2022 Kia K5 for Sale: A Bold Choice for Mid-Size Sedan Enthusiasts
When you think of mid-size sedans, the 2022 Kia K5 might not be the first car that comes to mind, but it should be. This sleek, sporty sedan brings a refreshing design along with impressive performance features that will leave drivers feeling exhilarated every time they hit the road. Whether you are looking for an affordable family vehicle or a fun-to-drive car with premium features, the 2022 Kia K5 offers plenty. Let's dive into everything you need to know if you're considering this stylish sedan.
Why Consider the 2022 Kia K5 for Sale?
The Kia K5 has emerged as one of the most desirable cars in the market today, combining performance, affordability, and advanced technology in a way few sedans in its class can achieve. It’s not just a sedan—it’s a statement.
This car competes directly with heavyweights like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry but manages to stand out with its eye-catching design and dynamic driving experience. The following sections will explore each aspect of the K5, including features, performance, safety, and even where it falls short.
Stylish and Aggressive Exterior Design
At a first glance, the 2022 Kia K5 looks more like a luxury car than a traditional mid-size sedan. Kia designers went all-in to give the K5 a sporty fastback profile that will grab attention anywhere you drive. The “tiger nose” grille up front makes the car look bold and intimidating, while LED headlights and taillights give it a futuristic edge.
- Available Colors: Choose from a range of stunning colors like Sapphire Blue, Passion Red, and Ebony Black.
- Wheel Options: 16- to 19-inch wheels are available depending on trim.
"It's got a real unique presence on the road" says Alex Collantes, a longtime Kia fan and owner of a 2021 K5. "You don't see a lot of sedans that look like this anymore."
While the exterior style is undoubtedly a strong point, some buyers may find the low roofline challenging when entering and exiting the vehicle, especially for taller passengers. But once you’re inside, the experience feels worth the initial inconvenience.
Comfort and High-Tech Interior
The cabin of the K5 offers a well-designed interior, filled with soft-touch materials and available leather seats that look more expensive than the car’s price tag suggests. The driver's cockpit feels intuitive, with everything positioned where it should be. An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes standard, though you can upgrade to a 10.25-inch screen with enhanced navigation.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard
- Dual-zone automatic climate control is available on higher trims
- Available panoramic sunroof adds a luxurious vibe to the cabin
However, rear headroom might feel a bit tight for taller passengers due to the sloping roofline. While the K5’s back seats provide decent legroom, those over 6 feet tall may find themselves brushing against the ceiling. This is something to consider if you frequently drive with taller passengers or have family members with long legs.
On the positive side, Kia's infotainment system is very easy to use. "Honestly," says Alex Collantes, "I prefer this system over what some luxury brands offer. It’s snappy and doesn't frustrate me with lag."
Engine Performance and Handling
The 2022 Kia K5 offers a selection of two engines that cater to different driving preferences. The base engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that puts out 180 horsepower. For those looking for more power and excitement, there’s the GT trim that features a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing 290 horsepower.
1.6-Liter Turbo Engine:
- Fuel Economy: 27 mpg city / 37 mpg highway
- Smooth and efficient for everyday commutes
2.5-Liter Turbo Engine:
- Fuel Economy: 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- Delivers an impressive 0-60 mph time of under 6 seconds
The standard 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts, though some drivers may find it lacks the immediate responsiveness of a dual-clutch transmission. But for most buyers, the smooth ride and comfort outweigh the slight delay.
Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options are available, which is a great addition for those living in regions with unpredictable weather conditions. However, the AWD system is only available with the 1.6-liter engine, which might disappoint performance enthusiasts who want AWD along with the extra power of the 2.5-liter engine.
Potential Drawbacks: While the K5 is fun to drive, the GT trim sacrifices some ride comfort for sporty handling. You may feel bumps a bit more on uneven roads compared to the base model.
Safety Features: Keeping You and Your Loved Ones Secure
The 2022 Kia K5 offers an extensive suite of standard and available safety features to ensure a secure driving experience. It comes equipped with Kia’s Drive Wise technology, which includes advanced driver-assistance systems that are typically found in higher-end models.
Key Safety Features Include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Highway Driving Assist
- Available Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
The car earned excellent safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, making it a solid option for families. "I feel really confident driving this car with my kids in it" Alex Collantes shared. "The safety tech is a big reason why I chose it over other options."
Pricing and Trim Levels for Every Budget
The Kia K5 is available in five different trims, offering something for every buyer's needs. Below is a breakdown of the trim levels and pricing:
- LX – $24,845
- Base model with essential features
- LXS – $25,845
- Adds remote start and additional safety tech
- GT-Line – $27,245
- Sporty design with black accents and 18-inch wheels
- EX – $29,745
- Luxury-focused with leather seats and panoramic sunroof
- GT – $32,945
- Performance model with the 2.5L turbo engine
Considering all the standard tech and safety features, the K5 offers excellent value for money across all trims. However, keep in mind that adding AWD increases the cost and isn’t available on the high-performance GT trim.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance: What to Expect
One of the advantages of the 2022 Kia K5 is its excellent fuel economy, especially with the 1.6-liter engine. With up to 37 mpg on the highway, it can compete with the best in its class.
Kia also provides a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which adds peace of mind to your purchase. This is one area where Kia shines compared to rivals like Honda and Toyota, who offer shorter warranty periods.
That said, some owners have reported minor issues with the infotainment system freezing occasionally. While these glitches aren't deal-breakers, it’s worth keeping in mind. Fortunately, Kia's warranty ensures any issues are covered.
Final Thoughts on the 2022 Kia K5
If you are looking for a sedan that stands out from the crowd without breaking the bank, the 2022 Kia K5 deserves a spot on your shortlist. It offers a great balance of style, performance, and practicality, making it a solid choice for a wide range of drivers.
Pros:
- Stylish exterior design
- Excellent warranty coverage
- Fun-to-drive GT trim
- Competitive fuel economy
Cons:
- Tight rear headroom due to sloping roofline
- AWD not available with the high-performance engine
- Ride comfort slightly compromised in the GT trim
"The K5 isn't just a car—it’s a lifestyle," says Alex Collantes. "It makes you feel good every time you drive it, which isn’t something every sedan can say."
Whether you’re upgrading your current vehicle or buying your first new car, the 2022 Kia K5 offers everything from sporty vibes to family-friendly features. Now might be the perfect time to find a 2022 Kia K5 for sale—and take it for a test drive yourself.