Kia Novo Concept, Would You Want The Future Cerato To Look Like This?

Adapted from the Latin word ‘novatus’ which means to renew or refresh, the Kia Novo concept made its debut at the 2015 Seoul Motor Show recently, showcasing the brand’s future design direction of next-generation compact vehicles.

Underneath the bodywork which was designed at Kia’s Namyang design centre, the Novo sits on an modified version of the C-segment Cerato (aka Forte) platform. With minimal front overhangs and longer ones are the rear, the coupé-like lines extend all the way to the fastback roofline, providing the concept with a sporty outlook. The brand’s trademark ‘tiger nose’ grille is present at the front as well, framing the slim laser headlamps.

Inside, leather and aluminium adorn the dashboard that is angled towards the driver. Sci-fi elements include a three-dimensional hologram display that provides relevant information (speed, rev counter) and a ‘blind control’ touch pad beside the steering wheel that incorporates a fingerprint scanner to automatically set the car up according to the relevant driver’s preferences. Music choices, audio volume, and type information to be displayed, all at your fingertips, literally. The centre of the dash houses a wide touchscreen display for the car’s other functionality features.

The concept isn’t just about design though. Powering the Kia Novo concept is a 1.6-litre Kappa T-GDI engine mated to a new seven-speed dual clutch transmission, sending drive to the front wheels. The front wheels themselves are 20-inch in diameter and features what the brand calls ‘adaptive concave profile’ tyres that features a sunken middle section between two contact points that cool the rubber and channel road away from the wheels for greater grip.

As of now, Kia has no plans to put the Novo into production as it merely serves to provide a glimpse into the brand’s plans for its future compact car line-up. However, Kia mentions that they have “a history of delivering production vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to concept vehicles that precede them.” A look at a future Cerato perhaps?