At the Beijing Auto Show, Kia is hosting the world premiere of its new K4 Concept car, which it says, was “developed especially with Chinese consumers in mind” adding that it previews a production version expected to go on sale in China during the second half of 2014.
The smoothly styled sedan is 4,720mm (185.8 inches) long and rides on a 2,700 mm (106.3 inches) wheelbase. For reference, the Kia Optima is 4,845 mm (190.7 inches) long and has a 2,795mm (110.0 inches) wheelbase.
The K4 also marks the first appearance of Kia’s 1.6-liter Turbo GDI engine in the Chinese market, with the four-cylinder gasoline unit paired to 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).
In production guise, the K4 will offer a variety of standard and optional features including a push button engine start system, Kia’s “Supervision” instrument cluster and UVO infotainment system, six airbags, ESP (electronic stability program) and a rear-view camera.
Kia said the K4 will appeal to family-oriented Chinese consumers in their 30s and 40s.
“From its earliest development stage, the K4 concept was designed specifically to satisfy Chinese consumers’ needs and preferences,” said Soon-Nam Lee, Vice President of Kia Motors Overseas Marketing Group. “Now, we are confident that the production version of the mid-size K4 family sedan will set a whole new standard for its class in China when it is launched later this year.”
By John Halas
Photos via Kia & XcarChina
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