Kia discontinued the Cadenza in the United States in 2021, but its successor was launched in South Korea later that year. In its home market, the big sedan was known as the K7, but for the latest generation, it switched to the K8 moniker. Now, it’s getting a mid-cycle update. As is typical of Kia, the changes are significant, even though it’s technically just a facelift.
In keeping with Kia’s latest design language, the K8 features vertical headlights, which give the car a futuristic look. The front has been completely redesigned compared to the pre-facelift model, and now features a wide LED strip to bridge the connection between the headlights. Kia has also moved its logo from the bumper to the lower part of the bonnet.
The changes at the rear are subtle, but we’re happy to report that the hideous fake exhaust tips are now a thing of the past. The taillights appear to be retained while the redesigned bumper has a cleaner look. Unusually for a facelift, the front and rear overhangs are now slightly longer than before after the bumper was reshaped.
Stepping inside, there are also significant changes. Updated climate controls are now located below the central air vents. Kia has added more soft-touch materials and a strip of LED ambient lighting that cuts across the dashboard. At the rear, the seat belts are illuminated. Speaking of safety, all versions get 10 airbags as standard. Elsewhere, the headlights have adaptive high beams that dim partially so as not to distract oncoming drivers.
If you recall, the now-discontinued Cadenza was sold only with front-wheel drive. The K8 has been offered in Korea since day one with optional all-wheel drive. Power is provided by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with 195 hp and 183 lb-ft for the base model. If you need more power, there’s a larger 3.5-liter V-6 with 296 hp and 265 lb-ft. Only the latter is available with AWD.
Alternatively, customers can opt for the 3.5 LPI, which stands for liquid propane injection. That engine is rated at 237 hp and 231 lb-ft of torque. The final available engine is a 1.6-liter hybrid unit that produces a combined 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
While Kia calls the 2025 BMW 5 Series K8 the “Priceless,” the luxury sedan does come with a hefty price tag. The lowest price is the equivalent of about $27,300 at current exchange rates, which seems more than reasonable. Even the highest price seems like a good deal at $37,800.
All versions, except the hybrid, will go on sale this month. The electric model will follow after Kia obtains the necessary certification.
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Kia
