- All-new Kia YI PAO urban SUV enhances SUV line-up in China, alongside newly launched China-exclusive Kia Sportage
- The Kia Telluride concept car makes Chinese debut
- Kia Motors completes full SUV line-up for China with current SUV models including KX3, KX5, and KX7
- Kia to lead New Energy Vehicle market in China with K5 Plug-in Hybrid
Kia Motors Corporation’s Chinese joint venture, Dongfeng Yueda Kia Motors Co., Ltd (DYK), has revealed two new models at Auto China 2018. Taking centre stage at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, the all-new Kia YI PAO urban SUV is designed and built exclusively for sale in China. The vehicle makes its debut alongside the new K5 Plug-in Hybrid*, which features an ultra-low emissions powertrain capable of impressive electric-only range.
The Kia Telluride – a striking three-row, seven-seat luxury SUV concept car – also goes on display for the first time in China.
“The YI PAO strengthens DYK’s current SUV line-up, alongside the Sportage adapted exclusively for sale in China. The Kia Telluride Concept shows a potential future entry into the world of the luxury SUV,” said Nam Young So, Executive Vice President, CEO at DYK. “The K5 Plug-in Hybrid also boasts an exclusive new powertrain, with greater zero-emissions range than any other Kia hybrid to date and will seek to lead the new energy vehicle market in China.”
Two new SUVs strengthen Kia’s SUV line-up in China
“Designing YI PAO, the main goal was to come up with a young, dynamic, practical car rooted in Kia’s DNA,” said Oleg Son, Head of Kia Design China. “The vehicle is aimed at young-at-heart, optimistic customers, reflecting their active lifestyle. Crisp structural lines and a Targa-style C-pillar are key features that are designed to appeal to a young generation.”
The YI PAO introduces Kia’s stylish and modern design to China’s urban SUV segment, with a sporty attitude and a contemporary SUV body style. Designed and engineered to appeal to the needs of younger buyers, it merges practicality with technology. The vehicle blends a stylish exterior with numerous high-tech convenience and safety features.
The Kia YI PAO is set to go on-sale across China in the second half of 2018.
Strengthening DYK’s presence in the compact SUV segment, the Kia Sportage takes inspiration from the brand’s global SUV model line-up, with a design and features tailored to the Chinese market. Boasting an imposing on-road presence, the China-exclusive Sportage offers SUV versatility in a sporty, dynamic package, with a design characterised by Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger-nose’ grille, smooth surfaces, and straight, clean character lines.
New Plug-in Hybrid powertrain for Kia K5
Re-engineered exclusively for China, the new K5 saloon now offers buyers an ultra-low emissions plug-in hybrid powertrain. Making its Chinese premiere in Beijing, the K5 Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a lithium-polymer battery pack and a high-capacity 50 kW electric motor. Providing zero-emissions in electric-only mode, the innovative powertrain employs Kia’s efficient 2.0-litre GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, which generates 156 ps and 189 Nm. Coupled with the electric motor, the engine allows the car to operate in charge-sustaining mode once the battery is depleted.
The K5 Plug-in Hybrid is set to be produced in China from the second quarter of 2018.