It is larger and more sophisticated than the previous K7/Cadenza.
We first reported November 2020. To promote the K7 (Cadenza North America) to the K8 emblem, Kia has added the K7 badge to signify the sedan’s rise to the top. The “sleek, futuristic sports sedan” is now larger than ever, measuring in at 5,015mm (197.4 inches).
After a recent company rebranding, the K8 is Kia’s first product unveil. This includes an updated corporate logo. You can say what you like about the design, but it is distinctive and a significant departure from the K7/ Cadenza which was launched less than five decades ago.
The K8’s design features include a fastback-style roofline and a frameless “tigernose” front grille. This has a unique diamond-like lattice design and is complemented by the special cutouts in its front bumper that allow for similar-shaped LED daytime running lamps. The new Kia sedan at the rear embraces the full-width lightbar, which extends over the fenders in an Y shape.
The chrome trim piece is less obvious on this car due to the paint. However, it starts at the LED DRLs at front and ends in the lower corner. The rear pillar, just like the Kia Sorento SUV has a metallic ornament right above the fuel cap.
The interior and technical specifications of the K8 will be published by Kia at a later date. The new vehicle is expected to be available for purchase later in the year. We will also find out if it will be coming to the United States to replace our defunct Cadenza.
We are left wondering if the K9/K900 has a future as a product in the company’s lineup, considering the low sales. We also have to consider the Genesis luxury brand. It is possible that Hyundai Motor Group is worried about potential overlap between these sedans. The Kia brand could make the next K9 an electric flagship, but that remains to see.