The 2024 Kia K5 GT Is a Stupidly Good Value
The 2024 Kia K5 is one of the best-kept secrets on the automotive market. Even fully loaded, the 2024 Kia K5 GT is just over $37,000, and for that cash, you get a menagerie of high-class goodies. That this midsize sedan isn’t leading the segment is both a testament to the competition and a blight on Kia’s marketing.
All the safety tech in the 2024 Kia K5 GT
The top-spec Kia K5 for 2024 is the K5 GT, and with it comes a complete suite of advanced driver assistance tech. Automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and accident detection are all part of the Kia DriveWise suite.
The fully loaded K5 also checks in with lane keeping and following assist, plus leading vehicle departure alert. All of that is part of Kia’s adaptive cruise control system, which includes functions for stop-and-go traffic. And with the driver attention warning, you’ll get a heads-up when it’s time to pull over to send that text or get some rest.
What engine is in the 2024 Kia K5 GT?
Unlike the other models in the Kia K5 lineup, the 2024 Kia K5 GT comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This setup cranks out 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque and sends it through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for lightning-quick shift times. That allows the fully-loaded Kia K5 to go from zero to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. That’s best-in-class performance for thousands less than the competition.
The K5 GT also comes with sport brakes with more aggressive calipers and a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer dampers for improved body composure and handling. And with a more aggressive grille design and rear lip spoiler, it’s got the looks to match that enhanced performance.
Luxury features in the 2024 Kia K5 GT
In a word, yes. The SynTex seat trim isn’t real leather, but it’s as soft and supple as any premium seat coverings without the environmental impact. And with the bolstered sports seats, the full-loaded Kia K5 gives the right amount of comfort and support for a long day behind the wheel.
Dual-zone automatic climate control and a panoramic sunroof are also part of the K5 GT equation for 2024. And with the leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel and 10-way driver’s seat, comfort isn’t really a question in the top-spec Kia sedan.
All the tech in the fully loaded 2024 Kia K5
For your $37,000, the 2024 Kia K5 GT also includes a raft of premium tech features. Wireless versions of both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a wireless charging pad means you can leave all the cables at home. And with the Kia Smart Key, just having the key with you is good enough to get you moving.
You’ll also get a 12-speaker Bose audio system, active sound damping, and a driver’s memory function for seats, climate, and mirrors.
What’s wrong with the 2024 Kia K5?
It’s hard to find many faults with the fully loaded 2024 Kia K5, especially considering the unbelievably low price point. However, it does have a few shortcomings compared to its closest competitors.
For starters, the K5 competes in class with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata. That’s a trio of formidable opponents with a long history of quality. The K5, by comparison, is a new nameplate, even if it is just a rebadged Kia Optima.
Furthermore, the K5 lags behind the 2024 Accord in cargo space, 16 cubic feet vs. 16.7 cubes. And while it leads in front leg room, those in the back seat are cramped. At just 35.2 inches, it’s five inches smaller than both the Accord and Camry and virtually tied with its Hyundai cousin.
The fully-loaded 2024 Kia K5 GT is worth a place on your shortlist
If you’re one of the few looking for a new midsize sedan, the 2024 Kia K5 GT is worth a test drive. It’s quick, comfortable, and stands out, even against redesigned versions of the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata. In short, if you want a quality sedan that doesn’t blend in, a fully-loaded K5 might be an ideal fit.
