GM Korea Co., the South Korean unit of U.S. automotive giant General Motors, on Tuesday said it will launch its 2015 Malibu diesel sedan in its home market to follow up on the success of the previous model.

The updated midsize sedan, which has the same 2-liter "Ecotec" turbo diesel mated to a six speed automatic transmission, also features the external sheet metal and overall dimensions vis-a-vis the outgoing model that has sold 2,990 units since sales began in March.

This powertrain has been rated at 156 horsepower and 35.8 kilogram-meters of torque with an official fuel economy standing at

13.3 kilometers on a liter of fuel in mixed driving conditions.

The car is expected to reach GM Korea dealerships nationwide starting Friday.

The refreshed car has updated amenities such as telescopic steering wheels, 18-inch black-painted alloy wheels as options in the LT Premium trim, while a tire pressure monitoring system has been made standard across the entire model range, the company said.

The adjustable tilt steering mechanism allows the driver to change the distance of the steering wheel from the dashboard to meet his or her height and seating position. TPMS is a feature that enhances driving safety, reduces rubber wear and helps with fuel economy.

In regards to price, the carmaker said the level of new content and the fact that the older car was "underpriced" caused the 2015 model to be marked up by some 700,000 won ($690).

Company CEO Sergio Rocha said the 2015 Malibu diesel gets high marks for excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as safety and quality.

"It will fully satisfy our customers," he said.

The carmaker, the third-largest in South Korea in terms of sales, said that it will start providing engine software updates later in the week for its 2014 Malibu diesel sedans that experienced diesel particulate filter issues. (Yonhap)