History/Overview
Introduced last year, the K5 is the new name for Kia’s redesigned family sedan, formerly known as the Optima and before that Magentis. Name notwithstanding, this is the fifth generation of Kia’s mid-size sedan.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
For 2022, the Kia K5 is unchanged save for small price increases in certain trims.
Available Trims
Kia offers the K5 in LX, EX, GT-Line and GT trim levels. The first three configurations use a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD; GT gets a 2.5L turbo mill, a dual-clutch eight-speed, and front-wheel drive.
Standard Features
LX starts with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone A/C, 8.0-inch infotainment display with smartphone integration, a six-speaker stereo, heated washer nozzles, and passive keyless entry. LX’s safety kit comprises safe exit warning, blind spot collision intervention, lane keep/follow assist, and forward collision avoidance assist.
EX adds 18-inch wheels, LED taillights, rain-sensing wipers, panoramic sunroof, leatherette upholstery, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance with junction turning assist, rear parking sensors, and a heated windshield.
GT-Line gains power-folding side mirrors, heated rear/ventilated front seats, a D-shaped steering wheel, 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, navigation, safe exit assist, highway drive assist, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
GT gets 19-inch wheels, LED fog lights, digital gauge cluster, head-up driver display, and rear collision avoidance assist.
Fuel Economy
Kia’s fuel consumption estimates for the K5 are 9.2/6.9 L/100 km (city/highway) for LX, EX, and GT-Line, and 9.9/7.3 L/100 km for the GT and its larger engine.
Competition
With the handsome K5 on its side, Kia competes against mid-size stalwarts like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, and Subaru Legacy.