The SP Concept has just been unveiled at India’s Auto Expo and is designed to represent the South Korean automaker’s first venture into the Indian market.
This model is said to illustrate Kia’s new design language that’s set to influence models that will be sold worldwide in future, including in Europe.
It’s a confident and strident design with a strong shoulder line and glass that tapers towards the rear, but it is a long way from being as coupe-like as some recent additions to the market that sacrifice a lot of rear headroom inside for the sake of a sporty silhouette.
The wide front grille is another big feature of the SP Concept, which is a lot less pinched in the middle as those seen on the company’s most recent models. There’s also a completely new slatted design to the headlights, which could be a feature of the next Sportage as only the headlights stopped it getting the coveted Top Safety Pick+ ratings for overall safety from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) in America.
Autocar in the UK has been told by a spokesman from Kia that there are no plans to sell this particular model outside India, although its impressive styling and many of its technical features will be making appearances in future global offerings.
There’s no word about what will be powering the SP Concept, except for Kia saying it will feature ”advanced technology,” which only leads to speculation of electrified powertrains being offered alongside versions with traditional combustion engines.
Kia’s president, Han-Woo Park, said of his company’s plans for the Indian market, ”We are here to build more than just great cars. We aim to set a new standard in the Indian auto industry by providing consumers with world-class products and services, while engaging with and giving back to the local community.”
