The Kia K9 II 3.8 GDI V6 AWD Automatic represents Kia’s second-generation flagship sedan, produced from April 2018 to May 2021. Positioned as a luxury offering, the K9 II aimed to compete with established brands in the full-size sedan segment. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.8-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, served as the primary engine option for the North American market, offering a balance of performance and refinement. It was the mid-range offering, with a V8 available in some markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | K9 |
| Generation | K9 II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 GDI V6 (315 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2018 |
| End of production | May, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.7-9.9 l/100 km (24.2 – 23.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.9-12 l/100 km (19.8 – 19.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 204-207 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 315 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 397 Nm @ 5000 rpm (292.81 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | G6DJ |
| Engine displacement | 3778 cm3 (230.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1985-2005 kg (4376.18 – 4420.27 lbs.) |
| Length | 5120 mm (201.57 in.) |
| Width | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3105 mm (122.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1629-1639 mm (64.13 – 64.53 in.) |
| Rear track | 1639-1659 mm (64.53 – 65.31 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18; 245/45 R19 98W; 275/40 R19 101W |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the K9 II 3.8 GDI is the G6DJ 3.8-liter V6 engine. This engine utilizes Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power output. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The G6DJ produces 315 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 292.81 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, provides smooth and responsive shifting. The all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8-liter V6 and eight-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provides adequate acceleration for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to confident handling, particularly in inclement weather. Compared to a potential turbocharged four-cylinder option (not widely available in the US market), the 3.8 GDI offers a more linear power delivery and a smoother overall feel. The eight-speed transmission is well-tuned, offering quick shifts and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of engagement as a dual-clutch transmission or a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The K9 II 3.8 GDI AWD Automatic came well-equipped with standard features including leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels added features like ventilated and massaging front seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a more luxurious interior finish. The interior design focused on providing a spacious and comfortable cabin for both front and rear passengers. Available options included a head-up display and a surround-view monitor.
Chassis & Braking
The K9 II utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The chassis is designed to minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), contributing to a refined driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia K9 II faced an uphill battle in the luxury sedan segment, competing against well-established brands like Lexus, Acura, and BMW. Critics generally praised the K9 II’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous features list. However, some reviewers noted that the styling was somewhat conservative and that the driving experience lacked the sportiness of some competitors. Fuel economy, at around 19-20 mpg combined, was typical for a full-size sedan with a V6 engine, but not class-leading. Compared to the available 5.0-liter V8 engine (in some markets), the 3.8 GDI offered a more fuel-efficient option with slightly less power.
Legacy
The Kia K9 II, while not a massive sales success, represented a significant step forward for the brand in terms of luxury and refinement. The 3.8 GDI V6 powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, the K9 II offers a compelling value proposition, providing a lot of features and comfort for the price. While it may not have the brand cachet of some of its competitors, the K9 II is a capable and comfortable luxury sedan that deserves consideration for buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped vehicle.
