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Kia is very keen on teasing us. Last week, we showed off some renderings of the next-generation Cadenza that will be going on sale sometime next year. Now Kia has revealed a couple of renderings for an all-new hybrid model.

 

Called the Niro, Kia describes this upcoming model as a Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV). Most likely, the Niro will share the platform and powertrain that will be used on Hyundai's upcoming hybrid model.

 

It is expected that Kia will show the Niro at either the Detroit or Chicago Auto Show next year, with sales beginning sometime after.
Source: Kia

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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Kia to launch all-new Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle

 

Kia has today announced its plans to introduce an all-new low emissions vehicle to its growing model line-up. The Niro – labelled a Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) – represents a new concept from the Korean car brand, and marks the development of Kia's first dedicated eco-car platform.
Niro will maintain all the practicality and appeal of a compact SUV, while offering greater fuel economy. Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, its attractive, modern styling will help the car stand out in a traditionally conservative sector.
The Niro's all-new platform has been engineered in isolation from existing Kia models, and is designed to accommodate a specific set of environmentally-conscious technologies and next-generation powertrains

View full article

Interesting, from the back it screams station wagon and from the front I get Ford Edge from the body flow. The front grill says Double Kidney BMW.

 

Nice and interesting.

Uh, the Audi A3 called...

It's hard to find automotive white space in design especially these days, but really it's always been hard to identify distinct design that is palatable. I think part of the reason we seen so many design elements reminiscent of other automakers is because of ICTs.

 

Honestly, if we still lived in the age of dead-tree media, we'd be less likely to say cars look alike.

 

But yes, I see a lot that is similar, but nothing that is a blantant riff from someone else. It's also a fact that there's only so many ways to make a box on four wheels with stringent safety standards and the required aero trickery.