Global family Kia K3/Cerato/Forte underwent a planned restyling last year. Except for the nuances of decor and equipment, then in Korea, America, Australia or Russia, these cars look the same. But there is one exception to this rule: a sedan was prepared specifically for China three years ago. Kia K3 with its own version of the exterior and interior. Now this model has also been restyled – and once more under a separate program.
On the left is a pre-reform sedan for China, in the center is an updated sedan for China, on the right is an updated global version
The large grille with vertical bars is a thing of the past. From the face, the Chinese sedan is now more like the global version and the older model Kia K5. However, he still has his own headlights, bumper and radiator grille, original ones. There are also new taillights along with a bumper and other wheels. The modified plumage increased the length of the car by an elusive 6 mm (up to 4666 mm).
The interior of the Chinese K3 is also different, albeit similar to the global version. And the main feature is the abundance of touch panels instead of analog keys and knobs. For example, the climate control panel is completely touch-sensitive (it is single-zone here, although in other countries it has two zones), as well as buttons on the central tunnel. New transmission selector – with mode indication on the handle itself.
The media system previously had a 10.25-inch widescreen screen, but now it has lost separate “hot” buttons. Although the hardware rocker keys are now responsible for the volume and tuning of the radio. In addition, a fully virtual 10.25-inch instrument cluster appeared (previously there was a seven-inch screen with separate side scales).
The basic power unit is the same: in China, it is an aspirated 1.5 (115 hp) paired with an IVT variator. But the 1.4 T-GDI turbo engine has become more powerful: now 140 instead of 130 hp. It is aggregated with a seven-speed preselective “robot”. In addition, the Chinese sedan Kia K3 is plug-in hybrid and electric carbut these versions will be updated a bit later.
Gasoline cars with a new design will enter the local market before the end of autumn. Now prices for pre-reform K3s start at $15,700.
