A
couple of new concepts from Kia at
the North American Auto Show, both interesting. First up is a teaser for the
all-new Niro, what Kia is referring to as an ‘HUV’ or Hybrid Utility Vehicle.
Obviously
the words ‘sporty’ and ‘versatile’ are used to describe the vehicle - pretty
much standard vocabulary these days - and the design is supposed to be ‘sleek
and aerodynamic’. Albeit as sleek and aerodynamic as an HUV can be, when it’s
shaped like a swanky brick.
More
interestingly, the Niro is aiming for sub 90g/km C02 efficiency, thanks to a
new, downsized petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, and will be the first car on Kia’s new dedicated eco-car
platform. We’ll see the final version at the Chicago Auto Show in February
2016.
Not
half-hidden by moody lighting is Kia’s Telluride Concept, a full-sized, seven
seat SUV. With more than a hint of Volvo XC90 in the bluff lines, the Telluride
has three rows of seats, big, solid styling and potentially sits in an as-yet
untapped - for Kia, at least -
luxury SUV niche.
Based
on a modified Sorento chassis, the Telluride would sit above the current Kia
range-topper, but probably wouldn’t feature the concept’s suicide rear doors
and 22-inch wheels. We’re also pretty certain that it won’t feature a massive,
wing-shaped light in the back that deals with desynchronosis - jetlag, to you
and me - via the Light Emitted Rejuvenation (LER) stystem. But we can’t
guarantee it.
The
Telluride also features zeitgeisty tech in terms of a rear-seat swipe command
centre console and 3D printed trim - which are a bit more real-world.
Power
comes courtesy of the usual PHEV powertrain, with a 3.5-litre V6 bolstered by an electric motor,
and total power output weighs in at 400bhp combined, driven through all four
wheels and capable of around 30mpg on the combined cycle.
It’s
big, bold and interesting. Cut price XC90, then?
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