Check out the bad-ass-looking KIA Niro Concept!

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The KIA Niro Concept looks like an all-wheel drive vehicle that slots in somewhere between a Nissan Juke and Subaru XV Crosstrek. I fully admit that I originally thought the sketches looked like a rounded KIA Soul, hence my past story (you can read that here), but looking at it now, I see a beefy buggy. I like it and so do you.

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Details are still thin, but it looks like that rear end is not only slappable but it houses a rear diff. The wheel wells and beefy tires look like they can provide good traction and articulation in sand. Yes, very buggy like indeed. The doors are typical auto show bling and so is all the shinny, polished metal.

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This is just a concept folks and we’ll get more details when KIA provides press information during the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. The interior, which looks like a Tupperware explosion of simplicity, is also auto show bling. Sure, it looks cool, but if the ergonomics are iffy, it won’t go beyond the concept bin.

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I can say this: I know that KIA has been eyeing the sales of its cousin’s prodigy, the Hyundai Veloster and its nemesis Nissan’s Juke. The KIA Niro Concept is right in the mix of cars like these. Despite being odd-balls, they do very well with the coveted younger market and give the brands personality.

With that said, I think this KIA Niro Concept won’t be produced. The shape, headlights and image will remain the same while KIA comes up with a small, five-door hatch with optional AWD. This might be the face of KIA’s design future.

That’s just my take on it. What do you think?

Check out this fun KIA Cadenza first drive video!

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.