UPDATE: You can now read our first review of the 2019 Kia K900
The all-new 2019 Kia K900 flagship sedan has been revealed at the New York Auto Show and will be followed up by the car’s U.S. launch in the second quarter of 2018. The shape of the elegantly proportioned sedan is a collaborative effort between Kia global design headquarters in Namyan, Korea and its Irvine, Calif., studio.
Calling the design philosophy “Gravity of Prestige”, the K900 will have a bold grille with 176 jewel-like cells arranged to suggest a release of energy from the center of the opening. The body contours feature flowing lines that sweep gracefully over the hood, through the sides and resolve at the rear of the vehicle to give the K900 a tailored look.
A touch of elegance is added through the strategic use of brightwork around the windows, along the base of the doors and around the lower rear section of the K900. Geometric design elements, including the “Duplex comet” LED headlamps give the K900 a futuristic look.
Much of this look is the result of the all-new platform and longer proportions for the K900. The wheelbase has been stretched 2.3 inches to 122.2 inches, however there are shorter front and rear overhangs giving more emphasis on the passenger cabin. This longer wheelbase and wider track also improves both ride and handling.
Also: Check out the latest news from the New York Auto Show
Elegant, minimalist interior
The minimalist approach to the cabin layout results in an elegant and peaceful space which uses a wrap-around dash to promote a cocooning effect. High quality wood and metal veneers along with soft touch materials and leather are in keeping with a vehicle that is Kia’s flagship sedan. Designers also paid specific attention to blending in high tech elements like the 12.3-inch touchscreen display, simplified switchgear and a manual rotary dial to make the cabin a clean and uncluttered space.
Another high-tech feature is use of intelligent lighting control with proximity sensors that illuminates the dashboard only when it detects the driver’s hand reaching for a control. Several ambient illumination options are also available through the mood lighting system. Inspired by the simplicity of fine watch design, the K900 dashboard also houses an elegant analog clock, developed specifically for the new model through an exclusive collaboration with Swiss luxury watch brand, Maurice Lacroix.
The K900 boasts a 3.3-liter twin turbo V6, the same engine found in the automaker’s Stinger fastback sport sedan. The engine produces 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to a an 8-speed automatic transmission. The previous generation’s 420-horsepower V8 engine has been dropped. Pricing will be announced closer to the 2019 K900’s on-sale date.
