8 in 10 Actyon buyers choose hybrid, KGM data shows

KG Mobility (KGM) said Wednesday that hybrids accounted for 82 percent of Actyon sales between June and September this year, based on an analysis of buyers of the compact SUV. The hybrid preference exceeded 80 percent across all age groups, from those in their 20s to customers aged 60 and older.

According to KGM, hybrids made up 82 percent of combined gasoline and hybrid Actyon sales since the launch of an improved model in May. The breakdown by age group showed hybrids accounting for 85 percent among buyers in their 20s, 82.6 percent among those in their 30s, 85.4 percent among those in their 40s, 81.2 percent among those in their 50s and 85.7 percent among those aged 60 and older.

The Torres SUV posted similar results over the same period, with hybrids capturing nearly half of all sales across every age group. The Torres hybrid share stood at 46.2 percent overall — 51.6 percent among buyers in their 20s, 53.8 percent among those in their 30s, 47.2 percent among those in their 40s, 49.4 percent among those in their 50s and 51.3 percent among those aged 60 and older.

"Hybrids appear to appeal to customers of all ages because they combine strong fuel efficiency and lower running costs with the driving experience of an electric vehicle," a KGM official said.

The official added that the hybrid share for both the Actyon and Torres was higher than that of key competing models over the same period. "The practical qualities of a midsize SUV, combined with a competitive price in the 30 million won ($22,300) range, have been generating a positive response," the official said.

KGM markets its hybrid lineup under the concept of a "charge-free electric vehicle." The system pairs a 1.83 kWh high-voltage battery with a 130-kilowatt motor to deliver driving performance comparable to a fully electric vehicle. The Actyon Hybrid is priced at 38.95 million won and the Torres Hybrid at 33.02 million won, a pricing strategy the company says is designed to broaden customer accessibility while offering the interior space expected of a midsize SUV.

KGM also offers a range of benefits aimed at reducing the financial burden of owning a hybrid, from purchase through to ongoing ownership. In October, buyers of the Torres Hybrid and Actyon Hybrid can take advantage of a "Light Pay Plan" — structured with a 30 percent down payment, a 60-month installment at 5.6 percent interest and a deferred payment rate of 53 percent — bringing monthly payments to around 190,000 won for the Torres Hybrid and around 230,000 won for the Actyon Hybrid.

Through its "KGM Nara Sarang Festa" program, KGM also offers a 300,000 won discount to military personnel, civilian defense employees, veterans and their families. The company additionally runs a "Slim Care Service" maintenance package, available for 100,000 won per year, which covers engine oil and air-conditioning filter replacement, a complimentary vehicle inspection, and a pickup and delivery service.