K8 Facelift Launch Approaching
Rendering of the New K8 Unveiled
New Design Direction Introduced
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The launch of the refreshed Kia K8, the brand’s large sedan, is just around the corner. Kia has recently unveiled teaser images and videos of the updated K8, hinting at significant design changes. The big question now is whether this new model will outshine the Hyundai Grandeur, which has been the benchmark.
In 2023, the Grandeur topped the sales charts with 113,047 units sold, while the K8 sold only 40,437 units—less than half of its competitor’s sales. With the facelift aiming to turn the tide, recent renderings of the new K8 have generated considerable buzz.
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Larger Radiator Grille
Luxurious Image Revealed
This image of the K8, created by a virtual rendering designer, reveals a design direction that deviates from the teaser images, suggesting a new aesthetic vision. The rendering emphasizes a more luxurious design with several notable changes.
The most striking alteration is the front grille, which has been reshaped into a trapezoid. Inside the grille, the diamond pattern has been replaced with a dense diagonal pattern. The large grille now dominates the front fascia, giving the K8 a more substantial and refined look than the current model. The sharper lines of the grille enhance its sophistication and eliminate any dullness. The bumper grille extends thinly and horizontally towards the sides, improving the vehicle’s sleek appearance.
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Sharply Redesigned Headlamps
Extending into the Grille
The headlamps have also been changed. The two-line lamp design has been enhanced with details penetrating the grille sharply. By treating sharp lines, the sportier feel has been improved compared to the existing K8. In addition, a triangular air intake is applied to the side of the bumper. The air intake area becomes narrower as it goes inward.
Chrome trim is strategically placed along the edges of the tapered air intake and generously outlines the bumper grille. The bonnet’s voluminous lines and arched shape remain consistent with the existing K8. On the side, the K8 features hidden door handles to emphasize a sleek, uninterrupted side profile.
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A thinner tail lamp shape and two lines of reflectors applied
The black molding garnish across the rear quarter glass is applied, and the chrome garnish along the lower side skirt is the same. The rear tail lamp has been changed while maintaining the horizontally stretched design of the current K8. First, the tail lamp’s shape has become thinner, and the length of the tail lamp extending downward from the side has been lengthened.
Here, the upper tail lamp that extended towards the rear quarter panel has been deleted and formed into a single line. The bumper has an increased area of black high-gloss, and two rows of reflectors are applied. A rear spoiler that protrudes slightly along the trunk lid line is installed and the lower muffler tip is split into two and applied.
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