Kia has revealed a production version of a turbocharged hot hatch to take on Europe's finest.

The Pro-Cee'd GT will be a close relative of the Hyundai Veloster Turbo, which went on sale in 2012.

Kia says the hot hatch will share the Veloster's 150kW, 265Nm turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. It will feature distinctive LED daytime running lights, dual-exhaust pipes, Recaro seating, 18-inch alloy wheels and eye-catching red brake calipers and a 0 to 100 kmh time of 7.9 seconds.

Its official debut will be held at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with production starting not long after.

Kia has not been shy in chasing turbocharged engines for its sportier models.

The brand's local chief operating officer, Tony Barlow, said that customers were keen to see Kia sell performance cars.

''Certainly [given] the amount of questions we get about turbos and engine configurations, I think the latent demand is out there," he said.

"It's something that people can really see fitting well with the Kia range. And we tend to agree.

''Those sort of vehicles are big statements for brands like us.''

-Fairfax News Australia