The Kia KX3 1.6 Gamma (125 Hp) was a subcompact crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Kia between 2015 and 2017. Specifically designed for the Chinese market, the KX3 represented Kia’s entry into the rapidly growing segment of small, affordable SUVs. It was based on the Kia Soul platform, but with a more conventional SUV aesthetic aimed at appealing to a broader customer base. This particular variant, powered by the 1.6-liter Gamma II engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the KX3 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and acceptable performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | KX3 |
| Generation | KX3 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Gamma (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4/Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 118.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 151 Nm @ 4850 rpm (111.37 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Gamma II / G4FG |
| Engine displacement | 1591 cm3 (97.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1275 kg (2810.89 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4270 mm (168.11 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2590 mm (101.97 in.) |
| Front track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 190 mm (7.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the KX3 1.6 Gamma was the Gamma II family of engines, specifically the G4FG code. This 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilized a naturally aspirated configuration and multi-point fuel injection. The engine featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The Gamma II engine was known for its durability and relatively simple design, making it a cost-effective choice for Kia. The six-speed manual transmission provided direct control over the engine’s power, offering a more engaging driving experience compared to the optional automatic transmission. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing everyday usability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 125 horsepower and 151 Nm (111 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.6-liter engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the KX3. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was estimated to be around 10-11 seconds. The manual transmission allowed drivers to maximize the available power, but the engine’s relatively low output meant that frequent downshifting was necessary for overtaking maneuvers or climbing hills. Compared to higher-output versions of the KX3 (which were not widely available outside of China), this variant offered a more economical driving experience, but at the expense of performance. The six-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth shifts and a reasonable spread of ratios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The KX3 1.6 Gamma typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. Safety features included ABS, airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The specific equipment levels varied depending on the region and optional packages selected by the buyer.
Chassis & Braking
The KX3 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for navigating urban roads. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The hydraulic power steering offered a light and responsive feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia KX3 1.6 Gamma was generally well-received in the Chinese market as an affordable and practical subcompact SUV. Critics praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine’s performance was somewhat lacking, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Compared to other subcompact SUVs in the Chinese market, the KX3 offered a competitive combination of features, price, and fuel economy. Its main competitors included models from Geely, Changan, and Chery.
Legacy
The Kia KX3, while not sold extensively outside of China, played a significant role in establishing Kia as a major player in the Chinese automotive market. The 1.6 Gamma engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and the KX3’s overall design and features helped to attract a new generation of Kia customers. In the used car market, the KX3 1.6 Gamma is generally considered to be a good value, offering a practical and affordable transportation option. Its relatively simple mechanical design and readily available parts contribute to its long-term reliability and ease of maintenance.
