The retro-style rendering you see at the top of this page is our first glimpse of the Kia Cross GT, which is set to be fully revealed at the Chicago Auto Show this month.
Despite the nineties graphics, the Cross GT certainly looks the business; and since we know that it will be bigger than the 2013 Sorento, it should be fairly imposing as well.
Kia's signature 'tiger grille' has made its way onto the front of the Cross GT, and the door mirrors seem to mimic those seen on renderings of Kia's sporty coupé concept unveiled last week. Lashings of chrome can be seen on and around the grille, behind the front wings, and on the front door handles; while the rear door handles appear to be hidden. The sloping roofline and upward flick of the rear window give the Cross GT a sporty profile; and the near-flat tailgate suggests good practicality. We also expect the massive alloy wheels to be toned down somewhat if the Cross GT makes it to production.
"Inspired by nature, driven by technology" is the line Kia uses to describe the Cross GT; hinting towards some kind of hybrid or maybe even electric driveline for the finished example.
So what will the Cross GT replace? Well, considering its size and window format, there appears to be plenty of space for three rows of seats; possibly hinting at a crossover replacement for the Sedona MPV.
All this is just guesswork for now though, as Kia is likely to keep its cards close to its chest until the official unveiling at the Chicago Auto Show, which runs from 9th - 18th February.