Redesigned 2025 Kia K5 Proves Midsize Sedans Are Still A Thing

k5 front
(Kia)
k5 front
(Kia)

The Kia K5 isn’t going anywhere.

As automakers trim their midsize sedan lineups, it looks like Kia is keeping the K5 around for a few more years, at least. The Georgia-built four-door unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show has been updated for 2025 with fresh styling that includes “Star Map” lighting, which we assume are supposed to look like constellations, but give off more of a lightning bolt vibe.

Kia also swapped the K5’s 1.6-liter turbocharged four cylinder engine for a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and upped the power from 180 hp to 191 hp, while torque slips from 185 lb-ft to 180 lb-ft. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard and the front-wheel-drive K5 is available with all-wheel-drive in the mid-tier GT-Line trim.

The GT retains its 290 hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and front-wheel-drivetrain, which features a quick-shifting dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission.

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k5 interior
(Kia)

Top K5s get a curved frame that houses the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system. Pricing and the exact start of deliveries was not announced.

carnival hybrid
(Kia)

Kia also rolled out a redesigned 2025 Carnival minivan, which is imported from Korea and will be offered for the first time with a hybrid powertrain.

carnival seats
The Carnival is available with reclining second row captain’s chairs.(Kia)

It’s the same one featured in the Sorrento and comprises a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, electric motor and six-speed automatic transmission. It’s rated at 242 hp, but fuel economy has not been announced, but it delivers 37 mph in the Sorrento.

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2025 Carnival deliveries are scheduled to begin this summer at yet to be announced prices.