The 2022 Kia K5 enters its second year of production, as it replaced the Optima in 2019. While this upcoming model is still a family-oriented sedan, it doesn’t lose its allure with its trendy design and highlighting 2.5 turbo powertrain. Regardless of the trim, each K5 car contains various standard features and technologies, along with lots of room in the rear seating area.
New features involve a GT-Line AWD model, a bit of a work around with the interior niceties across trims, extra technologies for the GT-Line, and a couple of rear USB ports. Best of all, the starting price is an incredibly healthy $23,690, (plus destination fee).
290
Max. Horsepower
2.5-liter turbo inline-4
Avail. Engine Type
12-speaker Bose audio
Avail. Feature
Performance
Engine Type
This Kia mid-sizer has two powertrain options, with the main one being a 4-cylinder 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. It has a satisfying output of 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It’s also mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its fuel economy figures for the highway are also strong with 38 mpg for the LX trim, 37 for FWD, and 33 for AWD.
Things really ramp up in the top-tier K5 GT model, as it has a much higher output of 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque from its 2.5-liter turbo, which also has 4 cylinders. The transmission used is an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. It can be managed like a traditional transmission, but its shift behaviors are quicker than the 1.6’s unit.
Driving and Performance
Front-wheel-drive (FWD) systems act as a standard on the 1.6-L and the only option on the 2.5-L. The entry LX model has the best fuel economy figures, and this is owing to its start/stop function, which no other 2022 K5 motor has. Driving around town, you’ll find that the ride is cool and comfortable while driving around time.
Then, the GT comes out like a firecracker with its incredible driving capabilities and ultimate power. It has a steering system specific to its model, paddle shifters (for manual gear shifting when desired), and a sport-tuned suspension.
Despite this particular model lacking AWD, it’s still incredibly controlled and very comfortable. The feel may seem a bit firmer than in the other models due to the combinations of the larger wheel and sport suspension. The steering has a good feel to it, while the cabin noise is kept to a minimum, even while speeding on the freeway.
Style
Exterior Features
“Isn’t that a sight for sore eyes” is what those who pass by will say when passing by your hot rod. The 2022 K5 is certainly alluring, with its sculpting and line built to perfection. This car is proof that the Kia brand is only getting bolder with its designs, and making them hard to forget.
The base trim and LXS include 16-inch alloy wheels, the GT-Line and EX rock 18-inch alloy sneakers, but the GT flaunts the most with its 19-inch alloy Yeezy slides. The Glacial White Pearl is the only deluxe paint offered for the K5’s. Wolf Gray is also an option on the GT-Line and GT models.
Interior Features
Moving inward, you’ll see that the car has more magical charms in its midst. It carries on the ongoing trend of new vehicles doing away with buttons in favor of digital ones. However, there are still some controls on the steering wheel, while the rest lie on the infotainment screen.
The K5’s GT-Line and GT trims only accentuate their sportiness with features such as a black headliner and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The EX then implements a wood-like trim to make the interior look even more opulent.
Technology
Standard Features
Kia is known for providing much more than you paid for with its plethora of interior gadgets and other amenities. Standard goodies that are included in the base models involve 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights/daytime running lights, heated side mirrors, cloth upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, choosable driving modes, manually adjustable front seats, and fixed rear seats.
Safety technologies consist of forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, automatic high beams, and a rear-occupant alert. Then, comfort features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD radio, two USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration.
Some buyers may prefer to upgrade a little by opting for the LXS model, as its builds in blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, Safe Exit Assist, keyless entry/ignition, remote start/climate settings, two USB ports for the rear passengers, and 60/40 split/folding rear seats. This will also give them the option of choosing AWD, which comes with a Snow setting to the drive modes, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and (previously mentioned) 18-inch alloy wheels.
Optional Features and Warranty
This 2022 Kia mid-sizer has plenty of additional features that are just as lovely if you’re willing to spare some extra doe. For instance, the EX (except AWD) can include a panoramic sunroof, LED cabin lighting, heated/ventilated front seats, simulated leather seating surfaces, satellite radio, and rear parking sensors. The infotainment system also adds a 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, and wireless charging.
The GT-Line then takes it up several notches with a flat-bottomed steering wheel, cloth/simulated leather upholstery, LED fog lights/taillights, black-finished alloy wheels, and a gloss black rear spoiler. It also has AWD and heated front seats. Moreover, the great GT is augmented by a sport-tuned suspension, firmed-up brakes, heated sport front seats, panoramic sunroof, black-finished 19-inch alloy wheels, Sport+ driving mode, and a quad exhaust system.
At last, the Kia company has a warranty that its competitors simply can’t beat, as it offers 10 years/10,000-miles for its powertrain. It also has a limited warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles for its basic coverage. It even offers other coverage options like the Corrosion warranty for 5 years/100,00 miles and the Roadside Assistance for 5 years/60,000 miles.
