2023 Kia K5 Expert Review
Reviewed by Duncan Brady
Remember the Kia Optima? Kia replaced that model for the 2021 model year with a redesigned midsize sedan badged as the K5, the same name the Optima had been going by in foreign markets since 2000. The Georgia-built K5 is exclusively available with turbocharged engine options and offers AWD to help it stand out in the segment. It faces off against other midsize sedans including the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and its platform mate, the Hyundai Sonata.
What's New
- GT-Line is now offered with a Panoramic Roof package
- GT-Line AWD now includes a heated steering wheel
- Acoustic front door window glass is now standard on the EX, GT-Line, and GT
- Base LX trim is no longer available
What We Think
The Kia K5 makes the most sense for those who don't want a crossover or SUV and are sick of the forgettable designs of the midsize sedan segment. Distinctive headlights, a full-width taillight, and a coupelike profile make the K5 hard to miss, something that can't be said for rolling bars of soap like the Subaru Legacy.
In range-topping GT spec, the K5's performance backs up its dramatic styling with tons of passing power and agile handling. That said, all models may ride a bit firm, and the steering feels vague and disconnected. The standard engine is nothing to write home about; we've said getting the K5 to accelerate is like trying to squeeze toothpaste out of an empty tube.
As for the cabin, the midsize Kia offers loads of space in the front row, which largely makes up for its unimpressive rear-seat legroom. We're fans of the interior design and generous technology, but material quality feels lackluster. Such is the story of the K5, a beautifully designed sedan with some redeemable attributes but ultimately more style than substance.
Performance and Efficiency
The K5 is available with two different turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Most variants are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo-four that develops 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The base engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic, and although FWD is standard, AWD is available as an option on the GT-Line. We tested an FWD model with this engine and hit 60 mph in a respectable 7.8 seconds. The fuel economy numbers read 25-27/33-37 mpg city/highway.
Those in search of more power should look toward the range-topping K5 GT. That car is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged I-4 putting out a burly 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, all of which is routed to the front wheels with help from an eight-speed dual-clutch auto. Efficiency drops slightly to 24/32 mpg, but the 0-60-mph time is slashed to just 5.4 seconds, which makes the K5 GT one of the quickest cars in its segment.
Safety Ratings and Features
The K5 is a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with perfect crashworthiness scores and strong headlight ratings; it also earns a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and automatic high-beams. Buyers who step above the base model will add side and rear cross-traffic alert plus blind-spot monitoring. Rear emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are available on higher trims.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The K5 has loads of front legroom but significantly less rear legroom than the Toyota Camry. Cargo space measures a usable 16.0 cubic feet.
Technology
Kia offers the K5 with two infotainment options. The LXS trim is equipped with an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but for 2023, that trim has been discontinued. Now, all trims work with a 10.3-inch system, which includes the smartphone mirroring tech but requires a wired connection. Every variant of the 2023 K5 gets integrated navigation and rear USB charge ports, too.
Recommended Trim
The K5 is available in five separate trim levels: the LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT, which range from $26,185 to $32,585. Our pick is the GT-Line. It offers some nice feature additions over the LXS—LED foglights and taillights, a power driver's seat, the larger 10.3-inch infotainment screen, and one-touch up/down front windows. Plus, the GT-Line is the only trim offered with AWD.
