Flash Drive

2015 Kia K900

December 10, 2014 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 
The 2015 Kia K900 is a high performance luxury sedan with 420 horsepower.
The 2015 Kia K900 is a high performance luxury sedan with 420 horsepower.

Model Tested: 2015 Kia K900 

Engine: 5.0-liter V-8, 420 horsepower 376 lb-ft torque 

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission rear-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 15/City—23/Highway—18/Combined 

Base Price: $59,500 

As Tested: $66,400 

Performance:

Very smooth, powerful V-8

Quick acceleration

Muscle car exhaust note, but not raucous

Smooth efficient 8-speed automatic transmission

Snow mode switch on center console

Comfortable luxury car ride, but not mushy

Acceptable fuel economy for a large luxury sedan

Handsome 19-inch chrome alloy wheels 

Comfort:

Rear seats recline with the VIP option. Space and comfort are impressive.
Rear seats recline with the VIP option. Space and comfort are impressive.

Outstanding passenger comfort/coddling

Top quality interior materials, design, and insulation

Nappa leather, wood trim

Heated steering wheel

Massive panoramic sunroof

Reclining rear seats part of $6,000 VIP option

Heated and cooled seats front and rear

High end, high tech sound system and electronics

NBA player legroom

Utility:

Highly functional Heads Up Display

Retractable side mirrors activate on approach

Big, power closing trunk, flat floor, but noticeable lift-over

Glove box and console bin on the small side

Big seatback pouches 

WOW Factors:

Front seat legroom is sufficient for NBA players.
Front seat legroom is sufficient for NBA players.

Most luxurious, powerful Kia ever

Great luxury for the price

Sharp, contemporary styling

Phenomenal legroom

High quality fit and finish

Excellent safety features 

Whines:

Auxiliary steering wheel controls need improvement

Sound system controls not very intuitive

Rain sensing wipers were inconsistent

At this price point most buyers are label/brand influenced

Resale value could be an issue 

Bottom Line:

Big dual exhausts outlet the powerful V-8 engine. Handsome wheels are 19-inch chrome alloys.
Big dual exhausts outlet the powerful V-8 engine. Handsome wheels are 19-inch chrome alloys.

The 2015 Kia K900 VIP sedan is an impressive luxury sport sedan for any manufacturer, but doubly impressive given the basic economy cars Kia first brought to the United States. The K900 is a pleasure for both driver and passengers.