Kia launched the Bongo LPG Turbo on the 23rd and has officially started sales.
Kia has equipped the Bongo with a Smartstream LPG 2.5 Turbo engine, ensuring superior output and efficiency compared to diesel models, while enhancing product value by adding customer-preferred convenience features.
The 5-speed automatic transmission, previously available only on the 1-ton variant, has now been extended to the 1.2-ton version, providing the optimal combination tailored to customer needs.
The maximum output and torque of the Bongo LPG Turbo are ▲159 PS and 30.0 kgf·m with the 5-speed automatic transmission, and ▲138 PS and 26.0 kgf·m with the 6-speed manual transmission, which translates to improvements of approximately 18% and 4% in output, respectively, while maintaining comparable torque to diesel models.
The combined fuel efficiency of the Bongo LPG Turbo is 7 km per liter for the 1-ton extra-long wheelbase with a 6-speed manual transmission and 6.5 km per liter for the 5-speed automatic transmission.
Assuming that a customer with the 5-speed automatic transmission version of the 1-ton extra-long wheelbase drives 2000 km per month for a year, they can save approximately 800,000 KRW annually compared to the diesel model. (※ Assuming LPG price at 970 KRW, diesel at 1,600 KRW, and Bongo diesel 1-ton extra-long wheelbase automatic transmission fuel efficiency at 8.8 km/ℓ)
Kia has standardized features such as ▲passenger airbag ▲keyhole illumination ▲auto light control on all trims, while the top-level trim includes ▲an 8-inch display audio system supporting Android Auto/Apple CarPlay ▲rear monitor ▲Type C USB charging ports for added convenience.
Additionally, they have introduced a ‘10.25-inch Navigation Package’ with high-demand features like a Kia Connect-based 10.25-inch navigation system, push-button smart key system, and dual-zone automatic climate control as optional across all trims, offering convenience comparable to passenger vehicles.
Moreover, Kia continues to offer popular optional features such as the ‘Flat Loading Floor’ for easy loading and the ‘Plus Package’ for interior styling with brown decor, which were well-received by existing Bongo customers in the Bongo LPG Turbo as well.
The price of the Bongo LPG Turbo ranges from ▲19,930,000 KRW to ▲22,750,000 KRW for the 1-ton variant and ▲24,210,000 KRW to ▲25,240,000 KRW for the 1.2-ton variant. (※ Based on 2WD extra-long wheelbase, 6-speed manual transmission)
Customers who scrap their existing diesel vehicles and purchase the Bongo LPG Turbo can receive up to 900,000 KRW in subsidies from the LPG truck purchase support program, which includes 1,000,000 KRW for new LPG cargo truck purchase and up to 800,000 KRW for early scrapping support. (※ This is contingent on being selected as a support subject, and the available support amount and maximum subsidy may vary by local government)
A Kia representative stated, “The Bongo has long been loved by many customers as a truck optimized for urban transport. With the launch of the economical and convenient LPG Turbo model, we will lead the small truck market compared to diesel models.”
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr