# Kia K5 specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2027
- **MPG (combined):** 27-30
- **Drive:** AWD, FWD
- **Years covered:** 2021-2027

## Quick answer

The 2027 Kia K5 is a large car rated at 27-30 mpg combined. Engines: 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl.

## Every 2027 Kia K5 version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| K5 w/Stop-Start | 2.5L 4-cyl | FWD | Automatic | 26/37 | 30 mpg | $2,250 | 296 g/mi |
| K5 | 2.5L 4-cyl | FWD | Automatic | 25/36 | 29 mpg | $2,300 | 306 g/mi |
| K5 | 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | FWD | Automatic | 23/33 | 27 mpg | $2,500 | 331 g/mi |
| K5 AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | AWD | Automatic | 23/33 | 27 mpg | $2,500 | 333 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Kia K5 specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2027 | 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-30 |
| 2026 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-30 |
| 2025 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-30 |
| 2024 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-31 |
| 2023 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-31 |
| 2022 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-32 |
| 2021 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 27-32 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the K5 changed over the years?

- **2025:** added 2.5L 4-cyl; dropped 1.6L 4-cyl turbo.
- **2023:** combined mpg went from 27-32 to 27-31.

## What does it cost to run a K5?

The EPA puts the 2027 Kia K5's fuel cost at **$2,250-$2,500 a year**, against about $2,438 for other current large car: about average. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $11,875 in fuel.

## K5 vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Range | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Hyundai Sonata](/vehicles/hyundai-sonata) | Gas, Hybrid | 26-51 mpg | -- | $1,300-$2,600 |
| [Acura Integra](/vehicles/acura-integra) | Gas | 24-32 mpg | -- | $2,550-$3,400 |
| [BMW 7 Series](/vehicles/bmw-7-series) | Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 20-28 mpg | -- | $2,950-$4,100 |
| [Genesis G80](/vehicles/genesis-g80) | Electric, Gas | 18-23 mpg | 300 mi | $800-$4,550 |
| [Mercedes-Benz S-Class](/vehicles/mercedes-benz-s-class) | Gas, Hybrid | 14-23 mpg | -- | $3,550-$5,850 |
| [Audi A8](/vehicles/audi-a8) | Hybrid | 22 mpg | -- | $3,750 |
| [Porsche Panamera](/vehicles/porsche-panamera) | Gas | 21 mpg | -- | $3,900 |
| [Genesis G90](/vehicles/genesis-g90) | Gas, Hybrid | 20-21 mpg | -- | $3,900-$4,100 |

Other current large car from other makes, most efficient first.

## Kia K5 problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Engine | 1629 |
| Electrical System | 432 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 285 |
| Power Train | 269 |
| Service Brakes | 193 |
| Structure | 188 |
| Steering | 137 |
| Exterior Lighting | 117 |

From 3,137 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2015**.

## Guides for common Kia K5 problems

- **Engine** (1,629 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Electrical** (432 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Fuel and propulsion** (285 complaints): [Why does my car stall while driving](/symptoms/car-stalls-while-driving) - [Why does my car lose power when accelerating](/symptoms/car-loses-power-when-accelerating) - [Why does my car hesitate when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-hesitates-when-accelerating)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (269 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Brake** (193 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)

## Kia K5 warning lights

- [K5: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/kia-k5): 518 complaints
- [K5: Oil pressure warning light](/warning-lights/oil-pressure/kia-k5): 159 complaints
- [K5: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/kia-k5): 52 complaints
- [K5: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/kia-k5): 36 complaints
- [K5: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/kia-k5): 36 complaints
- [K5: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/kia-k5): 29 complaints
- [K5: Battery (charging system) warning light](/warning-lights/battery/kia-k5): 26 complaints
- [K5: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/kia-k5): 25 complaints
- [K5: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/kia-k5): 23 complaints
- [K5: Tire pressure (TPMS) light](/warning-lights/tire-pressure/kia-k5): 12 complaints

## Kia K5 recalls (19)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V046000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V046000) | 2026 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2026-01-27 |
| [25V794000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V794000) | 2021-2024 | Fuel System, Gasoline | 2025-11-18 |
| [25V493000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V493000) | 2023-2025 | Structure: Body | 2025-07-29 |
| [25V351000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V351000) | 2025 | Exterior Lighting: Lighting Control Module | 2025-05-28 |
| [23V652000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V652000) | 2015 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2023-09-25 |
| [23V594000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V594000) | 2016-2018 | Latches/Locks/Linkages: Trunk Lid | 2023-08-24 |
| [23V149000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V149000) | 2021-2023 | Air Bags: Side/Window | 2023-03-07 |
| [22V760000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V760000) | 2021-2023 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2022-10-11 |
| [21V519000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V519000) | 2021-2022 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2021-07-08 |
| [21V447000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V447000) | 2021-2022 | Lane Departure:  Lane Keep | 2021-06-14 |
| [21V331000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V331000) | 2015 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2021-05-10 |
| [21V164000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V164000) | 2021 | Air Bags:  Air Bag/Restraint Control Module | 2021-03-11 |
| [20V519000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V519000) | 2015 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2020-08-27 |
| [19V539000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V539000) | 2019 | Forward Collision Avoidance:  Automatic Emergency Braking | 2019-07-19 |
| [18V907000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V907000) | 2015-2017 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2018-12-19 |
| [18V161000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V161000) | 2017-2018 | Hybrid Propulsion System | 2018-03-08 |
| [17V007000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V007000) | 2016 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2017-01-06 |
| [16V705000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V705000) | 2016 | Power Train: Axle Assembly | 2016-10-03 |
| [16V231000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V231000) | 2016 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2016-04-21 |

Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2027 Kia K5 get?

The 2027 Kia K5 is EPA-rated at 27-30 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2027 Kia K5 have?

The 2027 Kia K5 comes with: 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 2.5L 4-cyl. It uses automatic transmission and is offered with AWD and FWD.

### Is there a hybrid Kia K5?

No. In the EPA data from 2021-2027 the Kia K5 has no hybrid version.

### Which Kia K5 year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2022 Kia K5 has the highest combined rating, up to 32 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2027 Kia K5 for a year?

About $2,250-$2,500 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2027 Kia K5?

The most efficient 2027 version, the K5 w/Stop-Start, is rated 26 mpg city and 37 mpg highway (30 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2027 Kia K5 emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 296-333 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2027 Kia K5 come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2027 Kia K5 is offered with AWD and FWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Kia K5 cheap to run compared with other large cars?

About average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $2,250-$2,500 compares with about $2,438 for other current large car models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Kia K5 have?

NHTSA lists 19 recalls for 2015-2026 Kia K5 models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-01-27 (26V046000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Kia K5?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is engine, followed by electrical system. The 2015 model year has the most complaints (1010), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Kia cars

- [Kia Niro](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-niro)
- [Kia K4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-k4)

## More Kia models

- [Kia Carnival](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-carnival)
- [Kia EV6](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-ev6)
- [Kia EV9](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-ev9)
- [Kia Seltos](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-seltos)
- [Kia Sorento](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-sorento)
- [Kia Sportage](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-sportage)
- [Kia Telluride](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-telluride)
- [Kia Forte](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-forte): discontinued
- [Kia Rio](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-rio): discontinued
- [Kia Sedona](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-sedona): discontinued
- [Kia Soul](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-soul): discontinued
- [Kia Stinger](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-stinger): discontinued

## Other large cars

- [Lucid Air](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lucid-air)
- [Mercedes-Benz EQS](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-eqs)
- [Mercedes-Benz S-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-s-class)
- [Porsche Panamera](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/porsche-panamera)
- [Tesla Model S](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/tesla-model-s)
- [Volkswagen Arteon](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-arteon)
- [Acura Integra](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/acura-integra)
- [Audi A8](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-a8)

## Compared with

- [Audi S8](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-s8)
- [BMW 7 Series](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-7-series)
- [Dodge Charger](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/dodge-charger)
- [Genesis G80](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/genesis-g80)
- [Genesis G90](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/genesis-g90)
- [Hyundai Sonata](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-sonata)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

---

Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-k5
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.
