Kia K5: The Sport Sedan That Defies Convention

Building on the strengths of its recent major refresh, the 2026 Kia K5 continues to challenge conventions. As a carryover model, it solidifies its position with a potent standard powertrain. Every K5 now starts with a robust 191-horsepower 2.5L naturally aspirated engine, offering a significant boost in standard performance. For those seeking a genuine sport sedan experience, the K5 GT delivers an incredible 290 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque from its 2.5L turbocharged engine. Inside, the K5 impresses with a standard, beautifully integrated 12.3-inch touchscreen display, bringing seamless connectivity and modern convenience to the forefront of the driving experience.

What's New for 2026

Following a significant and well-received refresh for the 2025 model year, the 2026 Kia K5 carries over the successful updates with minimal changes. The key improvements from the recent update continue to be the strengths of the 2026 model. This includes the powerful and responsive 2.5-liter GDI 4-cylinder engine, which delivers a potent 191 horsepower as standard. Inside, the K5 maintains its modern, driver-centric cockpit, highlighted by the stunning 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, now standard across the entire lineup.

Leasing the 2026 Kia K5 is an excellent way to experience this stunning sedan's full potential while enjoying financial flexibility and peace of mind. One of the primary advantages of leasing is the potential for lower monthly payments compared to financing, allowing you to drive a brand-new, well-equipped K5 for a budget-friendly cost. This means you can consistently enjoy the latest advancements in automotive technology and safety without a long-term commitment. Driving a new K5 ensures you're always covered by Kia's industry-leading warranty for the duration of your lease term. This comprehensive coverage minimizes concerns about unexpected repair costs, allowing you to simply enjoy the drive. When your lease term ends, you have the simple choice of returning the vehicle, purchasing it, or leasing another brand-new Kia. Explore the latest 2026 Kia K5 leasing offers at Mike Kelly Kia today and let our team craft the perfect deal for you.

The 2026 Kia K5 is offered in a versatile lineup of five distinct trims, ensuring there is a perfect model to match your driving preferences and budget. From the impressively equipped LXS to the track-inspired performance of the GT, each trim is designed to deliver a premium experience.

LXS

The K5 LXS establishes a new standard for entry-level sedans, offering exceptional value without compromise. It comes powered by a robust 2.5L GDI engine and features a stunning 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Most importantly, every LXS is equipped with Kia's comprehensive suite of 17 standard collision avoidance and driver-assist features.

GT-Line

For those who crave a sportier aesthetic, the GT-Line delivers aggressive, performance-inspired styling. This trim stands out with unique design elements, including new, striking 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels, gloss black accents, and a sport-designed front and rear bumper. The GT-Line also offers the option of an advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system for superior traction and control in all conditions.

EX

The K5 EX is tailored for comfort and sophistication. This trim elevates the driving experience with a focus on premium amenities. You can expect luxury features like a panoramic sunroof that fills the cabin with light, along with heated and ventilated front seats for ultimate comfort.

GT

At the top of the lineup, the K5 GT is a true sport sedan, engineered for exhilarating performance. The GT is exclusively powered by a 2.5L turbocharged engine that produces a class-leading 290 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. This immense power is managed by a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a quick-shifting 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission.

The 2026 Kia K5 commands attention with its bold and aggressive exterior styling, which sets it apart in the midsize sedan segment. A key element is the distinctive "Star Map" LED daytime running lights, which create a futuristic signature and frame the sleek LED headlights. The K5's most defining characteristic is its sleek, fastback-inspired silhouette. The sloping roofline gives the car a coupe-like profile that exudes a sense of motion even when standing still. The LXS starts with 16-inch alloys, while the GT-Line introduces aggressive 18-inch gloss black wheels. The EX features a sophisticated 18-inch gray machine finish, and the high-performance GT is fitted with unique 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels and performance tires.

Engine Options

• Standard 2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine: The LXS, GT-Line, and EX trims are powered by a responsive 2.5-liter GDI 4-cylinder engine that produces a robust 191 horsepower.
• GT 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine: Exclusive to the GT trim, this engine transforms the K5 into a true performance machine with an exhilarating 290 horsepower and a class-leading 311 lb.-ft. of torque. It is mated to a quick-shifting 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) with paddle shifters.

Driving Dynamics

• Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For enhanced traction, an advanced All-Wheel Drive system is available exclusively on the GT-Line trim. It actively distributes power to optimize grip, providing superior control in rain, snow, or on slippery surfaces.
• GT Sport-Tuned Suspension: The K5 GT elevates handling to the next level with a unique, sport-tuned suspension that provides sharper cornering and a more connected feel to the road.

Every 2026 K5 is equipped with a core set of active safety technologies. Key standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist w/ Pedestrian, Cyclist & Junction Turning Detection, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. On higher trim levels, the Kia Drive Wise suite is enhanced with even more sophisticated technologies like Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM).

The 2026 Kia K5 places cutting-edge technology directly at your fingertips. The centerpiece of this digital cockpit is a stunning 12.3-inch touchscreen display, which now comes standard on every K5 trim level. This high-resolution screen includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. For a truly immersive, high-tech experience, the K5 offers an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that creates a sweeping panoramic display of over 24 inches of digital information. Other key technology features include an available Bose® Premium Audio System with 12 speakers and an available wireless phone charger.

The K5 features a driver-focused cockpit that puts all controls within easy and intuitive reach. Depending on the trim, you can enjoy premium cloth or luxurious SynTex seating surfaces, including a sporty red option on the GT-Line. Despite its sleek roofline, the K5 offers generous headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Available amenities include heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an impressive 16.0 cubic feet of trunk space.

The 2026 Kia K5 solidifies its status as a premier choice in the midsize sedan segment by masterfully blending exhilarating performance, sophisticated style, and exceptional value. Its aggressive, fastback-inspired design ensures it stands out, while the powertrain options— from the potent 191-hp standard engine to the thrilling 290-hp turbocharged GT—cater to every driving style. Inside, the K5 impresses with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and a suite of advanced connectivity features. Capping it all off is Kia's unwavering commitment to safety, demonstrated by the inclusion of 17 standard driver-assist systems across all trims. The best way to understand the K5's unique appeal is from behind the wheel. We invite you to visit Mike Kelly Kia to test drive the 2026 Kia K5.