Kia HM

They like to tease over at Kia. This official picture previews the Korean maker’s forthcoming large 4x4.

The dark image reveals for the first time the aggressive profile of the Land Rover Discovery rival. It follows on from earlier teaser shots of the car, which we published in Issue 973, showing a number of close-up details, such as the headlights and wheels.

Called the HM, the big off-roader has a stocky body characterised by wide arches. A long wheelbase gives enough room inside for seven people, while roof bars boost practicality even further.

The design follows on from the Mesa concept, which Kia unveiled at 2005’s Detroit Motor Show. That car featured a V6 petrol engine under the bonnet, but the HM will get a larger V8 powerplant. The newcomer is expected to be built on a monocoque chassis to ensure good on-road driving manners.

Inside, there will be an upmarket feel, and the cabin has a long stan­dard equipment tally that includes dual full-length sunroofs and a DVD player. The HM is scheduled to make its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January, and is aimed primarily at the US market.

A spokesman for Kia UK told us that the car could come here if there is sufficient interest from buyers – although if it does, the big SUV would most likely be offered with a diesel engine.