The 2024 Kia K8, a striking departure from its predecessor, the Cadenza, is making waves in the automotive market. This full-sized sedan, positioned as a more affordable alternative to luxury models like the Genesis G90, is causing a stir with its unexpected price point.
Priced competitively at a starting MSRP of 37,360,000 won (approximately $27,347) in South Korea, the K8 defies expectations for a vehicle of its size and class.
The refreshed model showcases Kia’s evolving design language, notably drawing inspiration from the K4, Sorento, and Carnival in its exterior styling. While the K8 offers a compelling proposition with its blend of luxury, technology, and affordability, it remains to be seen how it will fare in markets beyond South Korea.
The redesigned sedan presents a bold new face with vertical headlights interconnected by a distinctive light bar and sophisticated daytime running lights, imbuing the vehicle with a futuristic aura.
A departure from its platform-sharing counterparts, the K4, Sorento, and Carnival MPV, the traditional grille has been almost eliminated, emphasizing the prominence of the headlights. The rear design has been refined with the removal of superfluous fake exhaust tips and redesigned bumpers that contribute to a sleeker profile.
Step inside, and the interior reveals a contemporary atmosphere highlighted by a new steering wheel, a state-of-the-art infotainment system capable of wireless software updates, and an immersive ambient lighting system that cascades across the instrument cluster, central display, and seatbelt buckles. The cabin’s premium character is further accentuated by the generous use of soft-touch materials.