(July 1, 2020) IRVINE, Calif. — Nearly a decade after the 2011 Kia Optima paved the way for one of the auto industry’s most significant growth and achievement stories, Kia Motors America (KMA) is resetting expectations once again with the reveal of the all-new K5 mid-size sedan.

Representing one of the biggest leaps forward between generations in recent automotive history, the K5 celebrates this bold new chapter in Kia’s story with an equally bold name to emphasize the mid-size sedan’s revolutionary design, all-new safety and performance enhanced “N3” platform, turbocharged engines, available all-wheel drive, and high-impact technology.

In other words, Kia’s “Give It Everything” philosophy in the U.S. is evident and “alive” in this new machine.



But why try to reimagine the sedan, especially during a time when the market continues to shift towards crossovers and SUVs? Fueled by an unstoppable spirit to push harder and work smarter, Kia was determined to give it everything instead of giving up; completely rethinking the traditional sedan.



Going on sale this summer, the K5 will be available in four trim levels (LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX), with the adrenaline-fueled GT to follow later in the fall.


A catalyst for the further transformation of Kia’s lineup, the K5’s powerful and angular design language represents another chapter of boldness and passion for the brand. The centerpiece is Kia’s modernized “tiger face,” with the wide and thin front grille extending into the headlight and hood structure.

From the side, the K5’s low-slung and fastback silhouette confirms the impression it was made to run, highlighted by a chrome garnish that spans the roofline and wraps around the rear glass. A number of other exterior design traits give the K5 an unexpected level of visual impact:

    •    Shark skin-inspired mesh design on front grille and dual chrome exhaust tip garnish (GT-Line, GT)
    •    Signature “Heart Beat”  daytime running lights and taillights with available LED “dashes” span the width of the rear deck lid
    •    Gloss black appliqué on rear glass enhances fastback shape while maintaining sedan functionality and cargo space
    •    Newly designed 16-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels (18- and 19-inch wheels come with sporty Pirelli P-Zero tires)


 

Harmonizing the open layout of the cockpit is a newly designed infotainment display that seamlessly stretches into the instrument panel, creating a futuristic, three-dimensional layout and driver-centric space. Other interior highlights include:

    •    Aircraft-type shift knob
    •    A mix of premium and sporty upholstery options including red leatherette seating, satin chrome metallic and wood-like finishes on the dashboard and door panels, depending on trim
    •    Panoramic sunroof
    •    Flat-bottom, sport steering wheel (GT-Line, GT)


The K5’s new identity starts with the advanced third-generation “N3” platform, which will serve as the foundation for future Kia models. In this application, the platform allows the K5 to sit longer, lower and wider compared to its predecessor, resulting in its aggressive profile and deeper center of gravity for a more exciting driving experience.

The K5 has increased exterior dimensions in all the right places for a sport sedan look and feel with 193.1 inches in length (+2 inches over Kia’s outgoing Optima), 73.2 inches width (+1 inch), and a wheelbase of 112.2 inches.
   

Kia’s powertrain options unleash the spirit of the everyday driver, with a “turbocharged” lineup that includes a choice of two engines. Kia engineers further pushed the envelope with an available eight-speed “wet” dual-clutch transmission for fast and precise gearshifts, plus an available all-wheel drive system for improved traction and capability. Details include:

    •    2.5-liter turbocharged GDI + MPI four-cylinder engine making 290 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a new 8-speed “wet” Dual Clutch Transmission (GT) goes 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds with a first for Kia, the in-house developed, 8-speed “wet” DCT helps K5 establish credentials as a  sports sedan

    •    1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque, managed by an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission (LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX). the engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) transmission. An industry first, this technology results in a performance boost and improvement in efficiency thanks to independent control of the valve duration
   
  •     Available all-wheel drive (AWD) provides all-weather capabilities and enhanced driving performance by actively distributing torque between the front and rear wheels, depending on road conditions and driving situations (LXS & GT-Line option). AWD will be available in late 2020.
   
    •    Normal, Smart, Sport, and Custom drive modes adjust settings for engine, transmission, AWD (when equipped) and steering mapping to provide the desired driving experience.


Next level technology includes wireless features that minimize cord clutter and keep the cockpit clean, and a seamless infotainment display layout and voice command system that  help keep the driver’s eyes on the road.

Some technology and convenience highlights to look out for include: 8- or 10.25-in high resolution color touchscreen.