Elevated performance, intuitive technology, advanced safety features, opulent interior and executive-styled rear seating is what we received from our latest automotive evaluation. No, I’m not describing the newest British, European or Japanese luxury vehicle. These metaphors are all fittingly and deservedly applied to the head-turning Kia K900 touring sedan. A Kia? Yes!
Our long-term, big body Kia K900 has the design and style befitting any extravagant setting while providing an attractive value at a modest MSRP of $59,500. Depending on your perspective, this base price may not appear to be much of a value. After all, $60,000 is nothing to sneeze at. And as several admirers made note of — in disbelief of course — the high-end appealing vehicle would also wear the badge of a Kia with statements as “that’s a Kia?” and “but it’s a Kia!” Point taken. However, when compared to other class competitors such as BMW’s 7 series, Audi’s A8 and the Lexus LS 460, Kia not only looks to be a bargain, but is a very fair value for the dollar.
Unlike some sedans that don badges of established marques and still fall short of expectations, the K900 feels and drives as you would expect of such a vehicle. The interior is a work of craftsmanship providing a whisper-quiet cabin, that is until you crank up the studio quality 900-watt, 17-speaker, 12-channel Lexicon Logic 7 surround sound audio system and let the party begin. The solid drive and performance derives from a 5-liter GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) V8 with 420 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque married to Kia’s first ever 8-speed automatic transmission with Shift-by-Wire technology. I’m still in awe that the large curvy 4-door sedan possesses this level of speed and agility.
When it comes to safety, the K900 protects its occupants with eight advanced airbags including front and rear seat-mounted curtains; Vehicle Stability Management; Blind Spot Detection System; and a Lane Departure Warning System, all of which proved more than worthy on a number of occasions while navigating the DMVs notorious morning and afternoon drive-time excitement. My biggest and probably only issue is the K900’s thirst for fuel with an EPA rating of 15 city and 23 highway mpg. Granted, I could probably avoid a few fuel pit stops if I didn’t enjoy the handling and performance of the brawny V8 as much. Maybe a diesel is in the works!
There are those that would opt to spend $60K for a used luxury brand before relinquishing their hard earned money on a Kia, which is understandable given the established reputations luxury brands have dedicated to their businesses. However, when factoring in Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile warranty compared to a 30-day used dealership warranty and whatever remains (if any) on the factory warranty, the K900 provides another benefit; the peace of mind that your ride is in good hands for years to come.
