2013 Renault Samsung SM3 |
The second-generation Renault Samsung SM3 (L38) was been there for three years and this car deserves a minor change. Well, it happened now. The L38 SM3 now gets its facelift and this should be interesting.
SMART LIFE
For its facelift, the SM3 now has a new front design that provides modern dynamism for this car. This front grille on the facelifted SM3 seems like it came from the Kia Morning. Familiar? Afraid not but this new look is all about being stylish midsize sedan for the Korean yuppies. The 17-inch alloy wheels have given a new look to give it a bit more feel. Those redesigned front lamps, side mirrors, side body kit, refined door handles, and some cosmetic upgrades really try to keep the SM3 fresh and rejuvenated. On the inside, that's a different story because the instrumental panel's new to us and it's called Dynamic Color Digital Crystal. That seems to be somewhat familiar but this new instrumental really gives a clear view on the speed, the rev, the status, anything. However, the Dynamic Color Digital Crystal is not just new to this model, there's one thing that I really like and it's the new SM3's SMart Connect. This feature allows this navigation system's firmware to be updated via Wi-Fi and not just that, it gets you access to SK Telecom's MelOn mobile music portal service. That name is familiar for K-POP fans many because of the MelOn Music Awards but for those, MelOn is SK Telecom's mobile music portal service which is the world's first wired and wireless interworking music service that allows you to enjoy your favorite tunes anytime and anywhere. It's legal, you are first to listen the world's best songs, and SK offers real-time streaming and downloads through its Music Rental Service.
Speaking of music, the BOSE Surround System was equipped on the more expensive versions to provide a better sound quality while driving. Listening to your greatest hits never sound so good on an everyday midsize sedan. Also, there is a massager on the driver's seat, heated seats, Samsung Plasma Ionizer, perfume diffuser, 3 zone aircon, and this smart i navigation feature. All those conveniences really add a nice touch on the revised SM3.
We're now into the twilight zone which is the performance. As of now, the SM3 offers only the 1.6L gasoline engine generates about 117HP of power and 16.1kg-m of torque. Because it was mated with the new XTRONIC CVT, the fuel economy is now 15km/L and CO2 emissions of 114.0g/km. It's now even more economical than ever because what Renault Samsung says that this is the best-in-class fuel economy.
Available colors are; Ultra Silver, White, Black, Mars Gary, Pearl White, Ebony Brown, and Oriental Red.
My comment:
The 2013 SM3 is not just even more dynamic in terms of exterior design but it's now made to be more technological thanks to its SMart Connect feature that Korean yuppies would make sense of. Sadly however, I didn't like it. That's it.
Photo: Renault Samsung Motors