The first launch in the Kia timeline for 2021 is the next-generation semi-large sedan ‘K8’, to be released in March. The K8 is expected to attract consumers by reborn as a completely new semi-large sedan rather than a truly successor of the K7 (known as Cadenza worldwide). Today we have new interior pictures that shows the two larger widescreens or a rotary gear selector.
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The new logo retains the “KIA” letters but introduces a more modern, angular font which also features a horizontally and vertically symmetrical design. It is expected that the new Kia K8 will be the first to be officially showcased with the new logo.
The K8 is a full change (codenamed as GL3) model of the current second-generation K7 in 5 years (codenamed as YG). The vehicle body is larger than before and advanced convenience or safety functions are strengthened. In addition, it is equipped with much more luxurious specifications than the existing K7. The design is also completely different from the existing model, and closer to the K5.
The current K7 went through a facelift in June last year with the launch of K7 Premier. The K7 Premier, which was the first facelift model to be released after the release of the second generation K7 in January 2016, was armed with a refined design and outstanding specifications such as 2.5 gasoline engine, a new IT system or a digital instrument panel, but even that wasn’t enough to beat Hyundai’s Grandeur.
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Inside we can see a fully digital gauge cluster and probably in the same piece of glass is another larger widescreen. This digital cluster shows a very simple graphics so they can be using any test mode for the graphics. Also a rotary gear selector (for the shift by wire transmission system), the same as K5, Sorento or Carnival is added.
K8 will introduce a 3.5-liter gasoline engine in addition to the existing Smartstream 2.5-liter gasoline turbo and hybrid models. It replaces the existing 3.0 liter gasoline and boasts powerful performance. The new 3.5 liter gasoline engine boasts a maximum output of 294 hp and a maximum torque of 36.2 kg·m.
In particular and for the first time, the K8 will have All-Wheel Drive in option for the 3.5 liter gasoline engine. It is expected that it will differentiate itself from Hyundai and exhibit stable driving power by applying the 4-wheel drive, which usually applied to high-performance like Stinger, or specialized SUVs like the Sorento. Remember that Kia offers the K5 with AWD in the North American market.
Photos by K7 GL3 Club
