Kia Telluride SUV concept revealed

Kia has unveiled its Telluride SUV concept at the 2016 Detroit motor show. The new model offers a glimpse into the future of Kia’s design and technology, suggesting that the carmaker is eager to enter the large SUV market.

The Telluride concept is powered by a direct-injection 3.5-litre V6 engine that produces 270bhp, mated to a 130bhp electric motor. The hybrid drivetrain sends power to all four wheels and according to Kia, has a fuel economy of 12.75kpl.

The large, three-row SUV is 1,800mm tall, 2,029mm wide and 5,001mm long. It sits on 22-inch five-spoke wheels and flaunts a muscular profile that has been designed by Kia’s Design Centre America. The rear doors swing open 90 degrees in opposing directions, with focus being placed on making the car as practical as possible.

The middle seats can fold down almost flat, which suggests that the SUV has been designed keeping long-distance driving in mind. The car uses 3D-printed parts and also features a new touch-sensitive infotainment system with wireless charging.

While the company has said that there are no plans to put the Telluride into production, it appears to be experimenting with the idea of building a similarly sized vehicle for the US market.