Kia KCD-II Detroit Concept to spawn a bakkie?

Kia has released an illustration (below) of its KCD-II concept, which is set to be unveiled at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It's the second concept vehicle from Kia's new California Design Centre, and the company says the vehicle shows what a potential three-row, seven-seater SUV from the Korean company could look like.

Kia has long been after a vehicle that could move it into the upmarket sphere in the SUV class, and KCD-II has another plus — it could potentially spawn a conventional bakkie, another niche the company is interested in, and a development that would be of great interest to SA buyers.

Acura RD-X to end up a Honda SUV?

The next in a line of Acura concept SUVs will also be on show in Detroit. The Acura is Honda's premium US brand, and this vehicle could well reach SA shores as a Honda sometime in 2006.

RD-X is billed as a concept of the upcoming production sport-ute due in showrooms in 2006. Acura promises the RD-X will combine car-like handling with SUV utility, and is aiming it at the usual active urban professionals.

A wood and leather interior is planned "based on the feeling of an upscale loft apartment," according to Honda. This vehicle, in production form, is set to take on the likes of BMW X5 and the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz ML...