The wait is finally over, folks. The 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show has arrived. The downside of sorts is that we've got our fabulous lineup of new and used cars to look after here at Lithia Kia of Anchorage, so we can't exactly book it on over to Germany this week. The upside is that our favorite automaker is over there right now with bells on. And with the recent unveiling of the Kia Niro Concept, the excitement is straight-up palpable.
True to its name, this concept is a sight to behold with a B-segment styling unlike anything we've ever seen before. To give you an idea of what we're looking at, this crossover took the stage with a gun metal paintjob and neon yellow accents on its exterior, while the interior looks to be molded from a single piece of rubber for easy cleanups. As for what's under the hood, Kia stated that drivers could find a 1.6-liter turbocharged direct-injection engine that delivers up to 158 horsepower.
If you're wondering what inspired a head-turner such as this, it's all about giving the people what they want.
"Ten years ago people wanted understated style in the SUV market, but increasingly as more people migrate to the B-segment they are looking for strong character and individuality," says Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer at Kia Frankfurt. "We believe Niro is cheekier and even sleeker to show a clear spirited and intrepid character - a car that has the tenacity to deal with any challenge that comes its way."1
Nevertheless, Kia's waiting on a response from the general public before deciding on whether or not to move the Niro to the production line, so we'll keep crossing our fingers. Until then, feel free to tide yourself over with a test drive in one of the beauties on our lot at our dealership here in Anchorage, AK. Can't let Germany have all the fun now, can we?
Source: 1http://www.autoblog.com/2013/09/11/kia-niro-concept-frankfurt-2013/