SPY PICS: Kia K9
Kia's ascendancy into the upper echelons of the luxury car market should get a good leg-up with this dramatically-styled large sedan expected to launch in Korea this yearKia’s upmarket intentions have never been clearer than in these Carparazzi night-time photos of what is believed to be a prototype of the upcoming K9 model under test.
Based on the platform of the rear-drive Hyundai Genesis which has earned some worthwhile credits internationally, the top-shelf Kia is expected to offer a choice of V8 engines in 4.6-litre and 5.0-litre capacity. A V6 is also rumoured.
The Kia K9 was pointed to in the aesthetically pleasing large concept car first unveiled by Kia at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show, complete with suicide doors and sculpted shapes drawn by ex-Audi stylist Peter Schreyer.
Speaking at the concept’s Frankfurt unveiling, Schreyer said "No matter from which perspective you look at it, this concept car is roaring with energy and ready for take-off. I believe the car is a strong statement from Kia. We are ready to fast forward to an all-new chapter."
The K9 spy photos show a sleek, low-slung luxury car styled to fit comfortably with premium German marques such as Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8. Its size is evident, accentuated by the large boot and tapering, coupe-style roofline. The bold, vertical-slat grille should fit comfortably with its German competitors by combining a touch of brazen with a touch of class.
Indications are that the K9 is not far away, with a launch on its home market possibly to take place in the second half of this year. Other markets are expected to get the car in 2013.
Question is: Does Kia’s spectacular ascendancy in Australia give local management the confidence to push for a local introduction?
With Hyundai not anticipating a local Genesis until the next generation model comes in three or so years, Kia would be making a bold move by beating its parent to the punch with a first crack at the luxury car segment. It would be a big jump, too, from today’s most expensive Kia, the $56,000 top-shelf Grand Carnival MPV.
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