The Kia Quoris I, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2015 to 2018, represented Kia’s ambitious foray into the premium large sedan segment. This variant, equipped with the 3.8-liter GDI V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the mainstream offering within the Quoris lineup, slotting below the more powerful 5.0-liter V8 model. The Quoris was primarily aimed at the Korean domestic market, where it sought to challenge established luxury brands, but was also exported to select international markets, including the United States, though in limited numbers. The 2015 facelift brought revised styling, enhanced features, and refinements to the powertrain, aiming to elevate the Quoris’s appeal and competitiveness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Quoris |
| Generation | Quoris I (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 GDI V6 (334 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 334 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 395 Nm @ 5100 rpm (291.34 lb.-ft. @ 5100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | G6DJ |
| Engine displacement | 3778 cm3 (230.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2470 kg (5445.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 5095 mm (200.59 in.) |
| Width | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3045 mm (119.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1616 mm (63.62 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1170 mm (46.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Kia Quoris I (facelift 2015) 3.8 GDI V6 Automatic represents a significant step forward for the Korean automaker in terms of design, technology, and overall refinement. Built on the KH platform (shared with the Hyundai Genesis), the Quoris aimed to provide a luxurious and comfortable driving experience at a competitive price point. The facelifted model, launched in 2015, featured subtle but noticeable exterior updates, including a revised grille, headlights, and taillights, along with interior enhancements focused on improving material quality and adding new technology features. This 3.8-liter V6 configuration served as the volume seller, balancing performance with fuel efficiency and affordability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Quoris variant lies the G6DJ 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine utilizes Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology, which improves combustion efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The G6DJ features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its smooth power delivery. The engine produces 334 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 395 Nm (291.34 lb-ft) of torque at 5,100 rpm. Paired with this engine is a sophisticated eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission was designed to optimize fuel economy and enhance the driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8-liter V6 Quoris offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.5 seconds, which is respectable for a full-size luxury sedan. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth and seamless gear changes, minimizing disruptions during acceleration. Compared to the 5.0-liter V8 model, the 3.8 GDI offers slightly less outright performance but provides better fuel economy. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Steering feel is light and precise, making the Quoris easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2015-2018 Quoris 3.8 GDI typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a premium audio system, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of advanced safety features including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and a clean, modern aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Quoris utilizes a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The suspension system consists of a multi-link setup at all four corners, designed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard safety features. The chassis is designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing to a quiet and refined cabin environment.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Quoris faced an uphill battle in the competitive luxury sedan segment. Critics generally praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous features list, but noted that it lacked the brand recognition and prestige of established European and Japanese rivals. Compared to the 5.0-liter V8 Quoris, the 3.8 GDI offered a more affordable entry point into the model range, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and value. Fuel economy was rated at approximately 22 US mpg combined, which was competitive for a vehicle of its size and class. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Kia Quoris, while not a massive sales success, played a crucial role in elevating Kia’s brand image and demonstrating its ability to compete in the premium segment. The 3.8 GDI V6 powertrain proved to be reliable and durable, and Quoris models from this era continue to offer a compelling value proposition on the used car market. While Kia has since moved on to other models in the luxury segment, such as the Stinger and the Telluride, the Quoris remains a noteworthy chapter in the company’s history, showcasing its ambition and commitment to innovation.
