Kia Motors America is ready to reset the expectations once again with the reveal of the brand-new 2021 Kia K5 mid-size sedan. The K5 features a revolutionary design, all-new safety and performance enhanced “N3” platform, and high-impact technology.

Going on sale this summer, the K5 will be available in four trim levels (LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX), with the adrenaline-fueled GT to follow later in the fall.

Design

The K5 offers a powerful design that represents another chapter of boldness and passion for the brand. The centerface is the modernized “tiger face,” with the wide yet thin front grille that extends into the headlight a hood front structure.

From the side, the K5’s fastback silhouette is highlighted by a chrome garnish that spans the roofline and wraps around to the rear glass. Other exterior gestures include:

• Shark skin-inspired mesh design on front grille and dual chrome exhaust tip garnish (GT-Line, GT)
• Signature “Heart Beat” daytime running lights and taillights with available LED “dashes” span the width of the rear deck lid
• Gloss black applique on rear glass enhances fastback shape while maintaining sedan functionality and cargo space
• Newly designed 16-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels (18- and 19-inch wheels come with sporty Pirelli P-Zero tires)

Technology

The newly designed infotainment display stretches into the instrument panel creating a futuristic three-dimensional layout. Other interior highlights include:

• Aircraft-type shift knob
• A mix of premium and sporty upholstery options including red leatherette seating, satin chrome metallic and wood-like finishes on the dashboard and door panels, depending on trim
• Panoramic sunroof
• Flat-bottom, sport steering wheel (GT-Line, GT)

The K5’s new identity starts with the advanced third-generation “N3” platform, which will serve as the foundation for future Kia models. In this application, the platform allows the K5 to sit longer, lower and wider compared to its predecessor, resulting in its aggressive profile and deeper center of gravity for a more exciting driving experience.

New wireless features minimize cord clutter and keep the cockpit clean, while a seamless infotainment display layout and voice command system help keep the driver’s eyes on the road. Some technology and convenience highlights to look out for include:

• 8-inch or 10.25-inch high-resolution color touchscreen
  • Split-screen functionality
• Bose premium sound system
• Active Sound Design provides a dynamic auditory experience by enhancing the sound of engine acceleration and gear shifts according to the selected drive mode
• A first for Kia, wireless Apple CarPlay* and Android Auto9 cuts the cord on charging cables, meaning drivers can enjoy being connected without being plugged in (wireless functionality not available on 10.25-inch navigation system)

Safety

The “Kia Drive Wise” suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)** has more to offer, with some of the key features including:

• Standard Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Designed to detect a vehicle in front and in certain conditions, can calculate the distance and closing speed, and issues an alert to warn the driver if it senses a potential frontal collision.
• Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Builds on FCW by assisting the driver in braking to help prevent a collision or lessen the effects in certain conditions if a vehicle or object is detected in front.
• Standard Driver Attention Warning (DAW)***: Senses inattentive driving patterns and sends an audible/visual warning to alert the driver.
• Adds Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA): Alerts driver with a chime when the leading vehicle begins to move forward from a standing position.
• Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA): Follows lane markings that the system detects and provides steering inputs to help maintain the vehicle in the center of the lane.

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* 8 Apple CarPlay™ is a trademark of Apple Inc. Requires a compatible Apple device sold separately. Apple CarPlay™ runs on your smartphone cellular data service. Data plan rates apply.
** These features are not substitutes for safe driving, and may not detect all objects surrounding vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
*** 13 Driver Attention Warning is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all instances of driver fatigue or inattentive driving practices. Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution.