GM Korea, the Korean unit of General Motors, unveiled its all-new Malibu on Wednesday, with the goal of becoming a game changer in the midsize sedan market.

Hyundai and Kia have dominated the sedan market in Korea, but the newly-launched SM6 of Renault Samsung is changing the landscape of the market competition.

During the launch at Gocheok Sky Dome, the automaker expressed confidence in overtaking the sedans of three local rivals -- Hyundai’s Sonata, Renault Samsung’s SM6 and Kia Motors’ K5.
 

“We are confident of outpacing the three rivals with the new Malibu although detailed sales goal cannot be disclosed now,” said Dale Sullivan, vice president of GM Korea’s sales and marketing division.

GM Korea’s chief James Kim also said, “Malibu’s outstanding quality and competitive price will completely change the dynamics of the local midsize sedan market.”

The new Malibu, which will go on sale in May, will be priced similar to or slightly lower than its rivals. It will range in price from 23 million won ($20,000) to 31 million won. The starting price of the Malibu will be the cheapest in the segment. 

Its powertrain comes in 1.5-liter gasoline and 2.0-liter gasoline models. The 1.5-liter turbo engine has 166 horsepower, a maximum torque of 25.5 kg.m and a combined fuel efficiency of 13 kilometers per liter. Its 2.0-liter engine has 253 horsepower, a maximum torque of 36 kg.m and a combined fuel economy of 10.8 kilometers per liter.

GM Korea also said it plans to launch its new hybrid Malibu this summer at an electric technology event, without elaborating further.

(shinjh@heraldcorp.com)