SsangYong will show XUV 1 concept at Frankfurt

South Korean automaker SsangYong will have something to brag about at the Frankfurt motor show in September--namely, the new concept XUV 1.

The XUV 1 is a small crossover vehicle with a shape similar to that of the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque. At least that's what we see from teaser photos released on Thursday.

SsangYong says the crossover is meant to be a moving communication space, based on performance, safety and awareness of the environment.

The XUV 1 uses glass along with curved bodywork to look imposing without being aggressive, according to SsangYong. The wraparound windshield extends almost uninterrupted to the C-pillars, with a glass roof on top.

Strangely, the new design can use either a 1+1+2 or 1+1+3 seating layout, which the company says, “challenges conventional design and highlights the flexibility of SsangYong's platform.”

The name XUV is derived from Excellent User Interface Vehicle 1. All in-car functions are controlled via mobile devices and smart instruments. We just hope they're hands-free.

SsangYong was acquired by India's Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. in February.

By Jake Lingeman