2005 Hyundai Portico Concept

"The Portico is an example of the new market segments Hyundai is exploring - in this case, the next generation of family

"The Portico is an example of the new market segments Hyundai is exploring - in this case, the next generation of family transportation." (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada)

transportation," commented Hyundai's Vice President of Product Development and Strategic Planning, John Krafcik. "Portico features seating for six passengers and roomy, flexible cargo space - previewing the types of attributes we'll be adding to our growing Hyundai lineup in the U.S. We'll have two all-new Hyundai models with seating for seven and roomy, flexible cargo space within the next year or so - all part of the 24/7 new model launch cadence we started with the Hyundai Tucson last fall."

Not just another pretty face, the Portico comes with an extremely versatile interior layout, featuring flat folding rear seats, a unique panoramic glass roof design, featuring the Polaroid-like capability of

Not just another pretty face, the Portico comes with an extremely versatile interior layout. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada)

darkening when the overhead sun gets too bright and hot, and uniquely rear-hinged back doors.

Unlike conventional minivans or SUVs that carry more than five people in three separate rows, the Portico seats three across for a total of six. The advantages of this configuration include greater legroom for rear passengers, as well as improved ingress and egress for those who would otherwise be relegated to the third row. The seats can be staggered too, with the middle rows pulled backwards for greater hip and shoulder room. An additional bonus is more cargo room, something that is usually lacking in conventional three row vehicles.