Kia teases KV7 concept once more before Detroit debut

Kia KV7 concept teaser – Click above to expand

A few weeks ago, Kia released a teaser sketch of its new KV7 concept that will debut next week at the Detroit Auto Show. The initial sketch showed us that the Korean automaker is working on what appears to be a tall hatchback or small crossover, with the most interesting design feature being a set of gullwing doors for rear seat passengers.

Now, Kia has released this close-up shot of what appears to be the KV7's front three-quarter view, showing off the rather unique headlamp units and full LED bar below the front bumper. Kia explains:
"Conceived as a challenge to the industry's current interpretation of the van, the KV7 incorporates several innovative lighting elements currently being evaluated for future Kia production vehicles."
Not only are we eager to see what the concept looks like in the flesh, but we're curious as to just how big the KV7 is. As Kia states, this is an "interpretation of the van," so we're thinking this could be some sort of futuristic minivan concept, or perhaps something similar in size to Ford's new 2012 C-Max. Either way, we'll have the full details live from Cobo Hall next week, so stay tuned. Kia's (short) official statement is available after the jump.

[Source: Kia]
Show full PR text
"Kia Motors will unveil the KV7 concept, the latest design statement from the brand's U.S. studio located in Irvine, Calif., at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Conceived as a challenge to the industry's current interpretation of the van, the KV7 incorporates several innovative lighting elements currently being evaluated for future Kia production vehicles.

The KV7 concept will be unveiled at a press conference in Detroit on Monday, January 10 at 5:10pm Eastern."

Share This Photo X