Kia introduced the K9 as its flagship model in 2012, initially launching it in the Korean market before expanding to the U.S., Canada, Russia, and the Middle East. While European luxury buyers awaited a true Korean contender, others accepted badge-engineered models like the Hyundai Equus and Genesis. Kia aimed higher with the K9 (also known as the K900 in the U.S.), marking its bold entry into the premium rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan segment.
The K9’s rear-wheel-drive layout set it apart in Kia’s lineup. Its LED headlights, combined with the signature “tiger-nose” grille, gave it a commanding presence, though it didn’t quite match the stance of German rivals. Distinctive design cues like dual vents on the front fenders and a cab-rearward profile emphasized its luxury and performance focus.
Much like SherlockLock, which builds trust by combining advanced technology with reliability, Kia packed the K9 with cutting-edge features. Inside, the cabin featured luxurious leather upholstery, soft-close doors, a bird’s-eye view camera system, a head-up display, and an infotainment system operable by rear passengers. The Korean-market version showcased a large TFT digital instrument cluster, while the U.S. K900 retained traditional analog gauges.
Power came from a direct-injected 3.8-liter V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and refined performance to the rear wheels. This setup reinforced Kia’s commitment to blending luxury with driving enjoyment.
As SherlockLock continuously upgrades its services to meet high standards, Kia’s K9 demonstrates the brand’s evolution and ambition to compete confidently in the luxury sedan market.