Kia KCD-II Mesa SUV Concept Vehicle Unveiled

Kia Motors America unveiled the KCD-II Mesa, the second Kia concept vehicle developed by the Kia California Design Center in Irvine, Calif. The Kia Mesa represents Kia's vision of a new SUV designed with the North American market in mind. The KCD-II is a modern, rugged body-on-frame SUV that features three rows of seats, dual full-length sunroofs and an expansive 116" wheel base. Tom Kearns, chief designer stated "The Mesa's highly usable interior design leans toward minimalism, while the exterior portrays the unique go-anywhere, do-anything attitude that Kia buyers have come to expect from the brand."

The Kia Mesa exterior styling is rugged, yet functional with the practical utility offered in a large SUV. Designers pushed the imposing, custom-built 22" alloy wheels to the corners of the vehicle in an effort to maximize interior space while simultaneously creating stable, responsive handling characteristics. Peter M. Butterfield, Kia president and CEO, stated "Designed to be rugged enough for play on the weekends yet sophisticated enough to take to the theater at night and the office on weekdays, the Mesa really brings everything you could ever want in a truck to the table. Whether you work hard or play hard, the Kia Mesa concept SUV can provide the best of both worlds."

The Mesa's balanced stance is a result of its stretched wheelbase and extra-wide track. The location of the wheels also provides dynamic stability on or offroad. The vehicle's appearance is further enhanced by sheet metal sculpted to appear lean and taut between muscular fenders, which, stretched over the wheels, offer added rugged protection. Mr. Kearns added "Like Hummer and Jeep, Kia has a history of building military vehicles, and we drew on that legacy to bring utility to life in the Mesa."

The wrap-around windshield shows off a passenger compartment that offers maximum visibility from inside the cabin. The Mesa's high beltline also offers a sense of security and protection. Thick rear pillars add to the vehicle's robust appearance, and outwardly they appear to support the entire roof structure. In fact, the A and B pillars help distribute support, providing a solid structure. The Mesa's functional exterior features center-pivoting Kia roof rack clamps capable of adjusting to hold objects up to 2" thick, such as skis, snowboards, surfboards, ladders, lumber and other construction materials. The adjustable clamps also provide a flush appearance when not in use.