Kia is all set to launch its new K9 rear-drive large sedan exclusively for the South Korean market. The automaker announced the news in a press release which didn’t reveal whether the vehicle will be sold in North American markets. Actually, the company doesn’t name any specific markets for the car. Sources close to the automaker made clear that Kia has no plans to sell its new version of K9 in the US, but said the plans would change. However, the automaker now plans to export the car to other Asian markets form the second half, and may then expand to regions including North America and China.

“The striking new rear-wheel drive sedan will be launched in a number of key overseas markets starting in the fourth quarter of 2012. While called K9 in its home market, the sedan penned under design chief Schreyer’s direction will be renamed for other markets,” said Kia in a statement. The K9 is built on an all-new platform and integrates levels of comfort, engaging driving dynamics and high-tech features, which we have never seen before from the brand. The car has been designed as a lower-cost competitor to other vehicles such as the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

The K9 is Kia’s large RWD flagship, which is superior to the sportier RWD four-door sedan that shares the Genesis coupe’s wheelbase, shown at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. According to the official statement, the K9 is on a RWD of Kia’s own design, though its 119.9-inch wheelbase is the same length as the Hyundai Equus.

The new K9 sedan offers four driving modes – Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow – that provides the driver to opt for pre-programmed set-ups that change the electronically controlled air suspension, steering, engine and transmission to outfit road and weather conditions and driving style. Besides, the K9 features advanced safety measures including completely adaptive LED headlamps, lane departure warning, blind spot detection and around-view monitor with four cameras. The K9 is powered by a 213kW 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine, and a 245kW direct-injection version will join the global powertrain line-up in 2013.

via Motor Trend