Kia has released the first sketches of a new small SUV created “for the millennial generation” which has been designed as a global model – although it won’t go on sale in European markets.
The as-yet-unnamed machine has been ‘inspired’ by the SP Signature Concept that was revealed earlier this year, and will be the smallest SUV that the firm offers.
While there are no plans to sell the car in the UK or other European markets, Kia insiders suggest that the SUV gives an insight into the firm’s future design language that will inform future versions of the Kia Sorento, Kia Sportage and Kia Stonic SUVs, along with the forthcoming Ceed crossover.
Kia says the new machine will have a “modern and urbane design” with the space of a traditional SUV in a compact package, adding that it will match “the unique preferences and needs of the millennial generation.”
The SP Signature Concept featured LED lights integrated into the latest version of Kia’s ‘tiger nose’ grille, and the sketches of the new SUV show that feature will be carried over. The lights will have a three-dimensional light graphic.
Kia has hinted the new model will also feature a long bonnet and sharp bodywork lines with a tapered rear end.
The new machine will go on sale in Korea later this year, with other regions following.
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Kia previews future design with two new SUV concepts
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Desperation?
Aiming models specifically at "millennials" seems to be an acf of desperation on the part of manufacturers, who see their customer base ageing and perceive a distinct lack of interest in car ownership amongst 20-somethings. The disconnect between the youngsters shown in car advertisements and the actual ownership profile is striking.
Apparently I'm at the elder
Apparently I'm at the elder end of this hateful term "Millenial", and I hate these small SUVs.
A lot of the times I see a pretend SUV it's usually the elderly driving as they want something easy to hop in and out of rather than a lower car. This or some distracted parent who has double parked outside the primary school 1/4 mile from their home before pulling back into traffic without checking mirrors, because bigger car wins.
WallMeerkat wrote:
I'm a late 20s millennial and I hate them too. And yes, I find they're mostly driven by mums in their early 40s still trying to be "cool", or the elderly who at least have a good reason to want a higher car.
ricequackers wrote: