How different is the 2024 Kia K5 from the 2023 Kia K5? Should you choose one of these midsize sedans over the other? Our comparison guide has everything you need to make an informed decision!
Key Takeaways
- There are a few differences between these Kia K5 models, but neither received any major updates.
- Both midsize sedans deliver smooth comfort and generous power, and both offer the same two engine options.
- Choose from four K5 trim models: LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT.
- The 2023 Kia K5 (starting at $25,290) and 2024 Kia K5 (starting at $25,390) will both go easy on your budget!
New Features
When you’re shopping for a new car, you don’t want to miss out on any cutting-edge updates. But if you’re faced with a choice between the 2023 and 2024 Kia K5, there’s no need to worry, because there aren’t any major differences between the pair.
Compared to previous K5 sedans, the 2023 model year dropped the base LX trim. And the EX, GT-Line, and GT added sound-reducing front windows to their list of standard features.
For 2024, Kia made heated front seats standard for the K5 GT-Line trim model. Otherwise, these midsize sedans are basically the same as the 2023 models.
Kia K5 Performance
When you’re shopping for performance, the differences between the 2024 and 2023 K5 model years matter less than the difference between the K5 trim models!
The LXS, GT-Line, and EX trim models utilize the standard K5 powertrain. These trims deliver generous power, plus the K5’s best EPA ratings of up to 31 mpg combined (27 city/37 highway). Powertrain specs include:
- Turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder engine (180 horsepower, 195 lb-ft of torque)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
If you prefer a speedier version of the K5 sedan, you want the GT trim model. These K5s feature an exclusive 290-horsepower turbocharged engine, plus a fun-loving shiftable automatic transmission. Powertrain specs include:
- Turbo 2.5L four-cylinder engine (290 hp, 311 lb-ft of torque)
- Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters
- Front-wheel drive
Trim Models
Both K5 model years are available as four trim models: LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. Each builds on the model before it to give you an increasingly cushy and capable ride.
LXS
The entry-level Kia K5 gives you a great deal on a very long list of modern features.
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Cloth seating
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 8-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker sound system
- Hands-free keyless entry and push-button ignition
- Remote ignition
- LED headlamps
- Hands-free trunk opener
- Heated, power-adjustable exterior mirrors
- Forward collision warning with automatic braking
- Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure mitigation
- Driver attention warning
- Leading vehicle departure alert
- Rear seat reminder
- Rear passenger safe-exit system
GT-Line
This K5 trim builds on the standard lineup with features designed to provide greater comfort and connectivity. However, shoppers should note that the Kia infotainment system with the 10.25-inch touchscreen deletes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in favor of the older, wired versions of this smartphone technology.
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Cloth and faux-leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats (2024 model)
- Leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel
- 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Built-in navigation
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Sound-reducing front windows
- Rear spoiler
- LED tail lights
- LED fog lights
- Optional panoramic sunroof
EX
The EX builds upon the lower trim levels with an impressive list of luxury upgrades.
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Faux-leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Rear-seat air-conditioning vents
- LED interior lighting
- Upgraded cabin trim
- Panoramic sunroof
- Rear parking sensors
- Optional EX Premium package (includes 12-speaker Bose sound system, driver’s seat memory, heated steering wheel)
GT
This K5 trim is equipped a lot like the upscale EX, but it also adds high-performance upgrades.
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Front sport seats
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Quad-outlet exhaust system
- Enhanced steering components
- Upgraded brakes
MSRP
With only a $100 difference between starting prices, price won’t be a big factor when you’re choosing one of these model years over the other. The 2023 Kia K5 starts at $25,290, and the 2024 Kia K5 starts at $25,390.
Your New Kia K5
Unless you really need your K5 GT-Line trim model to come standard with heated front seats (we’re not judging), you can basically treat these Kia sedans as equals. If you find both 2023 and 2024 Kia K5 sedans at your local dealership, give them all a fair shot. After all, your idea of a perfectly equipped 2024 Kia K5 sedan probably looks a lot like the version from 2023!