Kia to begin local production of SL in China
Korean automaker Kia Motors will begin local production of a China specific design of the new generation of its SUV, the Kia Sportage in China in October 2010.
Kia's SL at Beijing Show
Kia spokesperson Michael Choo said the vehicle had been given a preliminary name of SL, although a final title had yet to be decided on. The new name would differentiate it from the existing Sportage, which it would be marketed alongside.
Dongfeng Yueda Kia Motors Co. spokesperson Li Jing said the SL will most likely be called the SLC where C stands for China. The vehicle will target premium and medium passenger vehicle segments in China. "All parts will be made by Kia manufacturers in China," she added.
For the China market the vehicle will most likely be offered only with gasoline 2.0 liter and 1.6 liter engine options as China's passenger car market does not favor diesel engines, according to company information.
