SEMA 2008: Kia Borrego Limited Concept does its best Escalade impression

With the Escalade on the ropes, it looks like Kia might step in to rescue all those lovers of blacked-out blinged-up chromed-out big-wheeled SUVs. The metallic black Borrego Limited Concept that debuted at SEMA today gets chrome exterior mirrors, chrome upper and lower grilles, chrome door handles, a chrome rear bumper insert, and "flashy 22-inch Avarus chrome wheels." Inside it gets (faux) alligator skin. That's right. A Kia Borrego with (faux) alligator skin. And what good is a (faux) alligator without a TV and a DVD player to complete that "assertive and sophisticated stance fit for a motorcade as much as cruising down the Vegas strip." True, this would be generic medication compared to the Escalade's real deal, but it'll be much cheaper and probably still get the job done. Maybe. But watch out for the side effects. Have a look at the not-quite-reptilian Borrego in the gallery of high-res photos below. Oh, and for the record, the Soul will be officially revealed on the 19th, at the LA Auto Show.

PRESS RELEASE

Borrego Limited SEMA Concept

An extension of the all-new Borrego midsize SUV, the Borrego Limited SEMA concept offers a stealth-looking version of the midsize SUV with a monotone black exterior enhanced by limo-tint windows. Lowered for a sleeker profile and outfitted with flashy 22-inch Avarus Chrome Wheels and Spec-X 285/45R22 tires, this Borrego concept projects an assertive and sophisticated stance fit for a motorcade as much as cruising down the Vegas strip.

Chrome side fender vents, side mirrors, door handles and a custom chrome mesh grille add flair to its already striking and commanding presence.

The interior of the midsize SUV also has been revamped, with custom leather upholstery on all seats embossed in an alligator skin pattern. Completing the blinged-out experience will be a larger-than-life sound system backing up a TV and DVD player and a navigation system. Molded directly into the interior, all electronics create a modern and streamlined appeal, all color-keyed to match the exterior of the vehicle.