The 2021 Kia K5 lasts around 200,000 miles, with some A/C system and battery issues reported. At $18,500 to $25,700, it’s a decent value for a midsize sedan, which is loaded with a lot of the latest features on the market.
Is the 2021 Kia K5 a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year for the Kia K5 since it offers a lot of technology features and a nice cabin. Owner reviews praise the responsive steering, stronger engine, along with the luxury features.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are fairly nice for a midsize sedan, the seats are very comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also good in the trunk.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2021 Kia K5. In general, models from 2021–2023 all offer reasonable reliability ratings as they age.
- Performance 8/10 – The base engine is fairly weak for a midsize sedan, while the larger turbocharged four-cylinder in the GT model offers great power for the car’s size.
- Safety 9/10 – The 2021 K5 is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with lane-keep assist along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control along with highway driving assist.
- Gas Mileage 9/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 32 MPG, offering 473 miles of range out of the 14.8 gallon tank. Gas costs are $46 cheaper than average, at $123 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Kia K5 is cheaper than most other midsize sedans while also offering reasonable depreciation rates, making it a good value for shoppers.
Positive Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Kia K5?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Kia K5 offers a user-friendly and roomy cabin, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Kia K5 at 4.2/5, enjoying the available technology features, but it finds that the GT model doesn’t live up to its performance potential.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the K5 a 4.3/5, praising the roomy interior for a sedan, but owners don’t like that wireless CarPlay does not work with the larger touchscreen.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Kia K5 Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Kia K5 include A/C system issues, dead batteries, along with a frozen touchscreen. Overall, these problems are similar to other midsize sedans on the market, leading to average repair costs as the K5 ages.
A/C system issues are the most widespread complaint from 2021 K5 owners, showing up within the first 2,500 miles. There are some known issues with the blower motor, and it has to be replaced. Changing out the blower motor is usually done for free under warranty, but out of warranty it’s around $1,250.
Dead batteries have also been mentioned by K5 owners within the first 5,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories in the Kia K5, and sometimes they get stuck on, even when the car is off. Diagnosing the source of the problem costs around $50, while fixing it can cost $10 to $250.
A frozen touchscreen is another problem found on the Kia K5, usually within the first 1,000 miles. There are software updates available for the stereo, which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install these updates for free during normal servicing, while others charge around $50.
There are five recalls on the 2021 Kia K5, which is worse than some other sedans from the same year. The most serious recall covers a fuel leak at a pipe connection, which increases the risk of a fire. Kia will replace the connection on affected models for free. Other recalls include air bags, and occupant detection system. Kia will fix those for free as well.
How Long Will the 2021 Kia K5 Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Kia K5 can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than other long-lasting sedans like the Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other cars, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $433 per year.
As a used 2021 K5 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the stabilizer bar links for $100, control arm bushings costing $250, along with the door lock actuators, which cost $375.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is great, and features include an 8-inch touchscreen stereo system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system, which also has a 10.25-inch touchscreen.
Standard safety features are excellent, and it comes with:
- Rearview camera
- Forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Driver-attention monitoring
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Forward collision warning
- Lane-keep assist with lane departure warning
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Blind-spot collision avoidance system
- Highway driving assist
- Vehicle exit warning
- Rear parking sensors
- Rear cross-traffic avoidance assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Cyclist detection
Is the 2021 Kia K5 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Kia K5 is a good value since it’s cheaper than many other midsize sedans while still offering good features for the price. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $18,500 to $25,700, making it less than a Honda Accord or Hyundai Sonata. When new, the price range was $23,590 to $30,590. Depreciation is similar to other sedans, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Kia K5?
There are five main models of the 2021 Kia K5 offered, from the entry-level LX, through to the more sporty GT. The K5 comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
2021 Kia K5 LX is the entry-level model with:
- Cloth upholstery
- Manually adjustable front seats
- Remote keyless entry
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- 8-inch touch screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth
- Six-speaker stereo system
- HD Radio
- Two USB ports
- Forward collision warning
- Forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keep assist
- Vehicle exit warning
- Driver-attention monitoring
- Automatic high-beam assist
- Rear-seat alert
- Optional remote engine-start feature
2021 Kia K5 LXS is a step up, adding:
- Automatic hands-free trunk lid
- Remote engine start
- Push-button start
- 60/40-split-folding rear seat
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Vehicle exit warning
- Available all-wheel drive
- Optional heated front seats (with AWD)
2021 Kia K5 GT-Line is sportier with:
- Trim-specific exterior accents
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Two rear-seat USB ports
- Cloth and leatherette upholstery
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Premium package option (panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, upgraded collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control)
- AWD Special Edition package (10.25-inch touch screen, wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, multiple-device Bluetooth, voice recognition, highway driving assist, unique interior accents)
2021 Kia K5 EX has more luxury items such as:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Satellite radio
- Additional USB port in center console
- Wireless device charging
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Rear parking sensors
- EX Premium package (12-speaker Bose audio, 10-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, driver’s seat memory, heated steering wheel, vehicle exit warning, reverse automatic emergency braking, active cabin noise canceling)
2021 Kia K5 GT is the flagship model with:
- Stronger engine
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Synthetic leather upholstery with unique styling
- Front sport seats
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- GT1 package (includes features from EX and other packages, except for standard ventilated seats, rear parking sensors, remote UVO link connectivity, and satellite radio)
What Engines Come In the Kia K5?
- The 2021 Kia K5 offers two engine options, each catering to different driving preferences and performance needs. The standard engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 180 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. It achieves a combined fuel economy of around 31 MPG and can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in 7.5 seconds, offering a balance of efficiency and performance.
- For drivers seeking more power, the K5 GT model comes with a more robust 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing a vigorous 290 horsepower. This engine is also mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission but is specifically tuned for enhanced performance. The 2.5-liter engine boasts a combined fuel economy of about 27 MPG and can impressively sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in just about 5.8 seconds, making it a compelling choice for those who favor a more spirited driving experience.
What Colors Does the Kia K5 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Kia K5?
The 2021 Kia K5 emerges as a standout in the realm of comfort, offering a driving experience that is both refined and relaxing. At the heart of its comfort features is the well-crafted interior, designed with a keen focus on ergonomic support and aesthetic appeal. The seats, upholstered in high-quality materials, provide excellent support and cushioning, essential for both short commutes and long journeys. Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate the ample legroom and headspace, which accommodate a range of body types with ease. Additionally, the K5’s climate control system is highly effective, providing a pleasant cabin environment regardless of external weather conditions.
Beyond the physical comfort, the 2021 Kia K5 excels in delivering a smooth and serene ride. The vehicle’s suspension system is finely tuned to absorb road imperfections, minimizing the impact of bumps and potholes. This results in a ride quality that feels composed and steady, contributing significantly to the overall comfort inside the cabin. Furthermore, the K5 features impressive sound insulation, effectively reducing road and wind noise. This creates a tranquil atmosphere that allows for easy conversation and an enjoyable audio experience, enhancing the sense of comfort during travel.
Overall, the 2021 Kia K5 represents a harmonious blend of tactile luxury and functional design, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort in their driving experience. Its thoughtful interior design, coupled with a ride quality that emphasizes smoothness and quiet, makes sure that every journey, whether short or long, is a pleasure. The K5’s commitment to comfort, without compromising on style and performance, solidifies its position as a top contender in the modern sedan market.
How Much Storage Space Does the Kia K5 Have?
The 2021 Kia K5, a sleek and modern sedan, offers a generous amount of storage space that caters to the needs of both daily commuters and long-distance travelers. The vehicle boasts a spacious trunk with a capacity of 16 cubic feet. This ample space is well-suited for accommodating a variety of items, making the K5 a practical choice for various purposes. For instance, it can easily hold several large suitcases, ideal for family vacations or business trips. Additionally, the trunk can comfortably fit golf bags for weekend outings, or a lot of grocery bags, providing convenience for routine errands.
Besides the trunk, the Kia K5 is designed with thoughtful interior storage solutions that enhance its utility. The cabin features multiple small storage areas that are strategically placed for accessibility and ease of use. These include door pockets that are sizable enough to hold water bottles and other small items, a glove compartment for essential documents, and a center console with compartments ideal for smartphones, wallets, and other personal belongings. The vehicle also offers cup holders and a small tray in the center console, perfect for keeping items secure while driving. These well-designed storage spaces within the K5’s interior not only provide convenience but also help in maintaining an organized and clutter-free environment, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Overall, the 2021 Kia K5 stands out for its well-balanced combination of spacious trunk capacity and smart interior storage solutions. Whether it’s for daily commuting, road trips, or routine tasks, the K5’s storage capabilities are designed to meet a wide range of needs, making it a practical and versatile choice for modern drivers.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Kia K5 was introduced for the 2021 model year, and replaces the outgoing Kia Optima sedan.
2021: All-new midsize sedan that replaces the older Kia Optima with new styling, technology, and features.
2022: More standard technology features, and a new surround-view camera system was added.
2023: LX model discontinued, sound-reducing windows added to the EX< GT-Line, and GT models.
How Does the Kia K5 Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Kia K5 is a decent midsize sedan since it offers a lot of standard features and a nice cabin, although it’s a new model, so long-term reliability can be questionable.
The Honda Accord is another midsize sedan which is available for about $2,000 more. Passenger room is better in the Honda Accord, while the Kia K5 offers some higher-quality interior materials. We recommend the Honda Accord, although both are very similar so it’s worth testing both to see which fits your style better.
The Toyota Camry is a popular midsize car which costs about $4,500 more. Long-term reliability ratings are higher on the Toyota Camry, while the cabin in the Kia K5 is more upscale. We recommend the Toyota Camry since it’s consistently rated the most dependable midsize sedan on the market.
