Hyundai unveiled the facelifted Sonata earlier this year, but Kia is keeping it old school as they’ve introduced the 2024 K5.
Essentially a carryover model, the 2024 Kia K5 only has one notable equipment change as the front-wheel drive GT-Line now comes standard with heated front seats. That’s a minor update, but it’s sure to warm the hearts and bums of buyers.
The changes aren’t the only thing that is minor as price increases have been kept to a minimum. That’s good news and the entry-level K5 LXS sees a minor $100 increase to begin at $25,390. The aforementioned K5 GT-Line climbs $200 to $26,890 as those newly standard heated front seats don’t come free. Thankfully, the rest of the lineup sticks to a $100 price increase.
Driven: The Kia K5 Combines Sleek Styling With A Sportier Driving Experience
Under the hood, there’s a familiar 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder that produces 180 hp (134 kW / 183 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which enables front-wheel drive variants to return an EPA estimated 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. With all-wheel drive, those numbers drop to 25 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
The range-topping Kia K5 GT starts at $31,790 and features a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS) and 311 lb-ft (421 Nm) of torque. It’s paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and this setup enables the model to return 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.
In terms of equipment, the K5 LXS sports LED lighting units, an acoustic laminated windshield, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The entry-level model also sports a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a six-speaker audio system, metallic painted trim, and an eight-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Buyers will also find an assortment of standard driver assistance systems including Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, and Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with vehicle and pedestrian detection. They’re joined by Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, High Beam Assist, and Safe Exit Assist.