KIA
KX3
Previewed
by the KX3 concept that was presented last year at the Guangzhou Motor Show,
the KX3 wears a polarizing front end characterized by a slim rendition of Kia's
tigernose radiator grille flanked by thin turn signals. Headlights mounted near
the top of the fascia and a deep bumper accentuate the front end's height.
The
back end features a roof-mounted spoiler, horizontal tail lamps and twin
exhaust pipes integrated into a faux air diffuser. Buyers can customize their
KX3 by selecting an optional two-tone paint job and choosing from several
different alloy wheel designs.
Inside,
Kia's latest crossover is equipped with a simple, uncluttered dashboard
dominated by a large touch screen that runs the infotainment system. High-end
models come with a keyless ignition, a strip of lacquered trim on the dashboard
and light brown leather upholstery.
The
KX3 is available with three four-cylinder petrol engines; a 1.6-litre with 123
Hp and 151 Nm, a 1.6-litre turbo with 200 Hp and 264 Nm, and a 2.0-litre with
202 Hp and 192 Nm. The latter is a surprise and likely added to the line-up for
the still large group of Chinese car buyers who prefer a big engine.
The
1.6 and 1.6T are FWD only, and the 2.0 is FWD or AWD. The 1.6 and the 2.0 are
mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, and the 1.6 turbo is mated to a
seven-speed DCT.
The
Kia KX3 has been launched on the Chinese car market, giving Kia a vital
competitor in the hyper competitive compact SUV segment. Price for the Kia K3
starts at 112.800 yuan and ends at 186.800 yuan (US$ 18.018 – 29.830).
