Sedan sales seem to be on the uptick as buyers realize that the all-new SUV they want may be out of their price range. As they search for new vehicles with technology, style and some utility, they’re rediscovering sedans. If you’re looking for a four-door car with all those things and impressive performance, the 2025 Kia K5 GT should be part of your driving homework.
The Kia K5 GT is a splendid mix of style and performance at an affordable prices.
To be fair, I’m already a fan of the K5 and I’ve driven a couple different versions of it. However, I just spent a week in the K5 GT and was simply enthralled.
I’m a big fan of the K5’s aggressive exterior styling, especially front end. For 2025, it gets an evolutionary update that makes it even more appealing. But what really took my breath away was the steel matte gray exterior. It makes the K5 look more like a performance luxury sedan than a mass market four-door.
Big performance
Perhaps the most impressive part of the car is the 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder under the hood. It’s basically a 100-horsepower upgrade from car’s standard power plant, as the GT produces 290 horsepower.
More power generally needs a better suspension, brakes, etc. and the K5 GT comes with all that, including paddle shifters. A couple of runs on my favorite driving road revealed that is a quick, nimble performer that will surprise those in the car if you don’t warn them.
All of that performance still comes with impressive fuel economy at 27 mpg combined.
Perhaps the most impressive part of the car is the 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder under the hood, putting out 290 horsepower.
Cool cabin
While you’re busy buzzing around town with a grin on your face, it’s almost possible to ignore the stylish cabin.
Let’s start with the new single-pane curved display housing a 12-inch instrument screen and a new standard 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation unit. It’s easy to see and makes navigation a snap.
Kia’s new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system processes faster and in higher fidelity, with frequently used Quick Controls available with a swipe on the screen. Of course, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which is now standard across the K5 line. Over The Air updates are now possible, making life easier for owners by eliminating the need to drive to a dealer for a simple software update.
Our black SynTex seat trim was accented by neon green stitching which comes as part of the GT1 Package. These seats do a great job of holding you in place while driving, but require some shuffling and adjusting when you’re getting into the driver’s seat.
Also part of the GT1 Package is a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel, a Bose audio system, heated and cooled front seats and enough convenience and safety technology to make you forget you’re in a Kia.
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The black SynTex seat trim was accented by neon green stitching which comes as part of the GT1 Package.
What we think
Kia’s spent plenty of time promoting its SUV lineup, which contains several good options the Telluride and the Sorento Hybrid spring to mind immediately.
But like they’re competition, getting one that’s fully equipped is going to require a big chunck of change … each month.
This is where the the K5 GT fills the gap. Great looks. Great performance. Great technology. And a great interior.
Now all you need is a great price. Kia checks that box too. The base K5 is $27,190, with our completely loaded model coming in at $39,625. A great deal on a great car. It’s one reason why sedans are starting to gain favor with some buyers.
I currently own ’21 Hyundai Sonata SEL. Although it still runs and drives fantastic it is getting up there in miles at 91,000.
I want another Sedan for several reasons. Better handling, fuel economy and looks. So the K5 is high on my shop list for my next vehicle. Especially since Sonata has taken on the Klatu look with its most recent redesign.
My choice of K5 would be FWD 2.5 non turbo. I really like that fox grey or the dark red.
Thanks for the review!
Doug N. St Louis Missouri
Good choice, Doug, though I wonder why you’d skip AWD living in St. Louis.
Paul E.