This is the second K5 sedan I have sampled this year — and they are really standout sedans.
This time, I drove the GT-Line AWD that has some visual enhancement over other Kia K5 models. The GT-Line trim level looks sportier with blacked-out trim pieces. The unique Wolf Gray paint makes a statement. There is even a tasteful rear spoiler and dual exhaust outlets to dress up the back-end styling.
Hit the road with confidence in the 2021 K5 GT-Line AWD. It handled the four or five inches of snow I encountered, and drove nicely on dry pavement with better handling than I recall of past Kia sedans. The 1.6L turbo 4-cylinder engine might be small, but the K5 did not feel underpowered.
If you want space in a mid-size sedan, the Kia K5 delivers. It rivals other mid-size sedans in its class and may be even larger than a few. What impresses me is the high-quality look and feel of the interior for the actual price of the car. There is a large 10.25” NAV screen and a nifty Edison light bulb display for radio station frequency. The GT-Line also sports a special red interior package with red seats and black piping. A flat bottom steering wheel completes the sportier nature of the K5 GT-Line.
Cost: $29,090; as tested $31,300
MPG: 26 MPG City and 34 MPG Highway. I managed 27.2 in 246 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $445 Wolf Gray paint; $800 GT-Line AWD special edition.
Safety: Blind spot collision avoidance assist-pedestrian; rear cross traffic collision-avoidance assist; forward collision avoidance-assist, cyclist & junction turning; vehicle stability management; safe exit assist with power child lock; Nav smart cruise with stop-go; parking collision avoidance-rear; highway drive assist; leading vehicle departure alert.
Things to know: The K5 GT-Line AWD is a mid-size sedan that places value and style in one package.
Pros:
- Impressive interior space and high-quality materials
- Looks that standout in a usually conservative mid-size sedan class
- AWD in a mid-size sedan
Cons:
- Sleek style leads to reduced rear vision out the back window
- You get less MPG with the AWD when compared to the FWD models
- Could use a bit more steering feel in the corners
