This is Kia Motors's flagship, the K900. The luxury sedan is expected to bow at next week's New York International Auto Show.
The K900 is actually positioned against the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8 and the Lexus LS. Kia says the K900's design is based on a concept called "Gravity of Prestige," which certainly has resulted in a restrained, tasteful sedan without gimmicks.
Kia mentions the new "Quadric Pattern" front grille on the K900 as having 176 "jewel-like" cells, which create an illusion of energy much like the spindle grille on the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept; the headlights in turn are inspired by "the trajectory of light," and are called Duplex Comet lights.
No official images of the cabin have been released, though the company has already confirmed a 12.3-inch digital instrument binnacle, a large central infotainment display, and interior ambient lighting configurable in 64 different ways. Enclosed in the centre of the dashboard will be an analogue clock, designed specifically for the new limousine by Swiss luxury watch brand, Maurice Lacroix.
KIA Motors South Africa will not be releasing the K900 locally.
Also worth a look: the Kia Seltos and the Kia Sportage.
FAQ
Q: What does the Kia K900 cost in South Africa?
The Kia K900 isn't sold in South Africa, so you can't buy one new from a local dealer. If it were available, it would likely cost around R1,200,000 to R1,500,000 given its positioning against the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S-Class.
Q: Is the Kia K900 available in South Africa?
No, Kia Motors South Africa confirmed they won't be bringing the K900 to local showrooms. You'd have to look at importing one privately if you're dead set on owning this Korean luxury sedan.
Q: What are the Kia K900's main competitors?
The K900 is positioned to compete directly with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS in the full-size luxury sedan segment.
Q: What luxury features does the Kia K900 have?
The K900 comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, large central infotainment display, 64-way configurable ambient lighting, and a bespoke analogue clock designed by Swiss luxury watchmaker Maurice Lacroix.
Should You Buy It?
You can't buy the Kia K900 in South Africa because Kia decided not to bring it here, which is honestly a bit of a shame. If you're after a luxury sedan in this price range, your best bet is the BMW 7 Series starting around R1,400,000 or the Mercedes S-Class from about R1,500,000. The K900 would've been an interesting alternative with proper luxury credentials and that distinctive "Quadric Pattern" grille, but unless you fancy the hassle of importing one yourself, you'll need to look elsewhere for your executive transport needs.
