2022 Kia K5 Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs

Key Features

• Starting at $23,690 MSRP*
• Standard 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine (180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque) or available 2.5-liter turbocharged GDI + MPI four-cylinder engine (290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque) with all-new eight-speed automatic transmission and optional all-wheel drive system
• Normal, Smart, Sport, and Custom drive modes adjust settings for the engine, transmission, AWD (when equipped) and steering mapping
• Powerful and bold appearance featuring Stinger design DNA while expanding Kia’s future design language

• Standard 8-inch or available 10.25-inch high-resolution color touchscreen with optional server-based navigation system and UVO telematics with connected user profiles
• Available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration and wireless smartphone charging with drop-in design
• Standard Kia Drive Wise suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
• Mix of premium and sporty upholstery options including red leatherette seating and satin chrome metallic / wood-like finishes on the dashboard and door panels

About the Kia K5

Captivating design, potent powertrain options, and groundbreaking technology help the K5 earn the title of the most powerful and tech-savvy Kia midsize sedan in the brand’s history. Building on the success of the outgoing Optima, the K5 represents one of the biggest leaps forward between generations in recent automotive history. Revolutionary design language incorporates the sport-focused DNA of the Stinger with the N3 platform that’s stronger while being longer, wider, and lower than the previous midsize platform from Kia. Two new turbocharged engine choices, two 8-speed automatic transmissions, and available all-wheel drive showcase how the Kia K5 elevates performance to new heights. Step inside the tech-focused cabin and you’ll find yourself surrounded by a collection of advanced connectivity features that help enhance your drive. Kia-first wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration eliminates clutter from cables and seamlessly connects you to your social circles. A combination of premium and sporty upholstery choices allows you to personalize your Kia K5 to match your individuality.

What The Critics Say

"“Woah! Check out the Kia K5's styling. If there was ever a notion that midsize sedans need to look boring, the K5 shatters it. Z-shaped headlights, a modish taillight bar, and a swoopy, sloping profile give this car presence on the road. Kia's reshaped badge better suits its aesthetics. “ -- MotorTrend

"“Inside, the K5 looks amazing for how much it costs. The layout is both sophisticated and straightforward, and the cabin is appointed with attractive materials such as wood trim on the dash and doors. The K5 also offers an array of upscale interior features, such as ambient interior lighting on the dash and doors, heated and ventilated fronts seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a wireless charging pad.” -- Car and Driver

Kia K5 Video

What’s New for 2022

Back after a successful debut last year, the Kia K5 returns for the 2022 model year with a handful of key updates. First, all K5 models gain the new Kia badging on the exterior. Next, most trims can now be equipped with the popular Surround View Monitor and wireless charger options. Finally, a new GT-Line AWD Premium package is available. This package adds a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, LED projection headlights, and additional driver assistance features to enhance your drive.

Kia K5 Features

Daring Design & Enticing Performance

Longer, lower, and wider compared to its predecessor -- the Kia K5 benefits from the third-generation N3 platform. Its muscular, angular design with styling cues taken from the award-winning Stinger ushers in an entirely new era of daring design language from the Kia brand. GT and GT-Line models feature a shark skin-inspired mesh design on the front grille and dual chrome exhaust tip garnishes.

Standard power for the K5 comes in the form of a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Craving more muscle? Step up to the K5 GT to receive a 2.5-liter turbocharged GDI + MPI four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an 8-speed “wet” Dual Clutch Transmission, GT models can accelerate 0-60 MPH in a blistering 5.8 seconds. An optional all-wheel drive system on the Kia K5 also adds control and confidence in both dry and wet conditions.

Tech-Focused Interior

Harmonized by its open layout, the intuitive interior of the Kia K5 is packed with innovative tech features and comfort amenities to enhance your daily drive. You’ll have your choice of premium and sporty upholstery options including red leatherette seating along with satin chrome metallic and wood-like finishes on the dashboard to suit your personal tastes. Other optional features found on GT-Line and GT trim levels include a panoramic sunroof and a race-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel.

Acting as your hub for infotainment, drivers can choose from either a standard 8-inch or available 10.25-inch touchscreen with split-screen functionality. Additional tech options offered inside the K5 include natural language voice recognition software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, wireless smartphone charging, and a hands-free Smart Trunk.

Groundbreaking Safety

Kia remains at the forefront of pioneering some of the safest vehicles on the market today and the K5 is certainly no exception. Included as standard on all trim levels, the Kia Drive Wise suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) helps you stay one step ahead of danger on the roadways. Standard features include Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Following Assist (LFA),  Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA). Available Safe Exit Assist can alert the driver or passengers opening their door not to exit the vehicle if danger is detected. With the optional Navigation Based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (NSCC-C), your K5 can leverage its navigational data to lower the vehicle’s speed proactively before upcoming curves.

Trims & Specs

Kia K5 LX

• Starting at $23,690 MSRP*
• Turbocharged 1.6 liter 4-Cylinder with 8-Speed Automatic Transmission (FWD)
• 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
• Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control
• Remote Keyless Entry with Alarm
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) w/ Pedestrian Detection

Kia K5 LXS

• Starting at $24,690 MSRP*
• Available all-wheel drive system
• Smart Key with Remote Start, Push-Button Start, and Immobilizer
• Smart Trunk
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)

Kia K5 GT-Line

• Starting at $26,090 MSRP*
• GT Body Styling and GT Front Grille
• 18-inch Alloy Wheels, GT-Line Sport Black Finish
• Cloth & Synthetic Leather Seat Trim
• Leather-Wrapped Sport Steering Wheel
• 2 USB Charging Outlets, Rear Console

Kia K5 EX

• Starting at $28,590 MSRP*
• Synthetic Leather Seat Trim with Heated/Ventilated Front Seats
• Panoramic Sunroof w/ Power Sunshade
• UVO link remote connectivity
• Parking Distance Warning (PDW), Reverse
• Wireless Phone Charger

Kia K5 GT

• Starting at $31,090 MSRP*
• Turbocharged 2.5 liter 4-Cylinder with 8-Speed Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission (Wet Type)
• GT Sport Tuned Suspension
• GT Brake Calipers
• 19-inch GT Alloy Wheels
• Electric, Rack-Mounted Motor-Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS)

*"Starting MSRP" price is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest model trim. MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Actual price set by dealer and may vary. Kia Motors reserves the right to make changes at any time as to vehicle availability, destination, and handling fees, colors, materials, specifications, features, accessories, packages, and models.