Kerman Motor Company of Iran launched its new sedan named KMC J7 which is based on Sehol A5 sedan of China’s JAC Motors. The stylish fastback sedan is based on the JAC’s new J7 platform.
Related: Iran’s Largest Automaker IKCO Unveils First All-Electric Car
The overall appearance is quite impressive with slim LED headlamps & multi-layered grille up front. The side features 18-inch blacked out alloys while the C-pillar has a distinctive kink with a chrome strip that flows into the lower end of the rear windscreen. The back features slim full width tail lights, an indented bumper with vertically mounted reflector elements & diffuser, as well as two exhaust pipes located at either side of the bumper.
Measuring 4,780 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,492 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,770 mm the car is much larger than the 11th gen Toyota Corolla we have here which measures 4,620/ 1,775/ 1,460 mm and has a 2,700 mm wheelbase.
Inside the interior features black colored theme with silver embellishments. Key features include a large vertically oriented 10.4 inch screen equipped with Huawei HiCar system, a 7 inch instrument cluster acting as driver information display, power sunroof, multi-function flat-bottomed steering wheel, central tunnel featuring chunky gear lever, electronic parking brake switches and trendy cup holders.
Under the hood the J7 is powered by Euro-6 compliant 1.5L turbocharged engine producing 175hp of power and massive 280Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed DCT gearbox, with the car being able to do 0-100km/h in just around 8 seconds as claimed by the company. Fuel economy is rated at 16.66 km per liter.
Safety kit includes 360 degree camera, key-less entry and start system, electric parking brake with auto hold, hill-start assist system, shift by wire gearbox, electrically adjustable driving seat, 6 airbags, rain sensing wipers, cruise control, and tire pressure monitoring system etc.
Related: Russia Planning for More Self-Sufficient Auto Industry
The car is also expected to be introduced in Russia where the exit of many global automakers after the Russian invasion of Ukraine has created a huge vacuum and has given a golden opportunity for Chinese automakers to fill that gap. Russian media reports about a possibility that the J7 sedan can be placed under the revived Moskvich brand.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com