It’s a pity that this is as close as we’ll get to it.
Last month, Kia unveiled the new K8 luxury sedan as a replacement for the K7. In the US, the K7 was badged as the Cadenza, which is being discontinued. Sadly, this means Kia’s latest luxury sedan won’t be coming to American. Kia shared photos and details of the exterior showcasing the Korean automaker’s new design direction, but the interior wasn’t shown. Just a few days after photos showing the cabin leaked, Kia has released the first official photos giving us a tour of the K8’s swanky interior – and it looks very cozy.
Although the K8 isn’t coming to the US, future models launched in the US will likely share similar interior design cues. Dominating the dashboard is a panoramic curved display combining a 12-inch digital cluster with a 12-inch infotainment system, mimicking the layout of contemporary Mercedes models.
Kia
Kia
The infotainment system and climate control are operated with a touchpad, minimizing the number of physical buttons. This is also the first Kia to feature a premium Meridian 14-speaker sound system providing high-quality in-car surround sound.
“The interior of the K8 is a canvas for our ambition to define the future, nature meets modern technology, and refinement meets uncompromised comfort. It is a first-class travel space that fulfills the needs of the driver and passengers,” said Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center. “The K8 is a modern sedan with a dynamic exterior that is matched by its progressive and elegant interior. This car – our first since our new company rebranding – puts us on the path forward as we look to realize our future goals.”
Kia
Kia
Elsewhere, the cabin is trimmed in wood surfaces with detailed finishing inspired by modern yachts, while the comfortable seats are finished in Napa leather with diamond stitching. Wood trim is also applied to the center console, which features a shift-by-wire transmission dial.
Kia’s ‘Star Cloud’ lighting projects glittering and interactive ambient lighting on the door trims and dashboard. Kia’s new logo is also prominently planted in the middle of the redesigned steering wheel. Engine options for the K8 still haven’t been confirmed, but Kia will reveal more details ahead of its launch later this year. Should Kia change its tune and bring this in, or is it a luxury car too many?
