2025 Kia K5 Refresh

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The 2025 Kia K5 midsize sedan receives a significant refresh, featuring updated styling, a new 2.5-liter engine option, and enhanced technology, including a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and over-the-air update capability. 
The 2025 Kia K5's exterior design has undergone notable enhancements, featuring a new honeycomb grille and updated headlights and taillights. The front fascia now incorporates a "Star Map Signature Lighting" design, reminiscent of a heartbeat or lightning bolt, which is part of Kia's evolving design language. The K5's front bumper draws inspiration from the EV6 GT, with a distinctive tiger mask grille that showcases the brand's identity. New wheel designs further complement the refreshed exterior aesthetics. These updates give the K5 a more modern and aggressive appearance, aligning it with Kia's current design philosophy while maintaining its sleek fastback silhouette.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The 2025 Kia K5's interior receives significant upgrades, focusing on comfort and technology. A new 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation system is now standard across all trims, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The center console has been redesigned with larger cupholders and a standard wireless charging pad flanked by USB-C ports. Kia has introduced an updated haptic instrument panel for climate and audio controls, along with a new single-pane curved display option. The cabin offers various interior color options, including black, Martian brown, and sand. Comfort features like heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof are available on higher trims. The K5 also boasts improved technology with over-the-air update capability and an enhanced Bose premium audio system option.

Engine Performance and Specifications

The 2025 Kia K5 offers two engine options across its lineup. Most models, including the LXS, GT-Line, and EX trims, are equipped with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 181.5 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine features Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For performance enthusiasts, the K5 GT trim boasts a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 290 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 lb.-ft. of torque between 1,650-4,000 rpm. The GT's engine utilizes both Gasoline Direct Injection and Multi Port Injection (GDI + MPI) and is mated to an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission for enhanced performance. Both engines feature aluminum blocks and heads, DOHC valve systems with four valves per cylinder, and are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

Advanced Tech and Safety

The 2025 Kia K5 comes equipped with an array of advanced technology and safety features. A standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen display is now present across all trims, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The sedan also features over-the-air system updates, ensuring the latest software improvements are easily accessible. Safety is enhanced through the Kia Drive Wise suite of driver assistance technologies, which includes features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist. For audiophiles, an available 12-speaker Bose premium sound system provides an immersive listening experience. The K5 also offers a wireless phone charger and the convenience of pre-cooling and heating the vehicle through the Kia Access app.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The 2025 Kia K5 is available in four trim levels: LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT, with prices ranging from $26,990 to $34,490 (excluding the $1,155 destination fee). The base LXS trim starts at $26,990, while the GT-Line offers both front-wheel drive ($27,990) and all-wheel drive ($29,590) options. The EX trim, priced at $34,490, comes standard with premium features like a Bose audio system, heated steering wheel, and power-folding mirrors. The performance-oriented GT trim is available at $33,090. All trims except the GT are powered by the new 191-horsepower 2.5-liter engine, while the GT retains its 290-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. Kia has focused on enhancing standard features across the lineup, particularly in the popular EX trim, to offer better value to consumers.

Rivals and Alternatives

The 2025 Kia K5 stands out in the competitive midsize sedan segment with its attractive pricing and distinctive features. Starting at $26,990, the K5 undercuts rivals like the 2025 Toyota Camry, which begins at $28,400. While the K5 offers a compelling package with its bold design and well-equipped interior, it faces stiff competition in terms of fuel efficiency. The Camry, now sold exclusively as a hybrid, boasts an impressive 44 mpg city and 50 mpg highway, significantly outperforming the K5's 23 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Other competitors like the Hyundai Sonata and Honda Accord also offer hybrid powertrains, giving them an edge in efficiency. However, the K5's sharp styling, advanced technology features, and optional all-wheel drive on certain trims help maintain its appeal in a segment where many automakers are shifting focus away from sedans.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Kia K5 emerges as a compelling option in the midsize sedan segment, offering a blend of style, performance, and value. With its refreshed exterior design, upgraded interior featuring a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and new 191-horsepower 2.5-liter engine option, the K5 addresses key areas of improvement. The sedan maintains its competitive edge with attractive pricing, starting at $26,990 for the base LXS trim, and continues to offer the potent 290-horsepower GT variant for performance enthusiasts. While it may not match the fuel efficiency of hybrid competitors like the Toyota Camry, the K5's combination of bold styling, advanced technology, and optional all-wheel drive helps it stand out in a shrinking sedan market.