2021 Kia K5 vs 2022 Kia K5

2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Kia K5 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Kia K5 is the recommended choice for consumers looking for a stylish and practical sedan with enhanced performance and safety features.

Overview

MSRP

$23,590

MSRP

$23,790

Average price

$22,864

Average price

$24,131

Listings

1283

Listings

1058
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Fun to drive
  • Stylish design
Cons
  • Drives less sporty than it looks
  • All-wheel drive not available
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Comfortable
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Unimpressive voice recognition system
  • Can't match the similar Hyundai Sonata for value

2021 Kia K5 Reviews Summary

Sedans are now the most exciting new cars in the mainstream market. They are to crossovers today what craft beer was in the early 2000s. They’re not on every corner anymore because Americans prefer trucks over cars, but sedans like the 2021 Kia K5 are refreshing to see, surprisingly good to drive, and will make you look cultured and smart without having to try. The K5—and its new name—replaces the Optima and upgrades nearly everything in the pursuit of style and performance. It’s one of the best midsize sedans out there.

2022 Kia K5 Reviews Summary

Last model year, as part of a redesign of its midsize sedan, Kia changed the car’s name from Optima to K5. Rakishly attractive and an undeniably good value, the new Kia K5 is an appealing choice in a shrinking vehicle segment where it faces fewer rivals with each year that passes. For the 2022 model year, the K5 wears Kia’s redesigned emblems, upper trim levels add standard features, and a new Premium option package for the GT-Line AWD installs upgraded headlights, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, Highway Driving Assist technology, and adaptive cruise control that can automatically adjust vehicle speed for curves.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

27

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

37

MPG Highway

37
2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Kia K5 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Kia K5 is the recommended choice for consumers looking for a stylish and practical sedan with enhanced performance and safety features.

Overview
MSRP
$23,590
$23,790
Average price
$22,864
$24,131
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
5.0
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Fun to drive
  • Stylish design
Cons
  • Drives less sporty than it looks
  • All-wheel drive not available
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Comfortable
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Fairly pedestrian performance
  • Unimpressive voice recognition system
  • Can't match the similar Hyundai Sonata for value
Summary
Sedans are now the most exciting new cars in the mainstream market. They are to crossovers today what craft beer was in the early 2000s. They’re not on every corner anymore because Americans prefer trucks over cars, but sedans like the 2021 Kia K5 are refreshing to see, surprisingly good to drive, and will make you look cultured and smart without having to try. The K5—and its new name—replaces the Optima and upgrades nearly everything in the pursuit of style and performance. It’s one of the best midsize sedans out there.
Last model year, as part of a redesign of its midsize sedan, Kia changed the car’s name from Optima to K5. Rakishly attractive and an undeniably good value, the new Kia K5 is an appealing choice in a shrinking vehicle segment where it faces fewer rivals with each year that passes. For the 2022 model year, the K5 wears Kia’s redesigned emblems, upper trim levels add standard features, and a new Premium option package for the GT-Line AWD installs upgraded headlights, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, Highway Driving Assist technology, and adaptive cruise control that can automatically adjust vehicle speed for curves.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.6L 180 hp I4
1.6L 180 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
27
27
MPG Highway
37
37
Look and feel
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2022 Kia K5
9/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Kia K5 as 8 out of 10 and the 2022 Kia K5 as 9 out of 10 for look and feel. In terms of appearance, the 2021 Kia K5 is a symbolic break from Kia’s past, showcasing a fresh design with sporty elements. The 2022 Kia K5 continues this trend with an even more refined and stylish look, earning a higher rating for its aesthetics. Both models offer eye-catching exteriors with attention to detail, setting them apart from other sedans in the market.
Performance
2021 Kia K5
6/10
2022 Kia K5
7/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Kia K5 6 out of 10 and the 2022 Kia K5 7 out of 10 for performance. The 2021 Kia K5 offers a range of engine options with good fuel economy, while the 2022 Kia K5 introduces more powerful engine choices for enhanced performance. The 2022 model also includes additional features to improve the driving experience. Overall, the 2022 Kia K5 edges out in performance compared to its predecessor.
Form and function
2021 Kia K5
9/10
2022 Kia K5
8/10
In terms of cargo capacity, the 2021 Kia K5 offers a trunk space of 16 cubic feet before the rear seats fold down. On the other hand, the 2022 Kia K5 also provides a 16 cubic-foot trunk with the option to expand by lowering the 60/40-split folding back seat. Both models offer ample space for luggage and everyday items, making them practical choices for daily use.
Technology
2021 Kia K5
7/10
2022 Kia K5
6/10
The 2021 Kia K5 is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, along with a range of safety features. The 2022 Kia K5 offers two different infotainment systems, with the higher trims featuring a larger touchscreen display. While the 2022 model adds some new features, such as Kia Connect subscription services and Sounds of Nature ambient noise tracks, the voice recognition technology falls short compared to its predecessor.
Safety
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2022 Kia K5
9/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Kia K5 8 out of 10 and the 2022 Kia K5 9 out of 10 for safety. Both models come packed with advanced safety features, including forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2022 Kia K5 offers additional driver assistance systems, such as cyclist detection and Junction Turning Assist, contributing to its higher safety rating.
Cost Effectiveness
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2022 Kia K5
8/10
CarGurus experts rate both the 2021 Kia K5 and the 2022 Kia K5 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The 2021 Kia K5 starts at an attractive price point and offers good value for the quality and features provided. The 2022 Kia K5 continues to deliver value with a generous warranty and ownership benefits, making it a cost-effective choice for consumers.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.