Renault Samsung Motors is aiming to lead the nation’s engine-downsizing trend with the recent launch of the SM5 TCE, powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine.

It is the first time that a midsize sedan in Korea has been equipped with the smaller 1.6-liter engine.

With emissions regulations tightening globally, carmakers have poured substantial resources into fuel-efficient vehicles that are no less powerful.

Taking advantage of the Renault-Nissan alliance, the Korean unit of the France-based carmaker early this month launched the SM5 TCE or Turbo Charged Efficiency, the latest downsized version of its best-selling family sedan SM5. 

The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, however, puts out big numbers: 190 horsepower and a fuel efficiency of 13 kilometers per liter, compared with 141 and 12.6, respectively, for the 2.0-liter engine of the SM5 Platinum.

The key to more efficient power is the combination of Nissan’s 1.6-liter GDi turbo charger engine and Getrag’s six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The turbocharged SM5 is also the first Renault brand car to feature the Nissan engine, which had been featured only in the Japanese carmaker’s Juke compact sport utility vehicle.

The Getrag transmission of Germany is the world’s best-selling power shift DCT and has been adopted by diverse car models such as the BMW 335i and Volvo’s V series.

In order to better represent its dynamic performance, the carmaker has also brought fresh styling to the new model.

Distinctive exterior design features include 17-inch black aluminum wheels, the dual-exhaust muffler and an exclusive logo, while the interior has undergone a modern makeover with a black-and-white concept.

Earlier in April, Renault Samsung unveiled the downsized QM5 SUV, replacing the existing 2.5-liter gas engine with a 2.0-liter version.

Despite some reduction in horsepower and torque, its fuel economy and CO2 emissions have improved, while the car price has dropped by 3 million won-4 million won ($2,600-$3,500).

Customers are also responding positively, with QM5 sales increasing 36.8 percent in May from the previous month.

The company predicted that the TCE version would make up 20 percent of the total SM5 sales, elevating its overall car sales.

“We will step up efforts to lead the downsizing trend that aims to improve fuel economy and performance while reducing emissions,” said a Renault Samsung spokesperson.

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)