Kia Motors Corp. is celebrating the global debut of its all-new mid-sized K4 concept sedan at the 2014 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. Kia designed and developed the mid-sized K4 concept sedan with Chinese consumers in consideration. Its beautiful exterior – marked by a low nose, high trunk and wedge-shaped profile – is simple yet dignified while its spacious interior is laden with an array of high-tech convenience and safety features.
Kia designed the new K4 concept to offer an exciting drive and strong performance as made possible by the 1.6-liter Turbo GDI engine, the first time that this mill is unveiled in China. This engine is paired to the seven-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) that delivers fast and smooth gear shifts.
With a length of 4.72 meters and a long wheelbase of 2,700 mm, the new Kia K4 concept is able to offer an excellent interior space, as also made possible by skillful packaging and complemented by best-in-class convenience features like the carmaker’s UVO infotainment system, push button engine start system and a Supervision instrument cluster.
Of course, the new Kia K4 is loaded with an array of safety features like six airbags, a rear-view camera and ESP (electronic stability program). In fact, the K4 was designed – including its structure, as well as active and passive safety systems – to earn a five-star rating on C-NCAP tests.
Since Kia is known for presenting concept cars that are closely linked to future models, the production version of the K4 sedan is expected to be sold in China starting in the second semester of 2014, targeted towards family-oriented customers in their 30s and 40s.
Soon-Nam Lee, Vice President of Kia Motors Corp.'s Overseas Marketing Group, remarked that from the earliest development stage, Kia designed the K4 concept to cater to the needs and preferences of Chinese customers. Lee added that Kia is confident that the K4 sedan in its production will set new standards in its class in China when it is becomes available later in 2014.
In January this year, the South Korean carmaker unveiled the all-new Kia GT4 Stinger Concept at the 2014 North American International Auto Show. The new study from Kia is powered by the carmaker’s proven 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected (T-GDI) four-cylinder engine that is tuned to deliver an impressive 315 hp of max motive power. This powerful engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels, which is wrapped in 275/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zero performance tires.