The Kia K8 is a mid-size sedan that made its debut in South Korea in October 2020, as a replacement for the Cadenza and Optima. The K8 features a new design language for Kia, characterized by a bold and aggressive front grille, swept-back headlamps, and a distinctive LED signature light strip.
Engine:
The Generation 1 K8 is available with two engine options in certain markets, but for many countries including the US, the smart choice is the L3.5 LPi ( Lambda 3.5) gasoline power unit, which delivers a substantial 293 horsepower and 345 Nm of torque at a relatively low RPM range. This inline-four cylinder engine features Kia's Smartstream technology and runs on Regular Unleaded Petrol.
Transmission:
The K8 comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth shifts and seamless gear progression, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency in various driving scenarios. The gearbox features paddle shifters for drivers who prefer a more dynamic driving experience.
Interior:
Inside the Kia K8, you'll find a spacious cabin with premium materials, a modern design aesthetic, and plenty of features to enhance comfort, convenience, and entertainment. Key interior highlights include heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen display (or larger), navigation, wireless charging for compatible smartphones, and more.
Features:
Some notable standard or available features on the Kia K8 include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane departure warning and assist systems, blind spot monitoring, forward collision avoidance, parking sensors, a powered moonroof, a heads-up display, a Harman/Kardon premium sound system, and more.
Dimensions:
The Kia K8 is a mid-size sedan that measures 4,935 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,960 mm. These dimensions provide ample space for passengers and luggage alike.
Safety:
The Kia K8 has been designed with safety in mind and features advanced safety technologies to protect occupants. In many markets, including the US, it is available with a range of driver assistance systems that can help prevent or mitigate accidents.
Fuel Economy:
While not a major factor for everyone, especially considering modern driving habits and urban environments often necessitating frequent stops, fuel efficiency is worth mentioning. Kia's official estimates suggest an estimated combined cycle MPG (city + highway) around 23-25 MPG for the L3.5 LPi engine on the K8.