Kia K9 KH
Kia's ambitious first foray into the rear-wheel-drive flagship luxury market.
- Power
- 311 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.2 s
- Top speed
- 149 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$16k
About the Kia K9 KH
The Kia K9 (marketed as the K900 in North America and Quoris elsewhere) represented a significant shift for the Korean brand, moving from budget-friendly cars to a full-size luxury flagship. Sharing its rear-wheel-drive BH-L platform with the Hyundai Equus and Genesis, the K9 was designed to compete with established European rivals like the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The 3.8-litre V6 variant offered a more accessible entry point than the range-topping V8, providing a smooth, comfort-oriented driving experience with a high level of standard technology. Despite its impressive build quality and value proposition, it struggled to overcome the brand prestige of its competitors in Western markets.
Kia K9 KH specs
The Kia K9 KH produces 311 bhp (232 kW) and 397 Nm (293 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 149 mph (240 km/h).
| Make | Kia |
|---|---|
| Model | K9 |
| Generation | KH |
| Trim | 3.8 V6 |
| Years | 2012–2018 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | South Korea |
| Original price | About $49,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.8-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,778 cc (3.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 311 bhp (232 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 397 Nm (293 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.2 s |
| Top speed | 149 mph (240 km/h) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,985 kg (4,376 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 157 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Kia K9 KH worth?
A typical Kia K9 KH is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $16,000 (about £5,600 – £12,000).
Its original price when new was about $49,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Kia K9 KH rarity in CarSpot
The Kia K9 KH is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Kia K9 KH fun facts
- The K9 was Kia's first-ever rear-wheel-drive sedan, marking a major engineering milestone for the company.
- NBA superstar LeBron James served as a luxury ambassador for the car, famously claiming he drove one daily.
- The car features a 'Tiger Nose' grille designed by Peter Schreyer, who previously designed the Audi TT.
