You know what they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Maybe that's not the case, all the time.
That's because it's pretty clear that little-known Korean automaker, SsangYong, is unveiling its latest concept, the XIV-1, at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The funny thing is that this product looks a bit like the all-new Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, which is known for its contemporary styling cues.
With that said, is the SsangYong doing its best impression or is it simply embarassing itself?
SsangYong's press release follows:
SSANGYONG TO REVEAL THE CONCEPT XUV 1 IN FRANKFURT
AA International Motor Show 2011
- Compact SUV concept illustrates SsangYong's latest design and engineering
- Full details of Concept XUV 1 will be released at the IAA next month
- Available to view on stand D10 in Hall 8.0
When the doors open to the 64th IAA International Motor Show on the 13th September, SsangYong will be ready to reveal one of the stars of the event - an innovative new compact crossover concept.
The Concept XUV 1 has at its core the ideals of a moving communication space. SsangYong's designers set themselves the goal of creating a new automobile culture based on performance, safety and an awareness of the environment.
A showcase for the latest SsangYong design capabilities, the Concept XUV 1 uses extensive glass areas along with carefully curved bodywork to look imposing without seeming to appear 'aggressive'. The wraparound windscreen visually extends the glass area virtually uninterrupted to the large C-pillars, perfectly complemented by a full length glass roof.
Described by its creators as a premium CUV – Crossover Utility Vehicle – the Concept XUV 1 perfectly illustrates the robust image of SsangYong vehicles coupled with an appearance highlighting speed and power. The innovative interior design introduces new 1+1+2 or 1+3 seating layouts, challenging conventional cabin design and highlighting the flexibility available from SsangYong's latest platform technology.
The spacious interior is also packed with the latest automotive technology, leading to the show car's name: Concept XUV 1 is derived from Excellent User Interface Vehicle 1. All major cabin functions are controlled via mobile devices and smart instruments, while the coach style door offers easy access to the futuristic cabin.
All this versatility comes within the confines of a compact B segment sized vehicle, a sector which has experienced rapid growth in crossover models in recent years. Offering the high seating position and rugged feel of a full sized SUV without any compromise in running costs, crossover models on a supermini scale are fast becoming the ideal motoring solution for today's driver.
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