Kia unveiled two concept cars, the EV3 and EV4, as well as the “The New Sorento” for the North American market during the press preview event of the “2023 LA Auto Show” held at the Los Angeles Convention Center in California on the 16th (Thursday local time).

On this day, Kia showcased the EV3 and EV4 concepts, highlighting its efforts towards electric vehicle popularization through expansion of its EV lineup and charging infrastructure, emphasizing the transition towards electrified mobility.

Kia also announced new models to be added to its North American electric vehicle lineup with the debut of the EV3 and EV4 concepts.

The EV3 concept boasts a robust and geometrically harmonious body shape with a dynamic roofline, beautifully expressing a “deliberately enjoyable experience” through its silhouette.

The front features clean and volumetric surfaces along with the new EV Tiger Face, presenting a sturdy yet approachable appearance. The futuristic star map signature lighting and vertical headlights that emphasize the vehicle’s width enhance its technical sophistication.

The side view portrays an impressive strength with wheel arch designs that appear to be asymmetrically cut, while smoothly intertwined surfaces create an emotional design.

The rear emphasizes a robust impression with its geometrically harmonious fender design and volumetric tailgate, and the star map signature taillights provide a futuristic feel with a sense of spaciousness.

The interior of the EV3 concept offers optimal usability, customizable to fit the preferences and lifestyles of its users.

Kia has created a calm and open atmosphere within the cabin with a clean surface and harmonious vertical and horizontal design elements, while mood lighting adds an emotional touch.

The EV4 concept represents a break from traditional sedan conventions, showcasing Kia’s vision for the next generation of electrified sedans under the theme of “Innovative Attempts Towards the Future” from Kia’s design philosophy, Opposites United.

The front displays a wide and confident stance with an emphasis on the low hood shape, featuring design elements and patterns in geometric harmony along with the star map signature lighting, projecting a high level of technological sophistication.

The side view creates a new silhouette with a long-tail image achieved through the deck that extends from the rear glass to the trunk’s end, along with a low hood end.

The rear highlights the broad tailgate and clean surfaces with an original shaped roof spoiler and vertical taillights, setting a unique impression not seen on conventional sedans.

Additionally, with sustainability in mind, various interior colors were created using 100% recycled cotton yarn dyed with natural dyes, inspired by elements of the earth.

Kia also made its North American debut presentation of “The New Sorento” at this year’s LA Auto Show.

The Sorento features a sophisticated yet rugged exterior with a spacious and convenient interior. Its design embodies the concept of “Futuristic Boldness,” presenting a forward-looking and robust SUV aesthetic.

While inheriting the strong and dynamic style of the previous model, it incorporates futuristic design elements, and the interior combines a horizontal image with a high-tech feel, capturing a distinctive sense of luxury.

In the North American market, models such as the ▲2.5 Gasoline ▲2.5 Gasoline Turbo ▲Hybrid ▲Plug-in Hybrid will be available for sale starting in the first half of 2024.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the “X-Pro” trim, based on the Sorento, was also introduced.

The “X-Pro” trim adds outdoor-specific features to the existing “X-Line,” featuring a black-colored radiator grille, black chrome details on the front skid plate, DLO (Daylight Opening) molding, and side sill molding to create a robust off-road SUV image.

Moreover, the ground clearance has been raised by 35mm compared to the base model (2WD), enhancing its grandeur, while dedicated 17-inch tires provide a stable driving experience, complemented by stain-resistant seats and “X-Pro” embroidered lettering headrests for differentiation.

Kia offers a total of 9 exterior colors, including the new exterior color Road Rider Brown, and 4 interior colors.

Meanwhile, the EV9 was announced as a finalist in the “2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year” category (SUV segment) at the auto show. The final award announcement will be made on January 4, 2024.

Kia has previously won the “North American Vehicle of the Year” award in 2020 with the Telluride and in 2023 with the EV6, and its consistent recognition in the SUV segment as a finalist this year attests to its competitive strength.

Jin Sang-Il daedusj@autodiary.kr