Kia K3 HB 2024 - Primer contacto | Daniel Chavarría

Summary

This is a first look at the all-new 2024 Kia K3 hatchback for the Mexican market. It will compete against other subcompact models like the VW Polo and Mazda 2. The K3 stands out for being the largest in its class, with excellent rear seat space more typical of a compact car. It also offers impressive standard safety tech like auto emergency braking. While not the sportiest, it provides the best balance of price, safety, features and refinement, potentially making it the top rival to beat.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The 2024 Kia K3 Hatchback, a new release for Mexico, is reviewed pre-launch, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning.
• 📈 The K3 competes in the subcompact segment against models like the SEAT Ibiza, VW Polo 2024, Mazda 2 2024, and Hyundai HB20, featuring four configurations priced between 342,000 to 462,000 Mexican pesos.
• 💡 Equipped with LED technology for low and high beams, the K3 Hatchback promises good night driving visibility, although improvements could be made with projection technology.
• 💰 The K3 Hatchback stands out in its category for its size, offering dimensions closer to a station wagon, which contributes to a more spacious interior and cargo area.
• 🔌 With a focus on safety, the K3 comes standard with six airbags, ABS, stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems, setting a high bar in its segment.
• 🛠 The K3 is powered by a 1.6L naturally aspirated engine offering 121 horsepower, with a manual or automatic six-speed transmission, and a GT Line variant with a more powerful 2L engine.
• 🚘 The K3's suspension and steering provide a refined driving experience, balancing city comfort with highway stability, a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Rio.
• 📢 Interior quality and technology are highlights, with digital displays, wireless connectivity, ambient sounds, and automatic climate control, positioning the K3 as a tech-forward option in its class.
• 💼 The K3 Hatchback excels in space and comfort, especially in the rear seats and cargo area, offering class-leading dimensions that rival larger category vehicles.
• 👍 Daniel Chavarría concludes the K3 Hatchback as a balanced and recommendable choice, offering an exceptional mix of safety, features, space, and quality at its price point.

Q & A

What model year is the Kia K3 hatchback featured in the video?

It's a 2024 model year Kia K3 hatchback.

What body styles are available for the new Kia K3?

The Kia K3 is available in sedan and hatchback body styles.

What engine options are offered in the Kia K3 hatchback?

The K3 hatchback is offered with a 1.6L 4-cylinder or a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine option.

How does the space of the K3 hatchback compare to other models in its segment?

The K3 hatchback has the most interior space, rear seat comfort and cargo volume compared to other subcompact models.

What safety and driver assist features are offered on the K3 hatchback?

Standard safety features include 6 airbags, ABS, stability control, forward collision warning with auto brake. Available driver assists include lane keep assist, auto high beams, blind spot monitoring.

What multimedia features are included in the K3 hatchback?

A 10.25 inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity, ambient sound modes, and wired Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.

How does the hatchback differ from the sedan visually?

The hatchback has minor interior trim differences but is largely the same as the sedan styling.

What pricing range is expected for the K3 hatchback in Mexico?

Pricing is estimated to range from 342,000 to 462,000 Mexican pesos.

How does ride quality compare between the new and previous generation Kia Rio models?

The new K3 has improved ride quality with better bump absorption and stability while maintaining good steering feel.

How does the reviewer summarize the K3 hatchback overall?

He considers it to be the most well-balanced option in its segment offering a good mix of pricing, space, features and refinement.