by Sung Kiho
Published 03 Mar.2020 08:52(KST)
[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Renault Samsung Motors' new sports utility vehicle (SUV) XM3, which carries the company's future, has revealed its engine specifications and detailed pricing, and will begin full-scale sales from the 9th. Previously emphasizing 'cost-effectiveness' with a starting price of 17.95 million KRW for the lowest trim, the XM3 is now attracting attention with a groundbreaking price of 17.19 million KRW, aligned with the government's policy to reduce individual consumption tax.
On the 3rd, Renault Samsung Motors disclosed the engine specifications and detailed pricing of the premium design SUV 'XM3,' which began pre-orders on the 21st of last month.
The XM3 offers two gasoline engine lineups: the high-performance TCe 260 and the economical 1.6 GTe. The TCe 260 is a newly developed 1.3L four-cylinder gasoline direct injection turbo engine jointly developed by Renault Group and Daimler, set to become a core engine for Renault Group. It achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 13.7 km/L, one of the best in its class, while reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to 125g/km. Additionally, through a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission from Germany's Getrag, it delivers dynamic performance with a maximum output of 152 horsepower and a peak torque of 26.0 kg·m.
The 1.6 GTe pairs with a CVT to provide drivers with an economical yet stable driving experience. It also features a D-step function that allows drivers to enjoy the feel of an automatic transmission, offering 123 horsepower and excellent fuel efficiency of 13.4 km/L, enhancing its economy.
The XM3 boasts the lowest body height (1570 mm) and the highest minimum ground clearance (186 mm) in its class, providing a sleek sedan-like appearance suitable for an SUV, along with a wide driving view. It also secures ample cargo space with the largest trunk capacity in its class at 513 liters.
Moreover, it is equipped with various convenience features such as a 10.25-inch TFT cluster, a vertical floating-type Easy Connect 9.3-inch display, a BOSE premium sound system, an Electric Parking Assist (EPA) system, and a 360° parking assist system.
The XM3 is the first Renault Samsung vehicle to incorporate remote vehicle control technology. The 'Easy Connect' system in the XM3 includes remote vehicle control, remote vehicle status management, locating the vehicle and sending destinations to the vehicle, and wireless updates. Additionally, popular features such as LED Pure Vision headlights, an electronic parking brake, one-touch safety power windows, and an emergency braking assist system are provided as standard across all trims.
The XM3 pricing is as follows: 1.6 GTe ▲SE trim at 17.19 million KRW ▲LE trim at 19.39 million KRW ▲LE Plus trim at 21.40 million KRW; TCe 260 ▲LE trim at 20.83 million KRW ▲RE trim at 22.93 million KRW ▲RE Signature trim at 25.32 million KRW (based on 1.5% individual consumption tax).
Kim Taejun, Head of Sales at Renault Samsung Motors, said, "The best choice for customers who want both the advantages of an SUV and the comfort of a sedan is the XM3. We have added class-leading fuel efficiency, convenience features, differentiated high-tech interior, and price competitiveness. We hope more customers will enjoy 'more diverse experiences' with the XM3."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.