2023 Kia K5

The 2023 Kia K5 is available in three trim configurations as compared to the four-tier structure that was previously prevalent. The base LX trim has been dropped for the current MY and the LXS, which is priced at $25,290, is now the entry-level option. This is followed by the GT-Line and EX trim levels which are priced at $26,690 and $29,190, respectively.

Each trim shares a common mechanical setup with a 1.6L engine assuming duty that transfers power to the front wheels. The GT-Line, however, offers an optional all-wheel-drivetrain for refined performance. The AWD drivetrain is available with just the GT-Line trim for an added sum of $1,600. 

As standard, all K5 models get a comprehensive list of driver safety aids as standard. These include forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane keeping system, driver attention warning, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, rear passenger safe-exit system, and high-beam assist. 

2023 Kia K5 LXS features:

• LED headlights & 16-inch alloy wheels
• Push-button start & Remote start
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 8-inch touchscreen w/Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 6-speaker sound system

2023 Kia K5 GT-Line features:

• 18-inch alloy wheels & Sporty black exterior treatments
• LED foglights and taillights
• Sound-reducing front windows
• Power-adjustable driver's seat w/Cloth and simulated leather interior upholstery
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• 10.25-inch touchscreen w/integrated navigation system

2023 Kia K5 EX features:

• Deletes sporty body kit from GT-Line
• Panoramic sunroof & Rear parking sensors
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel & Simulated leather interior upholstery
• Climate control vents for rear passengers
• LED interior lighting

In addition to the long list of standard equipment, Kia also offers optional packages to better spec your K5 sedan. The K5 GT-Line gets 2 optional GT-Line Premium and GT-Line Panoramic Sunroof packages for $800 and $1,000 respectively. The EX Premium package can be added to the K5 EX trim for $3,600 which adds a ton of more creature comforts to the mix. 

GT-Line Premium Package

• Auto Emergency Braking Technology w/ Junction Turning
• Highway Driving Assist
• Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go
• LED Projector Headlights

GT-Line Panoramic Sunroof Package

• Panoramic Sunroof
• LED Interior Lighting
• B-Pillar, Windshield Trim Surround & Antenna, Gloss Black

EX Premium Package

• GT-Line Premium Package
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse
• Front Parking Sensors & Surround View Monitor
• Safe Exit Assist w/ Power Rear Child-Safety Door Locks
• Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go
• LED Tail Lights & Side View Mirrors w/ LED Turn Signal
• Heated Steering Wheel & Active Sound Design
• 10-Way Power Passengers's Seat, Driver's Seat & Outside Mirror Integrated Memory System
• 12-speaker Bose Premium Audio

The 2023 Kia K5 is also sufficiently efficient. In the current iteration, the sedan manages to average mileage of 27 in the city and 37 on the highway. Under combined conditions, it averages 31 MPG and though it feels frugal, it is defeated by its competitors only by a notch. However, it does boast the largest fuel tank in the segment which can hold 15.8-gallons, and consequently, the vehicle is capable of covering 490 miles, which is higher than most rivals. With the AWD option, the fuel figures fall to 25 and 33 MPG in the city and on the highway, respectively.

In comparison, Honda’s sedan continues its winning streak with the highest recorded mileage in the city and under combined conditions at 30 and 33 MPG, respectively. However, the Accord alongside the Hyundai Sonata has the smallest tank at 14.8-gallons. As a result, the Toyota Camry with its mileage of 39 MPG and a range of 616 miles on the highway assumes a favorable position in the segment.

The 2023 Kia K5 resonates with comfort and luxury. Irrespective of the trim you opt for, the midsize sedan delivers ample value and can easily compete against vehicles above its class. The setup is intuitive and even with an electronic parking brake, drive mode selector, and other knobs and buttons, the central console does not look cluttered. The centrally placed infotainment screen also feels logically placed as it provides easy access to all functionalities. In terms of materials as well, the Korean sedan feels fulfilling. Though there are some plastic bits across the cabin, they do not invalidate the plush aura that surrounds the vehicle.

As for interior space, the 2023 Kia K5 can seat five passengers easily. While the front seats deliver class-leading performance, the rear seat legroom can feel slightly underwhelming. Nonetheless, tall passengers can be easily seated inside the cabin, and thanks to the available panoramic sunroof, the airiness inside the cabin remains impressive. Even the cargo capacity is class-competing and the midsize proposition offers 16 cubic feet to the buyers.

Like its corporate sibling, the Hyundai Sonata sacrifices rear legroom for added space on the front. The interior dimensions of both cars are rather similar and even the cargo capacity stands at 16 cubic feet. On the other hand, both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry have cleverer space management and ensure that the head, shoulder, and legroom are ample in both rows. However, the 2022 Camry falls short of cargo capacity per segment standards, while the Accord leads the class at 16.7 cu.-ft.

Some of the standout interior features available with the 2023 Kia K5 include:

• Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control
• Power liftgate
• Cloth/Leather Upholstery
• Split-folding rear seats
• Manual/power adjustable front seats
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering wheel

How intuitive is the 2023 Kia K5’s infotainment system?

The 2023 Kia K5’s infotainment system is easy to use and comes packed to the hilt with technologically advanced features. The sedan sports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and provides access to satellite radio and WiFi Hotspots on the higher trims. An 8-inch touchscreen assumes relevance in the base model, while the GT-Line and EX trims make use of a 10.25-inch screen that is compatible with Kia Connect. Both systems are rather intuitive with appropriate touch responses and precise graphics. The sound duties are handled by a 6-speaker sound system, which adds a touch of class to the riding experience.

Some of the standout infotainment features include:

• 8/10.25-inch touchscreen display
• 6-speaker sound system
• USB Connection
• Satellite Radio
• AM/FM Stereo
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The 2023 Kia K5 continues with a familiar look as it is still a part of the first generation of the sedan. It looks more of a performance-oriented option with striking headlamps and a revised take on the butterfly grille. The chiseled lines on the hood add a tint of muscularity to the design and the sloping roofline bestows an almost Sportback-like aura on the sedan. Even when viewed from the side, the large doors and defined character lines influence the overall design. Only at the rear do the cojoined taillights add subtlety to the vehicle’s looks.

In terms of dimensions as well, the Kia K5 carries a curb weight of 3,148 lbs. It is 193.1 inches long, 73.2 inches wide, and has a total height of 56.9 inches. While the ground clearance has not yet been revealed, the wheelbase of the Korean sedan is longer than most rivals at 112.2 inches. 

In comparison, no sedan manages to match the sharpness in its design that the Kia K5 achieves. The competitors look rather executive in their design and aim to serve the intentions of family buyers who look for sophistication in all regards. As for the dimensions, the 2022 Hyundai Sonata is the closest competitor and shares almost all the dimensions with its corporate sibling. However, it has a ground clearance of 5.3 inches and sports a wheelbase that is 0.4 inches shorter. On the other hand, the sedans from Honda and Toyota are smaller but the difference is only diminutive. Both Japanese contenders, although, are heavier in their build.

Key exterior features of the 2023 Kia K5 include:

• Rear Spoiler
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Mud Guards
• LED headlights
• Panoramic Sunroof
• Quad-tip dual exhausts

Being an all-new model, the 2023 Kia K5 has not been subjected to crash tests by any organization. However, considering that the midsize sedan continues to be based on the outgoing platform, the ratings of the previous iteration can be used as a reference point. In 2022, the midsize proposition scored cent-percent ratings and was recognized for its capabilities by IIHS. As for features, the Korean vehicle comes equipped with automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, the normal dose of traction and stability control, and a comprehensive airbag system. Some other standout safety features available with the 2023 K5 also include:

• Forward Collision Avoidance System
• Blind-spot Monitor
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Automatic high beams
• Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist
• Rear Parking Aid

2023 Kia K5 vs 2022 Honda Accord

The 2023 Kia K5 and the 2022 Honda Accord are closely matched options in an augmenting market. Both sedans sport a turbocharged engine under their hoods and are equally efficient. They have almost similar cargo space and carry novel designs. While the Japanese option has better interior space to boast, the Kia sedan has better driving refinement and is more tranquil. So, amongst the two vehicles, there is no option that we are indifferent toward and the decision is subjective and will depend on the buyers’ requirements.

2023 Kia K5 vs 2022 Toyota Camry

The other Japanese contender in the midsize sedan segment, the Toyota Camry, is also equally enticing. It promises an all-around performance and the vehicle delivers the highest amount of horsepower and torque figures. It is the most fuel-efficient option and is also capaciously built to provide ample space for all passengers. While it lacks the cargo space of most of its competitors, the Camry’s comprehensive performance makes it a better option between the two.

2023 Kia K5 vs 2022 Hyundai Sonata

The 2023 Kia K5 and the 2022 Hyundai Sonata being corporate siblings are closely matched options. Both sedans offer impressive driving capabilities and are equally capable in acceleration, the K5 takes a slight lead in terms of the overall range it delivers, thanks to a larger fuel tank. In all other aspects, there is no comparison that can be made. So, when the two Korean options are concerned, the decision boils down to the requirements of the driver and which exterior design they prefer.

The 2023 Kia K5, by virtue of its affordability and versatility, is an enticing choice in the midsize sedan segment. It is potent in its acceleration, upholds frugality for everyday driving, and provides a sophisticated ride quality. The interior might not have the most comprehensive space distribution, however, it is perfect for small families and the cargo capacity also feels decent and usable. So, for us, the new Kia K5 makes sense and its accessible pricing makes it an even more tantalizing offering. However, if your requirement for a vehicle is urgent and since the release date is yet to be confirmed, even a used 2022 Kia K5 for sale will be a handy option.