Kia launched pre-orders for its mid-size sedan, the K8, on Tuesday, the 23rd, ahead of its scheduled release early next month.

The company announced on the 24th that it recorded 18,015 units on the first day of pre-orders.

To put this achievement in context, the K8's first-day pre-order figure represents about 44% of the K7’s total domestic sales (41,048 units) in its entire sales period.

While it's important to consider that the K7 faced sluggish sales, the 44% figure is still impressive.

Of note, this number far exceeds the previous record for Kia sedans set by the third-generation K5, which had 7,000 pre-orders on its first day.

It seems unlikely that any future Kia sedan will break this first-day pre-order record for a long time.

Additionally, the K8 surpassed the previous record set by its sibling rival, the Hyundai Grandeur, which achieved 17,294 units in 2019.

However, since Hyundai plans to unveil a full redesign of the Grandeur next year, it will be interesting to see if it can regain its competitive edge over the K8.

-First Mid-size Sedan in Korea to Feature Front-Wheel-Based AWD

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The K8 offers strong performance with its 2.5 and 3.5-liter gasoline engines, along with stable driving characteristics. It also redefines the standard for mid-size sedans with its quieter and more comfortable ride.

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Although only the 3.5-liter gasoline model offers an optional front-wheel-based all-wheel-drive system, this marks a positive milestone as it is the first of its kind in the domestic mid-size sedan market.

The AWD system actively distributes driving power between the front and rear wheels based on real-time road conditions and driving status, providing passengers with a more stable driving experience.

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The K8 features the advanced driver assistance system "Drive Wise," which significantly reduces driver fatigue and helps ensure safe travel to the destination.

The advanced driver assistance technologies included in the K8 are Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Smart Cruise Control (SCC), and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA).

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Highway Driving Assist 2 helps with lane changes using turn signal switches while driving on highways and motorways. It also ensures safe lane-keeping by adjusting the vehicle's position when approaching other cars, a feature previously seen in Hyundai's premium Genesis brand vehicles, now available in the K8.

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The K8's interior boasts a range of premium features designed to ensure comfort and convenience for all passengers.

Notably, Kia has introduced the Ergo Motion Seat, which provides optimal comfort tailored to the driving environment and reduces driver fatigue.

The Ergo Motion Seat uses individually controlled air cushions to offer a "Comfort Stretching Mode," which simulates stretching while seated. It also adjusts support when switching to Sport mode or when driving over 80 mph (130 km/h), enhancing driver stability and posture support.

For reference, the smart support feature, which holds the driver securely in place, proves to be exceptionally helpful.

The K8 impresses with its intuitive infotainment system that offers emotional satisfaction and convenient connectivity, capturing the attention of many.

This model also marks the first time Kia has integrated a premium sound system from Meridian, a leading British high-end audio brand.

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The Meridian premium sound system features 14 speakers with natural wood diaphragm materials, providing sound that closely resembles the original.

Additionally, it automatically adjusts audio volume and quality based on vehicle speed, enhancing the listening experience with effects like 'Horizon' that create a sense of depth and richness in sound.

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The Kia K8 currently offers three powertrain options: 2.5-liter gasoline, 3.5-liter gasoline, and 3.5 LPI models, with pre-orders now open.

Later this year, Kia plans to add a 1.6-liter gasoline turbo hybrid model, which could further expand the K8's appeal to potential hybrid buyers.

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