The Kia K3 sports a crossover-inspired design with plastic body cladding and a fastback silhouette
Kia has introduced the all-new K3 at a special event in Mexico City and it certainly looks familiar.
Designed to “redefine the sub-compact segment,” the sedan features a crossover-inspired design that closely resembles the Polestar 2. That’s somewhat fitting as the model aims to show that “entry-level vehicles can provide a rewarding experience akin to higher category vehicles.”
While the company won’t win any points for originality, the K3 has an Opposites United design and a “fastback-style silhouette.” The latter echoes the aforementioned Swede, but the Korean adopts a slender Tiger Nose grille that is flanked by sweptback headlights which flow into stylish daytime running lights.
Further back, we can see plastic body cladding and streamlined bodywork. They’re joined by a rakish windscreen that flows into a sloping roof. Other highlights include an integrated rear spoiler and taillights that are connected by an illuminated strip.
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Buyers looking for a sportier appearance can opt for the K3 GT-Line, which has a more aggressive front bumper and larger 17-inch alloy wheels. The trim is also distinguished by two exhaust tips.
The K3 measures 178.9 inches (4,545 mm) long, 69.5 inches (1,765 mm) wide, and 58.1 inches (1,475 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 105.1 inches (2,670 mm). To put those numbers into perspective, the model is 3.8 inches (97 mm) shorter than the Forte and has 1.2 inches (30 mm) less between the wheels. However, it’s 6.3 inches (160 mm) larger than the Rio sedan and has a 3.5 inch (89 mm) longer wheelbase.
A Stylish, But Basic Cabin
The upscale design continues in the cabin, which adopts a minimalist aesthetic and stylish accents. Drivers will also find a two-spoke steering wheel inspired by the one in the EV6.
Other highlights include a digital instrument cluster and an available 10.25-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. They’re joined by a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a 64 color ambient lighting system, rear air vents, and USB-C charging ports front and rear.
We’ll learn more details closer to launch, but it appears the model will be offered with heated front seats as well as a heated steering wheel. Kia also said the trunk can hold up to 19.2 cubic feet (544 liters) of luggage.
In Mexico, standard safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control, and ABS brakes. That’s pretty barebones, but the K3 will be offered with an assortment of driver assistance systems including Front Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Three Engine Options And Six-Speed Transmissions
Under the hood, there’s a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that develops 121 hp (90 kW / 123 PS). It can be paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
If that’s not powerful enough, the K3 GT-Line has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 150 hp (112 kW / 152 PS). It’s connected to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
Kia also announced plans for an “export-oriented” 1.4-liter engine. However, there’s no word on specifics or where it will be offered.
The automaker was coy on additional details, but said the “suspension system has been redesigned to offer an excellent balance between comfort and control.”
The 2024 Kia K3 will be built in Nuevo Leon, Mexico and be offered in “select markets” starting in the fourth quarter. However, “details on launch dates and model specifications will be announced by each country in due course.”