Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Kia Motors launches new K5
Models pose next to the new K5 midsize sedan during a launch event at the COEX, Samseong-dong, Seoul, Wednesday. The new K5 ranges in price from 22.45 million won to 29.2 million won, depending on trims and options. / Yonhap
By Park Jin-hai
By Park Jin-hai
Kia Motors launched its flagship midsize K5 sedan on Wednesday, aiming to make a difference in the SUV-dominated domestic car market.
The new K5, which debuted at the Seoul Motor Show in April, is a second generation model five years in the making.
Under the slogan "two faces with five hearts," the new K5 comes in two models _ the modern K5 MX and sporty K5 SX ― along with five engine types, including 1.6 turbo and 1.7 diesel engines.
“The K5 has been a symbol of Kia’s innovation and design. The latest K5 went one step further and is the new standard for Korean midsize sedans,” said Kia Motors President Park Han-woo during the launch event.
Kia invested 490 billion won in the five-year project to develop an “advanced sporty sedan.”
“Until now the midsize sedan has had classy but lackluster designs. By launching two different faces, we wanted to change that and appeal to the younger generation looking for sportier look and better driving performance,” said Kim Chang-sik, executive vice president of the company’s domestic sales division.
The coupe-like sedan has extended side windows and a wider wheelbase, while its fuel efficiency and safety features have been upgraded.
It offers diverse safety features such as seven airbags and emergency brake assist. It also has an expanded ratio of advanced high-strength steel of 51 percent, up from 21 percent in the previous model. Other features include a wireless charger where drivers can charge their smartphones by placing them in the tray under the center fascia.
Kia Motors says it aims to sell 46,000 this year, and more than 60,000 next year.
Since June 22 when it was first unveiled, Kia Motors has received around 8,500 preorders for the K5.
“Comparing with the first generation K5, which had 6,000 preorders, we are confident that we will achieve our sales targets for the new K5,” said Seo Bo-won, Kia’s domestic marketing director.
The first generation K5, launched in 2010, sold over 1.4 million cars globally.
Its 2- liter gasoline model can deliver a maximum of 168 horsepower, while its fuel efficiency stands at 12.6 kilometers per liter of fuel.
The K5 with the 1.6-liter turbo engine has a maximum 180 horsepower, with mileage of 13.4 kilometer per liter of fuel, while the 1.7-liter diesel powered model has a maximum 141 horsepower with 16.8 kilometer per liter of fuel mileage.
The new K5 will be sold in global markets including the U.S. within this year, the automaker said.
The K5 hybrid will be launched in the latter half of this year, while the plug-in electric vehicle version will be launched in the first half of next year, the carmaker said.
The new K5 ranges from 22.45 million won to 29.2 million won, depending on trims and options.