SEOUL, Nov. 18 (Korea Bizwire) — Kia Motors held a launching event for its new brand “The New K9” on November 17. Also known as the “K9 Quantum,” it is mounted with a 5.0-liter V8 Tau GDI engine for the first time among Kia models in Korea.
By granting the word quantum, as in “quantum leap,” the company wanted to convey its desire to leapfrog the top-of-the-line model into a world-class car. The K9 Quantum’s engine features a maximum output of 425 horsepower and a maximum torque of 52.0 kg·m.
The engine is currently available only on the Hyundai Equus. All other import brands mount the engine on their top models only. That means the Kia K9 Quantum can attain the status of a deluxe sedan as soon as it is introduced.
The company is determined to put the latest model at the top of the pack and overcome its past mistake of positioning the K9 with the likes of the Equus but ending up being left behind the Genesis and similar models.
By John Choi (johnchoi@koreabizwire.com)