2011 Kia KV7 Concept

Kia Motors’ design-led transformation has delivered eye-catching vehicles such as the Soul, Sorento and Sportage that bear strong resemblances to the concept cars that preceded them, and today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show the brand’s U.S. design studio unveiled its latest design statement – the Kia KV7 Concept.
Conceived as a modern-day “activity MPV”, the KV7 was designed by Kia’s California design team to challenge the notion that MPVs are strictly for family transportation. KV7 reveals a vision for a vehicle with the functionality to transport a large number of people, and their belongings, while also serving as a connected social hub for groups of friends and adventure-seekers.
The Kia KV7 Concept’s design stands in sharp contrast to the dramatically raked windshields and wedge-shaped noses found throughout the MPV segment, and builds on the philosophy of “embracing the box” established by Kia’s funky Soul urban crossover to create a unique and alluring design language that brings SUV-like qualities to the segment.
Inspiration for the Kia KV7 Concept was found in the simplicity of elegant box shapes such as sleek smart phones and classic pieces of luggage.
The lounge-like interior is accessed by a striking passenger-side gullwing door which, when opened with the pillar-less front passenger door, provides extraordinarily convenient access. It also allows the vehicle to open up to the outside world and become the sociable hub of an outdoor event.
Paired with an A-pillar and windshield design that is less vertical than traditional MPVs, KV7’s wide stance and its smooth exterior skin and 20-inch wheels exude a modern appearance while projecting the confidence and strength of an SUV.

The Kia KV7 Concept’s inviting face is highlighted by an interpretation of Kia’s signature bold tabbed grille with vertical LED headlamps integrated within the design to create a clean, smooth look. The KV7 features several LED lighting elements that Kia’s design team is evaluating for future production vehicles, including a continuous line of LED fog lights that span the entire front end of the vehicle and directional turn indicators on the outside mirrors and the rear of the vehicle that pulse in the direction being signalled.
The final element that separates the Kia KV7 Concept from the rest of the MPV crowd can be found under the hood – the concept is powered by Kia’s new Theta II 2.0-litre GDI turbocharged engine, as found in the new U.S. spec Optima saloon. Capable of delivering up to 285 hp and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission it delivers V6-type power and performance while enhancing fuel efficiency.