Kia Prices 2015 K900 at $59,500 in US Luxury Saloon Push
Kia sets the starting price of its 2015 K900 at $59,500 before destination, positioning the V8-powered saloon against established luxury rivals in the American market.
Kia has announced that its 2015 K900 luxury saloon will go on sale in the United States with a starting price of $59,500, excluding a $900 destination charge. The K900, known as the Quoris in some markets, marks Kia’s most ambitious entry into the US premium segment to date.
The K900 arrives with a 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 420hp and 376lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear-wheel drive. This puts the K900 in direct competition with established luxury saloons from German and Japanese rivals, but at a price point undercutting many of them.
Standard specification on the US-market K900 includes a powered boot lid, adaptive LED headlights, and 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, buyers will find Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and wood trim in walnut or poplar. The cabin also features LED ambient lighting and a 17-speaker Lexicon audio system, aiming to match the comfort and technology levels of established luxury competitors.
VIP Package and Options
For those seeking additional equipment, Kia offers a VIP package at $6,000. This adds a head-up display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 16-way adjustable driver’s seat, power-reclining rear seats, power-closing doors, Advanced Smart Cruise Control, a surround view monitor, and a pre-safe seatbelt system. These features are designed to appeal to executive buyers who expect advanced driver assistance and comfort technology in this segment.
Market Position and Competitors
With a starting price just below $60,000, the K900 enters a segment dominated by the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, and Lexus GS, but offers V8 power and a high level of standard equipment for less than many comparably equipped rivals. The pricing strategy follows Kia’s approach with the Optima Hybrid, which also targeted value-conscious buyers in higher segments.
The K900’s launch in the US represents a clear statement of intent from Kia, which is seeking to expand its brand image beyond value and mainstream segments. The car will be available to order later in 2014, with deliveries expected to follow shortly after. For buyers considering alternatives, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class also recently announced US pricing, starting from $38,400, but with four- and six-cylinder options rather than a V8 at entry level.
- 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: from $38,400 (four- and six-cylinder engines)
- 2015 Kia K900: from $59,500 (5.0-litre V8)
- 2015 BMW 5 Series: typically from mid-$50,000s (four- and six-cylinder engines)
Kia’s decision to launch the K900 with a V8 as standard is a bold move, intended to differentiate it from rivals and attract buyers seeking value in the premium segment. The real test will be whether American buyers embrace a Kia badge on a luxury saloon at this price point.
