Kia previews compact SUV for China with KX3 concept

By / 10 years ago / News / No Comments

The KX3 brings a bold design, with the carmaker saying the model is intended to ‘appeal to young Chinese consumers who are looking for high-value, high-quality cars that reflect their passion for – and pursuit of – an outgoing lifestyle’.

The model measures 4,260mm long, 1,765mm wide with a 2,590mm wheelbase that Kia says brings plenty of cabin space along with a large 400-litre cargo area that folds completely flat.

Designed to bring an SUV silhouette with sporty looks including a coupé-inspired glass area, the KX3 features a small rear spoiler, gently rising belt-line and muscular wheel arches.

It also uses Kia's trademark “tiger-nose” grille with a new matte chrome-look surround, which sits below the concept's wraparound LED headlights.

The KX3 also brings high ground-clearance and chrome-look body cladding around the base along with a raised body at 1,630mm in height.

Power comes from a 1.6-litre turbo gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine said to bring strong performance and high fuel economy. This is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and four-wheel drive.

The KX3's chassis has been engineered for a five-star C-NCAP safety rating, employing ultra-high tensile steel throughout the body shell to maximise passive safety.

It also brings Kia's latest in-car connectivity technology with a stated high level of standard equipment and a wide range of options.

Kia added that it is yet to confirm whether the KX3 concept will be put into production.

Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.

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