THE stunning Kia Proceed concept might contain a few hints of a new direction for Kia over the next few years.
Envisioned as an extended hot hatch, the low roofline, muscular body, and sculpted finish wouldn’t be a bad place to start. It would even translate into a very desirable Speedbrake version.
According to one vehicle designer, making a car that is pretty and understated at the same time is immensely difficult. Kia have pulled it off magnificently.
The Kia Proceed concept is complemented by a series of distinctive design cues. A dynamic window frame follows the roofline to the rear tailgate, while the ‘Sharkblade’ in the bodywork, complete with GT logo, highlights the lack of B-pillars. Lateral strakes exaggerate the Proceed Concept’s slim waistline and lend an air of muscularity to the rear of the car. The whole lot sits on six-spoke aluminium 20-inch alloy wheels.
The interior is inspired by the world of bespoke tailoring and haute couture. Four split-back seats are wrapped in rippled black fabric – hand tailored of course – with hand-painted satin fabric lining on the doors and flowing into the footwells. The Proceed Concept’s dashboard controls are finished in highly tactile knurled aluminium.
Obviously this is a concept so the finished article may not look exactly like this. That would be a shame.
Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer Europe for Kia Motors, commented:
With many European drivers now seeking performance alternatives to the three-door hot hatch, we began thinking about a different halo model for the cee’d family. The Proceed Concept represents a bold new vision of how the vibrant soul of the pro_cee’d could be reincarnated and revitalised for a new generation of performance-oriented drivers.
If the Kia Proceed concept rolled off the production line looking exactly like this it would be a major statement of intent. Well, to be honest that shiny interior could be toned down a little, but the exterior is just perfect as it is. Especially finished in that beautiful “Lava Red”.
This is a stunning looking car that would grace any company car park, and being a Kia you know it wouldn’t come with a ridiculously exorbitant price tag.