Other than the highly modified projects Kia brought to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, it also launched the new Cerato GT for the American market.

On sale in Korea already as the K3 GT, the go-faster Cerato GT has been given a boost in terms of performance and handling. Equipped with the 1.6-litre turbocharged direct-injected (T-GDI) four-cylinder that makes 201bhp and 264 Nm of torque, the car can be had with either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, or a six-speed manual.

Handling wise, the GT gets independent multilinks unlike the standard car's torsion beam suspension at the rear, allowing the GT to handle better. Credit has to also go to the larger anti-roll bars and the 18-inch multi-spoke alloys wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber. The brakes has also been upgraded to cope with the increase in power.

Elsewhere, the car gets a more aggressive front bumper, black door mirrors, deeper side skirts, a subtle rear boot spoiler and a dual exhaust system.

There is no word on whether the Cerato GT will make it to our shores but judging from history, it seems unlikely.