Stepping up to the rental car counter, the words “Kia K5” were foreign to me. As someone who considers themselves reasonably versed in the automotive world, especially as a content creator for cardiagnosticnearme.com focusing on auto repair and vehicle knowledge, admitting ignorance about a car model felt unusual. I’d reserved a full-size sedan, and honestly, my expectations were neutral at best. Little did I know, I was about to spend a day with a car that would challenge my preconceptions.
The 2022 Kia K5 turned out to be far more than just a rental car. It was a surprisingly well-rounded sedan that blended comfort with a dash of sportiness. Spacious enough for a long haul yet engaging enough to keep the drive interesting, the K5 made a strong first impression. However, it wasn’t without its shortcomings, most notably a noticeable lack of power.
Recently, I had the opportunity to put the 2022 Kia K5 through its paces in Nashville, Tennessee. From cruising city streets to open highways, I explored what this sedan had to offer. This Kia K5 Review dives into the full spectrum of my experience, detailing the pros and cons that potential buyers should consider. If you’re in the market for a mid-size sedan and are considering the K5, read on for an in-depth look.
Scott from DriveAndReview with 2022 Kia K5
Image showing the reviewer, Scott from DriveAndReview, posing with the 2022 Kia K5, highlighting his initial surprise and positive impression of the vehicle.
Kia K5: Delving into the Advantages
Having recently reviewed the Kia Forte, I was already aware that Kia has been producing some impressive vehicles lately. It came as no surprise that my experience with the K5 was largely positive. Here’s a breakdown of the standout pros:
Impressively Solid Build Quality
The Kia K5 I tested, despite having over 2,000 miles on the odometer, felt remarkably solid. There were absolutely no rattles or unusual noises, even when driving over rough road surfaces and railway tracks. This level of build quality is commendable and suggests a car that’s designed for longevity and durability. For those concerned about long-term reliability, the K5 makes a strong statement right off the bat.
Excellent Outward Visibility
Navigating traffic is a breeze in the K5, thanks to its exceptional outward visibility. Merging onto highways and changing lanes felt confident and secure. Kia has seemingly minimized blind spots effectively, enhancing driver confidence and safety. This is a crucial feature, especially for daily driving and navigating busy urban environments.
Sporty and Engaging Driving Position
Unlike some sedans that prioritize a plush, sofa-like driving experience, the Kia K5 offers a surprisingly sporty driving position. The driver’s seat and overall cockpit layout contribute to a more engaging and connected feel behind the wheel. This is a welcome departure from the typical mundane sedan driving experience, injecting a bit of fun into everyday commutes. Kia has successfully blended sedan practicality with a more dynamic driving feel.
Driver-Centric Cockpit Design
Continuing the sporty theme, the K5’s dashboard design subtly wraps around the driver, creating a cockpit-like environment. This design element enhances the feeling of being in control and further contributes to the engaging driving experience. It’s a detail that elevates the interior ambiance beyond the typical sedan fare.
Wide-Opening Front Doors
Practicality often comes down to the small details, and the Kia K5 shines here too. The front doors open to nearly 90 degrees, making ingress and egress exceptionally easy. This is a boon for passengers of all sizes and ages, simplifying getting in and out of the vehicle, especially in tight parking spaces.
Powerful and Effective Climate Control
In the sweltering Nashville heat, with temperatures approaching 100°F, the K5’s climate control system proved to be a lifesaver. The air conditioning was remarkably powerful, quickly cooling down the interior even after the car had been sitting in the sun for extended periods. A robust climate control system is essential for comfort, and the K5 delivers impressively.
Comfortable and Durable Seat Fabric
While subjective, the cloth texture used for the K5’s seats impressed me. It’s not overly soft, but it offers a comfortable feel and appears to be highly durable. This type of fabric is likely to withstand daily wear and tear, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike. It balances comfort with resilience, a smart choice for a sedan in this class.
2022 Kia K5 interior
Image showcasing the sporty interior of the 2022 Kia K5, emphasizing the driver-centric cockpit design and overall aesthetic appeal.
2022 Kia K5 rear end
Image highlighting the rear design of the 2022 Kia K5, playfully referred to as having a stylish “booty,” emphasizing the car’s modern and attractive aesthetics.
2022 Kia K5 center console
Image focusing on the center console of the 2022 Kia K5, acknowledging the use of plastic materials but highlighting the solid and squeak-free construction, reinforcing the car’s build quality.
Kia K5 blind spots
Image illustrating the excellent visibility from the driver’s seat of the Kia K5, emphasizing the minimal blind spots and enhanced safety features.
Kia K5: Acknowledging the Drawbacks
Despite its many positive attributes, the 2022 Kia K5 isn’t without its downsides. Here are the cons I encountered:
Base Model Aesthetics
This is subjective, but the base model K5’s visual appeal is somewhat lacking. While the overall body lines are attractive, the smaller wheels and tires give it a less assertive stance. It’s a matter of personal taste, but upgrading to larger wheels would significantly enhance the car’s curb appeal. For those prioritizing aesthetics, opting for a higher trim level with larger wheels is advisable.
Overly Aggressive Lane Assist System
The adaptive lane assist system in the K5, while intended for safety, can be overly intrusive. When activated, even slight deviations from the lane markings result in a noticeable and somewhat jarring steering correction. While the system can be disabled, its aggressive nature in its default setting is a point of contention. Calibration adjustments or a less intrusive implementation would improve this feature.
Underpowered Base Engine
The turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine in the base K5 is arguably its weakest point. While adequate for everyday city driving, it lacks the power needed for more spirited acceleration and highway passing. The 180 horsepower output feels insufficient for a car of this size, especially when merging onto fast-moving highways or attempting to overtake. For drivers seeking more performance, upgrading to the optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is highly recommended.
Subpar Audio System
The audio system in the K5 I tested failed to impress. Despite attempts to adjust settings, the sound quality remained flat and somewhat hollow. For audiophiles or those who prioritize a high-quality in-car audio experience, the base system may be disappointing. Exploring higher trim levels with upgraded audio options might be necessary.
Limited Lumbar Support in Front Seats
Comfort is paramount on longer drives, and the front seats of the K5 fall short in lumbar support. After just a couple of hours behind the wheel, lower back discomfort became noticeable. For individuals prone to back pain or those planning frequent long journeys, the lack of adequate lumbar support is a significant drawback.
2022 Kia K5 base model wheel
Image emphasizing the smaller wheels on the base model 2022 Kia K5, highlighting the reviewer’s opinion that they are undersized and detract from the vehicle’s overall appearance.
2022 Kia K5 small wheels
Image further illustrating the small wheel size on the 2022 Kia K5, reinforcing the critique of the base model’s aesthetics and the need for larger wheels for improved visual appeal.
2022 Kia K5 base engine
Image showing the engine bay of the 2022 Kia K5, specifically referencing the 180hp base engine and the reviewer’s assessment that it is underpowered for the vehicle’s size.
2022 Kia K5 front seats
Image focusing on the front seats of the 2022 Kia K5, pointing out the lack of sufficient lumbar support and its potential impact on driver comfort during longer journeys.
Reasons to Consider Buying a Kia K5
Despite some drawbacks, the Kia K5 presents compelling reasons to be on your shopping list, especially if you’re seeking a well-rounded sedan.
1. Drives Smaller Than Its Size
The K5 occupies a similar footprint to larger sedans, yet it manages to feel more agile and maneuverable. It defies the typical “big car” driving experience, feeling surprisingly nimble and easy to handle. If you need the practicality of a larger sedan but prefer a car that feels smaller and sportier from behind the wheel, the K5 is a standout choice. It successfully bridges the gap between mid-size agility and full-size spaciousness.
2022 Kia K5 steering wheel and dashboard
Image showcasing the steering wheel and dashboard of the 2022 Kia K5, emphasizing the interior design that contributes to a sporty and engaging driving experience, despite the car’s overall size.
2022 white Kia K5
Image of a white 2022 Kia K5, illustrating the car’s overall design and suggesting that with larger wheels and a more powerful engine, it could be an ideal daily driver, highlighting its potential appeal.
2. Built to Last
Kia’s reputation has evolved significantly, and the K5 is a testament to their commitment to quality. The 2022 K5 I tested exhibited exceptional build quality, feeling remarkably solid and robust. If you prioritize longevity and reliability in a sedan, the K5 warrants serious consideration. It’s a car that feels built to withstand the rigors of daily use and offer years of dependable service.
2022 Kia K5 front end
Image of the front end of the 2022 Kia K5, subtly reinforcing Kia’s improved build quality and the car’s overall solid construction.
Reasons to Reconsider the Kia K5
While the K5 has much to offer, certain aspects might make potential buyers pause, particularly with the base model.
1. Base Engine Performance Disappoints
The most significant drawback of the base Kia K5 is its underpowered engine. In a segment where performance is increasingly valued, the 1.6-liter turbo engine feels lackluster. For those who enjoy spirited driving or frequently encounter highway driving scenarios, the base engine may leave you wanting more. Upgrading to the 2.5-liter turbo engine is crucial for a more satisfying driving experience.
2022 Kia K5 driving experience
Image capturing the reviewer’s facial expression suggesting disappointment with the 2022 Kia K5’s acceleration, directly linking to the critique of the base engine’s performance.
2. Base Model Can Look Economical
While well-equipped, the base model K5 can visually project a “budget-friendly” image, primarily due to the smaller wheels and tires. If you’re seeking a sedan with a more premium or upscale appearance, the base model might not fully satisfy. Investing in higher trim levels with enhanced styling elements, particularly larger wheels, is recommended to elevate the K5’s visual presence.
base white Kia K5
Image of a base model white Kia K5, directly supporting the argument that the base model can appear “cheap” due to its basic features and smaller wheels.
Final Verdict: The Kia K5 – A Strong Contender, Especially Beyond the Base Trim
Overall, the 2022 Kia K5 impressed me, particularly considering my initial lack of familiarity. It’s a well-built, comfortable, and surprisingly sporty sedan that offers a lot of value. The base model has some shortcomings, primarily in engine power and visual appeal. However, these issues are largely addressed in higher trim levels.
If you’re considering a Kia K5, I highly recommend looking beyond the base model, especially if engine performance and a more refined appearance are priorities. With a more powerful engine and upgraded styling, the Kia K5 becomes an even more compelling option in the competitive mid-size sedan market. For more car reviews and automotive insights, keep exploring cardiagnosticnearme.com, your trusted resource for all things auto.
