China recently became the world's largest car market by volume and demand there is still growing. However, the tastes of its buyers have become more refined over the years and to better suite them Kia's brand new sedan called the K4 is designed specifically for the Chinese.
The Kia K4 was officially launched on the market yesterday morning, after making a surprise debut at the Chengdu Auto Show. While it's no Aston Martin, the 4-door is a handsome looking machine, like a shrunken version of the K7. An imposing tiger nose grille is flanked by distinctive headlights.
Like most of the cars in its class, the K4 is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter from Kia's "Nu" engine family, producing 143PS (141 hp) and 176 Nm (130 lb-ft) of torque. The high-end model will offer a bigger 2-liter delivering 176PS (174 hp) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque.
Riding on a high tech platform that uses 50% high tensile steel, the K4 is larger than sedans from its class offered by Kia in other markets. Its wheelbase of the model is 2770mm, larger than the K3/Forte. Its overall length far outstrips compact cars at 4700mm.
In a few years, the K4 will also receive a 1.6-liter turbo engine mated to the Korean company's first-ever twin-clutch gearbox, Kia announced. This combo will be fitted to a performance-oriented sedan model, offering lowered suspension and slightly more aggressive bodywork.
The K4 will be made in China by the Dongfeng-Yueda-Kia joint venture. It promises to deliver a great balance between affordability and premium features, which will include air conditioning for the rear seats, keyless entry, heated seats both in the front and rear and the latest infotainment system.
Like most of the cars in its class, the K4 is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter from Kia's "Nu" engine family, producing 143PS (141 hp) and 176 Nm (130 lb-ft) of torque. The high-end model will offer a bigger 2-liter delivering 176PS (174 hp) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque.
Riding on a high tech platform that uses 50% high tensile steel, the K4 is larger than sedans from its class offered by Kia in other markets. Its wheelbase of the model is 2770mm, larger than the K3/Forte. Its overall length far outstrips compact cars at 4700mm.
In a few years, the K4 will also receive a 1.6-liter turbo engine mated to the Korean company's first-ever twin-clutch gearbox, Kia announced. This combo will be fitted to a performance-oriented sedan model, offering lowered suspension and slightly more aggressive bodywork.
The K4 will be made in China by the Dongfeng-Yueda-Kia joint venture. It promises to deliver a great balance between affordability and premium features, which will include air conditioning for the rear seats, keyless entry, heated seats both in the front and rear and the latest infotainment system.