The Kia K9 saloon has gone on sale, offering customers a 3.8-litre V6 engine and rear-wheel drive. However, British drivers hoping to pick up a large but inexpensive luxury car will be disappointed, as the company has no plans to bring the model to the UK.
Some export markets will receive the K9 later this year, although Kia hasn't specified which ones.
The K9 is closer in size to a BMW 7 Series than a 5 Series. Power output from the V6 is 290hp with a 334hp version due next year. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is fitted and promises 'brisk acceleration and high-speed refinement'.
Adaptive LED headlamps, Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and a 17-speaker Lexicon (by Harman) sound system are all standard.
"K9 is a clear signal of our intention and determination to compete head-to-head with the European luxury brands. And for Kia, our customers, and for me - this car is like a dream come true," says Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer.
John Lambert - 8 May 2012