2014 Kia KX3 Concept

Kia’s surprising absence at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show caught some people by surprise. But as it turns out, those who were looking for Kia went to the wrong auto show. The Korean automaker did attend a show, and it even presented a new concept vehicle. But it wasn’t in LA; it was over 7,000 miles away in Guangzhou, China. Yes, Kia was in attendance at the 2014 Guangzhou Auto Show where it presented the KX3 Concept, a preview model for a C-segment SUV that will be exclusively sold in the Chinese market. On a slightly less obvious level, the KX3 Concept could also be a spiritual preview of the next-generation Kia Sportage that’s due out in 2015.

What appears certain is that the KX3 Concept will evolve into a production model in China as part of Kia’s joint venture with Dongfeng Yueda Kia (DYK). What’s less certain is how much influence the concept will have on the new Sportage.

Kia hasn’t said anything of note on the latter front, but it certainly wouldn’t surprise us if the new Sportage does utilize some of the KX3’s styling elements, especially with how the concept’s design has been well-received since making its auto show debut in Guangzhou.

Measuring 167.71 inches long and 69.4 inches wide, the Kia KX3 Concept has the proportions to be considered as a preview look of the new Sportage, even though it is slightly shorter and narrower than the current Kia SUV.

The front end features a fresh design that, quite frankly, is a little more appealing than what we see now in the Sportage. Highlights include the angular, wraparound LED headlights that run up to the edges of the hood and the longer, chrome-wrapped tiger grille (taken from the Kia Soul Kia Soul) that stretches across the entire front section. The lower bumper does looks slightly subdued with the small intakes, the fog lamps with their own chrome borders, and the chrome-look body cladding.

One thing I don’t like is how the KX3 Concept’s round front section doesn’t jive with its muscular body. It’s a shame because the front takes a lot out of the concept’s otherwise pleasing athletic appearance. Hopefully, Kia addresses this once it starts building the production model.