2015 Kia K900 vs. Its Competition

John Voelcker

The 2015 Kia K900 enters the large luxury sedan segment against tough competition.

It offers more features for less money than the mid-size German cars Kia would like it to go up against--the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class--but we don't think those are really its competitors.

Instead, it likely competes with rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive large sedans from another set of premium/luxury brands.

First among them would be its sibling the Hyundai Genesis (and the larger Hyundai Equus as well), which has just been restyled with a look that's as extroverted as the K900 is conservative (and offers the same two engines as the Kia to boot).

The Cadillac CTS is also more extroverted, and more of a driver's car, with a flashier interior and higher performance versions on the way.

The Infiniti Q70 (nee M lineup) is one of the older models in the group, but its lines remain striking every after several years; finally, the Acura RLX handles surprisingly well and offers a hybrid model, as does the Infiniti.

With neither hybrid or diesel alternatives nor the option of all-wheel drive, the K900 may find its market somewhat limited--but it's a good first effort in a tough segment.