The all-new Kia K8 gets unveiled
It seems that Kia is not wasting any time in 2021 as they have just unveiled their all-new K8 sedan. The South Korean manufacturers clearly see an opportunity in keeping the sedan market alive and given how luxurious the K8 will be, they might just have the right idea. The K8 will mark a milestone in how far Kia has come in producing premium sedans and will face the difficult task of competing in a market that is practically owned by SUV’s. Kia has announced that the K8 will be the first model in the K-Series to bring the company’s new brand strategy and a new logo to light.
In terms of exterior design, the K8’s front will get fitted with a new signature frameless Tiger Nose Grille. The frameless grille will get integrated within the front bumper and will feature a unique diamond lattice design. The front lamps will include a turn signal that will bear a resemblance to a row of shining diamonds. The elongated K8 (5,015mm) will feature a sporty side profile with dynamic character lines that runs across the length of the sedan, according to Kia this takes inspiration from high-end luxury yachts sailing across calm waters.
A diamond chrome finish will run along with the DLO (Daylight Opening) line, the bottom of the doors, and will end at the rear lamps. To complete its premium front and side, will be a muscular rear-end. A cleanly styled spoiler will finish the sporty, low roofline. To emphasize the K8’s modern exterior will be a futuristic-looking horizontal taillight that will get carried across the jewel patterned arrangement and will connect the K8’s next-generation LED rear light clusters. The K8 badge will sit at the centre of the rear and will be just below the horizontal light dash.
The interior of the K8 will get finished in detailed wood materials and will feature state-of-the-art tech to keep the car always connected. A curved panoramic display will link a 12-inch digital cluster and a 12-inch infotainment system, bringing together the K8’s advanced connectivity and infotainment technology. The K8 will also be the first-ever Kia to feature top-quality audio from Meridian. This 14-speaker premium sound system will offer the driver and passengers the finest audio quality available on the market. The K8’s Napa leather seats will feature elegant, stitched patterns on them. The cabin will further benefit from Kia’s innovative ‘Star Cloud’ lighting which will provide ambient lighting on the door trims and dashboard areas. Additional features will include a centre console that features wood-based cupholders and glossy soft-touch switches.
Kia has yet to announce the engine specs of the K8. The one thing we do know is that it will come with a front-wheel-based AWD system. The Kia K8 is set to be launched later this year but will sadly not be making its way to South Africa.
Also worth a look: the Kia Seltos and the Kia Sportage.
FAQ
Q: What does the Kia K8 cost in South Africa?
Kia hasn't announced official South African pricing for the K8 yet, but expect it to start around R650,000 to R750,000 when it arrives, positioning it as a premium sedan competitor to the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Q: Is the Kia K8 worth buying over other luxury sedans?
The K8 looks promising with its yacht-inspired design and premium tech, but it'll need to prove itself against established German rivals who dominate the luxury sedan space in South Africa.
Q: When will the Kia K8 be available in South Africa?
Kia hasn't confirmed a South African launch date for the K8, but given their recent model introductions, expect it to arrive sometime in late 2022 or early 2023 if it makes it to our shores at all.
Q: What engine options will the Kia K8 have?
Kia hasn't revealed full engine specifications yet, but expect a range of turbocharged petrol engines and possibly hybrid options, likely producing between 140kW to 220kW depending on the variant.
Should You Buy It?
Hold your horses on this one. While the K8 looks absolutely stunning with its diamond-patterned grille and yacht-inspired design, it's still unproven in the brutally competitive luxury sedan market. If you're shopping in the R650,000 to R750,000 range, you're better off sticking with the BMW 320i at R724,400 or the Mercedes-Benz C200 at R698,500 until the K8 proves it can match their refinement, resale value, and dealer network. Wait for proper road tests and confirmation of South African availability before making any decisions, this could be a winner or just another pretty face that doesn't quite deliver the goods.
