What Is A Luxury Car? Can A Kia Compete?

[@philorion7731]

I owned a BMW 7 Series which was the worst example of a luxury flagship. BMW drive and suspension great but interior ergonomics are crap. It's like they do absolutely no usability testing on their controls and features. The nail in the coffin though was the maintenance - what a total piece of garbage. I've owned multiple LS 430's, and multiple LS 460's. Very good car, but at near or over 100K today -a little more than I want to spend. I might fork out 100K for a Z06 Corvette but that's about it. I currently own a S550 but the types and number of things that fail on these cars are too numerous to count. I went to test drive a 2015 K900 Luxury Trim, 38K, and still under warranty on a whim. After a test drive I did 3 days of research mostly online (K900 Forum, edmunds, youtube, friends, etc) My conclusion is that this car is under rated in the US market. A pre-owned 2015 K900 is basically the same price as a preowned 2017 Honda Accord. With that as a backdrop I decided to buy one. So far I like it I'm impressed with the fit and finish, a cadillac like ride, cloud soft and responsive. I'm a convert for now. Check with me in a year. We own a Limo service and I thought how would our clients feel if a chauffeur showed up with this car. What would they think seeing the interior for the first time? They'd probably think mmmmmm, nice lots of space back here. Ride in it for 30 minutes, mmmm comfortable ride. Definitely worth a look.

[@dijosoul]

Every single BMW owner I've known, as soon as they can, move to a Mercedes. And you did the same. Lesson for me in there lol.

Thanks for your input. I have been shopping them for weeks but have not pulled the trigger because of the badge. I was gonna get a Infiniti Q Series but the K900 is a better deal. I'm gonna go ahead and get the K900. Thanks

[@mingchi1855]

@ Actually many kia owners changed their badges, cuz that is the only way to have others praise the car and ask you what make it is... I got a set from here: www.k5optimastore.com/collections/emblems/products/kemblems My german car fan-boy friends actually praised a lot on the car until they were told it's a kia and stopped praising. But anyways, that's how kia owners resolve brand discrimination....

[@contournut5726]

Luxury is very simple: If there's a pointless analog clock on the center dashboard it's a luxury car :D.

[@discerningmind]

It's in the center of the dashboard because it's the one instrument that everyone in the car uses.

[@cndam]

Lol. Thinking the same. Who looks at a clock in the cars these days. Useless.

[@rh8616]

It's funny how so many wouldn't even give a luxury Kia or Hyundai a second look when, for ages, Toyota sold people rebadged luxury Toyotas as Lexus and people still bought them like peanuts. Not to mention the bmw and Mercedes they love so much are often used as taxis and police cars in Europe.

[@MrHav1k]

KIA and Hyundai were trash until only a few years ago. Lexus has legendary Toyota reliability. You can buy one, get a very nice car, and have it last 15+ years.

[@KennyPang]

The K900 design is growing on me.

[@whitemailprivilege2830]

K P Go see a doctor ASAP and have it removed.

[@김동준-t9p]

White Mail Privilege haha good one

[@kolt9051]

me too! Almost is as good as the Lincoln Continental!

[@theshield1613]

@@kolt9051 Lincoln is better

[@D3D587]

Kia's are the value option. I've had the Optima turbo and the very first Cadenza. Fit, finish and quality are top notch! Just the Brand Identity, but should not be a factor any longer. The resell value only negative I see.

[@nickolastiguan]

Darrell Dennis my friend's dad just picked up a 14 Cadenza, he only paid about 40% of its original price. They are definitely a good used buy.

[@discerningmind]

That may change. Here in North East USA Subaru and Porsche hold the top spots for resale value. For a long time it was Toyota and Honda, though these still hold their value well. If Kia keeps heading in the direction I think they are their popularity and used value will climb high in five years time.

[@joshuaychung]

The resale value, or the lack thereof, makes these cars a great car to buy used. I'm always on the prowl for a Hyundai Equus or Kia K900 to see if any come on the used car market near me. You do lose the 10 year / 100K mile warranty when you buy used, though. I think the second owner only gets the 5 year / 60K mile warranty IIRC.

[@Superfastjellyfish669]

I love having the camera view connected to the turn signal

[@NilsNormann]

It might encourage drivers to use their turn signals! My favorite pet peeve...

[@discerningmind]

That GiovanniLACA17XD was very cool!

[@Superfastjellyfish669]

@@discerningmind and it makes sense

[@8Kexperience]

I want that floating comfortable ride

[@james2042]

A luxury vehicle to me is a vehicle I get into, am comfortable sitting in, and just drives smoothly and effortlessly. That is why when shopping luxury I would always aim for an older luxury vehicle and restore it rather than buying new. A new "luxury vehicle" is all about the bleeding edge technology and all the fancy gimmicks. True luxury vehicle owners who buy them for more than just a status symbol want a vehicle that actually functions. Look at the target customers for true luxury vehicles, successful businessmen (and women), whether it be lawyers, doctors, engineers, bankers ect. They want a car to match the elegance of their suit and their watch and their wallet. People like musicians and actors are more likely to end up in sports cars and more bling oriented vehicles, or have drivers and be in the back of suburbans.

[@swanblake]

Wow that interior is amazing! Love it. Very impressed. Would take this over a Cadillac,, Lexus,or Lincoln all day.

[@joelcleare]

Blake Swan what Luxury car have you owned ?

[@Calimustang86]

I actually appreciate what the brand is doing. Modern day Kia/Hyundai/Genesis cars are legitimately good cars and they've come a long way. They have a little ways to go to be on the same level in terms of luxury as German rivals, however. I think they have surpassed most of the Japanese and American competition in a relatively short period of time, but to those saying people only buy luxury cars based on their badge... YOU'RE RIGHT! Welcome to the real world! The badge represents more than just status or image, it represent brand principal. The big Germans are the best because they strive to be the best, which resonates with customers. Don't downplay them to hype up other brands. If the Koreans want to be on their level, they know what it takes and if they do it right they'll get there.

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

Problem with the germans is only the respective top versions of each model try to be the best. The lower trims (what most people actually buy) are much worse.

[@Calimustang86]

Mgoblagulkablong well, I understand your point and to that I would say it’s not exclusively a “German” thing. I think every trim level that they put out is meant to compete in that particular level in the market, that’s Performance of intended function. For example, an Audi A6 2.0T is not a far worse car than an Audi S6 because it’s slower and not performance oriented. It’s meant to compete with other 4 cylinder luxury sedans at a competitive price point.

[@andrewwhite5422]

yes the mercades c class if awful and so is the bmw 3 series

[@Calimustang86]

Andrew White so why do you say they’re such terrible cars? I can assure you they aren’t.

[@andrewwhite5422]

there basic esp when compared to their rivals

[@diydrivenGA]

When I picked up my Kia in 2016, I did so rolling the dice based on research on automitive channels and publications...not just on the car themselves, but the direction of the brand. I compare Kia to where Honda was in the 90's....unfortuantely there are reliability concerns for certain engines, and some quality issues here and there but this is par the course for every brand. Kia has shown it will not be a Mercury and will stand on it's own. The single biggest obstacle towards Kia's success in the US is their delaer network, with the sales and service experience at some of them ruining the lofty ambitions the brand has set for itself....the sales process for a Stinger or a K900 should not be the same as a 2010 Sportage or Accent...Truth be told the sales of all these cars should be similar to what Saturn did to make the customer feel good about their decision. On the service side: help the customers more, you WANT repeat buyers. Make the warranty something really special0 Corporate side: offer trade in incentives to make up for horrible resale and drive sales of newer improved models....improve perception and improve your turbos to show they can easily get to 150k miles.

[@colinkameoka7316]

Good points. That was something I remember most about car shopping (or dread) the dealership experience. It must be training but I found the old school "Hard Sell" common with Hyundai, KIA, Mazda, Subaru and Nissan dealers. Back in the late 90s I found Saturn to be great although I didn't buy from them. I later helped friends buy used Saturns at different dealerships and it was a very pleasant experience. Clearly that was copied at CarMax, it was the same deal there if not better. Probably why they charge more.

[@wannabedal-adx458]

@@colinkameoka7316 CarMax has never said they are the cheapest, but you will have the nest experience buying a car from them. That's what my CarMax salesman said when I picked up my 2016 Toyota Camry 3.5 years ago. I am perfectly fine with that. I don't want to play mind games going to a dealer, I want a car!

[@SwirlingDragonMist]

We need softer suspensions, sport tuning was a mistake. ~ Comfort = Luxury ~

[@ms3173]

EXACTLY

[@ModernDayMixtapes]

Kia did such a good job with this car. Other automakers are really going to have to step it up if this is what Kia is churning out these days.

[@kazekai8]

I could give a shit about the badge of a car if it has a good engine, exterior, and interior that is functional I am happy. I got the Kia Stinger and it is literally miles better than most car around this price range. Where the hell are you gonna find a twin turbo V6 for 40 grand?

[@dijosoul]

Wait till you hear the guys driving slowcoach BMW 3 series come and explain how their car beats "a Kia"...

[@cargueone1971]

Would make a great value as a 2 year old car. Most people who are smart with their money would not buy a new or used BMW or Mercedes. However, they would buy a 2 year old K900, with the 44% depreciation hit, and have warranty left on it. This car is possible because of it's Genesis cousin. The cost of importing it is reasonable and they don't need to sell very many.

[@HUCKEBEINJOSHUA]

Carlos Guevara Smart with money? It’s all just about feasibility.

[@cargueone1971]

@@HUCKEBEINJOSHUA / true, However, unless you a business man that has different investments that gives you disposable income from monthly dividends, most of us in the 90k to 150k would be unwise to spend 90k in a Lexus LS500, that will depreciate vs a reliable investment that will give you a 10% growth. Yes, it's all relative. I was just speaking of myself. I own classic cars that I've own for over 30 years, when they weren't overpriced. They are worth a pretty penny today. However, I'm 47 years old and paying 50k on any car is really throwing my money, especially when I'm near an age if anything happens to my job, I'm very undesirable compared to a 20 something they can pay half of what I make. I've seen Lots of great 2 to 3 year old Luxury sedans at great prices. Why pay 100k on a car you will probably got bored of in a couple of years. Thanks for your comment.

[@tjs114]

A lot of the warranty from Kia & Hyundai is only applicable to the first owner.

[@fredrmitchell]

My thinking exactly, real values a year or two years later.

[@TheShootersBay]

This car is beautiful, Kia should have launched a new brand for this car and the stinger.

[@StrikeFromTheSkies]

They're probably looking to expand their line-up before doing that.

[@chrgav1286]

Hyundai did it w/ Genesis

[@JT-fq2bl]

Nope, Kia do not need a luxury brand. They have Genesis for that. I don't want the Koreans to become another Ford or GM with to many brand that is also mismanaged. I prefer Kia to go the VW route: sporty, premium, but stop short on full blown luxury.

[@justinnegron4843]

@@JT-fq2bl Hyundai only owns 33% of Kia. So basically only under parts of the cars are shared. Hyundai and Genesis has there own design team which is different from KIA. It would make sense for KIA to have a sports brand. Hyundai & KIA ARE NOT ONE COMPANY

[@GoofieNewfie]

sounds like the Ford / Mazda relationship years back. 33% was the magic number for controlling interest in Japan. Is it the same for Korea? They share a lot of parts, there's no denying that

[@Tailsnpaws]

Yes, Alex... we like our cars fully loaded also. Bottom line: To impress myself I would choose the Kia K900 and be immensely happy. Other folks buy cars to impress others. They buy the "badge" and are seldom satisfied. Looking forward to the complete test. Thank you.

[@jordancatcher6663]

Well unfortunately to most (Mainly in the Automotive industry) , luxury is overall about the brand status , history , reputation , and of course the badge on the front of the hood (Which is mainly a way for people to show off their money). This car is going to get a lot of hate because 1. It's Korean , 2. People have an issue with the Koreans trying this type of marketing , 3. The somewhat absurd saying "It's a Kia" , and 4. Because of the price. It's honestly sad that people knock a car due to the branding and overall history (Especially when it comes to high end products from South Korea). Regardless if this car is Kia branded , I'm not judging by the brand , I'm judging it by the overall car itself. Kia has been pushing boundaries with their products lately (It's obvious they want to walk alway from the Kia in the shadows). It'll take a while for people to associate with Kia (And even sister company Hyundai) with this level of vehicles. The Japanese weren't excepted day 1 they entered the luxury market (It took a few years for people to grow on them moving into this type pf marketing and where are they now ?).

[@MrNemo721]

This is why Genesis is better positioned to sell luxury cars than Kia so they can do what the Japanese did with Acura Lexus Infiniti in the 90s. It will take time but they will earn their place despite people saying "It’s a fancy Hyundai". But on the other hand, People will never associate Kia with luxury, only value. And if they start their own luxury division they will have to.price products higher and the value will be lost. So best strategy is to ignore the badge and see how much car you'll get for the money. There are very few people who do that and I get the appeal of the German brands having owned them in the past. This is why the last K900 or even the g90 sells only a few hundred a year.

[@Kromer0]

Nobody took Lexus and Acura seriously a couple years ago. Kia came up with the Stinger and this K900 luxury segment, but as you said it will take a while for people to take it seriously. Personally, I would totally go for a Kia because I care about my own comfort when driving and I won't even 2 cents to what people think of what I am driving. I do not care now with a Camaro SS and I will not care when I need more space (Kia Stinger) but want to keep the sporty feel. If you as a driver feel happy, that is all that matters.

[@velagale]

Well, Samsung is Korean. Right now its the king of TVs and not to mention the Android Phones. Kia may just need a luxury brand name and start marketing aggressively.

[@Fr00stee]

I personally find it very cringey when people brag about the badge on their car

[@discerningmind]

Well thought and well said, Jordan Catcher. Here in North East USA there is a market of "old Yankee money". Traditionally they buy Buick instead of Cadillac and Volvo instead of Mercedes. Now that those brands have become not worth owning after the warrantee expires I can see this market buying the Kia because they don't show-off and don't want to spend the cost for Euro/American luxury cars that aren't worth it. As well, they have pride in money well spent and that leads to talk about the goodness of something, in this case the elevation of Kia. I have a 2017 Kia that I love and I hope Hyundai/Kia continues in the direction they seem to be going.

[@tominftlthomasp3559]

I like a soft ride. How did we get to the point where people want to feel every bump in the road?

[@lvthud]

Having driven a couple of the Gen 1 K900's, I have to say they are great cars, except for one huge aspect, you simply cannot buy one, you have to lease, the reason, take a look on autotrader or car max, a 3 year old Gen1 K900 is going for around the mid $20k.....On a car that 2-3 years before was in the mid $50k's, the price has actually firmed up a bit over the last 6 months as people have woken up to the fact that the Gen1 is a great car and at the low $20k mark they were a steal, I do have to wonder how the Gen2 will fair in that regard.

[@dcuccia]

Equus, too...ridiculous value in the used car market.

[@jaredshelton4718]

I want this car so badly, this is my all time dream car.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

The true definition of luxury is exclusivity. What makes it exclusive varies as to what it is and who it’s from and who it’s for. Sometimes it’s rarity, sometimes it’s price, sometimes it’s focus of target. What causes the above properties are things like cost or rarity of materials, or political barriers. In the case with automobiles, luxury is delegated by either price or in some cases, political barriers, such as in invitation only vehicles.

[@MiniVegas420Yo]

I've had a 5 series, and X5's, continuously since 1993, minus one stint in an M3. But after my 2013 lease was up, I picked up a K900, it was a 2015 in Jan 2016, and I've been pretty happy. I wanted a naturally aspirated V8, and Kia was basically giving these away at the time, $25k off of sticker, so what the heck. It's been good, I liked the styling more than an Equus, very Lexus/German clone, and everything seems to be bolted together well, at least Honda/Acura level. I did have a problem with a wheel/tire just not balancing right at 75-80mph, but they replaced all 4 sets and used a the dealer groups Porsche road force balancer and it's been perfect. The dealer experience is only OK, but the BMW Store in Cincinnati is really quite good, and I've bought 16 cars through them, so I'm sure it says "BMW sucker" on the profile. From a pure blind perspective, it probably is closer to a current gen Acura than a current German/Lexus, but it's also a fairly old car. It feels about as well put together as my 2013 5 series, not as fast as the turbo-6, but I like the feel more of the V8, but you're probably not going to see much more of that around in the future. The ride is great, with one caveat. On smooth roads, it's fantastic, if it's a bit bumpy, or with potholes, it's also very nice, but there is a sort of brittleness, jarring almost, over specifically concrete expansion joints, bridge transitions. It almost feels like the BMWs with early run-flats, but without the run-flats. The Nav/UI is fine, the map detail is not great, but BMW does a pretty good job with theirs. Overall, 90% as good the last gen of the luxury market, way better than Lincoln or Cadillac, I'd say better than Acura or Infiniti too. My wife just got a new E400 wagon, and that interior does seem a step above, maybe two, but it doesn't look like this new K900 is far off, still $25k cheaper. I'll have to look at the new K900, and maybe a Genesis G90 too, especially if they end up being so unpopular that they offering huge deals again. I really don't care about the brand, and if folks avoid it because of that, I'll be happy to take advantage of the bad business decision by Kia.

[@tropicalvevo1094]

I saw this beast in person. Amazing car!! Thinking of getting the old V8 since I cant afford this one yet.

[@fairlifemilk3533]

i like my cars optioned-out because i hate blank switches

[@michaelnobles2643]

I love all of my cars loaded too. I think this car rocks, I’d buy one. I’m not too hung up on the badge. I feel like I’d be getting a really excellent deal on a “luxury” vehicle.

[@shinkuflame]

This Kia puts Infiniti and Acura to shame though. Acura and Infiniti haven’t touched up their interior for almost 10 years now. WTH lmao

[@gengstar09]

Acura is making a comeback with their RDX! The reawakening is coming!

[@samaanam76]

It's just perfect. Luxurious, reliable, long warranty, and cheaper than German cars. ♡♡♡ Thank you Alex.

[@lenierreyes]

This car looks great and a great value. I'm a proud owner of over priced Benz 2014 GLK with 110k miles. Back at the end of 2015 we wanted to buy a larger SUV for the family and after seeing a video from Alex where he recommended the Sorento, we pull the trigger and got a Sorento for the wife 2015 SX v6, tons of features I could not believe all the crap in it. But all of that is BS if they car turns to shit after 30k miles, rattles weird noises, issues that Kia refuse to addressed because the computer had no code, the dealer knew how to fix it and I could get it fix but out of pocket, my GLK has 110k miles and it drives like day one when i purchased new with 30 miles. Just got the wife a new GLE and she is super happy, over price maybe but built right. So say whatever you want about Benz ( can't speak about other luxury brands) but they know how to build a car and stand behind their car, at least thats my experience.

[@mr.c3939]

Save your time and energy. There is no convincing Kia / Hyundai owners or fans. I too have had several German vehicles that gave my family nothing but reliable service throughout their lifespan. But all I hear about is how horrible they are. So I just nod and move on. They obviously know more than me 😉

[@johng.4959]

Kia continues to impress me more than Honda and Nissan combined! The fit and finish on these vehicles are exemplary! In a world where everyone drives a dime a dozen- black 5 Series BMW, these are such an attractive alternative.

[@chengyoujiang6076]

This is such a budget king of a mid-size luxury sedan. Well done, Kia!!! However, the brand can be a problem for some people, but not for me:)

[@matthewgragg1880]

Its going to be hard to compete against an established luxury brand's reputation and status but only way they will have a chance is to try to enter the market. This is a good entry.

[@leecm]

The exterior looks pretty pedestrian, but the interior is gorgeous. The KIA badge is still going to cause issues for most of the people in the US that are in the market for luxury cars.

[@azalru]

The Tesla Model 3 is causing more issues for kia especially with the new version 9 update of Autopilot and in built dashcam, Mad Max mode self lane changing. And before that, the Model 3 is the best selling sedan in the USA.

[@azalru]

insideevs.com/tesla-model-3-outsold-bmw-passenger-cars/ www.goodcarbadcar.net/2018/09/top-20-best-selling-luxury-vehicles-in-america-august-2018/ cleantechnica.com/2018/09/09/tesla-model-3-becomes-1-best-selling-car-in-the-us/

[@DarrenPersad]

Luxury can mean a badge, but luxury to me is the complete experience; does the vehicle wow me, does it coddle me in comfort and high quality craftsmanship, does it offer me amenities that other vehicles don’t, and does it do it without looking obnoxious? If it check those boxes, then I consider it luxury. That said, some cars that are defined as “luxury” may be better off being called “premium” as they may compromise on some front. I think some of the Genesis/KIA/Hyundai vehicles are properly luxurious, but premium I think is a better descriptor as they aren’t necessarily on the cutting edge of all things.

[@lotterynj]

Excellent review as always and pointing out those key differences between its competitors.

[@CrazyCandyCrush]

Thanks for an honest review. If it's Doug, he would have said it's a bad car bcos it's made in Korea.

[@mmikee407]

Alex auto and Cooley of CNET are the best of car reviewing business.

[@conspickerous]

LOL @ Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep relation to the Kia K900, very creative Alex. I like the K900, but just like the Cadenza, there’s not a lot of demand for these cars in the NA thus hurting their resale value.

[@wannabedal-adx458]

I don't care about reseal value. I am looking for a car I can drive into the ground over 10 years or more!!

[@Slim1986]

This is a great interior, good job. I love Acura, but take notes lol. This is what the new RLX SHOULD look like. Kia/ Hyundai came a long way

[@greg1894]

In regards to Alex's comment about few options (that being only the "Luxury" trim and only optional "VIP" package, giving this vehicle a whopping 2 various combinations of configurations (less the cosmetic paint job and upholstery color), this is an excellent way to build and sell cars. Research has shown that people are happier with fewer rather than more choices as it eliminates the pressure to choose the correct option(s). Mazda seems to do this pretty well, limiting some of their builds to very few if any packages to add. Plus if I am going to drop $50k-$60k on a luxury, full-sized sedan, don't cheap out. Just buy the best. If you're buying a luxury vehicle and choose a base model because that's all you can afford or are being price conscious, maybe you should not buy a luxury vehicle (unless there is a huge gap between base and top trims).

[@kolt9051]

Fantastic Video, Alex! I like that you reviewed a car that is not ostentatious.

[@planedudea380]

That interior looks great!

[@joelcleare]

Change KIA branding on their ‘luxury’ line would help. Like Toyota to Lexus etc. No way I’m spending that kind of $ on a Kia.

[@wannabedal-adx458]

So you would rather spend $10K to $15K more for the same car and a different brand name??? Because the Lexus name and logo is the only thing different between a Toyota!!

[@knightmarel]

That interior is amazing

[@smilalexandertaverasespina6313]

Beautiful car !!! Waiting for the full review!!!

[@민중하]

It looks great in white color

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

My dog wants a Canine Hundred 🐕

[@steveprinty5674]

The Car Crazy Guy Your comment is amusing. But.........is it true? 🤔🤨

[@joshuaychung]

According to Alex, the car is actually called K9 so your canine can go to Korea and pee on a K9 if your canine is into those things. No judgement here.

[@TeslaSpaceX]

My 2005 RAV 4 has height adjustable shoulder belts. Toyota - leader in luxury details :)

[@NA-du5vm]

I say yes. Change the badging and customer experience.

[@TheAccordingtoyou]

I'm genuinely impressed by the new K900 and Kia has proven they can do a luxury car , just as well if not better for the price as the competition and if I were In the market for a full sized luxury sedan I would certainly look at the K900 first. However, the average consumer wouldn't due to the stigma still attached to the Kia brand and overall purchase and ownership experience. I totally get that because if I'm going to pay 60k for a car I expect an enjoyable and VIP experience, but if you prioritize getting the most car for your money then the K900 is for you. Kia knows this won't be a huge seller for them, and that's not the point, it's a halo car demonstrating what the brand is capable of and where they are going. They have priced this car very well and with lease incentives, perhaps it will exceed their paltry sales projections, but if they can change their brand perception in a positive direction it will all be worth it. P.S. Kia, can we pretty please get a Stinger with this level of luxury 😙.

[@charlesjmudd]

Good video buddy, keep working on that editing and you'll be second to none ... ☺✊

[@mrslcom]

The missing ingredients are prestige, innovation, and heritage. Value is not a major determining factor in the luxury market...brand image is. The biggest drawback of this car is its nameplate. VW learned that hard lesson with the Phaeton.

[@MichaelMa]

Kia just needs to just hang on for a bit longer. I just bought my first Kia and wow, they've been building amazing looking and performing cars for many years now. I wish I could have bought it sooner.

[@killacamfoo]

The Korean brands are the best value on the planet, but they do lack the style of the Germans. Quality is a bit iffy as well for materials, but the powerplant is rock solid.

[@sirfriendzone1228]

I've always appreciated the 'dry wit' on this channel but this subject matter really seems to lend itself to it. I honestly don't think a lot of people will buy this car or even give it the time of day which is kinda sad because they'll be missing out on a very nice value luxury vehicle.

[@wannabedal-adx458]

I think Alex is doing more for marketing Kia then Kia is!! Much like Buick's late model Regal and LaCrosse. Alex has done a great job upselling those too. He should get a take from both Kia and GM!!

[@YusofTehrani94]

Someone in Autoline daily explained (as an example of bad engineering) that it costs 35K to replace the front panel of the car (lights, bumper, and all the sensors hidden behind it) in case of a front accident.

[@ChristianC-gy1ym]

It's a tough question. Too many factors and they boil down to preferences. If the question is examined in a vacuum, then yes. A Kia, Hyundai, Genesis, etc can compete. And it's no longer just the value proposition. These cars are legitimate contenders. But then somebody always (without fail) makes the argument about prestige, the experience, the badge, etc. And not to scoff at those things, but they are also legitimate arguments. When you buy a car, you are not just buying a product but the experience of ownership also. That includes the reputation and I hate to admit it, but status. Which is why I would like to simplify this matter. Real car people would have ZERO problems driving a luxury Kia. You have to be an egomaniac to write off a luxury Kia. Or insecure. My current cars are: 2011 BMW 328i xDrive, 2015 VW GTI, 2018 BMW X3 M40i. My previous cars consist of: 2007 Nissan 350Z, 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. I love and loved every single one of these cars.

[@Jacobk66]

Here’s the rub - you CAN get a nicely equipped 5 Series in the low $50s if you negotiate. This still has an issue with resale. That’s it’s true problem.

[@bkboggy]

Genesis has earned its respect and seeing a Genesis branding on a vehicle, in my opinion, no longer constitutes for a lesser product or financial standing. However... I don't feel the same way about Kia yet. I've driven both the Genesis G90 and Cadenza... and while both vehicles are nice, Genesis appears to turn more heads and invokes higher respect from others. At the end of the day, is it worth paying extra $20,000+ for branding, if one chooses to go with other established luxury vehicle manufacturers? Probably not. Take Maserati, for example. Gorgeous vehicles with incredible history... but are pretty garbage when compared to other brands these days.

[@UserInterface00]

I love your videos Alex, but you kind of spoiled it with the thumbnail :(

[@ejf0255]

KIA can. I test drove almost bought the Stinger. Even the mid grade Stinger felt like far more expensive car. Rode like a dream smooth quick and the fit and finish was spot on... Just didn't want a car I guess went with the VW Tiguan which I also love to death.

[@rstar88105]

The meaning of luxury is when you step out of a 2 hour drive you are as fresh/ focused mentally and physically as when you first stepped in the car.

[@canomalo3662]

I dont get it, we all shop for discounts, whether its for food ,gas,clothes,trips etc etc we look for the best deal so why when it comes to cars you have to have the Mercedes or the BMW emblem to feel good?I laugh at people who pay 45k for an Audi, BMW,or Mercedes and dont have half the features my car has.When I ask them about it they say oh I dont need BSD,heated steering wheel.radar cruise control,SVM,cooled seats,Harmon Kardon speakers,etc etc whilst this is true its nice to have at a low price.I call them badge whores

[@itsamerandomguy9581]

I agree with u 100%. They dont need the need the "luxury amenities", just the badge 😆

[@joelcleare]

cano malo How someone spends $50k on a car is trivial. If you can $50-$60k on transportation then you can simply get what you want, when you want. Lots of features or a Golden Badge. Both will get you somewhere.

[@canomalo3662]

Not really ,I know people that are in way over there head in a car payment.They cant afford it but like to show off.Where Im from people live in the projects and drive Escalades Jags etc etc they are poor.Look at how many cars get repoed because people cant afford them.

[@ascott2168]

I've met those same ppl and I laugh at them !!!! A badge isn't that serious !

[@DonaldSeymourjr]

Preach Brotha!

[@fitzgoblin81]

Great point about options. Just put them all there, and keep the price lower!!!

[@TheAccordingtoyou]

The only criticism of this car I have is the infotainment, this would have been a good opportunity to redesign their UI or even create a new one just for the K900 to make it that more special. I really hope they roll out the new screens to other models doe 🤤🤤🤤.

[@MrNurse-cr1lq]

I always wondered how they got the Stinger to be so cheap and now I look at see the colors are limited. I don’t mind that AT ALL.

[@PeterGregg]

Hi Alex, I enjoy most of you videos - thank you! Do you get the kind of ride you mentioned about the K9 in any used cars that would still be somewhat modern? You were pretty high on the prior K900 in your ratings. Are others lurking in our past :)

[@Chitown388]

$60K Kia? No thanks! Audi, Mercedes, etc. will hold better residual value than the unknown Kia luxury.

[@KidKingdomHearts]

KIA should out the Korean Logo on their higher end cars. That'll help alot

[@leweier4988]

It actually looks great with your logo...

[@bassistdc]

Excellent video Alex. I drive an optima and would love to get a K900 or it's competitors for my taste, a CT6 or maybe a G90. I don't care about badges and am not interested in Aldi, BMW or M B.

[@bshehram]

It's really really hard to change the emotion attributed to a brand. As has been proven time and again by Lexus, Acura and Infiniti - a car mfg known for budget options is better off just creating a whole new brand. IMHO Kia won't really ever be considered a "luxury" brand.

[@highwaycruiser6486]

acura and Infiniti aren't luxury either, compared to germans for example. sort of same as Kia to to those Japanese

[@MrNemo721]

Kia will never be a luxury brand but this K900 is most defintely a luxury car. It is up to the buyer to decide if they want a luxury value car or a luxury branded car.

[@alliejr]

+Basit Shehram I agree with you. However, perhaps like Mazda, now, and Volvo from 30 years ago, Kia is trying to move the entire brand up market just a bit. Back in the 70s and 80s, Volvo would never be considered on par with BMW or Mercedes, but now it (almost) is. And Mazda seems to be doing the same thing by pushing their prices up along with features and quality to become more of a "near luxury" brand and not a straight competitor to the much larger Toyota and Honda. I wish them luck because they do actually make some great vehicles and they've come a long, long way in the last 15 years.

[@bshehram]

@@MrNemo721 Well put! It's a nice car, and if you are into features on a budget it's a great option. But you are never going to get that "Mercedes" or "BMW" emotion when you get into it. You'll get the "It's a Kia" feeling. Which is nice, if you are into that sort of thing.

[@lvthud]

Here is the thing, for me part of the "luxury" brand is the dealer experience, I can honestly say, at both of my local Acura dealers and my only local Infinity dealer the experience is much like that at "Frank's "Buy here, Pay here" lot, we actually walked out of the Infinity dealership mid salesman BS, at the Kia dealership (right next door to the Infinity dealer) as soon as I said we were interested in the K900 the experience changed, the salesman actually excused himself and got a "K900 consultant", it seems that at that dealership only certain sales people are approved to sell K900's, I can honestly say the experience was much like that at a Lexus dealership from that point on, that dealership is at least trying to seperate the K900's from the Souls, it may not be the best way to work the business model, but I would have no issue going back there.

[@ricohcrap]

The design though, is a melange of other luxury brands' design languages...

[@JulezWinnfield]

Perhaps Kia should modernize their badge design. A more stylish logo would improve their perception with the buying public.

[@georgesampara1074]

Great car with Awesome Alex:-)

[@JamesCovalentBond]

i agree with all comments at here, and that's Hyundai make Genesis....i know k900 is quite proper rwd large sedan, but i will rather call this " luxurious" sedan, not luxury sedan...also, if someone try to buy this car instead of lexus, infiniti, bmw, or mercedes, i won't say "don't buy it"

[@brianbrianbrianbrianbrianbrian]

Hey Alex, another great video. Can you please review the new Sedona? My wife is going to make me buy one soon (likely fully loaded). Thanks!

[@jamesnardini]

Does the G90 have the softer ride you mentioned? We had a G90 at work for a 2 week evaluation and I had the hardest time giving it up. That car was true luxury even compared to the Germans. I was impressed because everything it did, it had elegance and grace. I hope the Kia K9 is the same.

[@emanny009]

I personally believe there is Luxury and luxury (lowercase). A Luxury car should be about the finish, the quality and the badge bringing prestige. While any car can be luxurious (lowercase). A Luxury car should make me feel comfortable, feel good to the touch and be a source of pride even if its not the absolute best. The Kia is a very nice looking car but if I owned that car it wouldn't be a Luxury car though very luxurious. It may to you but I'd like Kia to keep working on some prestige for that badge.

[@noelsilva5381]

The first two. This Kia looks nice and looks better then some Benz

[@adrianmusteata888]

This is awesome!

[@mikemorales1725]

A hell of a buy, used.

[@snakerb]

I’d take this over the Cadillac, Lincoln, Chrysler 300, and Audi A6. It “might” lose out to the BMW and definitely to a Mercedes.

[@EchoSigma6]

Fortunately, Kia has great depreciation rates meaning that a good value CPO is just a few years away. Maybe $25k soon?

[@meugzy]

Really nice interior. Exterior is ok.

[@TheAdventureAuto]

It would probably take me 3 weeks to completely adjust the seat to my liking.

[@joemcdonough7509]

Alex, It's sad to hear that modern cars except the S-Class with the air suspension do not have that soft floating comfortable ride anymore. I currently own a 2006 Lexus LS430 Ultra Luxury, which has a super soft ride, but not the softest. That award goes to the 2000 Buick Park Avenue Ultra I rode in 10 years ago. That literally felt like you were on a cloud. I guess I'll just keep my LS430 forever until the industry changes trends toward comfort again. This Lexus will also be my last as I do not like the direction they are moving to, which of course is sporty designs with firmer suspensions. I looked at a 2015 Mercedes S600 with the ABC Air ride but even used, it is over $80,000.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Brand snobbery is a way to sell a vehicle but it's not the only way. In a relatively short time Kia has moved from an "economy" brand (to put it diplomatically) to a "value" brand and more and more to being perceived as a "smart buy" brand. And that applies to the full range of models KIA offers. First the Stinger, now the K900 and soon the Telluride crossover all add a prestige aura to the brand as a whole. And though the K900 won't sell by the bucketload in the US (as it will in China, for exampe) the fact that it's on the showroom floor will draw customers into dealers (just as the Stinger already does.) And when potential customers come in, they'll find the new Forte, the excellent midsize Optima, and the very attractive Sorento. In other words, for a manufacturer a "halo" model contributes more to the bottom line than just through its sales, alone. And Kia will soon have three "halo" models to draw customers. Furthermore, as the brand image continues to improve, so will the resale reputation. It's already happening. I recently traded a 2012 Sorento for a 2018 model for less than $1000 below the KBB market price of a comparable 2012 Toyota Highlander. Considering that I purchased the 2012 vehicle for approximately $7000 less than the Highlander price at that time, I came out significantly ahead.

[@Anthony-dk7de]

What Luxury means to me is: - Attention to detail - Standard Moonroof - Decent horsepower - Premium materials used in the interior - Spare tire lmao

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

This will become one of the best used car bargains, the predecessor already is, you can buy a 2015 K900 under $ 20k.

[@ThatWasherNerd]

I wonder what the Dougscore will be...

[@davidwolf226]

Personally, I truly appreciate all of the luxury considerations you mentioned with this review. The Kia name would not detract me from considering this model if I were in the market for a luxury sedan, particularly with this VIP package. The conservative exterior design is also an interesting note considering how many competitor's are going with more aggressive appearances in recent years... like my 2017 Lexus RX350.

[@Kareem-cx4fi]

Part of buying a luxury vehicle is looking at the brand, knowing you are not spending your money efficiently, or getting good value for money. Part of owning a luxury vehicle is that brand, letting people know you are supposedly successful at X level since you can afford Y. Or even make yourself feel good that you are able to own X brand. That's why over 99% of people who buy luxury cars will pass this car up.

[@PeterGregg]

To target the deal breaker for me - the ride needs to be glorious. Sounds like the K9 had it, and this car doesn't. Shame this was in my top 3 choices for my new car and now I have to remove it. So would the reverse be true? Will more people buy it because it rides harder rather than softer?

[@blitzbbffl]

Many shopping in this category are looking to lease. My assumption is that the projected residual value of the K900 won't be very good - so the lease deals, most likely, won't be very attractive.

[@dipsyfriday]

If I were in the market for this type of car I'd buy a 2 or 3 year old low mileage Mercedes S550 before buying this for the same price or less. This is going to be a really hard sell for KIA. It will definitely be a better value on the used market one or two years down the road.

[@GoofieNewfie]

Genesis needs to bring that digital dash to their cars asap. That's what's missing from their cars compared to the Germans. Also that 12" screen too. The fact that the G70 has a very similar analog and tablet style screens as a Stinger is a let down for me. Interesting and anxious to see the new G80 now.

[@WaleSANNI]

I really don't understand the Hyundai/Kia partnership. They are competing against each other. To me, this car looks like a youthful & sporty-looking alternative to the G90.

[@oldschool1928]

Privacy Sunscreens in the rear aka "Peasant Blockers" :) This KIA model puts Acura's RLX to shame.

[@fvjhuynh]

if KIA made an EV version of this car, I would immediately buy it given I had the budget. I would at least make it a goal to save up for it. And i'm saying this from just looking at it along with the included tech. It's that good.