Chicago show: Kia hints at SUV bigger than Sorento

KIA has signalled its intention to return to North America’s full-size SUV market for the first time since it axed the Borrego in 2011, issuing a teaser sketch of a new concept vehicle called the Cross GT.

The aggressively styled concept, which will make its first public appearance at the Chicago motor show next week, is being pitched as a “premium crossover utility vehicle” that is larger than Kia’s existing Sorento seven-seater.

The sneak peek provided a week in advance of the full reveal gives little away, with Kia keeping mechanical details, interior design and potential launch timing to itself.

However, the stylised sketch indicates the Cross GT will feature a far more radical design than its more utilitarian ‘predecessor’, with Kia’s signature ‘tiger nose’ grille and blunt front-end styling paired with sleek headlights, prominent side fins and massive alloy wheels.

The GT’s profile also appears to be quite low-slung for a full-size crossover of this kind thanks to the low roof and high waistline, while the sharply raked rear window, fat C-pillar and pronounced shoulder crease give the car in the sketch a bold stance.

The Cross GT will add some intrigue to Kia’s stand in the Windy City, where it will be joined by the production version of its next-generation Cerato hatchback. GoAuto will be reporting live from Chicago, so stay tuned for more details next week.

This latest concept is the second future model Kia has teased in as many weeks, after its secretive reveal of an unnamed compact two-door coupe last week.

As with the Cross GT, little is known about the angular, bob-tailed sportscar concept – nicknamed ‘provoke’ by many media outlets due to a line in Kia’s press material – with full details expected to emerge at its premiere at the Geneva motor show in March.