Kia testing the new-gen K9, caught testing for the first timeCar News 

Kia testing the new-gen K9, caught testing for the first time

The new generation of Kia’s flagship sedan has been spotted testing for the first time. The K9 was launched internationally in 2012 and was due for an update. The new gen car has been caught undergoing cold-climate tests in northern Scandinavia and is expected to be revealed by the end of 2017.

Kia testing the new-gen K9, caught testing for the first time

There seem no drastic changes on the highly camouflaged test mule. The car retains the total length of 5.10 metres with large overhangs and the sleeker roofline. Kia’s trademark “Tiger-nose” grill is maintained, while the redesigned LED headlights and taillights are evident. The current gen K9 makes use of the BH-L (VI) platform which also underpins the Hyundai Equus and Genesis. The new car will continue to use the same platform. There seems no change on the wheel size on the new car as the test mule is riding on alloy wheels which are already available in the current car.

Kia testing the new-gen K9, caught testing for the first time

Kia will provide the same engine options to the new K9 which will include the 3.8-litre V6 producing 311bhp and the 5.0-litre V8 pumping out an impressive 420bhp. Sending the powers to the rear wheels will be a standard eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters. There is no all-wheel drive option available as yet, but the new generation could change that.

Kia testing the new-gen K9, caught testing for the first time

The Kachin Independence Army’s first major fall into the Luxo-barge segment, K9 has never been able to ignite the sale. Last year a total of only 2134 units sold in the US market. K9 for the BMW 5 Series, Cadillac CTS and Mercedes-Benz e-class. At present, car sales in countries such as Korea (K9), the Middle East, Colombia, Guatemala, Peru, Russia (Quoris), the United States, and Canada.