What engine and transmission does the Kia K3 use?
3 Answers
The Kia K3 1.6L model is matched with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 1.8L model is only available with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The dimensions of the Kia K3 are 4660 mm in length, 1780 mm in width, and 1450 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2700 mm. The Kia K3 is a compact car with a relatively attractive exterior design. The Kia K3 is equipped with two engines: a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. The front suspension of the car uses a MacPherson independent suspension, and the rear suspension uses a torsion beam non-independent suspension.
I'm particularly fascinated by the technical details of car engines, and the powertrain options for the Kia K3 are quite interesting. Currently, the domestic version mainly offers two engines: the base model comes with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine producing around 115 horsepower, paired with a CVT transmission that delivers exceptionally smooth driving. The official fuel consumption is just over 5L/100km, making it very economical for city commuting. The sportier version features a 1.4T turbocharged engine with 140 horsepower, mated to a 7-speed dry dual-clutch transmission. This combination offers quick gear shifts and strong acceleration, capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in under 8 seconds. Both powertrains have been used in Kia vehicles for several years. The 1.5L engine belongs to the Gamma II series, known for its durability, low maintenance costs, and simple CVT structure with fewer faults. The 1.4T delivers a more thrilling driving experience with noticeable turbo lag but slightly higher fuel consumption at around 7L/100km. Remember to consider your driving habits when choosing: opt for the CVT if fuel efficiency is a priority, or go for the dual-clutch if you prefer sporty driving. Both transmissions are produced in-house by Hyundai, ensuring excellent compatibility.
I've been driving the Kia K3 for three years now, the 1.5L automatic transmission version. The engine runs quite quietly, and the CVT transmission is completely smooth without any jerking in city traffic jams, much more comfortable than the dual-clutch I drove before. The power feels a bit sluggish at initial acceleration, but it's sufficient for overtaking once you pick up speed, and at 120 km/h on the highway, the RPM is just over 2000. The fuel consumption is genuinely low, around 6.5 liters per 100 km even with the air conditioning on in summer, which is even more economical than my colleagues' Japanese cars. I've driven my cousin's 1.4T version a few times, and the acceleration is indeed spirited, with the dual-clutch shifting quickly, though there's a slight clicking sound when moving at low speeds. Maintenance isn't expensive either, with minor services at the dealership costing around 300 yuan. The space and features are well-balanced, and over the years, I've only had to replace the battery. The reliability of the three major components scores an eight out of ten.
