- 2022 Kia K5 GT-Line AWD

Is The K5 The Go-To Affordable Luxury Sedan?

I had the keys to this K5 for a week. Here are my thoughts.

As most people know, the Kia K5 is an all-new sedan for the masses which seems to be based on the Hyundai Elantra. In recent times, Kia has really stepped up their game right next to Hyundai. So, with this new K5, does it have what it takes? Is it the go-to affordable luxury sedan? Let's find out.

Exterior Styling

"...should be given..."

As far as exterior styling is concerned, the K5 takes the cake. With its razor-sharp headlight assembly blending into the accentuating lines, the K5 is a guaranteed head-turner. Whoever designed the vehicle should be given an award because of how perfect it looks. And I only give it high praise mainly because most automakers are sticking to what they know instead of testing the boundaries. Their formulas are old and out of style while Kia is revamping the entire option line-up.

Interior Design

"...simplistic in design..."

The K5 and its interior match the exterior with beauty. Except for that, the interior's beauty is more simplistic in design and yet elegant. The trim blends well with the plastic, leather, and metal. The seats offer plenty of comfort and support. For cabin space, there is plenty of it to the point where I can sit behind myself comfortably. There is enough space in the trunk to hold a couple of suitcases for a week's vacation.

Pricing and Options

So, how much does this K5 cost? After adding everything up, the total price comes to $31,280. What does that get a potential owner? For safety, the K5 comes with a plethora of airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, ABS, adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance with cyclist junction, highway driving assist, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, leading vehicle departure alert, and safe exit assist. For comfort and convenience, the K5 comes with an infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities, multiple USB ports, heated front seats with the driver's seat being powered, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charger, and rear occupant alert.

Performance

"...excels in that..."

The 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder produces 180-horsepower and 195-pounds of torque to all 4 wheels. With my driving habits, I was able to achieve 26 miles to the gallon. As far as ride comfort goes, the K5 excels in that category. The steering is light and direct. The suspension keeps everything tidy in the worst road conditions. The brakes are phenomenal. Especially since not much effort is needed. For long drives, the K5 should be a good match to take those trips.

Conclusion

"...as soon as..."

So, is the K5 the go-to affordable luxury sedan? In short yes. It has all the right tech and luxury for a bargain of a price. Also, let's not forget the warranties are the best on the market. But the biggest takeaway is the styling. I can't look at it and not admire its beauty. It is a stunning piece of machinery and metal and if I could, I'd buy one as soon as possible.

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Comments (11)

  • I’ve always been quite fond of this car. Great review!

      14 days ago
  • @tribe New article is up! What do you think?

      14 days ago
  • Prices of cars are completely whack

      11 days ago
  • Man, Kia's design department really have gone to town on this one! I do like the result though. Twenty-odd years ago I would never have believed I'd ever call a Kia a good looking car, but the last five years of so have proven me wrong- this one taking the lead. For now, at least. Who knows what the future may have in store.

      12 days ago
  • I agree the styling is on point. But not to knock on Kia as others are guilty of it too but especially with the rear there’s too much fake stuff going on - fake vents, diffusers and tailpipes.

      10 days ago
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