Kia takes three Automotive Brand Contest Design Awards in 2012

Kia has won three design awards in the Automotive Brand Contest 2012, the latest of a series of honours for our design team headed by Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.

New Kia cee’d acclaimed for exterior and interior design

 

The new Kia cee’d – launched in June 2012 – triumphed in the exterior category and also received an honorary special mention for exceptional innovation in the interior category. The cee’d is Kia’s best-selling model in Europe, and features styling typically found on a sporty coupe, but offers the space and functionality of a five-door hatch.

Kia GT wins in the concepts category

In addition, the high profile jury selected the Kia GT as the winner of the concept award.  The rear-wheel drive sports sedan design study celebrated its world premiere in September 2011 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Kia GT design study was inspired by 1970s grand tourers, and combines supple, muscular proportions with a sophisticated, elegant four-seat interior.  It offers a glimpse into Kia’s future design philosophy.

 

CNET Car Tech review of the GT Concept

Kia sweeping up design awards

Kia Motors received several accolades at last year’s inaugural Automotive Brand Contest, winning the Best of the Best award in the brand design category, while Kia’s Sportage, Rio and Optima models all claimed victories in the exterior category.

About the Contest

The Automotive Brand Contest is organized by the Rat für Formgebung (German Design Council), which was founded in 1953. It has quickly become an internationally recognized competition and is open to car manufacturers, automotive parts suppliers and companies delivering design and brand communications services to the automotive industry.  There are a total of 16 awards categories, covering vehicle design, parts and accessories, technology, digital, and branding and events activities.

Article and images courtesy of Kia Buzz.