2026 Kia K5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2026 Kia K5 is largely a carryover after the 2025 refresh. The only notable change is a revised 18-inch gloss-black wheel design for the GT-Line trim.
About the 2026 Kia K5
First-generation K5 sold in the U.S. for 2021-present; 2026 is the second year after the 2025 refresh.
Kia positions the K5 as a bold-looking midsize sedan that mixes everyday usefulness with a sportier personality than many family-car rivals. The brand leans on sharp styling, a strong list of standard safety tech, a roomy cabin, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a genuinely quick GT trim. In plain terms, the K5 is meant for shoppers who want Accord/Camry practicality but with more visual drama and a stronger performance angle.
The 2026 K5 ranges from the practical LXS to the comfort-focused EX, with the sporty-looking GT-Line in between. The GT stands apart with a 290-hp turbo engine and sport-tuned suspension, while the EX emphasizes comfort with ventilated front seats, Bose audio, a panoramic sunroof, and camera-based parking views. Every trim retains a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What changed, by category
2026 Kia K5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, GDI, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, GDI, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, GDI, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, GDI, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | Automatic, 8-Spd | Automatic, 8-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 23 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg | 33 mpg | 36 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 290 hp | 191 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.2 in | 35.2 in | 35.2 in | 35.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2026 Kia K5 compared with the 2025 model?
Very little changed for 2026. The GT-Line gets a revised 18-inch gloss-black wheel design, while the engines, cabin technology, safety features, structure, and remaining lineup carry over from 2025.
Is the 2026 Kia K5 worth considering over the 2025 model?
The 2026 and 2025 K5 are very similar, so the newer model does not bring a major equipment or performance advantage. Unless the GT-Line’s revised wheel design matters to you, compare individual cars based on trim, condition, mileage, and service history.
Did the 2026 Kia K5 get a new engine?
No, the 2026 K5 keeps the same engines as 2025. LXS, GT-Line, and EX use a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, while the GT has a 290-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder.
Which 2026 Kia K5 trim is the performance model?
The 2026 K5 GT is the performance-focused trim. It has a 290-hp turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, quad exhaust outlets, paddle shifters, and a driver-focused steering wheel.
Does the 2026 Kia K5 have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, every 2026 K5 trim has a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation is included on GT-Line, GT, and EX.