Kia Updates Models and Lowers Prices in Israel Amid Growing Competition

Kia Israel, represented by importer Telecar, has expanded its lineup and reduced prices on several models to better compete with Chinese brands and others in the market. The Picanto small car now features a downsized 1.0-liter engine replacing the previous 1.2-liter unit to meet European emission standards. This engine delivers 68 horsepower, 11 less than before, and accelerates to 100 km/h in 17.2 seconds, 0.7 seconds slower. The transmission remains a 5-speed single-clutch automated manual, and fuel efficiency is unchanged at approximately 17 km per liter. The Picanto’s price has been cut by 10,000 shekels to 100,000 shekels.

The Sportage hybrid (1.6-liter turbo, 239 hp) introduces a new entry-level "Urban" trim priced at 185,000 shekels, down from the previous base EX trim at 196,000 shekels. The price reduction comes with some compromises, such as losing electric driver seat adjustment, ambient lighting, and leather-trimmed seats, though safety features remain the same.

The electric EV3 crossover gains a new Long Range version in the EX trim, previously available only in the top "Executive" trim at 187,000 shekels. The EX Long Range costs 175,000 shekels, 12,000 shekels less, with some feature reductions including no electric driver seat adjustment, no wireless charging pad, no sunroof, fabric seats replacing synthetic leather, and smaller 17-inch wheels instead of 19-inch. This EX Long Range model offers a slightly longer driving range of 604 km, making it the electric vehicle with the longest range under 200,000 shekels in Israel, positioning it strongly against Chinese competitors.