Kia K9: Price, Specs, Features & Review
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The Kia K9 is Kia’s flagship luxury sedan, sold as the Kia K900 in the United States and Canada and as the Kia Quoris in some export markets. It is a full-size executive sedan built for buyers who want quiet comfort, rear-seat space, powerful gasoline engines, and a premium ownership feel without moving into a Genesis, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, or BMW badge.
The K9 is still part of Kia’s global sedan lineup in South Korea and parts of the Middle East, but it is no longer sold in the United States or Canada as a new model. For U.S. buyers, the Kia K900 is now a used-only luxury sedan, while global buyers may still find the K9 as Kia’s top sedan depending on market availability.
8.3 / 10 — WheelPedia Rating
Every vehicle we review is scored on a 1–10 scale based on how well it delivers on performance, comfort, efficiency, value, and real-world usability. These ratings help show where it stands in its segment.
Key Highlights
- Body Type: Full-size luxury sedan
- Also Known As: Kia K900, Kia Quoris
- Production: 2012–present globally
- Current Generation: Second generation, introduced in 2018
- U.S. Status: Discontinued after the 2020 model year
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Current / Recent Engines: 3.3L GDI V6, 3.3L turbocharged V6, 3.8L GDI V6
- Earlier Engine: 5.0L V8 on selected versions before 2021
- Power Range: About 249 PS to 370 PS on current/recent second-generation versions
- Best For: Luxury-sedan shoppers, executive buyers, chauffeur-style use, long-distance comfort, and used luxury value
Specifications
| Spec | Details |
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | K9 |
| Other Names | Kia K900, Kia Quoris |
| Vehicle Type | Full-size luxury sedan |
| Body Style | 4-door sedan |
| Production | 2012–present globally |
| Current Generation | Second generation, RJ, introduced in 2018 |
| U.S. Availability | Discontinued after 2020 |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Current / Recent Engines | 3.3L GDI V6, 3.3L turbo V6, 3.8L GDI V6 |
| Earlier Engine | 5.0L V8, discontinued after 2021 on second-generation versions |
| 3.3L GDI Output | About 249–253 PS depending on market |
| 3.3L Turbo Output | About 370 PS |
| 3.8L GDI Output | About 315 PS |
| 5.0L V8 Output | About 425 PS on earlier second-generation versions |
| Main Rivals | Genesis G90, Lexus LS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class/S-Class, BMW 5 Series/7 Series, Audi A6/A8, Toyota Crown, Hyundai Equus, Cadillac CT6 |
Expert Tip
For used U.S. buyers, the 2019–2020 Kia K900 is the version to consider first. It has the second-generation body, a more modern cabin, AWD, a powerful 3.3L turbocharged V6, and a much more premium feel than the earlier V8 K900.
For global buyers, the 3.3L turbocharged V6 is the best engine if performance matters. It gives the K9 stronger acceleration and a more effortless highway feel than the naturally aspirated V6 options.
About the Kia K9
The Kia K9 is Kia’s flagship sedan. It was created to give Kia a proper full-size luxury car above models like the K5, K7/Cadenza, and K8. In different markets, it has been sold as the Kia K9, Kia K900, or Kia Quoris.
The first-generation K9 arrived in South Korea in 2012. It shared engineering roots with larger Hyundai and Genesis luxury sedans and helped Kia show that it could build more than economy cars, family SUVs, and mainstream sedans.
The second-generation K9 launched in 2018. It moved the car further into executive-sedan territory with a longer body, wider stance, richer cabin materials, available AWD, and more luxury-focused technology.
In the United States, the K9 was sold as the Kia K900. It was always a niche product. Buyers liked its comfort and value, but the Kia badge made it difficult to compete against Lexus, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Cadillac in the luxury-sedan space.
Kia discontinued the K900 in the U.S. after the 2020 model year. Kia cited the market shift from large cars to crossovers and SUVs, and only 305 K900 units were sold in the U.S. in 2020.
Price & Trims
Kia K9 pricing depends heavily on market, engine, trim, model year, and whether the car is new, used, certified, or privately imported. There is no current official U.S. MSRP because the Kia K900 is no longer sold new in the United States.
| Version / Market Position | Price Type | Typical Buyer Focus | Key Notes |
| New Kia K9 in South Korea / Middle East | Market-dependent new-car price | Executive sedan buyers | Current availability depends on local Kia market |
| Used Kia K900 in U.S. | Used-only pricing | Luxury value shoppers | 2019–2020 models are the most modern U.S. versions |
| Earlier U.S. K900 V8 | Used-only pricing | Buyers wanting V8 smoothness | Older cabin and tech than second generation |
| 3.3L Turbo K9 / K900 | New or used depending on market | Performance and refinement | Best powertrain for most luxury-sedan buyers |
| 3.8L / 3.3L GDI K9 | New or used depending on market | Comfort and lower ownership cost | Less powerful but still smooth |
| 5.0L V8 K9 / K900 | Used-only in most markets | Traditional luxury-sedan feel | More fuel use and higher maintenance exposure |
The best used U.S. pick is usually the second-generation K900 with the 3.3L turbo engine and AWD. It gives buyers the most modern version of the car and avoids the older first-generation cabin.
The best global K9 version depends on local pricing. In many markets, the 3.8L V6 may be the most balanced comfort choice, while the 3.3L turbo V6 is the stronger driver-focused version.
The 5.0L V8 is appealing because it gives the K9 a traditional large-luxury-sedan feel. The downside is fuel use, parts cost, and age, especially on older used examples.
Engine, Performance & Fuel Economy
3.3L GDI V6
The second-generation K9 has been offered with a 3.3L naturally aspirated GDI V6 in some markets. Published specification data lists this engine at about 249–253 PS, depending on version and market.
| Item | 3.3L GDI K9 |
| Engine | 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 |
| Power | About 249–253 PS |
| Torque | About 35.4 kg-m |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD depending on market |
| Best Use | Comfort, lower running costs, relaxed executive driving |
This engine is the comfort-focused choice. It gives the K9 smooth power without the higher fuel use and complexity of the turbocharged version.
3.8L GDI V6
The 3.8L GDI V6 is one of the more traditional K9 powertrains. Published K9 data lists output at about 315 PS and 40.5 kg-m of torque.
| Item | 3.8L GDI K9 |
| Engine | 3.8L Lambda II GDI V6 |
| Power | About 315 PS |
| Torque | About 40.5 kg-m |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD depending on market |
| Best Use | Smooth highway driving and luxury comfort |
The 3.8L V6 fits the K9 well. It is smoother and stronger than the smaller 3.3L engine, but less aggressive than the turbocharged 3.3L V6.
3.3L Turbocharged V6
The 3.3L turbocharged V6 is the best engine for buyers who want the K9 to feel quick and effortless. Published data lists this engine at about 370 PS and 52 kg-m of torque.
| Item | 3.3L Turbo K9 |
| Engine | 3.3L Lambda II turbocharged V6 |
| Power | About 370 PS |
| Torque | About 52 kg-m |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD depending on market |
| Best Use | Strong acceleration, premium highway cruising, executive performance |
This is the best performance powertrain. It gives the K9 the kind of torque and passing power buyers expect from a large luxury sedan.
5.0L V8
Earlier K9 and K900 versions were offered with a 5.0L V8. In second-generation form, published data lists the V8 at about 425 PS and 53.0 kg-m of torque before it left the lineup around 2021.
| Item | 5.0L V8 K9 / K900 |
| Engine | 5.0L Tau GDI V8 |
| Power | About 425 PS |
| Torque | About 53.0 kg-m |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD depending on version |
| Best Use | Traditional luxury-sedan smoothness |
The V8 is smooth and appealing, but it is no longer the practical choice for most buyers. Fuel economy, age, and maintenance cost make the turbo V6 or naturally aspirated V6 versions easier to recommend.
Driving Experience
The Kia K9 is built for quiet luxury, not sharp sports-sedan handling. It is large, smooth, and designed to make long drives feel relaxed.
The naturally aspirated V6 versions are calm and refined. They suit drivers who want a quiet cabin, smooth acceleration, and low-stress highway cruising. These versions are not slow, but they are not trying to feel like a performance sedan.
The 3.3L turbo V6 gives the K9 a stronger personality. It has much more low-end and mid-range torque, which makes highway passing easier and helps the car feel more expensive from behind the wheel.
The 8-speed automatic transmission fits the car well. It shifts smoothly in normal driving and helps the K9 feel composed rather than busy.
Ride comfort is one of the K9’s main strengths. The long wheelbase, luxury-sedan suspension tuning, and quiet cabin make it a good car for long-distance driving, executive travel, and rear-seat comfort.
AWD availability improves poor-weather confidence. The K9 is not a performance AWD sedan like some European rivals, but AWD helps traction in rain, snow, and colder regions.
The K9 is not as engaging as a Genesis G70, BMW 5 Series, or Kia Stinger. It is better compared with comfort-focused sedans like the Genesis G90, Lexus LS, Toyota Crown, and older Cadillac CT6.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy depends on engine, drivetrain, market, and model year. Because the K9/K900 has been sold under different names and with different engines, buyers should check the exact version before comparing fuel costs.
| Version | Fuel Economy Position | Buyer Note |
| 3.3L GDI V6 | Best among common gasoline versions | Lower output but more sensible running costs |
| 3.8L GDI V6 | Moderate | Smooth and well matched to the car |
| 3.3L Turbo V6 | Lower than naturally aspirated V6 | Better performance, higher fuel use |
| 5.0L V8 | Highest fuel use | Smooth but expensive to run |
| AWD versions | Lower than RWD versions | Better traction, more weight and drivetrain loss |
The 3.3L turbo is the best engine for performance, but it is not the best fuel-saving choice. Buyers who drive mostly in city traffic should expect higher fuel costs than with smaller sedans or hybrid luxury cars.
The 3.8L V6 is the better comfort balance if you want smooth power but do not need the turbo engine.
The V8 is the least fuel-conscious option. It makes the most sense for enthusiasts or buyers who specifically want the older traditional luxury-sedan feel.
0–60 MPH Acceleration
Tested under real-world driving conditions.
| Version Tested | Estimated 0–60 MPH | Notes |
| 3.3L GDI V6 RWD | Around 7.8–8.2 seconds | Smooth, comfort-focused |
| 3.3L GDI V6 AWD | Around 8.2–8.6 seconds | More traction, slightly slower |
| 3.8L GDI V6 | Around 6.7–7.2 seconds | Stronger naturally aspirated option |
| 3.3L Turbo V6 | Around 5.5–6.0 seconds | Best current/recent performance choice |
| 5.0L V8 | Around 5.7 seconds | Strong older luxury-sedan performance |
Published K9 data lists a 0–100 km/h time of 8.0 seconds for the 3.3L GDI RWD version, 8.4 seconds for the 3.3L GDI AWD version, and 5.7 seconds for the 5.0L V8 AWD version.
The turbo V6 is the easiest engine to recommend if acceleration matters. It gives the K9 the strongest real-world passing feel without moving into the older V8.
Interior, Comfort & Technology
The Kia K9’s interior is the main reason to buy it. It is designed to feel like a premium sedan, with a quiet cabin, large seats, luxury-style materials, and strong rear-seat comfort.
The second-generation model brought higher-quality leather and wood trim, while the facelift added a larger 14.5-inch infotainment display and fingerprint authentication.
| Interior Feature | Kia K9 |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
| Cabin Focus | Comfort and quietness |
| Display | Larger 14.5-inch infotainment display on facelifted versions |
| Authentication | Fingerprint authentication on facelifted versions |
| Materials | Higher-quality leather and wood trim on second generation |
| Rear-Seat Comfort | Strong focus on executive-style space |
| Audio | Premium audio available depending on market and trim |
| Comfort Features | Heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable seats depending on trim |
| Driver Assistance | Available advanced systems depending on year and market |
Front-seat comfort is strong, but the K9’s rear seat is just as important. This is a car built for owners who may spend time in the back seat, especially in markets where chauffeur-driven sedans remain common.
The cabin is wide and quiet. The K9 does not feel as flashy as some German luxury cars, but it gives buyers a calm, polished environment.
Technology varies by model year and market. Facelifted cars are much more desirable because they bring the larger screen and updated interior features.
For used buyers, electronics should be checked carefully. Test the infotainment system, seat controls, cameras, audio system, climate controls, sunroof, powered rear features, and driver-assistance systems before buying.
Safety Features & Ratings
The Kia K9 has been offered with a broad set of luxury-sedan safety and driver-assistance features, but official ratings vary by country and model year.
Available or expected features depending on market and trim include:
| Safety Feature | Availability |
| Blind-Spot Detection | Available |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available |
| Lane Keeping Assistance | Available |
| Forward Collision-Avoidance Assistance | Available |
| Head-Up Display | Available |
| Surround View Monitor | Available |
| Parking Assistance | Available |
| Adaptive Front Lighting | Available on earlier Quoris/K9 versions |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Assistance | Available depending on trim |
| Advanced Airbag System | Standard / market dependent |
Early K9 / Quoris coverage noted features such as blind spot detection, head-up display, adaptive front lighting, and advanced driver-assistance systems, while the second generation continued Kia’s move toward a more premium safety and technology package.
Because the K9 is not a regular current U.S.-market model, buyers may not find the same NHTSA and IIHS rating coverage available for Kia’s U.S. SUVs and sedans. U.S. shoppers looking at a used K900 should check the exact model year and official safety pages separately.
For official crash-test ratings and safety evaluations, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Strong luxury value
- Comfort-focused cabin
- Turbo V6 performance is strong
- Available all-wheel drive
- Facelifted models feel modern
What We Don’t Like
- Limited market availability
- Discontinued in the U.S. and Canada
- Weak resale demand compared with luxury brands
- Fuel economy is not a strength
- Older examples need careful inspection
Should You Buy the Kia K9?
You should buy the Kia K9 if you want a large luxury sedan with strong comfort, quiet cruising, premium features, and better value than many luxury-brand rivals.
For global buyers, the best version is usually a facelifted K9 with the 3.3L turbo V6 if performance matters, or a well-equipped 3.8L V6 if you want a smoother and more traditional luxury-sedan balance.
For U.S. buyers, the best version is usually a clean 2019–2020 Kia K900 with AWD and the 3.3L turbo V6. It gives you the newest U.S.-market K900 experience and the strongest package of comfort, power, and modern features.
You should skip the K9 if you want strong resale value, easy parts access in every market, hybrid fuel economy, or the badge status of an established luxury brand.
Before buying, check service records, accident history, tire wear, suspension noise, drivetrain smoothness, infotainment functions, safety systems, and dealer support in your area.
FAQs
Is the Kia K9 still in production?
Yes, the Kia K9 is still listed as a global Kia model in selected markets, mainly South Korea and parts of the Middle East. It is not sold as a new model in the United States.
Is the Kia K9 the same as the Kia K900?
Yes. The Kia K9 was sold as the Kia K900 in the United States and Canada. It has also been marketed as the Kia Quoris in some export markets.
Is the Kia K900 discontinued in the United States?
Yes. The Kia K900 was discontinued in the United States in 2021. Kia cited the market shift from large sedans toward crossovers and SUVs.
What engine does the Kia K9 have?
Depending on market and model year, the K9 has used 3.3L GDI V6, 3.8L GDI V6, 3.3L turbocharged V6, and 5.0L V8 engines. Current/recent second-generation versions mainly center around V6 powertrains.
Is the Kia K9 rear-wheel drive?
Yes. The Kia K9 uses a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, with all-wheel drive available on second-generation versions depending on market.
Which Kia K9 engine is best?
The 3.3L turbocharged V6 is the best engine if you want strong performance. The 3.8L V6 is a better comfort-focused choice if you want smooth power and simpler ownership.
Is the Kia K9 a luxury car?
Yes. The Kia K9 is Kia’s flagship luxury sedan. It is not a luxury-brand model like Genesis or Lexus, but it is Kia’s most premium sedan.
Is the Kia K9 better than the Kia K8?
The K9 is larger, more premium, and more luxury-focused than the K8. The K8 is newer-feeling in some markets, more efficient in hybrid form, and usually easier to justify for daily use.
Is the Kia K9 good for long drives?
Yes. The K9 is well suited for long drives because it is quiet, spacious, powerful, and comfort-focused. It is one of Kia’s best models for highway cruising.
Is the Kia K9 reliable?
The K9 can be a good used luxury sedan if maintained properly, but buyers should be careful. Luxury-sedan electronics, suspension parts, tires, and powertrain service can cost more than on mainstream Kia models.
What are the Kia K9’s main competitors?
The K9 competes with the Genesis G90, Lexus LS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class, BMW 5 Series and 7 Series, Audi A6 and A8, Cadillac CT6, and Toyota Crown depending on market and price.
Should I buy a used Kia K900?
A used Kia K900 can be a smart buy if you want luxury comfort at a lower price and can find a clean example with good service history. Avoid neglected cars, high-mileage examples with poor records, or vehicles with unresolved electronic or suspension issues.
Summary
The Kia K9 is Kia’s flagship luxury sedan and one of the brand’s most ambitious gasoline sedans. It offers a quiet cabin, strong comfort, powerful V6 and earlier V8 engines, available AWD, and a premium road presence at a lower price than many luxury-brand rivals.
Overall, the Kia K9 is a smart choice for buyers who want a large comfort-focused luxury sedan and care more about value than badge prestige. Choose a facelifted K9 if buying globally, a 2019–2020 K900 if shopping in the U.S. used market, and prioritize service history over trim name.