Kia K9 gets nifty autonomous driving system

Kia introduced a partially revamped version of its flagship K9 sedan Tuesday that includes the automaker’s most advanced autonomous driving assistance system.

It was the biggest change to the K9 since the second generation launched in 2018.

It offers a brand new predictive gear-shift system (PGS), which is able to detect road conditions using sensors and cameras in the front and navigation data to change gears on its own.  

The PGS function makes driving more smooth and comfortable when getting on highways or making turns, and also raises fuel efficiency as the system gets rid of unnecessary gear shifts, the carmaker said.  

It is also offers a multi-collision braking system, which puts the brakes on all four wheels when the car detects a collision, preventing damage.  

Inside, the new K9 features a 14.5-inch center display next to the digital cluster.   

Additional in-car technology includes a fingerprint recognition system and a controller situated in the center console that recognizes hand writing, both of which have been already introduced in Genesis models. 

On the outside, the vehicle is equipped with a massive radiator grille engraved with V-shape patterns. The rear features horizontal rear lamps that emphasize the low and wide stance of the car.  

The K9 is available in two types of engines: a 3.8-liter gasoline engine or a 3.3-liter turbo gasoline engine. 

Sticker prices start at 56.9 million won. 

Kia sold 145 K9s last year globally compared to the year before, when it sold 10,878.

BY JIN EUN-SOO [jin.eunsoo@joongang.co.kr]