Kia unveils new eight-speed automatic

Kia has announced details of its new eight-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel drive models.

Kia’s new front-wheel drive 8AT debuts in the 2017 Kia Cadenza

Kia’s new front-wheel drive 8AT debuts in the 2017 Cadenza – not available in the UK – but will be rolled out to other models

Developed in-house, the transmission occupies the same space as a conventional six-speed automatic transmission – enabling its use in new and existing models – and weighs 3.5 kg less.

The new front-wheel drive 8AT will make its global debut in the 2017 Cadenza – which is not being sold in the UK – but will also be rolled out in a number of mid-sized and larger front-wheel drive models.

The brand added that it will also provide a stepping stone to the development of future advanced transmissions.

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.