Kia’s Update on the K8 Sedan
Kia recently phased out the Cadenza from the United States and replaced it with the K8 in South Korea. The latest version of the K8 has now received a mid-cycle update with significant changes, despite being a facelift. The design of the K8 follows Kia’s latest design language with vertical headlights, a wide LED strip connecting the headlights, and a relocated logo on the hood. The back of the car features a cleaner appearance with restyled bumper and removal of fake exhaust tips. Interior changes include revamped climate controls, more soft-touch materials, and added LED ambient light strips. Safety features include 10 airbags as standard, adaptive high beam headlights, and optional all-wheel drive.
Power options for the K8 include a four-cylinder 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a larger V-6 engine, a 3.5 LPI engine, and a hybrid 1.6-liter unit. Prices for the K8 start at around $27,300 for the base model and go up to $37,800 for the range-topper. The vehicle is available for sale, with the hybrid model to follow once certification is obtained.
Introduction:
Kia recently launched an updated version of its K8 sedan in South Korea that replaced the Cadenza in the United States. The new K8 has received significant changes in design and features, making it a promising addition to Kia’s lineup. From exterior upgrades to interior enhancements and powertrain options, the K8 offers a combination of style, comfort, and performance at an affordable price point. This article will delve into the details of the updated Kia K8 sedan, highlighting its design changes, features, safety, powertrain options, pricing, and availability.
Design Changes:
Kia has revamped the design of the K8 sedan with significant changes to the front and rear end. The front of the car now features vertical headlights, a wide LED strip connecting the headlights, and a relocated logo on the hood. The back of the car has been updated with a cleaner appearance, removing fake exhaust tips and restyling the bumper. The overall design of the K8 gives it a futuristic and sophisticated look, in line with Kia’s latest design language.
Interior Enhancements:
Inside the K8, Kia has made notable tweaks to enhance comfort and convenience. The climate controls have been revamped and are now located below the central air vents. More soft-touch materials have been added, along with an LED ambient light strip that runs across the dashboard. In the back, the seatbelt buckles light up for added visibility. Safety features have also been improved, with all versions of the K8 coming standard with 10 airbags and adaptive high beam headlights.
Powertrain Options:
The K8 offers a range of powertrain options to cater to different preferences and needs. The base model comes with a four-cylinder 2.5-liter gasoline engine that produces 195 hp and 183 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s a larger 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 296 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, available with optional all-wheel drive. Alternatively, customers can opt for a 3.5 LPI engine with 237 hp and 231 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid 1.6-liter unit with a combined 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Pricing and Availability:
Despite its luxurious features and updated design, the Kia K8 sedan comes at an affordable price point. The base model starts at around $27,300, while the range-topper is priced at $37,800. All versions of the K8, except the hybrid model, are available for sale this month. The hybrid model will follow once Kia obtains the necessary certification. Overall, the Kia K8 offers a compelling combination of style, performance, and value, making it an attractive option in the midsize sedan segment.