The 2020 Kia Telluride has been snapped in the
Florida Everglades. Set to become the spiritual
successor to the unloved Borrego, the Telluride has better chances of success
as the model will be a full-size crossover that features an upscale design.
Previewed by a concept at the 2016 North American
International Auto Show, the production model will have familiar styling and a
similar shape. However, some of the more of the adventurous styling elements
have been toned down as the prototype adopts smaller wheels and less chrome
trim. Previous spy photos have also shown the Telluride will have vertical
headlights and a prominent grille.
The concept was based on a modified version of the
Sorento’s platform and it measured 5,001 mm long, 2,009 mm wide and 1,800 mm tall with a wheelbase that spanned 3,081 mm. The latter figure was an increase of 302
mm compared to the Sorento and it allowed for an extremely spacious interior.
Speaking of the cabin, we can expect an upscale
cockpit with high-tech features. Spy photographers haven’t been able to snap
pictures quite yet, but the concept’s interior was partially inspired by the
Mercedes S-Class. The production model will be less ambitious, but the base
model is expected to offer seating for up to eight people. There should also be
a seven passenger variant with two individual captain’s chairs for the second
row.
Less is known about what will power the Chevrolet
Traverse competitor, but one possible candidate is the twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6
engine that resides in the Kia Stinger and Genesis G70. The model could also be
offered with a hybrid powertrain as well as the 2.2-liter diesel engine from
the Hyundai Santa Fe. The latter produces 190 hp and 436 Nm of torque.
There have been conflicting reports about when and
where the Telluride will be unveiled, but the crossover could debut in Detroit
this January.
Cr : Carscoops
