New Kia TAM image hits the web; previews Kia’s new mini-MPV, which is scheduled to debut in Korea during the second half of 2011!
South Korean automobile enthusiast portal Motorblog.kr today released the “rendering image” of the new Kia TAM in advance of the sub-compact MPV’s official debut. The image previews Kia’s forthcoming mini-MPV, which will be at the automakers production plant in South Korea alongside the 2012 Kia Picanto.
Codenamed TAM, the all-new mini-MPV is expected to reach the Korean Kia dealerships in the second half of 2011, while later it might also appear in Europe and other International markets.
As evident from the image posted below, the new Kia TAM boasts edgy styling inspired by KEI cars, which are sold mostly in Japan. It also features Kia’s new signature grille and sliding rear doors (seen on spy shots before).
We have little information on the TAM‘s engine line-up. Latest rumors suggest that the all-new small Kia MPV could be powered by the carmaker’s 1.0L three-cylinder Kappa engine, which also proppels the new Picanto. Another engine option is the all-new 0,8L three-cylinder unit which will be also available in Hyundai’s new “800 cc” small car that will be produced in India.
June 8th, 2011 at 8:02 pm
Just like the Picanto, unfortunately, the new Kia TAM won`t make it to our shores here in North America. Too Bad!
June 8th, 2011 at 10:15 pm
I’m looking foward to that CUV Kia is talking about that is supposed to be smaller than the Sportage. It’ll be 4WD too. I wonder though is it that CUV going to be the next generation Soul or another CUV? Hmmmmm, I’ll found out or my name ain’t jtz. I am quite suprised the Tam is better looking than I expected. It looks a heck lot better than that VW Bullie.
June 8th, 2011 at 10:39 pm
1.0L or a 800 CC 3 cyl engine… this is small! nice for asian or India not in north am . not enoug power
June 9th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
I agree the 1.0L or 800 CC 3 cyl engine is probably too small for N.A. unless it had some form of Power Boost Technology which would obviously boost the price too much. However, a 1200 CC 4 cyl engine would work. Toyota made one for its Corolla back in 1970/1971 and it was adequate.
June 10th, 2011 at 11:30 am
But I think Kia could sell more of these in the US than the Cube and XB. I really think so. It looks promising and sporty. I just wish it was a on the Rio’s platform instead. I hate small A segment cars but, I like what I see so far. It’s very body and edgy.
June 17th, 2011 at 10:17 pm
I would love to see this come here to the United States under these circumstances
1) Be Named RONDO
2) Have the same dimensions as the out going RONDO
3) HAS TO BE and SX version fully kitted to the brim with the Optima Turbo 4 as the only engine offered in the SX none of the models below the SX would have this engine.
4) 4wd is optional
Build it and they will COME!!!!!!
June 17th, 2011 at 11:19 pm
Fred, compare the dimensions of the Sorento and the Rondo. Then get back to us.