Kia K5 (2025)

Austin Irwin from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Kia K5 as a stylish and well-equipped midsize family sedan that offers strong value for its price. Praising the refreshed interior with upscale materials and a sophisticated layout, the review emphasizes the generous standard features like wireless Apple CarPlay, advanced driver-assistance tech, and a robust 10-year powertrain warranty. The 290-hp K5 GT stands out as a fun, sporty option, though it could benefit from a summer tire choice to fully unlock its potential. While the driving position feels a bit awkward and the largest tire option slightly compromises ride quality, the K5 impresses with its spacious rear seating, ample trunk space, and competitive fuel economy. The review also notes that lightly used recent models may offer better value than the 2025 version. Overall, the K5 earns an Editors’ Choice nod as a handsome, capable sedan that delivers more than expected for the money.

MotorTrend’s Alex Leanse highlights the 2025 Kia K5 as a visually striking midsize sedan with a refreshed, sportier design and a more powerful standard 2.5-liter engine. While the K5 gains some acceleration improvements in its front-wheel-drive variant, the all-wheel-drive model experiences slower performance compared to its predecessor, revealing a mismatch between the car’s aggressive looks and its actual driving dynamics. The review points out the K5’s uninspiring road manners, including sluggish throttle response, spongy brakes, and a nose-heavy, slightly roll-prone chassis that lacks precision or excitement. However, the interior updates—such as a larger, faster infotainment touchscreen and spacious front legroom—along with a strong suite of standard features and driver-assist technologies, make the K5 a practical and value-oriented choice. Ultimately, Leanse suggests the K5 appeals more for its style and comfort than for sporty driving, recommending those seeking genuine performance consider other options.

Christian Wardlaw from J.D. Power highlights the 2025 Kia K5’s blend of modern technology and modest styling updates, praising its bold new infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay, and enhanced safety features. However, he expresses clear frustration with the touch-sensitive climate and audio controls, calling them distracting and poorly designed. The review also critiques the switch from a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine to a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which results in less torque, diminished acceleration feel, and lower fuel efficiency. While the sportier GT trim offers improved performance, the lack of a hybrid option leaves the K5 trailing competitors in fuel economy. Wardlaw’s tone is measured but leans toward disappointment, acknowledging Kia’s efforts to modernize the K5 but ultimately questioning whether the changes improve the car’s overall appeal.

Eric Brandt from Kelley Blue Book praises the 2026 Kia K5 as a practical and affordable midsize sedan that stands out with its sporty styling and engaging driving experience, especially in the thrilling GT trim. He highlights the K5’s class-leading warranty, upscale interior quality, and advanced infotainment features like a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the base engine delivers adequate daily performance, the turbocharged GT model offers a compelling sport sedan alternative at a reasonable price. Brandt notes the K5’s roomy trunk and available all-wheel drive as additional strengths. However, he points out notable drawbacks, including less rear-seat space compared to rivals, the absence of a hybrid option, and somewhat lower fuel efficiency. Safety ratings are mixed, with strong overall scores but some weaker crash-test results. Overall, the review conveys a balanced but positive tone, emphasizing the K5’s unique blend of style, technology, and value for buyers seeking a sportier midsize sedan.