The design of the recently unveiled Kia Sportspace concept is an interesting discussion topic in itself. It looks like an Audi that’s been designed by an Italian, and I mean that in the best possible way.
While Alfa Romeo idles away occasionally firing off an announcement about a future sedan (which would have to come as an estate, as well) seemingly at random, other manufacturers are seriously upping their game; Kia is obviously one of them, as is Hyundai, along with Mazda and even Volvo.
The Sportspace concept reflects this, as well as the fact that it’s a passion project that first emerged in the mind of Kia’s chief of design, Gregory Guillaume, back when he still hadn’t finished his studies.
He says “this car comes from an ambition I had when I was studying design in Switzerland as a young man. I always had this picture in my mind of creating a vehicle that I could have used to go for a weekend’s skiing with friends before driving back for it to be displayed at the Geneva Salon. Geneva is a special show for me – it comes as winter starts to release its grip.”
We already know Kia says this is not ‘a traditional estate car,’ and we believe them, although with that rising shoulder line, it’s not a shooting brake either.
Guillaume explains the philosophy behind the car’s outward appearance: “the visual weight of the rear is reduced with careful shaping of screen, door and rear bumper. The edges cut into the mass to make its raked appearance believable and less wagon-like.”
The interior is another highlight of this concept, and it undoubtedly shows the way Kia is choosing to go forward. It’s far more futuristic than anything it currently sells, but as with so many concepts these days, it’s fully functional and buildable.
Regarding the interior, Guillaume says it’s “very black” and “with focus on control and function – but the ambience of the passenger compartment must also be refined, relaxed and a welcoming place to be. The sense of space was essential.”
With this more detailed explanation of the design roots of the Sportspace (which is said to preview the next Optima), Kia also added an extra photo of the interior.
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