We are already aware of the existence of the EV5, EV6, and EV9, and we have previously seen the Concept EV3 and EV4 prototypes, which gave us an early glimpse of the more affordable EV3 and EV4. However, what about the EV1, EV2, EV7, or EV8? Recently, a report emerged in Korean media suggesting that the latter is currently being developed as a large sedan based on the all-electric E-GMP platform.
Naturally, many people are speculating that if this is true, the rumored EV8 could serve as a suitable replacement for the short-lived Kia Stinger, which was produced between 2018 and 2023. The Stinger was Kia’s attempt at creating a sporty liftback that could rival the likes of the Cadillac CT5 or BMW 5 Series in terms of sportiness and emotion, if not luxury.
Enthusiasts were particularly drawn to the rear-wheel-drive model, which was praised for its handling and attractive design. It’s worth noting that the Stinger was developed under the guidance of Albert Biermann, the former Vice President of Engineering at BMW M. However, due to the growing demand for crossovers, SUVs, and trucks instead of passenger cars, Kia made the decision to discontinue the Stinger without any plans for a direct successor. Now, the rumored Kia EV8 has the potential to become its spiritual successor, with the model likely to be named EV8 and codenamed GT1.
While many other automakers are reconsidering their expansion plans due to Tesla’s pricing competition and the slow adoption of electric vehicles, Kia is fully committed to its zero emissions strategy. In fact, the company is even planning to introduce a model that could cost around $30,000. It is speculated that this model could be the EV2, rather than the EV3 or EV4. As for the larger EV8, it is expected to be a high-performance electric sedan that could showcase the evolution of the E-GMP platform, which Hyundai Motor Group refers to as the Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA).
Leaked internal documents, which were reported by The Korean Car Blog, provide some interesting details about the EV8. These include a 113.2-kWh battery pack, larger than the one found in the EV9 (99.8 kWh), and a dual-motor setup with up to 603 horsepower, making it more powerful than the Kia EV6 GT, which has 577 horsepower. However, it is important to take these details with caution until there is official confirmation from Kia regarding the 2026 model year.
Nevertheless, this hasn’t stopped digital car content creators from speculating and contributing their own ideas. For instance, the YouTube channel Halo oto has shared virtual designs and fresh automotive information, including new CGI concepts of the upcoming Kia EV8. So, what are your thoughts? Will Kia maintain a design similar to the Stinger, as shown in this unofficial rendering, or will the company once again demonstrate its innovative spirit?
According to the Source autoevolution.com