Experience Premium Comfort with the 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD Sedan
Introduction to the 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD Sedan
The 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD sedan delivers more than just a sleek design. This sporty midsize sedan blends power, performance, and practicality at an attractive price point. With all-wheel drive now becoming a rare feature in its class the K5 LXS offers a great option for drivers who want added grip for harsh weather conditions without stepping into an SUV.
While the market is flooded with options from automakers like Honda Toyota and Hyundai the Kia K5 carves out a space with its modern features and a premium feel at an affordable range. But is it worth your money? Let’s dive into the features specs advantages and even some drawbacks to help you decide.
Design and Exterior
Standout Design
The exterior design of the 2022 Kia K5 LXS is striking. It looks both aggressive and sophisticated with a low roofline that gives it a coupe-like appearance. The signature "Tiger Nose" grille adds character to the front end accompanied by sleek LED headlights and daytime running lights.
Dimensions
The K5 LXS offers generous dimensions for a sedan:
- Length: 193.1 inches
- Width: 73.2 inches
- Height: 56.9 inches
- Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
The proportions are well-balanced offering both curb appeal and aerodynamic efficiency.
Exterior Colors
Available in colors like Glacial White Pearl Ebony Black and Wolf Gray the K5’s palette caters to those wanting both subtle and bold looks.
Though the K5 LXS looks refined some drivers might prefer more aggressive alloy wheels since the LXS trim comes with 16-inch alloy wheels which could feel too basic compared to rivals in its price range.
Alex Collantes on the Design
"Man this car looks way more expensive than it really is" says Alex Collantes a K5 owner from Chicago. "I park it next to luxury sedans and people ask me if it’s a luxury model."
Interior Features and Technology
Cabin Comfort and Design
The K5 LXS AWD delivers an upscale cabin even in the base trim. You get high-quality materials like soft-touch plastics and stitched surfaces which help elevate the experience. For a sedan in this class it’s impressive. The seats are wrapped in premium cloth upholstery offering both support and comfort for long drives.
Interior Space and Practicality
- Passenger Volume: 105.3 cubic feet
- Cargo Capacity: 16 cubic feet
The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split allowing you to expand trunk space if needed. However one potential drawback is the low roofline which could make the rear headroom feel a bit cramped for taller passengers.
Infotainment and Tech
At the heart of the cabin is an 8-inch touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also a 6-speaker audio system and Bluetooth connectivity. For tech-savvy drivers the K5 falls slightly behind competitors who offer larger screens and higher-end sound systems even at the entry level.
Tech Highlights
- 8-inch touchscreen with wireless phone projection
- Bluetooth hands-free calling
- USB ports for both front and rear passengers
- Smart Key with push-button start
The lack of built-in navigation might be a letdown for those who prefer in-car GPS instead of phone-based apps. However wireless CarPlay functionality makes it a bit easier to get directions from your smartphone.
Performance and Handling
Engine and Power
The 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine delivering:
- Horsepower: 180 hp
- Torque: 195 lb-ft
The engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission which offers smooth gear shifts whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway. Though the 1.6-liter turbo engine offers decent power some drivers might wish for more punch. The LXS trim doesn’t offer a sport-tuned option like the higher GT trim leaving some enthusiasts wanting more excitement.
All-Wheel Drive Capability
The AWD system in the K5 adds extra traction and control especially in wet or snowy conditions. This makes it a solid choice for those living in areas with unpredictable weather.
Driving Experience
The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sportiness meaning the ride is smooth and composed over most road surfaces. However the steering can feel a bit light at times lacking the sharp precision of some competitors like the Mazda6.
Alex Collantes adds "The AWD gives me peace of mind in the winter but I do wish the steering felt a little more connected to the road."
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Real-World MPG
The Kia K5 LXS AWD offers fuel efficiency that competes with rivals in the midsize sedan category.
- City: 25 MPG
- Highway: 33 MPG
- Combined: 28 MPG
However real-world results might vary depending on driving style. Drivers who frequently commute in heavy traffic might find the city MPG a bit underwhelming compared to hybrid alternatives like the Toyota Camry Hybrid.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Advanced Safety Features
Kia continues to prioritize safety with the K5 offering standard driver assistance features. These include:
- Forward Collision Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Crash Test Ratings
The Kia K5 earned high marks in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with a 5-star overall safety rating. However the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it slightly lower ratings in some areas for headlight performance.
Airbags and Passive Safety
The sedan comes with a comprehensive airbag system and advanced braking features. Though the safety suite is impressive it lacks some high-end driver aids available in pricier trims like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera.
Pricing and Trim Options
Affordable Luxury
The LXS AWD trim is competitively priced starting at around $27,000 making it one of the more affordable AWD sedans on the market. However as you start adding optional packages the price could creep closer to the $30,000 mark.
Available Trims
- LX – Base model with FWD only
- LXS AWD – Adds all-wheel drive and more safety features
- GT-Line – Sportier looks and larger wheels
- EX – Adds luxury features like a panoramic sunroof
- GT – Top-tier with a 2.5L turbo engine
The K5 LXS AWD offers a sweet spot for buyers looking for value and performance but it’s not quite as sporty or luxurious as the GT trim.
Pros and Cons of the 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD Sedan
Pros
- Affordable AWD option in a sedan class
- Comfortable ride quality and spacious interior
- User-friendly infotainment system with wireless connectivity
- Sharp and modern design that stands out
- Advanced safety features included as standard
Cons
- Rear headroom is limited due to the sloping roofline
- Steering lacks feedback compared to rivals like the Mazda6
- 16-inch alloy wheels might feel underwhelming for some buyers
- No built-in GPS navigation even as an option
- Lacks sport-tuned suspension available in other trims
Conclusion
The 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD sedan offers a compelling package for drivers looking for all-weather capability without sacrificing style and affordability. With decent power comfortable interiors and an intuitive tech setup it’s a solid choice in the midsize sedan category.
That said it’s not without its shortcomings. The rear seat headroom could be better and the steering could use more precision but these are minor issues when compared to the value it provides.
Alex Collantes sums it up well: "It’s not perfect but for the price you’re getting a lot of car. The AWD alone makes it worth it if you’re living anywhere with bad winters. And it just looks so good. I love driving it every day."
For buyers who prioritize comfort reliability and practicality the K5 LXS AWD is an excellent option that punches well above its weight in a crowded segment.
In the end the Kia K5 LXS AWD is not just another sedan—it’s a vehicle that reflects Kia’s commitment to delivering premium quality without the premium price tag.