[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Completed car manufacturers are preparing for a large-scale new car launch in February, following the Lunar New Year holiday. After the Genesis GV80 and Korea GM's Trailblazer in January, various models will be introduced, expanding consumer choices.
The most anticipated new car in February is Kia Motors' Sorento full change (MQ4) model. Although the official launch is scheduled for March 10, the actual first reveal will be during the pre-order period starting February 20.
The new Sorento is expected to undergo extensive changes from design to interior. Additionally, it will be Hyundai-Kia's first mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) to introduce eco-friendly powertrains such as hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
BMW Korea plans to launch the ‘New 2 Series Gran Coupe’ domestically next month. The New 2 Series Gran Coupe was unveiled at last year’s LA Auto Show. This time, the launch date aligns with major automotive markets in Europe, reflecting BMW Group’s high regard for the Korean market.
The ‘New 2 Series Gran Coupe’ introduces the 4-door coupe concept for the first time in the premium compact car segment. It is based on the advanced front-wheel-drive architecture applied to the 1 Series and incorporates ARB technology from the i models and the new 1 Series to quickly and sensitively control wheel slip.
The rival to the previously launched GV80, Volkswagen’s large SUV 3rd generation Touareg, is also on the verge of being released in Korea.
The 3rd generation Touareg, a full change model, was first revealed at the Beijing Motor Show in March 2018. It measures 4,878 mm in length, 1,984 mm in width, and 1,717 mm in height, making it 77 mm longer, 44 mm wider, and 8 mm taller than its predecessor.
The 3.0 TDI and 4.0 TDI models to be released domestically comply with the 'Euro 6d' environmental regulations. The 3.0 TDI features a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine delivering a maximum output of 286 horsepower and a peak torque of 61.2 kgm, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds with a top speed of 238 km/h.
The 4.0 TDI is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 diesel engine producing 421 horsepower and 91.8 kgm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h.
Toyota, aiming for a turnaround with four model launches in the first half of this year, will also unveil a new car in February. In mid-February, Toyota’s flagship model Camry’s sporty edition XSE will be launched. This high-performance Camry emphasizes strong performance and sportiness, featuring exclusive sports wheels and tires, and an integrated spoiler diffuser. It will be sold in a limited quantity of only 200 units.
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