Kia Motors has taken the wraps off its next-generation K900, a flagship luxury sedan that the Korean brand hopes will grab a few sales from the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8.
Set to make its official debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show at the end of March, the new K900 (known simply as the K9 in Korea) features Kia’s new “Quadric pattern” grille, which contains 176 jewel-like cells.
Running on a new platform, the new K900 is longer and wider than its predecessor, while its wheelbase has been extended by 60 mm to 3 105 mm and its front and rear overhangs cut down.
Although no official images of the interior accompany the press release, Kia says the K900’s cabin boasts a “high-class, minimalist layout”, providing the driver and passengers “with a peaceful retreat in which to spend time”.
Kia claims the “refined and luxurious cabin” features surfaces trimmed in a “sophisticated combination of materials”, with soft-touch materials, a blend of highly tactile wood and metal veneers, and genuine leather throughout.
A 12,3-inch HMI screen floats in the centre of the facia with a bezel-less display and simplified switchgear. A dial at the base of the centre console allows the driver to scroll through on-screen functions. The dashboard also houses an analogue clock, developed specifically for the K900 in collaboration with Swiss luxury watch brand, Maurice Lacroix.
Engine options have not been confirmed, but reports suggest the range will include a pair of V6 petrol mills (in 3,3- and 3,8-litre forms) along with a 5,0-litre V8.
Kia says its all-new K900 will be manufactured in Korea and will go on sale across “selected global markets” from the second quarter of 2018. Don’t expect South Africa to be one of them.
