Kia has announced the facelifted K5 will arrive at dealerships in the second quarter with a base price of US$ 26,990. That’s an increase of US$ 1,400 as the 2024 model began at US$ 25,590. A refreshed mid-size sedan that wears a new front fascia and updated lighting units. They’re joined by a sportier rear end that features a new trunk, an updated bumper, and edgier taillights. While the exterior styling is pretty evolutionary, buyers will find an updated interior with a new 12.3-inch infotainment system. The latter supports over-the-air updates as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The car has also been equipped with new switchgear, an updated dashboard, and a revised center console. The latter houses larger cup holders as well as an available wireless smartphone charger. In terms of equipment, the entry-level K5 LXS has LED lighting units and 16-inch alloy wheels. They’re joined by a relatively basic interior that features cloth seats, a polyurethane steering wheel, and painted accents. Other highlights a dual-zone automatic climate control system and a six-speaker audio system.

Despite being affordable, the LXS comes with a host of driver assistance systems including Forward Collision Avoidance Assist and Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go. They’re joined by Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, and Safe Exit Assist – among others. The US$ 27,990 K5 GT-Line embraces a sportier look as it wears black accents and larger 18-inch alloy wheels. The upgrades continue inside with heated leatherette front seats that have eight-way power adjustment on the driver’s side.

 

Customers will also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charger, and satin chrome accents. Last but not least, the model comes equipped with Highway Driving Assist as well as navigation-based Smart Cruise Control. The K5 EX begins at US$ 34,490 and is the luxury variant. As a result, it comes equipped with faux wood trim and leatherette front seats that have heating, ventilation, and power adjustment on both sides.

The upgrades don’t end there as the range-topping model has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, and a heated steering wheel. Buyers will also find a 12-speaker Bose audio system as well as a Surround View Monitor and a Blind View Monitor. All of the aforementioned trims are powered by a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 191 hp and 245 Nm of torque. It’s connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system on the GT-Line.

That brings us to the US$ 33,090 K5 GT, which has sportier bumpers, green brake calipers, and a sports exhaust system. The car also comes equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, a unique steering system, and 19-inch alloy wheels. Rounding out the highlights are steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and black leatherette sport seats with green piping. The most notable feature is a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 290 hp and 421 Nm of torque. It’s paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power exclusively to the front wheels.