Kia names K9 flagship

Kia has announced its new range-topping sedan will be named Quoris in export markets around the world.

Known in its home market of South Korea as the Kia K9, where it has been on sale since May, the Quoris will begin shipping out to other markets from the fourth quarter of this year. Kia settled on the new name for its phonemic associations with the English words, 'core' and 'quality', as explained in a press release by Thomas Oh, Executive Vice-President and COO of the company's International Business Division.

“The word ‘Quoris’ conveys solidity, luxury and high-technology, all resonating together as a chorus. Our decision to give this striking new sedan an unconventional name means it will stand out even further from the established crowd, driving Kia sales in what is a new segment of the global automotive market for Kia,” Mr Oh was quoted saying.

Among the safety features and driving aids fitted are radar-based adaptive cruise control, Advanced Vehicle Safety Management (AVSM), Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assistance, Lane Departure Warning and Around View Monitor, which provides a full 360-degree view and deactivates at speeds above 20km/h.

The Advanced Smart Cruise Control, as Kia has named the adaptive cruise control system, can bring the car to a complete stop. A radar transmitter located in the right corner of the front bumper can range-find up to 174 metres, according to the manufacturer.

AVSM operates in three stages. At the first sign of any risk that the Quoris will collide with another vehicle, the AVSM warns the driver through the medium of a visual alert via both the car's Head-Up Display and the infotainment screen. The visual warnings are followed by an audible alarm and 'haptic' (seatbelt) warnings if the driver doesn't take remedial action. Once the situation escalates to the point where the collision is unavoidable, the AVSM applies brakes and arms the seatbelt pretensioners.

While a rear-drive Kia with the sort of high-tech safety equipment to rival prestige brands from Europe would be an appealing standard bearer for the company in Australia, we won't be seeing it, according to comments from the local COO, Tony Barlow, in the company's press release for the new model.

“Kia Motors Australia currently has no plans to import the Quoris but will continue to monitor the local market and can revisit that decision should it become an appropriate option,” Mr Barlow said.

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