2024 Kia K5: A Stylish Sedan Packing Value and Punch

The 2024 Kia K5 strikes a compelling balance between style, practicality, and affordability in the mid-size sedan segment. It boasts a head-turning design, a comfortable and well-equipped interior, and a range of powertrain options to suit various driving needs. While it might not be the most dynamic handler, the K5 offers a strong value proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich daily driver.

Sharp Looks That Stand Out

The 2024 K5 throws out the "boring sedan" stereotype with its sculpted exterior. The long hood, fastback roofline, and sleek LED headlights create a sporty and sophisticated presence. The available GT-Line trim adds even more flair with aggressive body accents and unique wheels. Compared to some conservative rivals like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, the K5 definitely stands out on the road.

Interior Hits the Mark on Comfort and Tech

Inside, the K5 prioritizes comfort and technology. The cabin uses quality materials with a focus on ergonomics. The driver's seat offers a wide range of adjustments, ensuring a comfortable position for all body types. The higher trim levels boast heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

The tech offerings are equally impressive. The standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen is responsive and user-friendly, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of connected services. Higher trims offer a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen with advanced navigation features and a premium sound system. While some reviewers found the physical buttons for climate control to be a bit small, the overall layout is well-designed and intuitive.

Spacious Enough for Most Needs

The K5 offers ample space for passengers in the front and rear seats. Headroom and legroom are generous, making it comfortable for long journeys. The trunk space, at 16 cubic feet, is about average for the class and can handle most everyday needs. Folding down the rear seats expands cargo capacity for bulkier items.

Engine Options for Every Driver

The 2024 K5 offers a choice of three powertrains:

• 1.6L Turbocharged I4: This base engine delivers a modest 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. While it provides adequate power for daily commutes, some might find it lacking for highway passing or spirited driving.

• 2.5L I4 (GT-Line only): This engine offers a nice step up in power, producing 228 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque. It provides a more responsive driving experience and is a good choice for those who desire a bit more pep without going all-out on performance.

• 2.5L Turbocharged I4 (GT model only): This powerhouse cranks out a thrilling 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.  The acceleration is exhilarating, transforming the K5 from a comfortable cruiser to a genuinely sporty sedan. However, this engine comes at a premium price and might see slightly lower fuel economy.

All engines come paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on most trims, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available on the GT-Line and optional on the base LX trim.

Focus on Comfort, Not Razor-Sharp Handling

The 2024 K5 prioritizes a comfortable and composed ride over razor-sharp handling. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. While it won't win any awards for corner carving, it provides a confident and predictable driving experience for most drivers. The GT model, with its sportier suspension tuning, offers more engaging handling without sacrificing too much ride comfort.

Trims and Pricing

The 2024 Kia K5 comes in five trim levels: LX, GT-Line FWD, GT-Line AWD. Here's a breakdown of the starting MSRP for each trim:

• LX FWD: $25,390

• LX AWD (optional): $27,190

• GT-Line FWD: $27,790

• GT-Line AWD: $29,590