Not Your Father’s Kia

by

April 2014

2015 Kia K900

This is a classic American tale. After 20 years inbrthe U.S. market, an import has worked its way up to take on the giants ofbrmodern luxury sedans — namely, the Lexus LS 460, Mercedes-Benz S550 and thebrAudi A8. Growing on the successes of the well-equipped Optima sedan, Kia'sbrstylish vehicles and clever marketing have enticed plenty of affluent customersbrwho make their way to showrooms across the country. Forget what you thought youbrknew about the economy carmaker of yesteryear — 2014 marks a new era, and thebrK900 ultra-luxury sedan makes the bold statement, "This is not yourbrfather's Kia."

At the forefrontbrof Kia's new luxury play, the K900 VIP has a list of standard equipment as longbras the carmakers industry-leading warranties, and with a price tag near $60,000,brthey are confident you'll put your money where their enormous wheelbase is.  Breaking the mold of Kia's past, the K900broffers the company's first-ever V8 sedan. The rear-drive engine kicks out anbrimpressive 420 horsepower — on pace with all luxury models in its price range.brKia has paired its powerful workhorse with a smooth shifting, eight-speedbrautomatic transmission that takes efficiency and performance one step furtherbrwith driver selectable settings of eco, normal and sport. The additionalbrgasoline direct injection helps maintain a not-so-conspicuous fuel consumptionbrof 23 mpg highway.

Taking a closerbrlook at the K900, its apparent change also comes from within its sophisticatedbrcabin. Soft Nappa leather in contrasted stitching is appropriately emphasizedbragainst the luxurious backdrop of genuine walnut or poplar wood trim. Thosebrwith attention to detail will also enjoy the standard heated, three-spoke Nappabrleather-wrapped steering wheel that features controls for audio, entertainment,brcruise and vehicle information. Better suited for the corporate carpool, thebrK900's stellar accommodations continue at the rear of the cabin. Standard featuresbrinclude rear seats that offer multi-stage heating and cooling, have the abilitybrto independently recline and incorporate power lumbar support.  There is also a center console armrest, powerbrrear-window sunshades and to top it all off, an incredible view through itsbrfull-length panoramic roof. For K900 rear passengers and Kia as a whole, thingsbrare definitely looking up.

Details

Engine: 5-liter V8

Horsepower: 420 hp

MPG: 15/23 city/hwy

MSRP: starting at $59,500

0-60: 5.5 sec