KIA Telluride Concept May Foreshadow new KIA Full-size SUV

Hybrid SUV concept based off current generation Sorento one of brand’s showcases at Detroit Auto Show

After a few teaser photos, KIA finally revealed its full-size, three-row SUV concept, the Telluride. Built with a dark green exterior paint color, the KIA concept at the Detroit Auto Show showed what could be one of the next KIA offerings.

No guarantees are being made by KIA as this is just a concept, but KIA has a history of turning its serious concepts into eventual vehicles. What may be even more impressive is that the concept was a hybrid. The Telluride combined a 270-horsepower gas engine with a 130-horsepower electric motor.

The underpinnings are based on the KIA Sorento, but the concept is nearly 10 inches longer overall and nearly five inches wider than a 2016 Sorento like the ones at Jim Butler KIA. While no official word on whether or not the Telluride (or whatever name sticks) will be a real KIA offering, KIA does have all the main components available on its current lineup of vehicles to produce the Telluride.

“The KIA Telluride makes an aesthetic statement for the KIA brand as a bold, all-new luxury SUV with an abundance of advanced technology, focusing particular attention on the experience and comfort of second-row occupants,” Tom Kearns, chief designer, Kia Design Center America (KDCA), said. “... Telluride allows us to envision what a full-size seven-passenger SUV from Kia could look like.”

The interior has some interesting points to note, specifically the second row seating. These two captain seats have footrests similar to a reclining chair that can be folded down when not in use. People won’t start calling “shotgun” if these SUV concept from KIA is made as the second-row seats also have a swipe-controlled media panel behind the front seats. The media from these seats can be selected and scrolled through with a simple swipe of the hand according to KIA.

Behind the tiger nose grille sits a 3.6-liter V6 with the aforementioned 270 horsepower. This engine is paired with a 130-horsepower electric motor to make the Telluride concept hybrid. If the Telluride goes into production, KIA said it will aim for up to 30 mpg highway for all-wheel drive trims.

Are you ready for a full-size hybrid SUV from KIA? If it goes into production, you’ll be able to find it at Jim Butler KIA in Chesterfield Valley! Stay tuned your St. Louis KIA dealer’s blog, inventory and social media for more information on the KIA Telluride. Contact Jim Butler KIA online or give us a call at 636-256-9600 to test drive a KIA near St. Louis.

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