Kia Motors Corporation revealed its latest concept vehicle, the dramatic looking seven-seater Multi-S, at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show. Developed by Kia as a next generation CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) the Multi-S is designed to cater for the needs of modern customers by blending the interlocking trends of Crossover vehicles, MPVs and SUVs.

The ‘S’ in Multi-S stands for "Sporty, Spacious and Smart" and the 4545 mm long concept car is intended to appeal to individual buyers seeking a car with ‘character’ who lead active family lifestyles. Multi-S features future leading occupant protection systems, plus ESP (electronic stability programme), MDPS (motor driven power steering), TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system), AFS (adaptive front light system), full-length curtain airbags and ‘active’ head restraints.

Multi-S’s seven occupants are seated within a stylish body that has refined detailing, subtle curves, a unique and dynamic frontal appearance and a simple, uncluttered rear. Large diameter, 19-inch alloy wheels with low-profile 245/45 R19 tyres give the vehicle a strong ‘on-road’ presence. Built on a 2700 mm wheelbase, Multi-S measures 1850 mm wide and 1650 mm high, to provide spacious accommodation.

Inside Multi-S, the design brief was to provide maximum versatility and a living space with a composed and calming ambience. Features include a dual-panel glass roof, a high-tech instrument panel and centre fascia, a super-size centre console, luggage box and overhead compartment for maximum storage, full second and third row air-conditioning, a surround-sound audio system and an entertainment system for back seat passengers with USB port.

"Our latest concept vehicle, the Multi-S, shows how Kia is continuously striving to explore new areas and cater for the changing present and future needs of consumers. Design and engineering work on concept programmes has helped us create a succession of new production models which are attractively styled, comfortably appointed, technically sophisticated and thoroughly modern," enthused Mr Yong-Hwan Kim, Senior Executive Vice President and COO of Kia Motors Corporation.

Although the display vehicle at Frankfurt is powered by a 2.7-litre V6 gasoline engine matched with a five-speed automatic transmission with Sport Mode, the Multi-S engine bay is also designed to accept a 2-litre turbo diesel engine and a choice of transmissions.

Kia’s Multi-S is intended to trigger public debate and generate feedback from consumers about their future motoring needs. At present, there are no plans to put Multi-S into production.