China has received the facelifted Kia KX5 (Kia Sportage) with a unique front fascia. The new model debuted at the 2018 Guangzhou Auto Show this week.
Unlike the global Kia Sportage update, the China-only facelift features a longer hood and a more prominent tiger-nose radiator grille flanked by substantially sleeker and more streamlined headlamps that are not as swept-back. Right below the lights are the four-level LED clearance lamps. A thin opening in the mid-section of the bumper lends a good amount of aggression. The ice-cube fog lamps too are a little different, and their housing is slimmer.
The Chinese-spec version enjoys exclusivity even at the rear. The tail lamps, connected via a new red strip, sport distinctive graphics. As Chinese customers prefer chrome, there's a chrome strip right above the tail lamps and the red embellisher covering the entire width.
Kia says that the updated model features a new infotainment system co-developed with Tencent QQ Music. So, it is possible to stream music via simple voice commands, such as “play a song of Avicii”, or even just saying “sleepy”, which will lead to an energetic music playlist that keeps the driver awake.
Also Read: Hyundai Styx-based Kia compact SUV to debut at Auto Expo 2020
Dongfeng Yueda Kia will offer the new KX5 with the same engines: Nu 2.0-litre GDI petrol (165 PS/203 Nm) and Gamma 1.6-litre T-GDI petrol (177 PS/265 Nm). These engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission respectively. Customers choosing the 1.6-litre engine can opt for an AWD system.
[Image Source info.xcar.com.cn]