At the Milan Design Week held in 2026, Kia announced a design concept vehicle called the Vision Meta Turismo. The concept was first shown to the public in Korea at the company’s 80th anniversary in December 2025.
What makes the Vision Meta Turismo concept car unique?
Kia describes Vision Meta Turismo as a concept study of the future of automobile design and technology, featuring three main concepts: performance, digital interaction, and comfortable interior space. Unlike other concepts that focus on performance features such as power (BHP) and torque (Nm), the current concept emphasises user experience and flexibility.
The vehicle’s structure highlights its low, wide stance and cab-forward styling, a layout usually adopted when a vehicle needs ample passenger room but a sleek exterior design. Its design is inspired by the grand tourers of the 1960s.
What effect does Kia’s design philosophy have on the car?
The design adheres to Kia’s “Opposites United” concept, which requires contrasting soft curves with sharp angles. This design is evident in its body, which has smooth curves giving way to angular lines.
Lighting features in the design also contribute to this aspect of the vehicle. Slim LED lights are mounted on the outside, while a rear lighting strip adds width to the vehicle and highlights the low centre of gravity. Visible structural elements are seen beneath a glass canopy.
What are the major design elements on the outside?
The Vision Meta Turismo is distinguished by its low nose, which features technical details such as cameras and lights in the blacked-out front portion. Such features help achieve an appearance in which different layers are visible and enhance the car’s aerodynamics.
On the back, the design includes a shortened tail for the same reason as above – to improve airflow during high-speed driving. The other source of ideas for designers was aviation, more specifically, jet planes. There are elements resembling canards – small aircraft-like wings – placed on the car’s body in order to house cameras and sensors.
The vehicle’s entire silhouette features a long glass canopy.
How is the interior configured to meet varying occupant needs?
The design of the interior space is geared towards creating versatility and varied experiences for the occupants. The driver compartment is designed for focused driving with a compact dashboard panel, lighter seats, and ventilation-friendly components.
On the other hand, the passenger compartment is configured to offer a more laid-back position. The passenger seat can swivel to face rear passengers by 180 degrees while the car is at rest. Additionally, AR screens and a 3D HUD system allow the incorporation of computerised elements during driving and passenger activities.
What technological and interactive features does the concept have?
The Vision Meta Turismo concept car uses various physical inputs to replicate the sensory experiences of manual driving in an EV.
The steering wheel serves as the main interface, similar to a video game controller.
Where and when does the Vision Meta Turismo make its appearance?
At the moment, the Vision Meta Turismo concept is on display at the Salone dei Tessuti in Milan during Milan Design Week 2026. It will remain on display for visitors until April 26, 2026.
