Design

The new SM3 marks another step in the renewal of Renault Samsung Motors’ product line-up.

The compact 4-door sedan (4.51m long) represents the entry level of the RSM range, which also includes the SM5 and SM7.

The SM3’s new design is the fruit of cooperation between Renault Samsung Motors and Renault’s Design Centre. Changes to the new version relate primarily to the front grille and the design of the rear lights, which give the car a more assertive look. The grille clearly exhibits a family link with the range’s other two models, the SM5 and SM7. They are proving very successful, boosting sales by 43.9% in the first half of 2005.

The new SM3 offers four equipment levels. It comes with a five-year/100,000km powertrain warranty and a three-year/60,000km warranty for the other components.

Driving pleasure

The company has carried over the 1.5l and 1.6l petrol engines with a slight increase in power and improved fuel consumption. At the end of 2005, customers will be able to opt for the latest-generation Renault 1.5 dCi turbodiesel engine, the first offered by Renault Samsung Motors. Its high performance and fuel efficiency make it an ideal match for the new SM3, and it should prove popular with Korean customers who are increasingly attracted to the advantages of diesel engines.

Travelling comfort

The new SM3 is aimed particularly at younger customers and accordingly features a range of innovative accessories including an MP3 player and a highly efficient interactive INS-300S navigation system. A sporting version called XE is in the pipeline as well. It will be equipped with alloy wheels and special upholstery and feature its own range of colours.

Safety

The new SM3 stresses values that are important to the brand and the Renault group, such as safety - it was awarded 5 stars in the K-NCAP crash tests - and quality, with the application of zero defect production.