The Kia K5, originally introduced as the replacement for the classic Kia Optima, has quickly become a popular choice for new car buyers seeking a combination of style, performance, and reliability. The K5 has already become known for its sleek design, advanced safety features, and attractive price point, quickly establishing itself as a strong competitor in the lower-midsize sedan market.

Learn everything you need to know about the Kia K5, including the aforementioned standout features, the different trim levels, performance capabilities, and more, to determine if this is the car for you.

Standout Features of the Kia K5

The Kia K5 stands out in several key areas that attract a wide range of buyers. Its sleek exterior design includes a sportier profile than its predecessor, and a wider front grille and LED lighting option give it a modern and bold appearance on the road. From a performance standpoint, the K5 comes with either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or a turbocharged version of that engine, depending upon which trim you choose. This results in horsepower ranging from 191 to 290, along with 5,800 to 6,100 rpm.

The technological features within the K5 have also been a major selling point for the vehicle, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility standing out in particular. On top of this, the Bose premium package sound system ensures a high-quality audio experience that is perfect for music lovers.

On top of all of this, the Kia K5 makes safety a priority with its Kia Drive Wise system that features a suite of advanced driver assistance systems including, but not limited to:

• Blind spot collision avoidance assist
• Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist
• Park distance warnings
• Lane departure warnings
• Lane following assist
• Smart cruise control with stop & go

Kia K5 Trim Levels and Pricing

Naturally, there are different levels to the Kia K5, which will provide you with a range of power, technology features, sport, and comfort. There are five primary trim packages for the K5, each of which ranges in its starting MSRP:

1.  Kia K5 LXS FWD

Starting MSRP: $26,990

The LXS FWD is the base model of the Kia K5 and offers a solid mix of comfort and performance at an affordable price point. It includes all the standard features such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the full Kia Drive Wise suite of safety features that protects you on the road.

2. Kia K5 GT-Line FWD

Starting MSRP: $27,990

The GT-Line FWD trim steps things up a notch compared to the LXS FWD by bringing a sportier style. While it doesn’t have a spoiler, the rear back is raised slightly, which gives it a spoiler-like feel. It features the same 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine as the LXS FWD but has more technology, including a wireless phone charger and navigation built into the touchscreen.

4. Kia K5 GT-Line AWD

Starting MSRP: $29,590

For drivers seeking extra traction on the road, the GT-Line AWD offers all-wheel drive without sacrificing the sporty aesthetic of the GT-Line model. This model contains all the same features as the former GT-Line, with the benefit of the AWD feature. This makes it a great option for those wanting the GT-Line but who are living in colder climates where road conditions can be challenging.

4. Kia K5 GT

Starting MSRP: $33,090

The GT trim focuses on performance, featuring a turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine that produces up to 290 horsepower. The wheels themselves feature a sportier look as compared to the broader GT-Line, and it also automatically includes perks such as interior LED lighting, the option for curved instrument displays, a USB charging port, larger tires, and more.

5. Kia K5 EX

Starting MSRP: $34,490

The final trim to consider on the Kia K5 is the EX which takes all of the prior features and expands on them, which is why it has the highest starting MSRP. It comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels that are gloss black and machine finished, automatic Bose premium audio system, active sound design, curved instrument display, wood graphics on the interior display, and more. Whereas the GT-Line and GT prioritize performance, the EX is a masterclass in comfort.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency Ratings

The Kia K5 offers two different engine options to choose from, depending upon which model of the car you are looking at. Whether it’s the standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or the turbocharged version of that same engine, the power of 191-290 horsepower offers great performance. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the exception of the GT model, all trim levels offer a smooth and responsive driving experience.

For those seeking a wilder ride, the GT model will complete a 0-60 run in 5.2 seconds, showing the turbo power behind the wheel. While fuel efficiency can vary slightly from trim level to trim level, it gets an EPA estimate of 27 mpg fuel economy in the city and 37 mpg for highway driving. This makes it a perfectly reasonable vehicle for daily driving.

Key Safety and Technology Features

The Kia K5 comes with a suite of safety features, many of which are standard across all trim levels. The Kia Drive Wise suite includes:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Detects potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and applies the brakes automatically.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane on highways and city streets.
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW): Monitors driver fatigue and provides alerts when it detects drowsy or distracted driving.
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA): Alerts the driver when vehicles are in their blind spots and can intervene to avoid a collision if necessary.

In addition, the fact that the Kia K5 comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, not to mention the 10.25-inch touchscreen with the option for GPS, shows how technologically advanced the K5 is.

Potential Maintenance and Repair Costs for Kia K5

While the Kia K5 is known for its reliability, it’s important to consider potential maintenance and repair costs when thinking about whether you want to buy this vehicle. Like any car, routine maintenance such as oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations at the repair shop or dealership will be necessary to keep your K5 in top condition. Some of the average maintenance costs to expect are as follows:

• Oil Change: $50-$100, depending on whether synthetic oil is used.
• Brake Pad Replacement: $150-$300 per axle.
• Tire Rotation: $60-$75, typically recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.

On a yearly basis, for the accumulation of other maintenance tasks, you should expect to pay around $1,000 a year. Think about this value when considering the total long-term cost of your Kia K5.

How an Extended Car Warranty Can Cover Mechanical Issues

Endurance Warranty offers a variety of auto protection plans, also known as extended warranties, that can help to cover repair costs if your Kia K5 breaks down. The three most popular vehicle protection plans offered by Endurance include the Secure Plus, Supreme, and Superior plans, which offer varying levels of coverage ranging from high-level stated coverage to near bumper-to-bumper coverage. On all packages, though, the engine, transmission, air conditioning system, electrical components, drive axle, and brakes are covered by our plans.

In addition to the financial protection offered by Endurance Warranty plans, all customers can take advantage of standard perks like 24/7 roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and trip interruption reimbursement. You can also activate our Elite Benefits package for complete tire coverage, key fob replacement, up to $1,000 in total loss protection, and more, all of which can help protect your Kia.*

Protecting Your Kia K5 with Endurance

An Endurance auto protection plan can save you money on unexpected repair costs that may arise with your new Kia K5 so that you can keep your vehicle in perfect condition. With customizable coverage options, you can choose a plan that fits your needs and budget, whether you’re focused on basic high-level coverage or something more comprehensive.

To see how Endurance can help you, contact one of our plan advisors at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote online. You can also simply shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing now.

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