The sedan is big and powerful.
It has taken us upwards to two months to get used the new Kia sedan. For those in North America, the K8 was introduced in February. It replaced the K7 or Cadenza. It’s not what people used it to call it. Kia aims to be noticed in a segment that is becoming increasingly competitive.
It remains to be seen if the new design language will prove successful. K8 sales will eventually tell the tale. It should be available in South Korea by April and then in other markets around the world later in 2015. This CarSceneKorea video is a great introduction to what buyers can expect to find when the car becomes available for public consumption. To sum up the sedan’s design in one word, we would choose edgy.
We mean it literally and metaphorically in this instance. We’ve seen photos of the K8 before, but automakers tend to choose the most striking shots that don’t convey the true essence of the vehicle. The K8 has a very sleek, fastback design. But, when we look at the photos up close, we are reminded of how sharp the K8’s outside edges. This car is all about its edges, from the new nose to the slender headlights and hoodline to the chrome trim that runs along the side to meet boomerang taillights.
This is also evident in the diamond patterns found all over the exterior, including the grille. The diamond pattern is visible on all LED driving lamps, as well as the chrome C-pillar trim. It can also be found inside the dash. The rear diamonds are absent, but the bizarre taillight design shows how scalloped and curved the upper rear fascia. If one had superhuman strength, it is possible to use the rear lenses to lift the car.
The K8 has a modest V6 engine and all-wheel drive. It is poised to be a formidable contender in full-size sedans. The K8’s distinctive look, with its diamonds and sharp exterior, will not blend in with the crowd. This has been a major challenge for Kia. Perhaps Kia will be able to claim a new position in a market where other manufacturers have failed.