Refreshed Kia K5 Unveiled in Korea, Coming for 2025
Introduced in 2021 as a replacement for the uninspiring Optima midsize sedan, the Kia K5 is essentially unchanged for 2024. However, things will be different the following year.
The 2025 K5 is set to receive a significant mid-cycle refresh including updated styling and new technology, as we can see from the Korean-spec model that was announced this week.
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On the outside, Kia revised the front bumper with larger intakes and redesigned the headlights with more angular daytime running lights replacing the chicane-style motif of the current K5.
The new alloy wheels on the sides were inevitable, while most of the focus in the rear is turned to the redesigned taillights, which now extend into the fenders and have a more tridimensional look. We’re not exactly sure they’ll please everybody. Oh, and the lower bumper is slightly refreshed, as well.
New body colours are available as part of the update including Wolf Grey and Moonscape Matte Grey. Again, just to be clear, we’re talking about the K5 for the Korean market.
The biggest changes can be found inside, starting with a large curved display combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, just like in Kia’s latest products. The HVAC controls below also take a page from other Kias, with a touch-based interface that can be switched to multimedia controls with one click.
A wireless smartphone charger lies at the front of the centre console, ahead of the new rotary-style shifter that replaces the current model’s unattractive lever. Amen. Kia has also updated interior trim and is offering new colour options including Martian Brown.
Don’t look for improvements under the hood. The turbocharged 1.6-litre and 2.5-litre four-cylinder engines are expected to carry over, producing 180 horsepower and 290 horsepower, respectively. Too bad only the smaller unit is paired with all-wheel drive. Drivers will enjoy a smoother ride thanks to a revised suspension, Kia says.
The 2025 Kia K5 should launch in Canada in mid-2024, so that leaves the company plenty of time to provide more details. A new generation of the best-selling Toyota Camry is also slated to debut for 2025, however, eclipsing every other midsize sedan including the K5.