Spy shots: Kia planning new compact MPV based on No 3 concept car

Kia presented its new No 3 mini MPV concept back at March’s Geneva Motor Show, and within weeks the production version of this concept had been spotted testing around Europe. In fact, prototypes for the vehicle were first sighted late last year but were originally thought to be a new MPV variant of the Kia Cee’d hatchback.

We can now confirm that the new car will be based on the same platform as the Kia Soul, which means it will likely be available with a family of compact petrol and diesel powertrains ranging from 1.6 to 2.0L in size. Power outputs will range from about 126hp (94kW) to 142hp (106kW). There could even be a mild hybrid model added to the lineup further down the track.

Competition for the new Kia MPV will likely come primarily in the form of the Volkswagen Golf Plus, as well as the Opel Meriva and Renault Modus – the latter vehicle was even seen testing alongside the Kia prototype at one stage.

Some of its features will include a glass panoramic roof, sporty alloy wheels, and Kia’s new H-pattern grille. First sales should start in Europe at the end of the year, which means the latest Kia MPV will be a 2010 model.