By Monico D. Mekaniko
PASAY CITY, METRO MANILA—Kia was initially known as a maker of cars for the budget-conscious buyers when it came to the Philippines many years ago. However, the South Korean company showed that it can also design and make high-end luxury cars.
Kia has recently unveiled its first rear-wheel drive sedan that touts the “best of the best” of the automotive company's design, driving performance and high-technology capabilities.
The Quoris debuted at the recently-concluded 4th Philippine International Motoring Show (PIMS) following its first launch in Korea as K9.
“We felt that the 2012 PIMS was the perfect venue to introduce this luxury model to the Philippine market,” Columbian Autocars Corporation (CAC) President Ginia Domingo said.
The first of the K series trio of sedans carries the “Tiger Nose” grille design that redefines what the letter K stands for the Greek work “Kratos” which conveys power, domination and reign.
High-tech combination LED lamps, chrome garnish and bumper-integrated muffler adds to a more distinctive character for Kia's flagship sedan.
“The K9 Quoris is our first rear-wheel drive large sedan, created without compromise in its design, driving performance and new technologies,” Overseas Marketing Group Director Soo-Nam Lee explained. “It sets a whole new level of standards and values in the large sedan segment and its design will be another Kia demonstration of our brand's power to surprise the world.”
Another automobile that also premiered at the 4th PIMS is the next generation Kia Optima, which aims to impress with its innovative technology, design and affordability.
“It’s a car that people will not simply expect from Kia--and that's exactly what we set out to achieve,” Chief Design Officer Peter Schreyer said.
The midsize sedan comes with a 2.4L Theta II gas engine with Dual CVVT, a maximum output of 180 ps @ 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 23.6 kg-m @ 4,000 rpm.
Among its leading features include steering wheel-mounted controls, 18-inch alloy wheels, glove box cooling, panoramic double sunroof, a full auto climate control and rear parking assist. Its exterior profile is a sweeping chrome arc that flows from A to C pillar, lowering the car further still and enhancing its cab-backwards proportions.
“The Optima embodies Kia’s confident new design direction. It's a global car with individual appeal," Schreyer added. The all-new KIA Optima is sold at P1.48 million.
Till next time, this is Monico D. Mekaniko, Va-va-vroom!
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