Korean Motor Show Highlights

DAEWOO MIRAE

The most important feature of Daewoo's Miroe concept coupe is the company's new 2.5L dohc, ultra-compact in-line 6-cylinder engine, which will find its way into the Leganza as well as future Daewoo large cars. The engine, which was developed by Daewoo's former engineering director Dr. Ulrich Bez, is so compact it can be fitted transversely in front-drive cars.

KIA VISTO

The Kia Visto minicar, launched at the Seoul show, is a badge-engineered version of the Hyundai Santro -- the first evidence of model-sharing since Hyundai bought Kia last year. Santro is a version of the Atoz with a lower roof line, which was specifically designed for India, where it is made.

HYUNDAI TRAJET

The Trajet multi-purpose vehicle made its world debut at the show. Hyundai makes a big deal about the car's "European" styling but the closest comparison is the Mitsubishi Space Wagon. Trajet has three rows of seats and a choice of gasoline, diesel or LPG power.

HYUNDAI HIGHLANDER

The Highlander SUV will be joining the Santa Fe 4x4, unveiled at the Detroit Show in January. Hyundai is still sorting out its 4x4 line-up after Hyundai Motor took control of the 4x4 and MPV plant operated by affiliate Hyundai Precision.

KIA CARENS

Kia is launching into the mini, SUV market with its new Carens. Nothing new here though, just a Kia knockoff of the Toyota Picnic.

DAEWOO NUBIRA

The mid-sized Nubira is the first of Daewoo's new generation cars to receive a mid-life facelift. Nubiro 2 has a restyled nose and tail, an improved interior, and improvements to the ride and handling. The car is already selling well in Korea. In its first month, Nubira 2 took segment leadership, outselling the Hyundai Lantra by 2,000 units.

COPYRIGHT 1999 Cahners Publishing Company
COPYRIGHT 2000 Gale Group