Kia to Reveal Concept SUV at the Detroit Auto Show in January

At 4,877 mm (192 inches) the KCD-II is 310 mm (12.2 inches) longer than the 4,567 mm (179.8 inch) length Sorento, while its

A toned down version of the KCD-II is expected to be the next generation Sorento. (Photo: Kia Motors Canada)

wheelbase is 236 mm (9.3 inches) longer at 2,946 mm (116.0 inches) than the Sorento's 2,710 mm (116 inch) wheelbase length.

The additional length is more than ample for integrating a third row of seats, a feature expected in the next generation Sorento. It's quite likely then, that the KCD-II is a forerunner of the next generation Sorento, but it

The KCD-II is the second concept designed at Hyundai-Kia's $30.6 million USD design studio in Irvine, California. (Photo: Kia Motors Canada)

is expected if this is so the production model would be toned down stylistically.

What about the KCD-II's width? At 1,974 mm (77.6 inches), it's wider than the Sorento by 111 or 90 mm (4.4 or 3.5 inches), at 1,863 mm (73.3 inches) or 1,884 mm (74.2 inches) depending on the current production SUV's trim level. The wider track would not only increase shoulder and hip room while offering an airier cabin, but would also contribute to improved handling characteristics.