Kia has finally revealed its all-new flagship sedan it calls the K9, just three months after an executive from the Korean carmaker revealed it is developing the car.
The K9 is Kia's first rear-wheel drive sedan and is regarded as one of 2012's most eagerly anticipated all-new models from the carmaker not just in Korea but in other markets as well.
The K9's exterior is faithful to the sketches Kia released in February and it continues the brand's evolving design language by carrying its now-familiar 'tiger-nose' radiator grille. Viewed from the front, the K9 presents an imposing image with its bold LED headlamps and voluminous hood.
The sophisticated and bold profile continues to the rear with its simple but strong character line, and the innovative and stable rear view with its high-tech LED combination lamps, luxurious chrome garnish and bumper-integrated muffler.
Although the K9 was designed to go up against the best European midsize executive cars like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Kia has no plans to bring the car to Europe. Instead, the carmaker will bring it to other markets later this year.
"The K9 is our first rear-wheel drive sedan, created without compromise in its design, driving performance and new technologies," said Soon-Nam Lee, Kia director for overseas marketing. "K9 sets a whole new level of standards and values in the large sedan segment, and its design will be another Kia demonstration of our brand’s power to surprise."
