Kia unveils rugged version of its upcoming eight-seater, the Telluride SUV

ABU DHABI: A customised version of the Telluride, the upcoming eight-seater SUV from Kia, has been showcased at the New York Fashion Week recently. The SUV was manufactured by a US design studio, situated in Irvine, California. The displayed vehicle has got a rugged look an off-road setting.

The manufacturer has not revealed much about the engine. However, the showcased model of the Telluride received a plug-in hybrid setup. It was loaded with a 3.5-litre GDI V6 engine, which is capable of thrusting out up to 270 PS of power. Moreover, the engine was paired with an electric motor, which belts out a maximum power of 130 PS. The manufacturer informed that a new V6-powered option is also in the process.

Kia took the inspiration partly from a famous fashion designer, Brandon Maxwell’s new Texas-inspired runway collection to design the SUV. On offer are some specially-tailored design elements, including door panels,  grab handles, natural wood interior trim and double stitched leather adornments on the dash.

The wing mirror caps and the door handles are wrapped in leather as well. These elements along with the deep green paint give the car a unique look.

The uniquely designed front and rear bumper, and the skid plates are the most notable features of its rugged look. The SUV will be riding on the 20-inch twin five-spoke wheels which are wrapped with 265/50 off-road tires. At the rear, an oddly-positioned spare wheel has been provided. However, this feature is not likely to be provided with the production model.

The showcased version of the SUV comes with a premium cockpit, which is completed with a multi-function steering wheel, again wrapped in leather. Other interior features include analogue gauges, freestanding infotainment display along with dual-zone automatic climate control.

The production version of the upcoming Telluride will be assembled in Georgia. We can expect the vehicle to be launched in the first quarter of the next year.