Kia Debuts New 2023 Kia K3

The Kia Corp announced that it would release two new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) models per year through 2027 during the 2022 Kia CEO Investor Day. With plans to have 14 new BEV models by then, the automaker seems pretty behind – so far we’ve only seen the Kia EV6, EV9 overseas, and a concept of the Kia EV5. Still, the automaker is no slouch when it comes to releasing new vehicles, already introducing the new Kia K3. We wanted to wait and see if any more information was released after the initial debut in Mexico City, but so far, only the PR is out and talking about the new K3 model.

“With the all-new K3, we are delivering design features and sophistication unprecedented in this class…The K3 is also proof of our commitment to offering mobility solutions perfectly designed to meet the needs of each market and is recognition of the enormous growth potential of the Mexican market.” – Sean Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America

The Highlights – Powertrain

Keeping things simple, the Kia K3 will be powered by the renowned 1.6-liter engine, paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. This is likely similar to the engine optimized with continuously variable valve duration, able to generate 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, on the Kia K5. The PR only states a power output of 123 ps, or 121 horsepower. Like the K3, replacing the old Kia Forte with an overseas name, the Kia K5 is another sports car that replaced the old name in the new generation for the Optima. Following its pledge to introduce GT cars, the new Kia K3 will also get a new sporty GT-Line trim, powered by a 2.0-liter engine, able to generate 152 ps or 150 horsepower, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters. An export-oriented 1.4-litre engine will also be made available later in the model year.

Style

The exterior captures the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy by combining advanced shapes, colors, and textures for a bold and futuristic appearance while adding the new fastback-style silhouette to give the new K3 a more menacing profile. The aggressive front fascia with the traditional Tiger Nose grille, distinctive LED DRL light pattern, and larger air intakes make the K3 look sporty and muscular. Black applications in the wheel arches and a double-line beltline growing from the fender make up the profile view, and the rear design features a thin line of LED lighting that connects the taillights. Riding on 17-inch wheels and featuring dual exhausts, the K3 is embracing the sporty muscle car design while offering class-leading space for both front and rear passengers, plus a trunk space of 19.2 cubic-feet.

Inside the interior cabin, the all-new Kia K3 continues the design philosophy with a modern yet comfortable ambiance. Greeting the consumer is a newly designed steering wheel inspired by the EV6, integration of the instrument cluster and panoramic infotainment screen into the minimalistic high-tech dashboard. For comfort, two-zone touch automatic climate control is there to keep consumers cool, plus air vents in the rear. The 10.25” touchscreen powered by Kia Connect comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, can pair up to two devices via Bluetooth, and offers USB Type C ports.

Safety Tech

Kia has increasingly added new safety features over the years. The new Kia K3 will offer an ABS braking system, plus an ESC electronic stability program as standard. Advanced features such as Front Collision Avoidance (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), and Driving Attention Warning (DAW) are also available depending on the trim.

The new Kia K3 should launch in select markets in late 2023. Launch dates for each country will be revealed the closer we get to launch. Follow along with us on Miami Lakes Automall social media to find out when the all-new Kia K3 becomes available. You can also find any of the models we mentioned and find your new Kia at Miami Lakes Automall today.

Photo Source/Copyright: Kia Media