Lee Min-hyung joined The Korea Times in 2014 and has worked as a journalist mainly in Korea’s finance, tech and automotive industry. He specializes in content creation, breaking news and in-depth analysis currently on transportation and mobility. You can reach him via mhlee@koreatimes.co.kr.
KG Mobility’s Actyon Hybrid SUV to intensify rivalry against Grand Koleos
KG Mobility's Actyon Hybrid SUV / Courtesy of KG Mobility
By Lee Min-hyung
KG Mobility’s Actyon Hybrid is set to deepen the model's rivalry against Renault Korea’s Grand Koleos, capitalizing on strong price competitiveness.
The hybrid version of the mid-size SUV made its debut on Tuesday with a price tag of 36.95 million won ($27,000). The carmaker will sell the vehicle under the reasonably priced single trim.
KG Mobility hopes to rev up its sales by jumping on the hybrid boom with the strategic new model. Given that most rival models in the segment sell at higher prices, the carmaker hopes to attract as many customers as possible who seek practical vehicles with competitive prices.
The price of Renault Korea’s Grand Koleos hybrid SUV starts at a slightly higher 39 million won, so the vehicle is regarded as one of the biggest rivals to the Actyon Hybrid.
The local subsidiary of the French carmaker has enjoyed dominance for the past year on the unexpectedly strong popularity of the hybrid SUV here.
Renault Korea's Grand Koleos SUVs / Courtesy of Renault Korea
KG Mobility also hopes to build a stable source of revenue with the new hybrid. The Actyon Hybrid is the second hybrid launched under the brand, after the carmaker launched the Torres Hybrid in March.
The carmaker underscored the vehicle’s electric vehicle (EV)-like driving feeling, as it uses dual motor transmission which enables the car to exude quiet and powerful driving performance.
The vehicle is equipped with KG Mobility’s next-generation hybrid system developed under a tech partnership with China’s BYD.
The latest hybrid is capable of driving up to 15.8 kilometers per liter, appealing to customers who prioritize economical driving.
“The Actyon Hybrid comes with refined exterior design, fuel efficiency and comfortable ride,” a company official said. “The vehicle will set a new standard for customers who hope to purchase premium hybrid SUVs with well-balanced features.”
KG Mobility's new strategic model also includes basic safety features, such as intelligent speed limit assistance and autonomous emergency braking.
However, the carmaker's relatively weaker brand image is considered one of the downsides for the new model, when compared with Renault Korea’s Grand Koleos.