Kia is reinventing itself with a new logo, a name change (Kia instead of Kia Motors) and a new moniker for its mid-size sedan formally known as the Optima. The 2022 Kia K5, which debuted for 2021, enters its sophomore model year with more standard convenience features on its top three trims, plus a new GT-Line AWD Premium Package to enhance the mid-tier trim’s offerings.
Related: 2021 Kia K5 Sedan Review: Former Optima Is Nearly Optimal
After a redesign and name change for 2021, the K5 returns for 2022 with a healthy helping of new features on its higher trims. The K5 is available in LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX and GT trims, with all-wheel drive available on the LXS and GT-Line. For 2022, the K5 GT-Line, EX and GT receive a 360-degree camera system, additional wireless chargers and standard navigation.
GT-Line AWD Premium Package
Kia beefs up its mid-tier GT-Line with a new AWD Premium Package, which for $1,900 adds a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, LED projector headlights and additional driver-assist features that include Highway Driving Assist and navigation-based adaptive cruise control. None of these features are new to the 2022 K5 GT-Line — some came standard with AWD before or as part of another optional package — but they are reconfigured into the new GT-Line AWD Premium Package.
Engine Options
All 2022 K5s except the top-of-the-line GT are powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 180 horsepower and 195 pounds-feet of torque. The GT is only available with a 290-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder good for 311 pounds-feet of torque.
Pricing and Competition
The K5 has a starting price of $24,685 (all prices include destination) for the LX FWD, a modest increase of $100 over the 2021 LX FWD. The GT-Line AWD’s $28,685 starting price is reduced by $1,500 compared to 2021 because features that used to come standard with the GT-Line’s $3,700 AWD option are separated into the new GT-Line AWD Premium Package, which is $1,900.
The 2022 K5 is priced competitively among the 2021 mid-size sedan class. It’s frequently compared to the Honda Accord ($25,965 starting price), Hyundai Sonata ($24,955), Nissan Altima ($25,400) and Toyota Camry ($26,040). The 2022 Subaru Legacy is also currently on sale and starts at $23,955.
2022 Kia K5 Pricing (Includes $995 Destination)
- LX FWD: $24,685
- LXS FWD: $25,685
- LXS AWD: $27,485
- GT-Line FWD: $27,085
- GT-Line AWD: $28,685
- EX FWD: $29,585
- GT FWD: $32,085
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