After extensive testing and research, CR determined this car to be:
- SAFE AND RELIABLE
- GOOD PERFORMANCE
- COMFORTABLE AND CONVENIENT
one of our 98 recommended Sedans
2025 Kia K5
Road Test Results
Overall
Acceleration
Transmission
Braking
Emergency Handling
Fuel Economy
Ride
Noise
Usability
Owner Reports
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Highs
- Short stopping distances
- Secure handling
- Excellent fuel economy
- Roomy cabin
Lows
- Mediocre acceleration
- Split-use audio/climate control panel is a nuisance
- Lacks a hybrid option
Best Version to Get
We’d go with the second-tier GT-Line over the base LXS, as it brings a power driver’s seat (with two-way lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, and acoustic front side glass (which reduces wind noise). The GT-Line also has the benefit of Kia’s SynTex faux-leather seats over the base model’s cloth, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a standard navigation system, and a wireless charging pad.
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About Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports puts people first. For more than 80 years, CR has provided consumers with independent research, ratings and recommendations to help make good purchase decisions. As a nonprofit consumer testing and advocacy organization, CR works with businesses and government to improve the safety, performance, value and reliability of products and services.
Every year CR puts manufacturer claims to the test for thousands of products, from cars and appliances to baby products and sunscreens. CR purchases all the products that we test and uses scientific research methods to develop our ratings.