In Paris, Kia showed the all-new Sportage, but of most interest was the Kia Sport concept car: a 200bhp turbocharged hot hatch.

A preview of the Korean giant's forthcoming B-segment challenger due in the spring, the Sport is based on a 5-door family hatch platform (though differs significantly from the recently launched Cerato). However, this version features a 200bhp turbocharged four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels through a five-speed automatic 'box. The exterior design extends the car's sporting appeal with its bulging arches, bold spoilers and 18" rims. The new B-segment model will be Kia's next step on its path to reach its goal of becoming one of the top five automotive manufacturers by 2010.

Dave Jenkins - 1 Oct 2004