Just days before Dongfeng Yueda Kia (DYK) officially
unveils the new Kia KX3 at the Chengdu Motor Show, images from the venue have
prematurely popped up online, courtesy autohome.com.cn. Introduced in 2015, the Kia KX3
is the Hyundai Creta’s mechanical cousin. It has received a nip and tuck for
MY2019. Designers have carved out a new concave grille inspired by that of the
Kia Cadenza, with vertical slats. At the rear, the updated model has fresh
bumper garnish, but that’s about it for body changes.
DYK has introduced a new infotainment system, but
other bits seem no different inside. The current model is available with a
1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol
engine. The former produces 125 PS at 6,300 rpm, and 150.7 Nm of torque at
4,850 rpm and the latter develops 160 PS at 5,500 rpm, and 250 Nm of torque at
1,450-4,500 rpm.
The low-power engine comes paired with a 6-speed
manual transmission or 6-speed automatic transmission. The high-power engine
sends power to the wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
There’s no word on mechanical updates arriving with the minor model change.
DYK will likely announce the new KX3’s prices at its
debut. The current model’s prices start at RMB 116,800. In
addition to the 2019 Kia KX3, the Kia KX1 (Kia Stonic) will have its stage
debut at the 2018 Chengdu Motor Show.
Kia Motors is generating a third SUV on the Creta's
underpinning for India. Sporting an all-new exterior, interior and brand name,
it is expected to launch in the second half of 2019.
