Koreans like riding with the top down
The Korea Automobile Importers and Distribution Association said yesterday that the number of convertibles in Korea has risen from 845 in 2003 to 1,160 in 2004, 1,264 in 2005 and 1,277 units last year.
The rate of increase is more gradual than the rise in all import cars on the road, but industry insiders note that it is a growing niche market.
Because of the growing demand for convertibles, import car firms are expanding the variety of cars they sell. In 2003, there were only 28 convertible models, but as of April, 13 companies were offering 42 models.
In September, GM Daewoo will launch the G2X, a two-person classic roadster. Its front-installed 2.0-liter 260 horsepower engine with turbo charger can accelerate to 100 kph (62 mph) in just 5.5 seconds, to a top speed of about 227 kmh.
The price has not been set yet, but analysts predict it will be less than imported convertibles.
By Wohn Dong-hee Staff Writer [wohn@joongang.co.kr]
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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