Could this tantalizing glimpse of a concept car to be unveiled by Kia Motors at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show be a foretaste of things to come?
Kia has released two computer generated images of what is says “hints at a possible future B-segment contender” that will star on its stand at the show.
Based on the Rio platform, Kia describes the KED 10 concept as “playful but gutsy, sturdy yet impish” with a design that is clearly aimed at European tastes, yet would have worldwide appeal.
Kia goes on to say: “This concept car combines a mischievous character in a clearly robust and substantial, yet stylish bodyshape, featuring a mix of contrasting materials in compact, purposeful dimensions.
“Born out of Kia’s determination to seek new compact-car options for the individualistic and demanding driver for whom size is an issue, the concept features intriguing elements not always associated with smaller cars and has been created in Europe with European tastes and expectations very much in mind.”
This is the third concept car based on a B-segment platform that Kia has released this year; the first being the Kia CUB 2+2 sporty hatch with rear ‘suicide doors’ that was revealed at the Seoul International Motor Show in Korea in March, which was quickly followed at the Geneva Auto Salon by the Provo 2-door hybrid coupe. The Provo also sported similar conjoined bucket seats that are shown in one of the illustrations of the concept that will appear at Frankfurt on September 10.
“Intriguing”, is how Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand describes the glimpses of the upcoming Frankfurt concept car.
“It follows the design path laid down by Peter Schreyer (Kia’s Vice President and Chief Design Officer) with yet another interpretation of the Tiger Nose grille and the sleek sporting lines – it’s makes a very powerful and bold statement. It clearly shows the way Kia designers are thinking about the future.”
However, there is no word on when or if the KED 10 concept might become a reality. Kia says there are no current plans for production, but the vehicle’s unveiling in Frankfurt will be used to gauge potential customer response for future showroom models. More details will be released when the concept goes on display.