Kia has their own plans concerning the 2024 Kia K5, especially with the upcoming future of auto industry and the fact that everything changes so quickly. One of the changes they do to deal with the speedy world’s transformation is to change the nameplate for the sake of more recognizable reputation. So, what’s the deal with K5, anyway?
About K5
You are probably more familiar with the name Kia Optima, which is a sedan line launched in 2000. Kia created Optima to compete against Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. However, the company decided that they would stop using the name Optima and change it into K5 instead. The reason is because the K5 is somewhat more known and recognized across the globe. Moreover, the company reasons that the new K5 model would be completely different from the Optima – and they won’t produce Optima anymore. The fact that today’s auto market is being swept by SUVs and crossovers also add up the reason why they should end the production.
The Redesigned Plan
Since the 2024 Kia K5 would be replacing the Optima, the company is seriously working on the design. The 2024 model would get a mid-cycle refresh to create a better and more flowing look. The K5 has this distinctive stylish look and tiger face, which is inspired from Stinger. It has five trim levels, with each one having detailed perks and strength to differentiate them from one another.
There have several spy shot pictures showing the K5 doing testing stage with camouflaged, so we can’t really say what’s the new design would be. But considering that the K5 also has good styling base, it’s safe to say that any kind of work would only improve its appearance and look.
The Interior Cabin
Changing inside the cabin would likely be centered on the addition of features and also new techs. The GT’s interior, for instance, has similar look to those luxurious and expensive European sedans, thanks to the (gently) sloping center console and horizontal theme. Even the base trim level packs many promising and cool standard features, such as driver attention warning, auto dual zone climate control, remote keyless entry, and more.
Powertrain and Performance
Changes would also take place under the hood. A new turbocharged unit with 1.6 liter capacity has replaced the current normally aspirated base unit. Both of them are able to deliver low end torque and quieter performance, so there’s no issue with the change. After all, the car’s drivability is improved and that’s the most important factor, right?
This new unit would be coming as a standard one, generating 180 hp and 195 Nm of torque. It comes with auto 8 speed transmission. The GT line would be coming with turbocharged unit with 2.5 liter capacity to generate 290 hp and 311 Nm of torque. This output is higher than the one made by Honda Accord.
Price and Release Date
The K5 GT, which is set as the entry level, would be more inexpensive when compared to Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. It’s set at $23,500. The next trim, the LXS, would cost around $24,500 while the GT-Line would be $25,400 and the EX would be $28,000.
The GT line, which would be the priciest models, would start from $30,500, which actually costs less than the fully packed Camry or Accord. The GT-Line with Premium Package would cost you extra for around $3,700 while the LXS’ all wheel driving upgrade may cost up to $2,000 with heated seats. The information about the release date is still unknown, so we should wait for further release about the 2024 Kia K5.