The new Kia K8: A high-tech, modern and innovative sedan

South Korea’s second-largest automaker Kia Corp. on Friday unveiled a new K8 large-size sedan, its first drastic facelift in three years.

Kia, a sister firm of Korea’s No. 1 automaker Hyundai Motor Co., said it has begun receiving orders for the new K8 with a sticker price starting from 37.36 million won ($27,338) in Korea.

The latest model, its first major design overhaul on the K8 since its launch in April 2021, features several exterior and interior technological advancements, according to the company.

In keeping with Kia's latest design language, the new K8 has vertical headlights – its new star-map signature lighting – lending the car an ultra-modern appearance.

“The exterior design fuses innovation with elegance to create a sleek and futuristic profile,” it said.

The front end has been fully redesigned; there's now a wide LED strip to bridge a connection between the headlights, making the vehicle look like the Kia Sorento or the Kia Carnival.

The taillights have seemingly been carried over while the restyled bumper has a cleaner appearance. Unusual for a facelift, the front and rear overhangs are now slightly longer than before after resculpting the bumpers.

NOTABLE TWEAKS INSIDE

Stepping inside, there are notable tweaks.

The new K8 boasts improved connectivity by installing the next-generation infotainment system ccNC, which enables wireless software updates called OTA, or over-the-air updates.

The posh sedan’s panoramic curved display is equipped with dynamic ambient lighting, which lights up to give speed limit warnings or when entering a child protection zone.

The new sedan is also equipped with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) for all versions.

Kia said it added its signature black trim to the new K8 lineup.

All versions except the hybrid will go on sale this month. The electrified model will follow once Kia obtains the necessary certification.

Write to Jin-Won Kim at jin1@hankyung.com

In-Soo Nam edited this article.