Announced in September 2009, the Pentax K-x replaced the K2000 in the company's lineup. The K-x takes some of the features of the the company's prosumer K-7 model, and places them in a more consumer-friendly body. The main changes include a new image sensor and processor, Pentax's 11-point SAFOX VIII AF module, the addition of both live view and 24fps high-definition video capability, and significant boosts to both the camera's maximum shutter speed (1/6000), ISO sensitivity (up to a boosted ISO 12,800) and burst-shooting (4.7 fps) capabilities.

The K-x has been available in Europe and the USA for some time now, in one of four body colors - Black, Pearl White, Red and Navy Blue. To these initial choices, Pentax Europe has added eight more variations - Beige, Chocolate, Metal Dark Gray, Metal Fuchsia, Metal Turquoise, Olive Green, Pink, and Soft Brown. While still not quite to the same extent as in the Japanese market, where consumers can customize their own K-x by selecting from twenty body and nine grip colors, the new European versions allow photographers rather more choice over the look of their camera. US customers still have the initial selection of four body colors from which to choose.

European pricing for the new K-x kits, which come with an smc PENTAX DA-L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL lens, is unchanged from the existing versions at either €649 or £599. For more details, read our hands-on Pentax K-x preview!

Eight new colors for the Pentax K-x in the European market. Photo provided by Pentax Europe GmbH.