The Kia K3 Sedan II 1.5 (115 Hp) IVT represents an entry-level offering within the second generation of the K3 compact sedan, produced between June 2019 and April 2021. Primarily aimed at the Chinese market, this variant served as a fuel-efficient and affordable option within the K3 lineup. It utilized Kia’s Smartstream engine family and a continuously variable transmission (IVT) to deliver a balance of economy and usability. The K3, known as the Cerato in some markets, aimed to compete with established players like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, offering a more modern design and feature set at a competitive price point.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | K3 |
| Generation | K3 Sedan II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (115 Hp) IVT |
| Start of production | June, 2019 |
| End of production | April, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 117.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 144 Nm @ 4500 rpm (106.21 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G4FL |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 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 | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4660 mm (183.46 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission IVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the K3 1.5 IVT is Kia’s Smartstream G4FL engine, a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder. This engine is characterized by its multi-port fuel injection system, designed for efficient fuel delivery. The engine produces 115 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 144 Nm (106.21 lb-ft) of torque at 4,500 rpm. The Smartstream family emphasizes improved thermal efficiency and reduced friction. The engine utilizes a timing chain, contributing to lower maintenance costs compared to timing belts. Paired with the engine is Kia’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), a type of continuously variable transmission (CVT). The IVT is designed to provide smooth, stepless gear changes, optimizing fuel efficiency and drivability. Unlike traditional CVTs, Kia’s IVT incorporates shift-by-wire technology, eliminating the mechanical linkage between the gear selector and the transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine and IVT combination in the K3 delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is not particularly brisk, but sufficient for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The IVT prioritizes fuel economy, often holding the engine at its most efficient rpm range. This can sometimes result in a “rubber band” feel during hard acceleration, where engine speed increases without a corresponding immediate increase in vehicle speed. Compared to higher-trim K3 models equipped with more powerful engines, this variant feels noticeably less responsive. The IVT’s programming is tuned for comfort and efficiency, rather than sporty driving dynamics. The gear ratios are optimized for low-end torque and smooth cruising, making it a suitable choice for drivers prioritizing fuel economy and a relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The K3 1.5 IVT typically came with a standard equipment list focused on essential comfort and convenience features. This included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and standard safety features like ABS and airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a straightforward dashboard layout. Optional extras available for this trim level often included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. The trim level generally sat as the entry point to the K3 range, offering a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The K3 1.5 IVT utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are typically ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in entry-level trims. Electric power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it maneuverable in urban environments. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling is geared towards comfort rather than sporty performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The K3 1.5 IVT was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable compact sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance compared to rivals. Compared to other K3 trims, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter engine, the 1.5 IVT offered lower running costs but sacrificed some driving excitement. Fuel economy figures of around 5.1 l/100km (46.1 US mpg) were competitive within its segment. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the Smartstream engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Kia K3 1.5 IVT represents a significant step forward in Kia’s efforts to offer fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vehicles in the Chinese market. While not a performance standout, its combination of affordability, practicality, and reasonable fuel economy made it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers. On the used car market, these models are generally considered reliable and represent good value for money, provided they have been well-maintained. The Smartstream engine and IVT transmission have proven to be relatively trouble-free, contributing to the K3’s positive reputation for long-term durability.
