Posted on: Jul 21, 2012 | 18,279 reads

Kia Slaps new Quoris Nameplate on K9 Flagship Sedan

Promo video released upon announcement of the K9’s export nameplate.

Kia's all-new flagship sedan hit Korean showrooms back in May. While it carries the K9 moniker at home, abroad it will be known as Quoris. Kia's first rear-drive sedan, which slots above the K5 (Optima) and K7 (Cadenza), will help the company break into a new automotive segment. Although it has yet to be confirmed which overseas markets will get the Quoris (whose name is derived from the words "core" and "quality"), North America and Western Europe are a nailed on certainty.

Speaking on the new Quoris, Thomas Oh, Kia's Executive Vice President, explains that "the name of our new flagship sedan hints at the attributes at the very heart of the vehicle. The word 'Quoris' conveys solidity, luxury and high-technology, all resonating together as a chorus.

"Our decision to give this striking new sedan an unconventional name means it will stand out even further from the established crowd, driving Kia sales in what is a new segment of the global automotive market for Kia." Designed by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, the K9 is based on the Hyundai Genesis, and in South Korea the K9 is available with the same 329hp 3.8-liter V6, as well as a 296hp 3.3-liter V6, both sending power to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Overseas, Kia will offer the Quoris with a 286hp 3.8-liter V6 MPI and a 329hp 3.8-liter GDI. A V8 option is also expected in North America.