Kia K2700

 Kia goes commercial – with the K2700

Kia Motors has introduced a practical and unique new truck to the South African light commercial vehicle market. The K2700 is a diesel-powered one-ton truck with double rear wheels and provides a combination of loadability, versatility and economy that make it an ideal commercial transport solution for a wide variety of both urban and rural applications.

Since a huge portion South Africa’s economy revolves around the use if commercial vehicles to – quite literally – keep its wheel turning, Kia is one of the few importers and distributors to have pulled a clever move and introduce a light commercial vehicle as part of its model line-up.

According to a Kia release, virtually no terrain is too daunting for the K2700. Its rugged body is designed to absorb the harshest of punishment to match the power and traction. The basis of its strength is a box ladder frame with interlocking C-beam rails that provide superior chassis strength and durability.

Kia measures the cargo area at 4,7 square metres, which is designed as a single unit for greater durability and safety. Its corrugated surface provides for cargo stability and secure loading and unloading. To assist the safe securing of the most awkward loads, a ball has been added to the end of the 12 load hooks on each side of the cargo box to improve the grip of the securing rope.

Motivation is from Kia’s 2,7-litre J2 diesel engine mated a 5-speed gearbox with a clutch locking system. Its 62 kW and 175 Nm of torque (peaking at 2 400 rpm) is enough to transport a full 1 000 kg load across any terrain. A lateral mode selection action makes gear changes quick and easy. The use of curved helical rather than straight cut gears, reduces operating noise levels by around 1,8 decibels.

Superior stopping ability while fully laden or unladen, is provided by 14-inch ventilated discs in front and drum brakes on the rear wheels.

A convenient feature is the easy lifting front panel that lends ready access to the engine for checking and refilling of windshield washer fluid, anti-freeze or air conditioner. Access to the rest of the engine is also facilitated by the tilt-cab, which features a triple tilt lock to ensure safety while working on the engine.

Operator safety and comfort is also well catered for. Extensive use has been made of high-strength steel in the construction of the cab, which is positioned on a T-shaped front sub frame. The comfortable 1 650 mm wide cab features bucket seats with integrated headrests, while the driver has a 4-way adjustable seat with legroom and recline adjustments and a telescoping steering column.

Other cab features include main and secondary glove box, a cab light and interior rear view mirror, centre seatback console and comprehensive instrumentation. Smaller conveniences like wide opening doors, anti-slip door steps, a triple-jet washer nozzle, lowered exterior rear view mirrors, a cargo box side step and removable gate chains, all help to make the operator’s life more pleasant and productive.

A full range of load canopies to adapt the K2700 for specific load requirements are available through the Kia dealer network.

The K2700’s warranty is 3 years/100 000 km.