Restyling Kia K8: new images

Earlier this week, Kia released the first teasers of the updated K8 sedan, which give us an idea of ​​​​what it will look like.

The first and only generation of the Kia K8 sedan was first presented in the spring of 2021. It replaced the model that bore the names K7 and Cadenza, depending on the market. The K8 has been on the assembly line for more than three years, and this is the right time to prepare for the restyling. An additional factor can be considered a noticeable drop in demand: according to Kia, 12,478 cars were sold on the native Korean market in the first half of 2024, which is almost half as much as in the same period in 2023.

Current Kia K8 1/3 The current Kia K8 2/3 The current Kia K8 3/3

The K8 has a very original front design that does not overlap with other models of the brand. However, judging by the first official photos, the sedan will receive a completely new «face» during the restyling. Now it will be made in the style of some of the company's new products, in particular, electric crossovers. There are similar vertical headlight units, visually united by a narrow decorative insert with a strip of LED running lights. There will be no radiator grille in the usual place, it will be located slightly lower in the bumper. Most likely, there will be no significant changes on the side, while the rear part will only be affected by cosmetic improvements. Thus, the lights, with the same shape, will receive updated LED graphics, tailored to the current style of the company. You can also expect an updated design of the rear bumper and new wheels.

Render of the updated Kia K8

There is no confirmed information about changes in the technical part yet. The current K8 is offered in Korea with naturally aspirated gasoline 2.5 GDI (198 hp) and V6 3.5 GDI (300 hp). The second option can be equipped with an all-wheel drive transmission, while the other modifications are front-wheel drive. There is also a hybrid modification HEV with an installation based on a turbo engine 1.6 T-GDI and a gas version V6 3.5 LPI (240 hp). All engines are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Render of the updated Kia K8

The premiere of the updated Kia K8 will take place during this month.

Meanwhile, the new (probably frame) Kia Tasman pickup is also being prepared for its debut.