The 2018 Kia K900 5.0L V8 gets 18 MPG combined. No one buys this car for fuel efficiency. They buy it for the quiet, comfortable experience of a large, luxurious sedan at a price significantly below European competitors. The thirsty V8 is part of the appeal; power and effortless cruising are prioritized over trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 K900’s 5.0L V8 achieves 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-suited to the engine’s power delivery, offering smooth shifts and helping to optimize fuel efficiency where possible. Don’t expect miracles in stop-and-go traffic. The K900 is a large car with a powerful engine, and that combination inevitably leads to lower MPG in urban environments. However, on the open road, the K900 settles into a comfortable cruise, making the most of its gearing and engine tuning to achieve its highway rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Kia K900 5.0L V8 at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s assumed national average fuel price. This gives you a benchmark against which to compare other vehicles and highlights where the K900 sits relative to more fuel-efficient options. The EPA does not specify which fuel grade the K900 requires, but given the vehicle’s luxury positioning and powerful V8, it’s likely that premium gasoline is recommended for optimal performance, which will further impact the annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful comparison point, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving style, road conditions, and maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and neglecting routine maintenance will all negatively impact fuel economy. Drivers who primarily use their K900 for short city trips are likely to see figures closer to the 15 MPG city rating, while those who spend more time on the highway may achieve numbers closer to the 23 MPG highway rating. Gentle and consistent driving is key to maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, especially for a large sedan with a powerful V8.

How it compares

The 2018 Kia K900’s fuel economy is notably lower than some competitors when compared to other luxury sedans. For example, the Lexus LS 500, even with its twin-turbo V6 engine, achieves a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG. The BMW 740i, with its inline-six turbo, manages 25 MPG combined. Even the Mercedes-Benz S560, with its V8 engine, boasts a combined rating of 19 MPG. The K900 buyer is often drawn to the car’s value. It delivers a similar level of luxury and features for a significantly lower price, and perhaps they are more willing to accept a lower fuel economy rating as a trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Proper tire inflation is an easy way to improve fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking conserve fuel and also extend the life of your brake pads. The K900’s V8 provides plenty of power, so there’s no need to push it hard unless you’re really trying to get a move on.

Reduce the amount of weight you carry in the vehicle. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and rear seats, as extra weight reduces fuel efficiency. Even small amounts of additional weight add up over time. Consider the amount of cargo when assessing K900 MPG across all years to consider realistic variations.

Use cruise control on the highway when appropriate. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, improving fuel economy. As well, consider using the K900’s driving mode selector, choosing the “Eco” mode when conditions allow. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Neglecting these items can negatively impact fuel economy and lead to more serious mechanical problems. You can review all Kia fuel economy data to see trends and potential improvements over time.