Korean market: 2011 new car releases

Korean carmakers, as well as major International automakers plan to launch as much as 20 new cars in South Korea by the end of 2011!

To tempt South Korean consumers, Korean carmakers plant to launch a slew of new models this year. According to Chosunilbo, some 20 new car models will be introduced by domestic carmakers, while rivaling automobile brands plan to import as much as 50 models by the end of the year!


Let's take a look at some of the most important new Korean cars highlights:

Hyundai will launch the all-new Grandeur near-luxury sedan in January. The all-new Grandeur features completely redesigned exterior design, more luxorious interior, improved safety and state-of-the-art powertrain technology. The 2011 Grandeur is ready to chalenge the imports such as BMW 5-series or Audi A6.

Kia will launch its new Morning mini-car. The new model will go on sale in the first quarter of the year. It will make its official premiere at the 2011 Geneva Auto Show.

Hyundai Veloster, a unique three-door sports car, is slated to hit Korean market in February. It will achieve 40 mpg and will feature Hyundai's new six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.

Ssangyong will unveil the Korando C crossover, while Chevrolet will launch Orlando MPV and Camaro sports car in March 2011. Following the two will be the Chevrolet Winstorm SUV facelift and Corvette sports car.

Renault-Samsung has a facelifted QM5 on its hands. The model will hit the market in July 2011.

The ChosunIlbo claims that Kia is planing a surprising unveiling of a new box-car, smaller than Soul crossover. We have no details about the vehicle at this moment, however, sources close to Kia state the upcoming mini-car is modeled after Japanese box-type compacts such as the Daihatsu Tanto!