning itself for a new era. The Meta Turismo concept signals that a high-performance, design-led electric flagship is no longer a question of “if,” but “when.”
As Kia prepares to illuminate its future with a new halo model, the brand appears ready to once again challenge perceptions and set a new benchmark in the electric vehicle landscape.
