2023 Kia K5
Starting at $26.415
Highs Fastback appearance, notable content for the price, top-tier GT trim packs a stout 290 horsepower.
Lows Driver's seat is awkwardly positioned, GT suffers excessive wheelspin, GT needs a summer-tire option.
Verdict Every Kia K5 looks sharp and provides value the whole family can appreciate—and the GT trim is a certified hot rod.
Overview
With a fierce-looking mug and low-slung fastback shape, the 2023 Kia K5 sedan brings oodles of style in what has traditionally been a snooze-worthy segment. The K5's distinctive design isn't let down by a ho-hum engine, either, with two turbocharged four-cylinders that include the standard 180-hp version or the gutsy GT-specific 290-hp option. The mightier mill makes Kia's family sedan shockingly quick (60 mph arrives in just 5.2 seconds), but it's front-wheel-drive only and can easily overwhelm the tires resulting in squeals of wheelspin. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission, but the GT alone has a quick-shifting dual-clutch gearbox. Those who want all-wheel drive will have to stick with the standard powertrain, which is solid for most commutes. With a handsome interior and desirable features, the 2023 K5 is a lot of car for the money. Sure, it's not as satisfying to drive as the Honda Accord, but the Kia is much more exciting than the Toyota Camry or Nissan Altima.
What's New for 2023?
The 2023 Kia K5 doesn't change much from last year, except for a few trim level and equipment updates. With the base LX model discontinued, the LXS takes its place as the entry point, but it's no longer available with all-wheel drive. The fancier EX trim now boasts acoustic front door glass that combats road noise. Acoustic glass has been added to the GT-Line, too, and there's a newly optional package that includes a panoramic roof with LED interior lighting and gloss-black body molding. All-wheel-drive GT-Line models now have a standard heated steering wheel, and the top-of-the-line GT receives the acoustic glass treatment as well, but it is otherwise unchanged.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
LXS: $26,415
GT-Line: $27,815
EX: $30,315
GT: $32,815
For those who don't care about the extra firepower that comes with the GT's 290-hp engine, the GT-Line has a satisfying mix of racy styling elements at a very attractive price. That's the one we'd recommend, and for those who want the all-weather traction of all-wheel drive, it's available for an extra $1600. Otherwise, every GT-Line comes standard with a sportier body kit, 18-inch wheels, a 10-way power driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and wireless smartphone charging. We'd also spring for the Premium package, which brings adaptive cruise control, advanced forward-collision warning, and full LED headlights.
