2023 Kia K5 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The 2023 Kia K5 is one of the best midsize sedans you can buy for less than $35,000. Many people like the K5’s fierce-looking exterior styling and solid fuel economy. This car also has the ability to deliver an entertaining performance, especially the more powerful GT trim. Innovative safety features also help the K5 to stack up well against the competition.

From a value standpoint, the K5 definitely ranks among the segment leaders. Buyers will appreciate Kia’s confidence-inspiring warranty package, which helps protect against unexpected issues. With the removal of last year’s base model, there are now four K5 trim levels for car shoppers to pick from. Here’s how these trims differ from each other.

Compare the LXS vs GT-Line Trims. What is the difference?

The K5 LXS is the range’s new entry-level trim. Although it’s a tad more expensive than the previous base model, buyers are rewarded with additional features. Furthermore, this trim is still considered to be a superb value.

Motivation stems from a small 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. A turbocharger helps boost output to 180 horsepower. An eight-speed auto transmission completes the K5’s powertrain. With a 0-60 mph time of about 7.8 seconds, the K5 manages to keep pace with its key competitors.

Kia’s popular Drive Mode Select system comes standard. It enables motorists to switch between various driving modes. While the less aggressive Eco mode saves fuel, driving enthusiasts will prefer the more fun Sport mode.

Kia does not offer the LXS trim with an optional AWD system. However, the front-wheel-drive K5 will perform well on wet road surfaces. Only snowy conditions will pose a problem. Fuel economy stands at an impressive 29 mpg in city traffic and up to 39 mpg on the freeway. Regular unleaded gas is the car’s preferred fuel.

Styling is a strong point for the K5 LXS. Its sleek, fastback design will win over many people. LED headlights with eye-catching LED running lights and a sporty set of 16-inch alloy wheels come standard. Commuters who travel in cold weather will also benefit from the car’s heated side mirrors. Kia offers the LXS trim in a total of six exterior colors, including a bold-looking Sapphire Blue finish.

Upon stepping inside the sedan’s spacious cabin, drivers will immediately notice its excellent front legroom. A manually adjustable driver’s seat with height adjustment and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel promote a comfortable commute. Dual-zone automatic climate control also enables front passengers to easily dial in their preferred temperature setting. As expected, cloth seating surfaces come standard.

Drivers will enjoy Kia’s Smart Key system. It enables them to remotely fire up the engine and activate the climate control system. Push-button start also eliminates the need to stick a key into the ignition.

Another nice convenience is the sedan’s standard Smart Trunk. Drivers won’t have to wave their hands or kick underneath the car in order to open it. As the driver nears with their key fob in pocket, this innovative trunk can automatically release.

When behind the wheel of the K5 LXS, drivers can enjoy its modern infotainment system. The interface’s 8.0-inch touchscreen can wirelessly connect to your smartphone through either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Six-speaker stereo adds more entertainment. Bluetooth is built into the system

A 12-volt power port also enables drivers to plug in laptops and other electronic devices. Front and rear USB ports are also come standard. Although the LX-S trim doesn’t feature a fully digital gauge cluster, it does provide a 4.2-inch driver information display.

Some great safety and security features come equipped on the K5’s LXS trim. An anti-theft engine immobilizer makes the car less likely to become stolen. Safe Exit Assist gives families an additional sense of protection. When vehicles are approaching from behind, the system helps prevent disaster by activating the child safety locks. The objective is to stop passengers from opening doors into oncoming traffic. A traditional backup camera and a total of nine airbags also come standard.

The LXS trim also receives Kia Drive Wise safety technologies as standard equipment. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist is engineered to sense and help prevent rear-end accidents. Meanwhile, lane-keeping technology gives drivers steering support. Other driving aids include a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic detection, driver attention warning, and high-beam assist.

Folks who desire a sportier driving machine will be interested in the K5 GT-Line, which is only around $1,400 more expensive. Blacked-out styling elements give it an additional coolness factor. Larger 18-inch alloy wheels with a black finish also help this trim to stand out. Unlike the entry-level trim, the K5 GT-Line receives LED tail lamps and LED fog lights.

While this trim’s upgraded side mirrors with integrated turn signals don’t really enhance styling, they do improve the car’s safety profile. There are more upgraded features on the inside. Kia equips the GT-Line trim with a 10.25-inch HD infotainment screen. While this upgraded interface does feature built-in navigation, it surprisingly forgoes wireless smartphone integration. Users will need to use a cord when connecting their mobile device. However, drivers can benefit from the GT-Line trim’s wireless phone charger and satellite radio.

The K5 GT-Line’s interior has a more upscale character. Nicer SynTex upholstery and a black coth headliner give it an advantage over the base model. A 10-way power seat also makes it easier to obtain the best possible driving position. To give the cockpit a more exciting feel, Kia adds a flat-bottom sport steering wheel.

Unlike the base trim, the K5 GT-Line gives buyers access to an optional AWD system. This is a big selling point for folks who often commute on wintry roads. Activating the AWD system’s Snow mode helps prevent the tires from slipping.

Fuel economy for the AWD-equipped model is lower. The government lists it with a rating of 25 mpg in town and 33 mpg on the freeway. Remember, along with the AWD system comes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. .

On this trim’s list of options is a GT-Line Premium Package. This package adds Kia’s highly recommended Highway Assist system, which can effectively reduce driving-related fatigue. Not only can the system automatically adjust speed and engage braking, but it can also provide steering assistance.

Another one of the GT-Line Premium Package’s safety technologies is left-turn collision control. It gives drivers more security at intersections and stop signs. Other aspects of the package include upgraded LED projector headlamps, cyclist detection, a panoramic sunroof, and navigation-based smart cruise control.

Buyers who don’t desire the car’s upgraded safety features can save money by choosing the GT-Line Panoramic Sunroof package. Aside from a sunroof with power shade, it also equips the interior with a LED ambient lighting system.

Compare the GT-Line vs EX Trims: What is the difference?

The EX trim is geared more towards luxury car fans. Although the K5 EX loses some of the GT-Line’s sporty treatments, this trim still turns heads. It rides on exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels.

When taking the EX trim for a drive, front passengers can enjoy its heated and ventilated front seats. As they're backing up, rear parking sensors help drivers to remain aware of nearby objects. Other standard equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, SynTex seating surfaces, interior ambient LED lighting, and an extra USB port.

On this trim’s list of options is an EX Premium Package. Its Bose premium audio system brings a more sophisticated sound. Meanwhile, a 360-degree camera system greatly improves the driver's field of vision in parking areas. Reverse automatic braking further enhances safety. Other key upgrades include a 10-way power passenger seat, intersection assist, and stop-and-go smart cruise control.

Compare the EX vs GT Trim Levels. What is the difference?

No other trim comes close to matching the performance of the high-output K5 GT. Its larger 2.5-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine ups the level of driving excitement. Total production is an impressive 290 horsepower and more than 310 lb-ft of torque. A special dual-clutch auto transmission also helps the K5 GT to deliver the fun. Automotive reviewers have clocked this more powerful trim with a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds.

It’s important to note that the GT trim is only offered with a front-wheel-drive setup. Fuel economy stands at a reasonably efficient 24 mpg in town and 32 mpg on the open road. Fortunately, drivers can achieve maximum performance on regular unleaded gasoline.

There are some other notable performance features found on the GT trim. Pirelli P-ZERO performance tires and a sports-tuned suspension elevate the car’s handling capabilities. More powerful brakes also come standard.

While 19-inch black wheels and a quad-tip dual exhaust help give the GT model an extra-powerful look, heated sport bucket seats with enhanced bolstering are found on the inside. A heated steering wheel also comes standard.

Drivers who’re willing to fork over more money can opt for a GT1 Package. It adds many of the EX trim’s optional features, including ventilation functions for the front seats and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. Buyers will also receive all the other advanced safety technologies.

Final Thoughts

For good reason, the entry-level K5 LSX is expected to be one of the lineup’s most popular picks. It provides several coveted amenities, including a touchscreen interface with wireless smartphone connectivity and dual-zone automatic temperature control. Buyers will also benefit from the standard Kia Drive Wise safety technologies.

The only trim that now offers all-wheel drive is the K5 GT-Line. It’s the best pick for folks who reside in snow-prone regions of the country. Kia also equips the sporty-looking GT-Line trim with a wireless phone charger and a larger HD touchscreen.

Fortunately, even the more luxurious EX trim still carries a starting MSRP of less than $30,000. However, opting for the EX Premium Package tacks on an extra $3,600.

In terms of driving fun, the K5 GT ranks among the top options in the class. This trim offers much stronger acceleration and rewards drivers with sharper handling. Its fuel economy also isn’t bad for a sports sedan. Sadly, Kia does not offer the GT trim with all-wheel drive. Buyers will also have to pay extra for certain features, including ventilated front seats and a nice-sounding Bose premium stereo system.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2022 Kia K5 Trim Levels