Kia joins fashionistas to preview Telluride SUV

The Telluride made its debut during the New York Fashion Week.

Automakers are full of resources when it comes to finding ways to bypass the traditional auto show circuit. Kia has chosen to unveil its upcoming Telluride SUV as a thinly-veiled concept car at the New York Fashion Week.

Designer Brandon Maxwell introduced the Telluride as part of his Texas-inspired runway collection. Kia explains the ranch-ready look includes dark green paint, custom bumpers on both ends, leather hood straps, a hidden winch, and a snorkel. Expect none of these features to reach production.

Looking beyond these add-ons reveals the Telluride changed significantly in its transition from a concept car to a production model. The grille is wider and thinner and the headlights are considerably bigger. The fender flares are less pronounced and designers added more rake to the D-pillar. It's a lot less boxy overall.

The interior is concept-specific, too, but it gives us a good idea of what the production model will look like. The Telluride will offer seating for up to eight passengers.

Power will come from a V6 engine but full specifications remain under wraps. Kia merely confirmed the model is several inches longer and wider than the Sorento.

Kia will begin building the Telluride in its Georgia facility in 2019. The SUV will make its global debut in January at the 2019 edition of the Detroit auto show. Sales will begin in time for the 2020 model year.