The Kia K5 is Kia’s flagship midsize sedan. While the K5 may seem somewhat new to the American market with its introduction for the 2021 model year, Americans have been driving this sedan for years now, as the K5 is simply a rebranded fifth generation of the Kia Optima. Due to Kia’s increasing success in more markets around the world, it was decided that Kia would start to market its cars to the world using the vehicle’s original South Korean name, hence the name change to the K5.

The Kia K5 is a refreshing take on a tired concept; it is a midsize sedan with the looks and appeal of a sports sedan but with a price point that makes it affordable to anyone, even brand-new drivers. With a successful first few years on the market, here is everything you can expect out of the 2023 Kia K5

Will there be a 2023 Kia K5?

For the 2023 model year, there will be a Kia K5, but the K5 has a production end date on the horizon. According to CNET, the Kia K5, the Stinger, and Hyundai Sonata are set for eventual discontinuation as the automotive marketplace starts leaning toward favoring small crossover SUVs over midsize sedans. Kia is not alone in this decision to end traditional car sales, with Ford Authority reporting the discontinuation of Ford’s traditional car lineup other than the Mustang a few years ago.

2023 Kia K5 specs and features

The 2023 Kia K5 comes in four trim options, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. The base model LXS, GT-Line, and EX all come equipped with a 1.6L turbo four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower paired with an automatic eight-speed transmission. The mid-level GT-Line trim also has optional four-wheel drive. The GT trim is the top trim level for the K5, and it comes standard with a 290-hp 2.5L turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

The K5 comes loaded with a feature-filled interior. Every trim level comes standard with an intuitive touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Andriod Auto. Every trim level of the K5 also comes standard with steering wheel-mounted controls, cruise control, remote locks, remote start, and automatic dual-zone climate control. Upgrading from the base model to the GT-Line or higher gets you wireless charging, upgraded speakers, and a larger touch screen.

How much does a Kia K5 cost?

The 2023 Kia K5 starts at $25,090 MSRP for the base model LXS trim. A step up from the LXS is the GT-Line which starts at $26,490 MSRP. Above the GT-Line is the EX which starts at $28,990 MSRP, and the top GT trim starts at $31,490 MSRP.

The K5 also offers an optional premium package for the EX and the GT trim levels, which gives drivers power child locks, a power-adjustable seat, adaptive cruise control, highway driving assist, a surround view monitor, and parking distance warning, among other features.

What the experts are saying about the K5

Automotive media outlets everywhere are praising the Kia K5’s modern design and the long list of standard features for the price. Edmunds gives praise for the K5’s comfortable and quiet ride quality on the highway, the technology features for the price, and the surprisingly strong engine for such a small midsize sedan. Motor Trend applauds the K5’s technology and innovation, offering such a quality full of technology at such an affordable price.

According to Motor Trend, the automaker does not seem to have plans to continue production past the 2028 model year, which can be heartbreaking for many new Kia owners who know firsthand just how incredible the new K5 is. Still, for now, the K5 is an affordable class-leading sedan that offers some of the best value on the market today. If a Kia K5 is on your list of cars to check out, now is the time to get behind the wheel!