(May 2, 2012) Kia’s all-new luxury flagship sedan, the K9, has gone on sale in Korea, introducing Kia to into the luxury sedan segment in the global automotive market. The striking new rear-wheel drive will be launched in a number of key overseas markets starting in the fourth quarter of 2012. The new luxury sedan is expected to be sold in the U.S., but there has been no official word. If it is offered in North America it will probably get a new name.

With a 198-inch overall length and 119-inch wheelbase wheelbase, K9 offers generous front and rear occupant space. 

Initially, K9 will be available in some overseas markets powered by an upgraded 286-horsepower Lambda V6 3.8-liter engine, with a 330-horsepower 3.8-liter GDI engine joining the global engine line-up next year.

The all-new sedan will premiere a range of advanced luxury features and technologies, including fully adaptive all-LED headlamps, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), radar-based Blind-Spot Detection (BSD), a 17-speaker Lexicon (by Harman) sound system, Smart Cruise Control (SCC)  and an Around-View Monitor (AVM) with four cameras.



Every K9 comes with Kia’s all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The wide spread of gear ratios guarantees brisk acceleration and high-speed refinement, while shift-by-wire (SBW) technology with a joystick control delivers fast, smooth gear changes.

“K9 is all about elegant simplicity, balanced proportions and simple surfaces,” says Kia’s Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer. “The class-leading long wheelbase, the prestige distance, large wheels, sharply upright short overhangs and a long sweeping shoulder line all work together in a harmony to give K9 a sporty, athletic proportion and a confident stance quintessential to a premium large rear-wheel drive vehicle.”

“K9 is a clear signal of our intention and determination to compete head-to-head with the European luxury brands. And for Kia, our customers, and for me – this car is like a dream come true,” concludes Schreyer.