2005 Kia KCD-II Mesa Concept

Likewise the Mesa is powered by Kia's existing 3.5-litre DOHC V6, also part of the

The Mesa is powered by Kia's existing 3.5-litre DOHC V6, part of the stock Sorento package. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

stock Sorento package. Kia makes a point, however, that the engine compartment is large enough to accommodate the automaker's next-generation of powerplants. Just what configurations those next-gen engines will incorporate is not mentioned.

The 24-valve, SOHC 3.5 in the Mesa features multi-port electronic fuel injection and a dual-mode intake system, optimizing low end torque, critical for launching heavyweight SUVs,

Kia says it has "aggressively tuned" the Mesa's suspension system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

as well as high-end horsepower needed for passing at highway speeds.

Equipped with, the engine delivers the kind of low-end torque and high-end horsepower that fits the broad requirements of a high performance sport-utility vehicle.Kia says it has "aggressively tuned" the Mesa's suspension system, so that it "delivers performance in either rear or four-wheel-drive configurations."

Adding to the driving enjoyment is Adaptive Cruise Control (ADC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), and a keyless pushbutton start.