Kia setting up Mazda MX-5 rival, all-wheel-drive Soul

Philpott is not alone in his desires for a Kia sports car. Paul Schreyer, Kia's Chief Designer, believes that the Korean automaker needs a truly sporty vehicle in the line-up.

UK-based magazine Auto Express has put together a rendering of such a vehicle, and it clearly draws heavily from the Pontiac Solstice. However, it should be noted that the idea of a sports car in the lineup is not a totally foreign concept. From 1995 through 1999, Kia held licensing rights to the Lotus Elan and produced the Kia Elan for the Korean Market.

Kia is also reportedly working on a small, all-wheel-drive vehicle to slot below the Sportage. The Soul is due for a revamp within the next two years, so it makes sense that the funky hatchback could get all-wheel drive as part of its overhaul.