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Cars in Taylor Swift Music Videos2026 Kia K5 Review
The 2026 Kia K5 blends bold style, solid tech, and a smooth ride, making it a standout mid-size sedan for drivers who want comfort without sacrificing performance.
Overview
Discover the 2026 Kia K5: a stylish mid-size sedan with strong tech, refined comfort, and efficient powertrains. See trims, pricing, features, and Carsforsale.com scores in our full review.
Carsforsale.com Score
9/10
Powertrain
Score
8.75/10
Interior
Score
9/10
Technology
Score
9.25/10
Value
Score
9/10
2026 Kia K5 Powertrain 8.75/10
The 2026 Kia K5 has a 2.5L 4-cylinder as the standard engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft torque and delivers 26 miles per gallon in the city and 37 miles per gallon on the highway.
The GT trim features a performance engine – a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, producing 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft torque, mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. This engine achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 37 on the highway.
Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available, adding more confidence for drivers. The ride quality remains composed, with responsive steering and a suspension tuned for comfort. The GT trim also adds sportier handling without sacrificing ride refinement.
2026 Kia K5 Interior 9/10
The 2026 Kia K5’s cabin delivers an upscale feel for a mid-size sedan, combining clean design with quality materials throughout. Cloth upholstery comes standard, while higher trims upgrade to Kia’s SynTex seating for a more refined finish. Two rows of seating accommodate five passengers, and rear passengers benefit from a competitive 35.2 inches of legroom. Trunk space measures 15.6 cubic feet, offering solid room for luggage, groceries, or gear.
As you move up the trim levels, the K5 adds several premium touches. Available features include heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and customizable ambient lighting that adds a modern, high-end feel. These upgrades help position the K5 as a stylish and practical option for drivers wanting a sedan with both comfort and character.
2026 Kia K5 Technology 9.25/10
The 2026 Kia K5 is well-equipped in the technology department, with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen as the centerpiece of the infotainment system. Every trim includes Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect for seamless smartphone integration.
A solid, standard set of driver-assistance features are included in all trims of the 2026 Kia K5. The standard features include blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, park distance warning sensors for the front and rear, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Higher trims include upgrades such as highway driving assist, a 360-degree surround view monitor, and a blind-spot view monitor.
2026 Kia K5 Value 9/10
The 2026 Kia K5 lineup starts with the LX FWD, priced at $27,390. This base trim comes equipped with blind-spot detection, smartphone integration technology, dual-zone climate control, and a suite of driver assistance features.
The GT-Line AWD offers a balance of price, features, and capability, starting at $29,990. It adds all-wheel drive, selectable drive modes including Snow Mode, and a heated steering wheel, making it a practical upgrade for drivers in colder climates.
The highest trim, the EX, starts at $34,890 and rings a more premium experience. It includes a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade, a 360-degree surround view monitor with expanded blind spot features, and additional parking sensors for easier maneuvering.
Kia backs the K5 with its industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Compared to rivals like Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the K5 offers more tech for the price and a sportier design.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Kia K5 Final Score 9/10
The 2026 Kia K5 continues to impress with bold styling, strong tech, and a comfortable ride. While not a hybrid like some competitors, its performance-oriented GT trim and generous warranty make it a compelling choice in the mid-size sedan segment.
