Following three consecutive years of record-breaking sales, Kia is set to reveal its most ambitious project to date. This new electric sedan, referred to as the "halo" car, aims to showcase the pinnacle of the company’s technology and design. While it is yet to receive an official name, industry experts speculate it may be called the Kia 8, with the Kia 7 considered a less likely alternative.
Inspired by the Vision Meta Turismo concept, which was unveiled last year to commemorate Kia's 80th anniversary, this new model features a long, low profile that evokes a futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of science fiction films. Its sleek silhouette includes a windshield that seamlessly extends into the roof, along with innovative tiny cameras substituting traditional side mirrors and a distinctive "yoke" steering wheel resembling a game controller.
Performance will play a crucial role in this flagship offering. Leaked information indicates that the top-tier version of the Kia 8 will feature dual motors producing 450 kW (603 horsepower), significantly surpassing the power of the previous gasoline-powered Kia Stinger. For those seeking alternative options, Kia is expected to provide a rear-wheel-drive variant with 160 kW (215 horsepower) and a mid-range all-wheel-drive model producing 320 kW (429 horsepower).
The upcoming flagship’s impressive range is another highlight, as it is projected to utilize a substantial 113.2 kWh battery. Thanks to its aerodynamic design, the vehicle could achieve an impressive range of between 700 km and 800 km on a single charge.
Inside, Kia aims to create a "lounge-like" atmosphere, moving away from the traditionally cramped cockpit experience. The design team plans to minimize screen usage to enhance relaxation, instead opting for cutting-edge "augmented reality" technology to project navigation and speed data directly onto the windshield, creating the illusion of information hovering just above the road. Additionally, the vehicle will feature three digital modes—Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer—that alter the interior ambiance according to the driver’s mood.
The production version of this electric sedan is anticipated to hit the market around 2027. Pricing is expected to start from €51,000, with the final cost depending on the selected battery and motor configuration, positioning it between smaller and larger SUVs in Kia’s lineup.
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