Is this the future grand tourer? Kia showcases Vision Meta Turismo concept
Kia kicked off Milan Design Week with a further glimpse into the potential future of the grand tourer.
The Vision Meta Turismo car was initially unveiled in South Korea at the back end of last year, as Kia celebrated its 80th anniversary. While the concept was a futuristic look at the genre, it gave certain nods to grand touring models of the 1960s.
Kia has stuck to three core principles when creating the concept, placing an emphasis on performance driving, immersive digital interaction and lounge-like space and comfort.
A contemporary take on performance driving is interesting, considering that its silhouette has a similar look to a Lamborghini Aventador. Kia says the rear of the concept has a ‘sharp trailing edge designed to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed stability’, while a slim LED lighting signature wrapping around the corners gives it a futuristic and wider look.
Geometric lines are predominantly used in the design, while Kia also says it has taken inspiration from the canard on a jet aircraft to house technical features, like lights and cameras, which jut out at the front of the car.
Interior & Driving Experience
Inside the Vision Meta Turismo, there are clear separate spaces for the driver and passenger, with advanced digital technology creating a ‘highly immersive experience’ for both.
For the driver, there’s an ultra-slim instrument cluster, light frame seat structure optimised for performance driving and the use of mesh fabric to help air flow. On the passenger side, the same mesh materials are used, although the seat is more lounge-like and able to rotate 180 degrees when the car is stationary.
A series of analogue controllers engages the range of digital tech inside the car, with much of it integrated into a minimalist central structure within the cockpit. For those still missing the feeling of changing gears, the ‘Joystick’ Virtual Gear Shifter has you covered and is combined with virtual engine sounds and accompanying vibrations to recreate the manual ICE driving experience.
Modern performance is helped by the inclusion of the GT Boost Button, which delivers an instant surge of acceleration, while the whole car is woken up by a launch control button. Drivers will be able to tailor the car to their style and taste by adjusting things like virtual engine response and suspension sensitivity.
Steering Wheel
Finally, the Vision Meta Turismo’s steering wheel is gaming-inspired and serves as the central interface in which the driver can choose between Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer modes, which can be chosen depending on the driving environment and scenario.
The Vision Meta Turismo can be viewed alongside a line-up of Kia EV concept models at Salone dei Tessuti in Milan until Sunday 26 April 2026.
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Kia