Over the next few weeks we will have a lot of focus on what will be on show at the Geneva Motor Show. Already we’ve spoken about what Kia will be bringing with them, but yesterday at the Chicago Auto Show Kia unveiled their latest concept, the Trail’ster.

The Trail’ster is an electric all-wheel-drive (e-AWD) crossover utility vehicle designed for the “city-dweller-turned-outdoor-adventurer”.  The concept is based on the Kia Soul but with a more rugged look. Like the Citroen Mountain Vibe concept we mentioned earlier today the Trail’ster is aimed at “those looking to escape their urban environs in search of higher-elevation playgrounds where snow, mud, streams and trails abound.”

This concept is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4 cylinder engine offering 188hp and 251Nm of torque. It’s equipped a six-speed automatic transmission and an electric all-wheel-drive system which is on the rear axle. The electric all-wheel-drive is intended for “low-speed assist, enhanced launch acceleration and improved traction in inclement weather or off-road situations.” We’re told that the e-AWD aspect of the car will also improve fuel economy by kicking in only when needed and serving as an energy recovery mechanism.

"The Trail'ster concept is a near-future look at how the production Kia Soul would logically evolve into an AWD-capable version that's built to escape the city streets and roam into the mountain wilderness," said Tom Kearns, chief designer, Kia Design Centre of America (KDCA). "It takes the go-anywhere capability of an SUV and reimagines it within a compact and sporty package with an expressive design to match.”