XM3 outperforms other compact SUVs with spacious room, fuel efficiency

Renault Korea Motors' XM3 E-TECH hybrid models are seen being driven in an urban area in this promotional photo. Courtesy of Renault Korea Motors

By Kim Jae-heun

Renault Korea Motors' small sport utility vehicle, XM3, is outperforming other car companies' equivalent models amid intensifying competition in the domestic market, the company said Monday.

Over 22 percent of cars sold in Korea last year were small SUVs. As one out of five cars sold here were small SUVs, many automakers have strived to cash in on the lucrative market.

Hyundai Motor's Kona, Chevrolet's Trailblazer, KG Mobility's Tivoli and Renault Korea Motors' XM3 are engaged in a heated rivalry currently and Chevrolet's Trax crossover has also joined the fray.

Renault Korea Motors says that the XM3's commercial value stands out among its competing models.

First, the XM3 has the longest wheelbase among all small SUVs sold in the country at 2,720 millimeters. The wheelbase is a good indicator when trying to estimate the legroom in the back seats. It also has the longest body length, which is receiving positive feedback from consumers.

Additionally, the XM3 performs well in fuel efficiency. Its four-cylinder engine, at 1.3 liters and 1.6 liters, are larger in size and heavier compared to the Chevrolet's Trax crossover three-cylinder 1.2 liter engine, but the two models weigh nearly the same. The Trax crossover is between 1,330 kilograms and 1,340 kilograms and the XM3 weighs between 1,330 kilograms and 1,345 kilograms. Nonetheless, the XM3 has a better combined fuel efficiency with 13.2 kilometers per liter to 13.4 kilometers per liter, which is better than the Trax crossover's 12.7 kilometers per liter.

“With all the strengths mentioned above, the XM3 has the best price among rival models. Anybody would want to buy a car with a bigger engine if the prices are the same. This makes the XM3 the most wanted small SUV among consumers in the domestic market,” a Renault Korea Motors official said.

The XM3 also comes as a hybrid model.

The XM3 E-TECH hybrid comes with a 230 volt high-voltage battery and two electric motors in addition to the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. It boosts combined fuel efficiency to 17.4 kilometers per liter ― based on 17-inch tires.