Renault Samsung Motors confirmed on Tuesday it would go ahead with the launch of the redesigned XM3 SUV in South Korea next week as it needs to revive severely depressed sales.

The company, owned 80% by Renault, reported an almost 48% drop in global sales to 13,290 units in the first two months of 2020 while its domestic sales were down 21% to 7,976 units.

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The automaker's sales performance was affected by weak global demand and also the outbreak of the COVID19 coronavirus which held back production at its Busan plant for four days in February.

The new XM3 will go on sale officially on Monday 9 March. It will be available with the TCe260 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine coupled to a seven speed, dual clutch transmission and, alternatively, with the GTe 1.6-litre petrol engine combined with a CVT transmission.

Both engines were developed by Renault and Daimler, the company confirmed.

New XN3 prices start at KRW17m (US$14,322) for the 1.3, rising to KRW25m for the 1.6 with all optional extras.

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