There’s a new player in the midsize sedan market, and it’s already making waves. The 2021 Kia K5, formerly known as the Optima, is a complete redesign that’s set to challenge the likes of the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mazda6. With its aggressive styling, powerful engines, and advanced technology, the K5 is aiming to win over a new generation of drivers.
Let’s start with the design. The K5 is undeniably sporty and stylish, with a sleek fastback roofline, a wide grille, and LED headlights that give it an almost Audi-like presence. The overall look is more aggressive than the previous Optima, and it’s sure to turn heads on the road.
Inside, the K5 continues to impress. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with plenty of room for five passengers and their luggage. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with available leather upholstery that feels premium. The dashboard is dominated by a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is standard on all trims. The system is easy to use, with crisp graphics and a responsive interface.
Under the hood, the K5 offers two engine options. The base engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with front-wheel drive, although all-wheel drive is available as an option. This engine provides plenty of zip for daily driving, and it’s rated at an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
If you’re looking for even more power, the K5 offers an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive. It’s a beast on the road, with quick acceleration and plenty of passing power. However, it’s not quite as fuel-efficient as the base engine, with ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
One of the K5’s biggest selling points is its advanced safety features. Every trim comes standard with Kia’s suite of safety tech, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system.
Overall, the 2021 Kia K5 is a game-changer in the midsize sedan market. It offers a striking design, powerful engines, and advanced technology, all at a competitive price point. If you’re in the market for a new sedan, it’s definitely worth considering the K5 as a serious contender.