A brief walkaround of a Kia Tusker/Kia Trazor
(production Kia SP Concept) test mule has surfaced on YouTube, providing a
close look at the future model for the first time. The Kia SP Concept certainly
won’t look drastically different from what is heading to showrooms. The spy
video shows the road-ready version featuring a similarly high beltline that
rises with a curve at the rear, and squarish wheel arches. The greenhouse doesn’t
look as sleek as on the concept, however.
The details get a little hazy at the front because
of the poor video quality, but the changed honeycomb inserts of the tiger-nose
grille are visible. Other bits spotted are five-twin-spoke alloy wheels, flush
roof rails, shark-fin antenna and split rear combination tail lamps.
The Kia SP Concept will ride on the same platform
that will underpin the next-gen Hyundai Creta. This platform is capable of
spawning a seven-seater. So, if the first product receives a good response, Kia
can consider launching a three-row derivative. Engine options could include a
115 hp 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel unit and a 118 hp 1.0-litre T-GDI
turbocharged petrol unit, both locally manufactured. An AWD option in our
market is unlikely.
As a brand, Kia will position itself above Hyundai
in India, and so, the SP production version’s prices may start somewhere around
INR 10 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The premium SUV, which will go on sale in H2 2019, will be
manufactured at Kia Motors' new plant in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh.
