At this year’s Guangzhou Auto Exhibition, Kia revealed the KX3 for the Chinese market. Turns out it’s just a rebadged version of the Kia Seltos. Back in mid-2019 when the Seltos was officially debuted in India, Kia explained that the name referred to the son of Hercules. Given the indifference China has towards Western mythology, the name ‘KX3’ seems to be the better fit for China.
Looking at the bigger picture, this shows a trend away from global naming conventions that many car companies have moved towards in the last couple of years.
The KX3 takes the Kia brand in a new design direction. Its distinct look is characterised by a long hood, loads of chrome on its wide front end and its squared off shoulders. LED headlights and taillights are featured for that modern look.
It’s likely the KX3 will make its way to Malaysia eventually, but in the form of the Seltos. Here’s the press release with more.
PRESS RELEASE
Kia Motors has unveiled its all-new KX3 at the 17th China Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition. Specifically targeting China’s competitive SUV market, the all-new B-segment compact SUV, known as Seltos in other markets, goes on sale at the same time as its reveal at the motor show.
“The all-new KX3 is the ideal model for the exuberant, tech-savvy millennial, as it can help them achieve a lifestyle centered around personal freedom and mobility,” said Li Feng, the Chief Executive Officer of Dongfeng Yueda Kia Motors Co.
“The all-new KX3 is well placed to establish itself as a fresh force within in the B-segment SUV market, highlighted by its sleek, sporty look, class-transcending space, robust powertrain, and diverse, cutting-edge technologies.”
The all-new KX3 The all-new KX3 is defined by distinctive exterior elements, such as the long hood and glittering horizontal chrome lines on the front bumper, and sensuous shoulder lines pressed into the sides. It also sports a wide “Tiger Nose” grille, intricately-designed full LED headlights and taillights, a 2,630-mm premium crystal-cut alloy wheelbase, as well as a chrome-enmeshed rear bumper and mufflers, all of which accentuate the SUV’s dynamic appearance.
The interior of the all-new KX3 is made of high-quality materials evoking the feel of a stylish, futuristic “cockpit” characterized by taut, smooth surfaces. Equipped with a range of technologies to maximize convenience, connectivity and ease of use, the bold design of the cabin incorporates a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Sound Mood Lighting. The KX3 is powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission that produces 115 PS with a combined fuel efficiency of 5.4 liters per every 100 km. The all-new KX3 also offers Kia’s innovative UVO CONNECT telematics system, which is designed to usher driving into the digital era with connectivity services. Using the in-car touchscreen and compatible smartphones, UVO CONNECT offers stolen vehicle notification and tracking, safety alerts, auto collision notification, and emergency assistance. The all-new KX3 is also equipped with a set of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Forward Collision Assist, Driver Attention Warning and Electric Park Brake, offering excellent passenger protection.
