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New Concept Shows What Next-Generation 7-Occupant Sorento Could Be Like
Kia recently released the first official renderings of a new concept scheduled to be unveiled in Detroit next month.
The KCD-II appears much more aggressively styled than the current midsize Sorento or upcoming compact Sportage, an attribute that would help it to lure younger, more sport-oriented drivers to the Korean brand if produced. Is it something that sport utility buyers  | | The aggressively styled Kia KCD-II concept is targeted at younger, more sport-oriented drivers. (Photo: Kia Motors America) | can expect from Kia?
"The KCD-II is clearly a good look into the future of Kia Motors and, indeed, the auto industry as a whole," commented Kias Senior Executive Vice-President and COO Yong-Hwan  | | The KCD-II rides on a rugged, body-on-frame architecture, ideal for towing, hauling heavy loads or going on off-road adventures. (Photo: Kia Motors America) | Kim. "The design team has created a forward-looking design, whose stylistic elements may be reflected in our new vehicles as we continue to research and develop innovative offerings for our customers."
Like the Sorento, the KCD-II rides on a rugged, body-on-frame architecture, ideal for towing, hauling heavy loads or  | | A toned down version of the KCD-II is expected to be the next generation Sorento. (Photo: Kia Motors America) | going on off-road adventures. Unlike the Sorento, or the smaller Sportage, the new concept includes three rows of seats for a total of a driver and six passengers. All occupants can enjoy a view to the sky due to two full-length sunroofs, similar to those fixed to the Nissan Quest minivan.
At 192 inches the KCD-II is 12.2 inches longer than the 179.8 inch length Sorento, while its wheelbase is 9.3 inches longer at 116.0 inches than the Sorentos 116 inch wheelbase length.
The  | | The KCD-II is the second concept designed at Hyundai-Kias $30.6 million design studio in Irvine, California. (Photo: Kia Motors America) | additional length is more than ample for integrating a third row of seats, a feature expected in the next generation Sorento. Its quite likely then, that the KCD-II is a forerunner of the next generation Sorento, but it is expected if this is so the production model would be toned down stylistically.
What about the KCD-IIs width? At 77.6 inches, its wider than the Sorento by 4.4 or 3.5 inches, at 73.3 inches or 74.2 inches depending on the current production SUVs trim level. The wider track would not only increase shoulder and hip room while offering an airier cabin, but would also contribute to improved handling  | | The all-new 4-door Rio subcompact sedan will also be unveiled along side the KCD-II. (Photo: Kia Motors America) | characteristics.
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