Mitsubishi to enter South Korea in September

Daewoo Auto Group, responsible for the sales of Saab and Cadillac alongside GM Daewoo in South Korea, has announced the official date Mitsubishi will officially enter the Korean market today. To launch in September, Daewoo plans to price the cars low enough to compete head-to-head with domestic brands such as Hyundai and Kia. As of now, import cars all have tariff premiums plastered on their price tags.

Mitsubishi Korea's inaugural line-up will consist of the Lancer, Lancer Evolution, Eclipse, Outlander, and Pajero (formerly Montero in U.S.). Daewoo officials stated, "Import cars in the Korean market are sold at ridiculous prices, but Mitsubishi will be the first to break the barrier."

Mitsubishi's main rival as of now is Honda. However, that will change as other prominent Japanese automakers are scheduled to enter the heated market too. Nissan plans to release details any day now on its inaugural launch in September. Toyota is also slated to enter the market later in the year. From there, the competition between the first to fourth ranking Japanese automakers will only heat up. But is it enough to give the shivers (or sweats) to the dominating domestic brands?

[Source: Dong-A Ilbo]

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Spied: 2010 Kia Spectra (TD)

Caught here winter-testing, the higher frequency of the appearances of the car indicates a nearing release. The anticipated successor to Kia's compact offering will sit on the same platform as its cousin, the Hyundai Elantra. Judging by how large the current Elantra became over its predecessor, we expect the new Spectra to be plagued with the same effect. Also, if we're not mistaken, the new Spectra is one of the first vehicles in the Kia line-up to be fully designed by Peter Schreyer.

The front shots show elongated headlights and a dropping grille, similar to the Hyundai Sonata or the Acura TSX. As we move to the side, we can definitely sense its Elantra DNA with evidences like the thick C-pillar and the overall wedginess of the design. The windshield rake is considerably sleek, which is a notable design element we've seen here. The back gives off a hatchback scent, with the short trunk overhang and the steep rear window.

We have second to none confirmed information regarding what engines the new Spectra will be available with. Considering the Elantra still uses the 2.0L Beta 138 horsepower 4-cylinder, it won't be surprising if Kia takes that route as well. It also won't be surprising if Kia decides to inject some needed oomph and offer more powerful engines.

Expect to see a precursor concept of the TD Spectra at the upcoming New York International Autoshow in March. The car will go on sale in early 2009 as a 2010 model. There is no word whether a five-door variant will be offered as of yet, but it is very likely Kia will release one.

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Ssangyong to unveil Chairman W in mid-March

Ssangyong's current flagship sedan, the Chairman, had received negative reviews from the press and past owners. When you couple the fact that the car sits on Mercedes-Benz's aging W124 platform, and its mediocre and derivative styling, the Chairman really offers no advantages over its rivals.

The automaker has issued a statement regarding the release date of the anticipated Chairman-replacement today. To be badged as the Chairman W (pictured above), the car will feature an industry-first (South Korean) 5.0L V8 that is speculated to produce over 350 horsepower. Another industry-first accomplishment Ssangyong offers in the car is a Mercedes-Benz sourced 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. The Chairman W will sit on an all-new platform. Spec-wise, the Chairman W has beaten the Hyundai Genesis in a number of areas already. However, to every seemingly-great deal, there is always a catch. Ssangyong plans to break the 100 million Won mark ($105 000 USD) for a loaded model, which means the Chairman W will compete with more high-end vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Audi A8.

The Chairman W will become the most expensive Korean-produced vehicle with its 100 million Won price tag. Currently, the one that holds the record is the Hyundai Equus 4.5L Limousine. It stickers for 90.78 million Won. Other outstanding features the car is equipped with include 4-Tronic 4-wheel drive system, Harman-Kardon premium audio system, ten airbags, and Active Cruise Control.

Even though the bounty of features are appealing to the least, we wonder how the Chairman W will actually fare in the heated luxury-car segment when it goes on sale in March. The Chairman marque has already gained considerable status in its domestic market. However, it is the first time Ssangyong has extrapolated into the segment long dominated by the likes of Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Will they be able to pull it off? We think Ssangyong will trek through treacherous grounds ahead. What do you think? Tell us via commenting after the jump.

[Source: Maeil Business]

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Kia debuting possible Spectra successor concept car in New York

The current Spectra has been on sale since 2004, and has sold considerably well since its release. The Spectra, along with its 5-door sibling Spectra5, was refreshed for MY2007. Now, according to Ward's Auto, Kia Motors America will be debuting an all-new preview concept at the 2008 New York International Autoshow in March.

Len Hunt, President of KMA, told reporters that the new concept car will be based on the Spectra. Hunt also hinted that the new car, along with the production Soul, will enter the U.S. market in early 2009. We suspect the mystery concept car is the long-awaited replacement of the Spectra. The timeframe is bang-on and testing prototypes were appearing more frequently in the recent months.

Kia has set its eyes on Toyota's youth brand, Scion, with these two vehicles. Hunt stated that the two models will rival the Scion xA and the xB. From this, we can confirm that the Soul's main competition is the xB. Hunt also hinted of a possible compact sports coupe, based on Hyundai's Veloster Concept, for release in the near future.

[Source: Ward's Auto]

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Infiniti starts sales of EX35 in S. Korea

President of Nissan Korea, Greg Phillips, introduced the EX35 crossover for the South Korean market today. The EX35 joins the Q45, M, G35, G37 Coupe, and the FX as the latest model in the automaker's Korean line-up.

The EX35 packs the award-winning VQ35 series 3.5L VQ35HR engine that produces an impressive 302 horsepower. The EX35 features a number of class-leading technologies such as the acclaimed Around View Monitor and Welcome Lighting System. Other features include power folding 2nd-row seats, 11-speaker BOSE Premium audio system, Intelligent Key, and push start/stop button. Safety is also a priority at Infiniti and it is evident with a number of safety features including 8 standard airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The EX35 also boasts a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS in the mid-size sport-utility category.

The EX35 officially goes on sale today, across Infiniti's 4 flagship stores in South Korea. It will have a starting price of 54.7 million Won ($57,319 USD).

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GMDAT releases 2009 Tosca Premium 6

The competitive midsize sedan market in South Korea has recently seen a slew of new cars released. The Hyundai Sonata Transform and the Renault Samsung SM5 New Impression are important examples. Hopping on the bandwagon is the 2009 GM Daewoo Tosca Premium 6. Beneath the long badge are subtle mechanical and visual changes. The main highlight of the changes is the standard 6-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Engineered in cooperation with GM Powertrain's Transmission Engineering Center located in Ypsilanti, Michigan and GM Daewoo, the new transmission promises to deliver significantly improved mileage and performance.

Other changes made to the Tosca include a redesigned set of taillights, the addition of a rear garnish, and redesigned 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels. New gauges, available Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a USB port, switch-blade style keys, and adjustable rear-seat head restraints also make the cut. Last but not least, the formerly optional "Aero Pack" (a bodykit consisting of front, side, rear sideskirts, and muffler trimming) is now standard across the range.

Officially going on sale today, the Tosca Premium 6 will have a base starting price of 17.26 million Won ($18,086 USD) for the L6 2.0L trim. The range-topping L6 2.5L will start at 26.62 million Won ($27,894 USD).

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Montreal 2008: Hyundai unveils 2009 Elantra Touring

The first time we were laid eyes on the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring was at the SEMA show last year. Adorned with a bizzare paint coat and a few other accessories, the new five-door variant of the automaker's compact Elantra did not receive much attention from the press or the public. Badged as the i30 CW in Europe, Hyundai hopes to cross-shop the consumers who would otherwise look at the Toyota Matrix, Dodge Caliber, and Mazda3.

The production Elantra Touring, without the exterior eyesores, was unveiled for the first time at the 2008 Montreal International Autoshow today. Hyundai also celebrated its 25 years of selling cars in Canada at the launch. Acting as the indirect replacement of the Elantra Hatchback, the Elantra Touring boasts many class-leading features such as standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and the largest interior volume in its class. It will be powered by the same engine that propels its four-door variant, a 2.0L 141 horsepower 4-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, while a four-speed automatic is optional. The Elantra Touring also features a sport-tuned suspension (purely namesake), and a standard USB port alongside an AUX port. Other options include a leather-trimmed interior, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Elantra Touring will reach showrooms in spring of 2008 as a 2009 model. Pricing should be announced closer to its launch date.

[Source: Hyundai Canada]

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Hyundai rolls out more images of USDM Genesis

If you're looking for information regarding Hyundai's new flagship sedan, I suggest reading the article below this one. However, if that's old news, the new high-resolution images Hyundai released this morning should be satisfying. These press shots give us a better glimpse of the Genesis, which will reveal itself to the world at the upcoming Detroit Autoshow next week. The Genesis is available in three different powertrain configurations: 3.3L 264hp V6, 3.8L 290hp V6, and a 4.6L 368hp V8. If you're interested, follow the jump to view a 30-image high-resolution gallery provided by NetCarShow.com.

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It's Here: USDM 2009 Hyundai Genesis

As Detroit approaches the door closer than ever, Hyundai has released the first official images and details regarding the automaker's attempt to revitalize the brand's image. After waiting nearly 3 years in front of our computers for the release of arguably the most anticipated car for 2008, Hyundai knocked on our door with a bonanza of surprises (that's car-language for features) that got us going already. The Genesis, Hyundai's first rear-wheel drive luxury sedan, mainly targets the potential Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8 customers. Set to be first unveiled at the North American International Autoshow in Detroit, Hyundai claims the Genesis will be priced a dash under the $30K mark when it goes on sale this summer.

Starting off our round-up with the design, we can definitely figure that Hyundai placed a few design benchmarks like the Lexus LS460 for the front and the BMW 5-Series at the rear. The side...well we've seen the kink in tons of other cars before so we won't put the Genesis in the spotlight. However, all in all, Hyundai has managed to combine the elements into an elegant solution that isn't too tawdry or flashy. In addition to that, Hyundai has gone badge-less with the front grille indicating that they knew a prominent slanted H at the front would hurt sales.

[Source: Hyundai of America]

Follow the jump to continue reading, view more images of the Genesis, and the official press release.

The headline for the Genesis tabloid would be features, features, and more features. Standard high-class items include soft-touch leather-trimmed dash, Bluetooth, AUX/USB inputs, power rear sunshade, heated and cooled driver's seat, electronic parking brake, and push-start button. Optional features include a 17-speaker Lexicon surround sound audio system (only found in the Rolls-Royce Phantom as of now), an 8-inch navigation system, Smart Cruise Control, HD Radio, a 30GB hard drive, and a back-up camera. In addition to that, electronic stability control is standard and Adaptive Front Lighting System is available as an option. Now where's the inhaler I've been looking for...?

The ambush of impressive features doesn't terminate yet. The Genesis will be available in three powertrain configurations. Starting up the ladder is a 3.3L 268 horsepower Lambda V6, and in the middle of the pack is a 3.8L 290 horsepower Lambda V6. The leader of the hound is Hyundai's new 4.6L Tau V8 that produces an impressive 368 horsepower. That's more horsepower than the BMW 750i, Audi A8, Lexus GS450, and the Pontiac G8. The V6 engines are mated to a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission while the V8 engine receives a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission. All three engines are recommended to run on 87 octane fuel. For an engine that boasts a 0-60 time of under 6 seconds and produces more than 80 horsepower per liter, that's mighty impressive both in performance and the wallet. The Genesis also boasts an impressive 53/47 weight distribution.

As with all Hyundais ranging from the Accent to the Veracruz have, the Genesis will be covered by a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. The Genesis is due to go on sale this summer.



PRESS RELEASE: HYUNDAI UNVEILS GENESIS PREMIUM SPORTS SEDAN

Hyundai crafts a rival to $60,000 sports sedans ... with a starting price under $30,000

Rear-wheel drive and high-output V8 engine deliver world-class driving experience

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., January 8, 2008 – Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan on January 13. With capabilities and features comparable to $60,000 premium sedans, Genesis will be offered at a starting price under $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer.

Genesis is built on Hyundai's all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers three powertrains, including 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines, and Hyundai's all-new 4.6-liter Tau V8. Tau will produce an estimated 368 horsepower on regular fuel, and lead all its competitors in specific output with 80 horsepower per liter. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Smart Cruise Control, Lexicon® audio systems and electronic active head restraints.

"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Genesis provides a potent combination of performance, luxury, and value. We think it has the opportunity to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments."

Genesis ushers in a new era for Hyundai. Its all-new rear-wheel drive architecture will spawn more products in other segments, as suggested by the Concept Genesis Coupe shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2007.

NEW PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE

Genesis is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive architecture, its first application in a U.S. Hyundai model. Genesis boasts a near ideal 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling and more refined steering characteristics. The rear-wheel-drive layout allowed engineers to position the car's front wheels farther forward delivering outstanding handling and steering performance. Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the industry's most important new safety technology, further enhances the vehicle's driving confidence. Hyundai leads all popular car brands in the standard application of ESC, with more than 70 percent of 2007 Hyundai sales featuring ESC as standard equipment.

Genesis reduces interior noise levels and improves ride and handling with a stiffer, lighter body structure. The use of high tensile steel in critical areas in the unibody provides Genesis with 12-14 percent higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body structure weight than the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class – despite having a substantially larger cabin than either of those benchmarks. Hyundai Genesis has more interior volume than Mercedes Benz E-Class and BMW 7-Series.

WORLD-CLASS TAU V8

Headlining the Genesis' performance capabilities is Hyundai's all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. The Tau V8 delivers an estimated 368 horsepower to fit the demands of performance-oriented consumers. Unlike many competitors and most premium sedans, it achieves this impressive power output using regular unleaded fuel – further demonstration of Hyundai's commitment to value. This powertrain combination will launch Genesis to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds. The Tau produces more horsepower and torque than the powerplants found in Lexus GS450, BMW 750i, Audi A8 and Infiniti M45 and has more horsepower per liter than any of its V8 competitors. The Tau engine is built with flexibility for the future. Future Tau variants may offer larger displacement, forced induction options and other technology enhancements.

STRONG LAMBDA V6 PERFORMANCE

Genesis also delivers spirited performance through its two V6 options -- all-aluminum 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engines that deliver an estimated 268 horsepower and 233 lb-ft. of torque and an estimated 290 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. To maximize the power spread, the engines utilize Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high RPM. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration and passing performance, and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engines use an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and feature timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.

Even with their impressive output, all Genesis engines are also environmentally friendly, with all three achieving Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification levels.

ADVANCED 6-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS

Both Genesis V6 engines use an Aisin 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission that features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. The transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide spread of ratios that ideally suit both engine's characteristics including a tall-overdrive sixth gear for quiet, efficient highway cruising. Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC® feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear that's in use.
The Tau V8 Genesis is mated with an enhanced, high-output ZF 6-speed transmission to handle the added horsepower and torque.

INNOVATIVE AND SOPHISTICATED SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION

Genesis features a suspension design that is among the most sophisticated and refined anywhere, at any price. The front five-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis. This artfully articulated arrangement creates a virtual king pin axis that dramatically reduces unwanted kickback through the steering wheel as well as improving responsiveness. The five-link independent rear suspension is equally sophisticated, enabling precise suspension geometry for a premium ride and engaging handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear-suspension are maximized through Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) allowing tuning flexibility at smaller damper displacements. The ASD suspension provides:

Improved ride comfort with more body / wheel control
Increase driving comfort without compromised handling
Optimizes road surface contact
Technology used in Lexus, BMW and Mercedes-Benz models

PROGRESSIVE DESIGN MIRRORS ATHLETIC CAPABILITY

Genesis' design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan. To match its dynamic capabilities, Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.

HIGH-TECH ACCOMMODATIONS AT ACCESSIBLE PRICE POINTS

The new 2009 Genesis is the most advanced Hyundai ever. From its design and spaciousness to its technology and appointments, it delivers a wealth of features and performance befitting flagship European and Asian brands, but delivers them at a much more accessible price point. Starting with its Lexicon state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology, Genesis offers an extraordinary combination of technology, premium appointments, and value. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth® hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display is available. The navigation unit is accessed by a user-friendly multi-media controller that also controls the radio. Backing out of tight spaces and avoiding mishaps is much easier with the available backup camera that uses the eight-inch display to show the driver a clear view immediately behind the car.

A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, while heated and cooled driver's seat provides optimal driving comfort. An automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor and rain-sensing wipers allow crystal clear sight lines. No other car in the segment offers an ultraviolet reflective leather steering wheel, which keeps the surface cool to the touch, even in scorching sunlight. Genesis also offers the conveniences of power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter.

LEXICON® AUDIO SYSTEMS TEAM WITH XM, HD RADIO™, and APPLE TO OFFER UNRIVALED AUDIO PERFORMANCE AND CHOICE

Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only automobiles to offer a Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology. The Lexicon® surround sound audio system includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts of sound in 7.1 discrete audio. Genesis is also the first popular brand to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio technology from the factory. Navigation-equipped Genesis models also include a 30-gigabyte hard drive and XM NavTraffic. Like every 2009 Hyundai, Genesis comes standard with XM Satellite Radio. Auxiliary USB and iPod® inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit.

ADVANCED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY

The 2009 Genesis offers Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-type lighting and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers. The lamps also feature an auto-leveling function which keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo. Genesis also offers an Automatic Front Lighting System that allows the headlamps to automatically swivel for better visibility when cornering.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER IMPROVED SAFETY PERFORMANCE

Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints.

Genesis' total of eight airbags include advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.

An electronic active head restraint system will debut on the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. Hyundai is the first popular brand to offer electronic active front head restraints, an improvement over mechanically based active head restraint systems. Until now, electronic active head restraints could only be found on select Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus models. Active front head restraints have been proven by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.

Genesis has a total of 8 ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers. The sensors along with the rear backup camera help detect how close objects are when parking. Distance is indicated on the in-dash screen and accompanied by an audible warning tone.

Forward-looking radar is used in Genesis' Smart Cruise Control system. Smart Cruise Control adjusts vehicle speed to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead in the same lane.

Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 12.6-inch front rotors have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single-pistons on V6 models. Twin-pistons and larger rotors are featured on V8 models.

WARRANTY

The all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Genesis buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

TECHNOLOGY

Electronic active front head restraints
Electronic Stability Control
Eight airbags
Heated / cooled seats
High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with adaptive leveling
Adaptive Front Lighting System
Push-button start
Navigation with backup camera
Electric parking brake
Standard Bluetooth technology
iPod/USB auxiliary inputs
HD Radio™ receiver
XM Satellite Radio® with NavTraffic
Lexicon® Discrete Surround Audio Systems
Automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor
Rain-sensing wipers
Smart cruise control
Five-link front and rear suspension
Tau V8 engine
6-speed transmissions

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Ford Korea achieves record sales since brand's launch

While the Ford we Americans are familiar of are continuously slumping, Ford Korea has posted record sales of its cars in South Korea since its inaugural launch in 1997. In 2007, the brand has sold 2022 units of various Ford and Lincoln cars in the line-up. The last record was set in 1997, the year of the brand's launch, with 1810 units sold. Five new models were also launched in 2007 including the Lincoln MKX, MKZ, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Escape, and New Taurus. Over at the Lincoln department, the brand announced a 350% increase in total sales from 2006, showcasing the brand's recent mass appeal in the market.

The brand's best-selling model, the Ford Five Hundred, achieved a total sales number of 435 units in 2006. The successor to the Five Hundred, renamed the New Taurus, has seen respectable sales of 352 units since its launch in August 2007. Creating a storm in the compact SUV market, the Ford Escape saw an increase of 62% in sales from 2006 with 308 units sold.

The current Ford Korea line-up has seen substantial popularity as of recent, catering to the various tastes from the New Taurus for the premium crowd to the Mustang for the enthusiasts. Other offerings include the Explorer, Explorer Sport Trac, Escape, Lincoln MKZ, MKX, and Town Car. The recent surge of popularity will likely only increase with the anticipated introductions of new cars for 2008 such as the Ford Mondeo and S-MAX. Ford Korea has set a higher sales target for the new year of 3000 units, a 50% jump from the past year and a number they will most likely achieve.

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BMW announces 320i M Sport Edition for S. Korea

BMW has announced the release of the 320i M Sport Edition for the South Korean market today. Marketed as a limited-production model, only 300 units of the car will be sold by May 2008.

Based on the entry-level 320i, the M Sport Edition adds many sporty touches including the M Aerodynamic Package. The package consists of front, rear, and side skirts, 17" M alloy wheels, two-tone black and gray leather sport seats and aluminum-trimmed interior. The M Sport Edition also adds an M Sport steering wheel and a sport-tuned M Sport Suspension. Powertrain output remains the same as the conventional 320i, equipped with a 2.0L 4-cylinder that produces 156 horsepower.

The M Sport Edition adds no extra amenities, but the 320i it's based on is already packed with copious features such as six standard airbags and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). Other features include Park Distance Control (PDC), run-flat tires, bi-xenon headlamps, automatic climate control, cruise control, MP3 CD player, and power heated seats for the driver and front passenger. Also, a limited edition model does not leave the lot without the glitzy badges to indicate so. In this case, the 320i M Sport Edition will feature M Sport badges including one plastered under to push start ignition button.

The 320i M Sport Edition will be only available in three colors: Titanium Silver, Black Sapphire, and Le Mans Blue. It will be priced at 47.4 million Won, approximately $50 484 in U.S. currency.

[Source: BMW Korea]

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Facelifted: Renault Samsung releases SM7 "New Art"

For 2008, Renault Samsung made subtle tweaks on its flagship sedan, the SM7. Based on the Nissan Teana, the SM7 has been a strong seller to the luxury buyers in its domestic market. The facelifted model also gains a new name, dubbed the SM7 New Art. The naming scheme is similar to the lower-priced SM5 New Impression, which was facelifted for 2007. The SM7 New Art made its premiere at an unveiling event at the Seoul Grand Hilton Hotel.

3 years after the company's premium sedan went on sale, the SM7 New Art was developed in a span of 2 years, raking over 100 billion Won or an estimated $106.5 million in U.S. currency. The SM7 New Art packs the award-winning Neo VQ35 engine, but only produces a meager 217 horsepower. It is mated to a Steptronic 5-speed automatic transmission. A few of the changes made to exterior of the SM7 include a redesigned front fascia, redesigned taillights, and new wheels. The interior packs a premium BOSE audio system.

The sales of the SM7 New Art have commenced on January 3rd following the official unveiling event. The SM7 New Art SE starts at a base price of 27 million Won ($28,757 USD), while the range-topping RE35 trim starts at 41 million Won ($43,668 USD). The automaker tsrgets to sell 2000 units per month in Korea.

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