Here we go again with another group of test cars making their way through my neighborhood. This time around, a new Hyundai Santa Fe with mismatched panels was leading this totally naked full-sized SUV. So it's either a Hyundai or Kia of some sorts. I know they both have large SUV's cooking. Badges were taped. Lighting was very different and distinct. Both front and rear had vertical lights. Front looked like a GMC Yukon and rear Volvo-esque or GMC Terrain. Overall, it was quite large and appeared upscale. Any guesses?

 

Could it be the new Hyundai Palisade?

 

The new Genesis SUV?

 

It is apparently the Kia Telluride

 

nice call mmarshall

from that side profile looks like it's fwd... i guess they're going after pilot/highlander/ascent/etc.

 

Wow, nicely done!

 

Thanks. It's not necessarily 100% identical, but looks pretty close.

They pretty much already have that mid-sized FWD class covered with the Sorento.

 

Cool taillights. This will probably do better than the Kia Borrego

 

The Borrego, though built like a tank, was a body-on-frame truck, with compromises in ride, handling, and refinement. That will probably not be the case with the Telluride.

 

The Borrego's biggest problem was it was released during Cash For Clunkers era

 

the sorrento is actually pretty small and a cramped 3 row, so this will be quite a bit more.

 

Yes, I agree that the Sorento is (apparantly) smaller than the Telluride. My point, though, was addressing your earlier comment about competing with the Pilot and Highlander....that's something that the current Sorento already does.

 

Nicely done Mike. That is exactly it. What threw me off were the headlights. The concept truck has retro square lights, but the finished unit's are vertical. Much more cleaned up and less Frankenstein.

 

Great....another minivan. Doesn't Kia already make a minivan?

 

This is not a minivan. It's a crossover SUV.....and a pretty good sized one at that.

And, yes, Kia already has a minivan....the Sedona.