The 2026 K5 offers a striking blend of head-turning style, zippy performance, and wallet-friendly prices. Whether you want an efficient base model for daily commutes or the tire-squealing GT that delivers sports-car thrills, there's a K5 tailored to fit your lifestyle and budget. At Huffines Kia Corinth, we compiled this guide to show you why this sleek four-door stands out in the crowded midsize sedan market and why you should consider buying one.
What's New for the 2026 Kia K5 Model Year
Nothing major changes for the 2026 Kia K5 — it's a carryover year that builds on the updates introduced in 2025. This decision indicates Kia's confidence in their current design. You benefit from tested improvements without paying for unnecessary tweaks, enabling Kia to maintain competitive prices. Look-wise, you'll still get the redesigned lights, including the amber Star Map daytime running lights, and a continuous light bar across the back that elevates it from the typical family sedan look.
2026 Kia K5 Trim Levels and Pricing Breakdown
Kia offers five K5 trim levels — the entry-level LXS has an MSRP starting at $27,390 and comes with six-way manual driver and passenger seats as well as sound-absorbing windshield glass. The standard DriveWise safety tech includes automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot collision avoidance. For sportier body styling, the GT-Line front-wheel drive (FWD) starts at $28,390. It comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and a leather-wrapped flat-bottom sport steering wheel. For more traction, the GT-Line all-wheel drive (AWD) model starts at $29,990 and includes Snow mode, as well as a heated steering wheel for those icy Texas mornings.
Speed enthusiasts will appreciate the GT, starting at $33,490, which features a turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof. The top-tier EX starts at $34,890 and features luxury touches, including heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a Bose 12-speaker audio system. We recommend browsing our K5 online inventory before you visit our dealership in Corinth. Additionally, Kia offers one of the industry's best warranties — a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty, which includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics
Except for the GT, the 2026 K5s are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The FWD K5 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, making it perfect for daily commutes in Corinth, with ample power for merging onto highways.
The Kia K5 GT impresses with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission with lightning-fast shifts. The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension improve handling, particularly through corners. This sporty sedan has a 0-to-60 mph sprint time of 5.2 seconds and can stop from 70 mph in 163 feet.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency Ratings
Gas mileage varies according to the K5 you choose. The 2026 EPA estimates haven't been released, but based on the 2025 ratings, the standard 2.5-liter achieves 26 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway with FWD. The AWD Kia and the GT achieve an estimated 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the road. The GT, despite its muscle, exceeded the 2025 estimate in the Car and Driver 70 mph highway test by 3 mpg, achieving 36 mpg on the highway — good news if you spend lots of time on Texas interstates.
Interior Design, Comfort, and Space
The 2026 Kia K5's interior design strikes a balance between function and style. Quality materials and a clever layout create a luxurious feel in the 105.3-cubic-foot passenger space. With 46.1 inches of front legroom and 35.2 inches in the back, five adults fit comfortably. The trunk space measures 15.6 cubic feet and can accommodate up to seven carry-on suitcases, providing ample room for family getaways or work trips to Dallas-Fort Worth.
Tech-wise, all Kia K5s come equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 4.2-inch instrument display, SiriusXM, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The GT is equipped with a digital 12.3-inch curved instrument display, while all models have remote start and Kia Connect. A six-speaker audio system comes standard, with an optional Bose 12-speaker system available in the GT models and standard in the EX. Additional features, such as precooling and heating, maintenance reminders, front and rear USB-C charging ports, and a smart trunk, make daily drives convenient and enjoyable.
Experience the 2026 Kia K5 at Huffines Kia Corinth
The K5 is an excellent value choice in the midsize sedan sector. The 2026 Kia K5 GT-Line appeals to driving enthusiasts with its sporty looks and optional AWD for year-round stability. Budget-minded families should consider the LXS for its safety features and upmarket style for excellent value. If you're ready to try the 2026 K5 yourself, contact Huffines Kia Corinth to check inventory and discuss financing options, then book a test drive online. Our team knows these cars inside and out and will be happy to help you find your ideal K5.
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Kia K5