
The Kia K3 has body dimensions of 4660mm in length, 1780mm in width, and 1450mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2700mm. The Kia K3 is a compact car with relatively high configurations, equipped with two engines: one is a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, and the other is a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine has a maximum power of 85kW, a maximum torque of 143.9Nm, a maximum power speed of 6300 rpm, and a maximum torque speed of 4500 rpm, paired with a CVT transmission. The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine has a maximum power of 96kW, a maximum torque of 211Nm, a maximum power speed of 5500 rpm, and a maximum torque speed ranging from 1400 to 3700 rpm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

I drive this generation of Kia K3, and the most immediate impression is that it's on the longer side among compact cars. The body length is about 4.6 meters, the width is just under 1.8 meters, and the height is close to 1.5 meters. I remember the wheelbase is exactly 2.7 meters, which is really practical—three adults can sit in the back with legs stretched out, and the trunk can fit two large suitcases plus a stroller without feeling cramped. When picking up and dropping off kids at school, the slightly narrow parallel parking spots in the neighborhood are just right for this size—it can get in with one move, and the front bumper is less likely to get scratched. Compared to the same-class Sylphy, the K3 looks sportier, with a noticeable diving front end, and it doesn’t feel as bulky as a larger car when driving.

Last time when helping a friend check out the K3, I specifically measured its dimensions: length 4660mm, width 1780mm, and height around 1450mm. The wheelbase of 2700mm is quite an advantage in the A-segment, directly determining rear seat space. Actual measurements show over two fists of knee room in the back, and headroom doesn't brush against the roof. What feels best in daily driving is its small turning radius, making U-turns on narrow roads particularly nimble. However, it's worth noting that the width has increased slightly compared to the previous model, so extra caution is needed with side mirrors when passing through width-restricted barriers. By the way, the low-slung body design gives it a low drag coefficient, resulting in significantly less rain spray at high speeds.

From a design perspective, the K3's dimensions are cleverly balanced. With a length of 4.66 meters paired with a height of 1.45 meters, its side profile showcases exceptionally smooth lines—unlike some cars that resemble squashed boxes. The 2.7-meter wheelbase ensures practical interior space, while the 1.78-meter width strikes just the right balance for urban parking compatibility. Last time I helped my cousin move, we could fit an IKEA PAX wardrobe vertically with the rear seats folded down. Crucially, its ground clearance is well-judged—it doesn’t scrape in underground garages and handles rough roads without fear of underbody damage.


