The new Kia K5 has been chosen as a platform to demonstrate the evolutionary development of the brand's design language. Three of the brand's design centers from Europe, the USA, and Korea worked on the fastback's exterior. It features LED headlights integrated into the radiator grille, daytime running lights shaped like "heartbeats," a generally more aggressive front end, and muscular proportions inspired by the "Stinger."
The dimensions have also changed. Compared to its predecessor, the new K5 has become 50 millimeters longer, 25 millimeters wider, and 20 millimeters lower. The wheelbase has increased by 45 millimeters. For regular modifications, wheels ranging from 16 to 18 inches are offered, while the K5 GT variant gets unique 19-inch wheels, different bumpers, and a dual exhaust.
The fastback's interior is adorned with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a central media system display of either 8 or 10.25 inches. The equipment list also includes a BOSE audio system with 12 speakers and a relaxation mode called Sound of Nature, ambient lighting called Mood Lighting, and heated steering wheel and seats. Depending on the market, the K5's seats are upholstered in fabric, artificial leather, or natural leather. For decoration, panels made of metal or with a "wood" texture are chosen.
In the USA and Korea, the Kia K5 will be available with a 1.6 T-GDi turbo engine (180 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque) featuring CVVD technology for continuously variable valve duration. Also, on some markets, the sedan will have 2.0 MPI (152 horsepower and 192 Nm), 2.0 CVVL (160 horsepower and 196 Nm), and 2.5 GDi (194 horsepower and 246 Nm) engines. The K5 GT version will get a 2.5 T-GDi with 290 horsepower and 455 Nm of torque, accelerating the car to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds. Later, hybrid variants will be added to the lineup.
All engines except the 2.5 T-GDi are paired with a six- or eight-speed automatic transmission. The top turbo engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with two wet clutches. Additionally, the equipment list includes a Drive Mode Select with four preset profiles and one individual profile. Finally, for the first time, the Kia K5 is available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
The set of ADAS electronic assistants includes blind spot monitoring, monitoring of space in front of and behind the vehicle, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view system, lane keeping assist, and a highway driving assist. The Remote Smart Parking Assist function allows the sedan to be parked remotely using the key fob. As standard, the K5 has nine airbags and an advanced electronic stability control system.
The new Kia K5 will appear on global markets in the first half of 2020.
