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The average four-door sedan isn’t too exciting. With a focus on reliable transportation and passenger space, some sedans are more appliances than driving machines. However, the Kia K5 reverses that trend.

Additionally, for Kia K5 buyers, one trim stands out as the most popular pick. Let’s look at trims, specs, and pricing for this value-driven sports sedan and why the GT-Line version rises to the top.

A look at the 2024 Kia K5 trim levels

The 2024 Kia K5 starts at $26,515. Buyers can choose from several models with varying levels of tech and performance.

Every K5 has sharp bodywork, including narrow LED headlights with lightning-bolt-shaped turn signals, a sloping roofline, and alloy wheels. This sporty sedan has curb appeal beyond its bargain price.

The base LXS trim ($26,515) includes solid standard equipment like a 1.6-liter turbo four with 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, an 8-inch touchscreen display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable, and auto emergency braking enhances safety.

The GT-Line model ($26,980) adds aggressive street style and useful technology. Its 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels look straight off a sports car, while GT-Line body styling features a racy front fascia. Wireless charging keeps devices topped off on the go.

For all-weather versatility, there’s the GT-Line AWD ($29,615). Along with four-wheel traction, heated front seats and a heated front steering wheel make winter days a little easier. Additionally, the 10-way power driver’s seat features two-way power lumbar adjustment for plush support.

For enhanced luxury and convenience, the EX model ($29,290) brings upgraded amenities inside and out. When the sun’s out, a panoramic sunroof with a sunshade brings open-air motoring. Heated and ventilated front seats ensure optimal comfort on any trip. And LED interior lighting sets an ambient mood after the sun sets.

For drivers who want to turn up the excitement, the GT trim ($32,915) adds a turbo 2.5-liter four with 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Those are sports car stats. In addition, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission clicks off shifts like a race car, and larger disc brakes with GT calipers scrub speed with authority. Lastly, a sport-tuned suspension keeps things flat in the corners.

According to Edmunds, the $26,980 GT-Line is the most popular Kia K5 trim.

In today’s age, modern infotainment is an essential feature. In that department, the K5 GT-Line delivers. A 10.25 touchscreen runs the Kia Connect interface, along with Sirius XM satellite radio and navigation.

Comprehensive driver assistance technology enhances awareness, so drivers know when there’s a vehicle in their blind spot or a pedestrian ahead. To that end, the K5 GT-Line includes tech like blind spot detection technology, auto braking with pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist.

New for the 2024 model year are heated front seats that take the sting out of early winter mornings. Instead of waiting for the car to warm up, you can drive away in comfort.

Last but not least, the K5 GT-Line has the chiseled lines of an upscale sports sedan at an affordable price. Key to that is the GT-Line body kit and a set of 18-inch machine-finish alloy wheels.

Among midsize sedans, the Kia K5 is more of a niche pick. That’s understandable, given the strong reputations of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. According to GoodCarBadCar, so far in 2023, the K5 has sold 43,592 units to the Camry’s 192,490 and the Accord’s 135,379.

However, the K5 has a sporty edge with a dose of fun, especially in GT-Line form. For drivers on a budget who want an amusing ride, this value-priced sedan just makes sense. Additionally, with so many Camrys and Accords roaming the streets, the K5 stands out from the pack.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average new car price is more than $49,500. So, at $26,980, the K5 GT-Line is a superb value. From its looks to its interior to its powertrains, this midsize sedan offers more for the money.

In a sea of midsize sedans, the Kia K5 gives drivers something different. With appealing lines and ample standard equipment, the fun four-door offers excitement and value. The K5 GT-Line adds curb appeal and useful tech, making it the line’s most popular trim. This Kia puts the fun back in daily driving.

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MotorBiscuit Contributing Writer

Mark Reif

Mark Reif has followed sports cars and auto racing since the early 80s, having read countless editions of Road & Track and Car & Driver and observed Formula 1, endurance racing, and the Indy 500. After earning a bachelor’s in industrial design from Virginia Tech, Mark finds himself looking deep into car designs to better understand their style and function. Living in Vermont and serving as a snowboard instructor, he’s interested in versatile all-wheel drive vehicles that can handle snow and ice. Mark has driven go-karts on closed circuits and loves the thrill of performance driving. He owns a Volkswagen GTI but loves German cars and Toyota trucks in general. He began writing automotive content in June of 2021 and joined MotorBiscuit as a contributor in 2023.