For 2008, Renault Samsung made subtle tweaks on its flagship sedan, the SM7. Based on the Nissan Teana, the SM7 has been a strong seller to the luxury buyers in its domestic market. The facelifted model also gains a new name, dubbed the SM7 New Art. The naming scheme is similar to the lower-priced SM5 New Impression, which was facelifted for 2007. The SM7 New Art made its premiere at an unveiling event at the Seoul Grand Hilton Hotel. 3 years after the company's premium sedan went on sale, the SM7 New Art was developed in a span of 2 years, raking over 100 billion Won or an estimated $106.5 million in U.S. currency. The SM7 New Art packs the award-winning Neo VQ35 engine, but only produces a meager 217 horsepower. It is mated to a Steptronic 5-speed automatic transmission. A few of the changes made to exterior of the SM7 include a redesigned front fascia, redesigned taillights, and new wheels. The interior packs a premium BOSE audio system.
The sales of the SM7 New Art have commenced on January 3rd following the official unveiling event. The SM7 New Art SE starts at a base price of 27 million Won ($28,757 USD), while the range-topping RE35 trim starts at 41 million Won ($43,668 USD). The automaker tsrgets to sell 2000 units per month in Korea.
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