Kia K2500 vs. the competition

The Kia K2500 is renowned for its robust performance, reliability, and versatility. This tough and sturdy truck is designed to handle various cargo transportation needs, making it a favorite among business owners and logistics companies.

Powering the K2500 is a 2.5-liter intercooled turbocharged engine that churns out up to 128 (hp) horsepower and 255 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. This engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

You can load up to 1,635 kilograms (kg) of cargo on this commercial vehicle.

The K2500 is available in five body configurations: Single Cab and Chassis, Closed Van, Kargo, Single Cab Dropside, and Double Cab Dropside.

Pricing for the Kia K2500 ranges from P1.02 million to P1.210 million.

With its modern looks and dynamic performance, the Kia K2500 captures the attention of many entrepreneurs looking for a reliable workhorse. However, in a competitive market, it is essential to explore the alternatives.

Let’s take a look at the main competitors of the Kia K2500 in the local market.

Suzuki Carry

The Suzuki Carry is another versatile and reliable commercial vehicle that has gained popularity among businesses in the country. With its compact size and impressive load capacity, it serves as an excellent solution for transportation needs in urban areas with narrow streets.

Power comes from a 1.5-liter engine that produces 95 hp and 135 Nm of torque. This engine is also paired with a five-speed manual transmission.

The Carry is available in four body configurations: Dropside, Cargo Van, Utility Van, and Lineman Vehicle.

It costs lower than the K2500 as its pricing ranges from only P614,000 to P798,000.

Toyota Lite Ace

Last year, Toyota Motor Philippines revived the Lite Ace nameplate and introduced it as a commercial vehicle that would serve as a dependable business partner. With its strong brand presence and reputation, the Lite Ace is an attractive alternative to the K2500.

Under the hood of the Lite Ace is a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that produces 98 hp and 134 Nm of torque, making it less powerful than the K2500. However, both of their engines are mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The Lite Ace also has less payload capacity of just 950 kg.

The Lite Ace comes in five body configurations: Pickup, Panel Van, Cargo, and FX. It is priced from P645,000 to P737,000, making it another cheaper alternative to the K2500.

Mitsubishi L300

The Mitsubishi L300 is a classic competitor of the Kia K2500 in the Philippine market. This sturdy workhorse is known for its reliability and has been a trusted name in the commercial vehicle market for decades. With a solid market presence, the L300 has established itself as a tough contender in this segment.

It is powered by a 2.2-liter intercooled turbocharged engine that produces 97 hp and 200 Nm of torque, which are also less than the K2500’s output.

The L300 also has less payload capacity of only 1,215 kg.

Available in five body configurations — Dropside, FB, Aluminum Van, Cooltech Ref Van, and Modern PUV Class 1, the L300 caters to businesses of any industry.

Pricing for the Mitsubishi L300 ranges from P813,000 to P998,000, making it another budget-friendly alternative to the K2500.

Isuzu Traviz

Another strong rival of the Kia K2500 is the Isuzu Traviz, which has made a name for itself with its versatility, solid performance, and reliability. It aims to cater to the needs of various industries, from logistics and deliveries to construction and trade.

Power comes from a 2.5-liter diesel engine that delivers 76 hp and 176.50 Nm of torque, making the K2500 still more powerful. This engine is also mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The Traviz can carry heavier load, though, as it has a payload capacity of up to 1,660 kg.

It is available in four body applications: Utility Van, Dropside Truck, Aluminum Van, and Refrigerated Van.

The Isuzu Traviz is priced from P987,000 to P1.047 million, slightly lower than the K2500.

Hyundai H-100

Renowned for its versatility and durability, the Hyundai H-100 has become a trusted companion for businesses and families alike. With its spacious interior cabin and impressive cargo capacity, this vehicle offers ample room for both passengers and goods.

Under its hood is a 2.5-liter diesel engine that churns out 128 hp and 254 Nm of torque. It is paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

The H-100 is available in only one body configuration. With its specs being almost the same as the K2500's, their prices are also not far apart. The H-100 is priced from P984,000 to P1.24 million.

Verdict

In the highly competitive commercial vehicle market in the Philippines, the Kia K2500 faces some tough contenders. Each competitor offers its unique set of features, specifications, and market positioning. However, if you are after a no-nonsense workhorse that gets the job done reliably, the Kia K2500 is a solid option to consider.

Photos from Kia Philippines, Suzuki Philippines, Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Corporation, Isuzu Philippines, and Hyundai Motor Philippines

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