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

At 192 inches the KCD-II is 12.2 inches longer than the 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 America)

wheelbase is 9.3 inches longer at 116.0 inches than the Sorento's 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 design studio in Irvine, California. (Photo: Kia Motors America)

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

What about the KCD-II's width? At 77.6 inches, it's wider than the Sorento by 4.4 or 3.5 inches, at 73.3 inches or 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.