2022 Kia K5 EX: A Premium Yet Accessible Midsize Sedan
Introduction
The 2022 Kia K5 EX is a standout player in the midsize sedan market offering a blend of affordability performance and modern design. If you’re looking for a stylish sedan with premium features without the premium price, the Kia K5 EX might just hit the mark. But like any car it isn’t without a few drawbacks. In this review we’ll cover the unique selling points and potential cons of the K5 EX helping you decide whether it fits your lifestyle and needs.
Exterior Design and Styling
The Kia K5 takes a daring approach to exterior styling standing out with a sleek fastback-inspired design. It breaks from the traditional sedan mold with sharp LED headlights and a distinctive tiger-nose grille that has become a Kia signature. Compared to some of its rivals like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry the K5 looks more aggressive and almost hints at a sport-luxury feel.
Key Exterior Features
- 18-inch alloy wheels that add to its sporty stance
- LED front and rear lighting for better visibility
- Panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light
- Available in colors like Sapphire Blue and Passion Red which give it a premium feel
While the design feels refreshing, some might find the low-slung front fascia prone to scraping on steep driveways or uneven terrain.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Once inside the K5 EX, it’s easy to see how Kia has leveled up its game. The cabin is thoughtfully designed with soft-touch materials, leather-trimmed seating, and ambient lighting options that make the space feel more expensive than it is.
Comfort Features
- 10-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support
- Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
- Heated and ventilated front seats that perform well in both winter and summer
- Ample rear legroom that comfortably seats adults
Despite the premium feel there are a few compromises. The rear headroom is slightly compromised by the sloping roofline which can feel cramped for taller passengers. Also the trunk space while decent (16 cubic feet) might fall short for those needing to pack larger items frequently.
Tech and Infotainment
The 2022 K5 EX isn’t just comfortable—it’s loaded with modern tech. The infotainment system is centered around an 8-inch touchscreen (with an optional upgrade to 10.25 inches) and includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the interface is responsive and straightforward Alex Collantes, a long-time K5 fan, noted that “the system can occasionally lag when switching between apps.”
- Wireless phone charger for seamless charging on the go
- 8-speaker Bose audio system delivering crisp sound quality
- Multiple USB ports for front and rear passengers
- Smart Key with push-button start adding convenience
However some users have reported that the wireless CarPlay connectivity can be unreliable at times forcing them to reconnect the system manually.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood of the 2022 Kia K5 EX is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It produces 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque which provides enough punch for daily commuting without feeling underpowered. The K5 is front-wheel-drive which enhances fuel economy but limits its handling prowess on slippery surfaces compared to AWD models.
Driving Highlights
- Smooth transmission shifts ensuring a seamless driving experience
- Comfortable suspension tuning absorbing bumps and potholes with ease
- Fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway
Though the K5 EX offers a composed ride it’s not exactly thrilling to drive. The steering feels a bit light which can make it less engaging on twisty roads. While it’s great for highway cruising and urban driving those looking for a sportier experience might prefer the K5 GT with its more powerful 2.5-liter engine.
Safety Features and Ratings
Kia takes safety seriously, and the K5 EX comes equipped with standard safety features that many competitors offer only as options. In government crash tests the K5 received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA which boosts its appeal for families and safety-conscious buyers.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane keeping assist and lane following assist to keep you on track
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Smart cruise control with stop-and-go capability
Some drivers have mentioned that the lane-keeping assist can feel intrusive at times making slight corrections even when they’re in control of the wheel. This could be a minor annoyance for those who prefer a more hands-on driving approach.
Practicality and Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Economy Breakdown
- 27 mpg city
- 37 mpg highway
- 31 mpg combined
The 2022 K5 EX delivers solid fuel efficiency thanks to its turbocharged engine and aerodynamic design. However if you’re doing a lot of city driving Alex Collantes warns that “you might find the fuel economy dropping below the advertised 27 mpg especially if you're heavy on the accelerator.”
Storage and Cargo
With 16 cubic feet of trunk space, the K5 offers competitive room but folding rear seats help extend the cargo capacity. While it can handle most daily storage needs it’s not quite as spacious as some of its rivals like the Honda Accord.
Ownership Costs and Warranty
One area where Kia shines is with its industry-leading warranty. Kia offers a 10-year/100000-mile powertrain warranty which provides peace of mind for long-term ownership. Regular maintenance costs are also relatively affordable compared to luxury sedans.
Warranty and Maintenance
- 5-year/60000-mile basic warranty
- 10-year/100000-mile powertrain warranty
- Roadside assistance for 5 years
As for resale value the K5 holds up decently but it may not retain value quite as well as a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord in the long run.
Trim Levels and Pricing
While the K5 EX is positioned as the mid-level trim it still offers an excellent balance of luxury and value. Here’s a quick look at the available trims:
- K5 LX: The base model focused on affordability
- K5 LXS: Adds more tech features and a split-folding rear seat
- K5 GT-Line: Sportier looks with additional tech features
- K5 EX: The premium choice with leather seats and more comfort features
- K5 GT: Performance-oriented with a 2.5L engine and sport-tuned suspension
The K5 EX starts at around $28000 which is competitive for a midsize sedan with this level of features.
Conclusion
The 2022 Kia K5 EX strikes an impressive balance between affordability, comfort, and style. It offers a premium driving experience without the luxury price tag making it an excellent choice for those who want more than just basic transportation. With standout design and technology the K5 is a compelling alternative to more established midsize sedans.
However it’s not without some drawbacks. The low roofline impacts rear headroom, the steering lacks sharpness, and the wireless connectivity can be finicky. But these are relatively minor issues for most buyers especially given the comprehensive warranty and feature-packed interior.
Alex Collantes sums it up well: “If you want a car that looks great drives comfortably and offers great value the K5 EX is hard to beat. But it’s not a sports car so don’t expect to carve corners with it.”
For anyone seeking a practical yet stylish sedan with advanced tech and a touch of luxury the 2022 Kia K5 EX is a solid contender worth considering.