Introduction

All-new Kia Venga MPV set to enliven B-segment sales in Europe

Kia’s all-new, uniquely spacious and dynamic MPV, which made its global debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, is now set to enliven B-segment sales in Europe when it goes on sale at the turn of the year.

Called ‘Venga’, the new model will be manufactured exclusively in Europe for European consumers, and will be backed by two warranties: Kia’s unique ‘7-Years (drivetrain) / 5-Years (whole car) / 150,000 km’ warranty, plus a 12-Year anti-corrosion warranty.

The new Kia production model, which is closely related to the stunning Kia No3 concept car that made its debut at the Geneva Show earlier this year to worldwide acclaim, brings stylish good looks and a fun driving experience to an otherwise unremarkable vehicle segment.

“Venga will certainly deliver all the practicality and versatility that a European family could require. It will also provide them with the most stylish transport this segment has ever seen,” observes Benny Oeyen, Director Marketing & Product Planning, Kia Motors Europe. “On the road, its performance and agility will surpass the class norm. Venga will ensure that rewarding, fun-to-drive motoring is now available to drivers whose lifestyles demand an MPV.”

The new ‘Venga’ name has a dynamic sound that suits Kia’s latest family car. It echoes Kia’s core brand value – the ‘Power to Surprise’.

Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, the 4,068 mm long Kia Venga features an unusually long wheelbase for its class (2,615 mm) – and a 1,600 mm high roofline to maximise cabin space. Skilful packaging also ensures that the Venga redefines its MPV category by offering levels of interior space typical of many larger C-segment vehicles, but within a B-segment footprint.

“Venga is a tremendously exciting new model for us which will build on the success of the Kia cee’d and boost the on-going process of changing European consumers’ perceptions of our brand,” continues Oeyen.

“The B-segment MPV is still a ‘young’ concept, and although demand for this type of vehicle shrank during the last two years, we believe that two main factors will reverse that trend. Firstly, the economic climate will encourage consumers to down-size. Secondly, exciting new products from several manufacturers will re-ignite interest in the whole segment and with the new Venga, Kia will be well positioned to maximise its sales growth and sector share,” adds Oeyen.

Every engine in the Venga line-up will be available with Kia’s fuel-stretching Start/Stop (ISG) technology and will comply with Euro 5 emission standards. Start/Stop (ISG) equipped models will have a CO2 rating from just 117 g/km (1.4-litre U2 engine).

Venga will be marketed exclusively in Europe where consumers will be offered a choice of seven versions of Kia’s 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre gasoline and diesel engines, generating between 75 and 128 ps. Every Venga will be equipped with a sliding (over a 130 mm range), 60/40 split rear seat that also folds flat into the floor to create a spacious cargo bay. Depending on model, an optional tilt-&-slide, all-glass panoramic sunroof will be available to flood the cabin with natural light.

The new Kia Venga uses the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Kia confidently anticipates that Venga will become the company’s fourth consecutive model to attain the maximum 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating – placing it among the safest cars in its MPV class.

“Venga is going to inject much-needed excitement into the B-segment. It is such a great looking, great driving car that even people who don’t actually need an MPV-style vehicle, will buy one!” concludes Oeyen.