The New 2021 Kia K5 GT-Line AWD Is A Market Disruptor

 The world of mid-size sedans is a pretty competitive one in the US. The style is so ubiquitous and popular, that it’s the model people most commonly think of when they hear the word “Car.” Creating the hottest new sedan is therefore big news and a mighty challenge for any company. In the 2021 model year, among fierce competition from multiple brands all trying to get a piece of a recovering post-COVID marketplace, Kia is releasing its all-new K5 sedan, among which you’ll find the mid-level K5 GT-Line with a starting price of just $25,490. What’s new in 2021? We explore in more detail below.

New Exterior Design

With powerful angular features, the K5 has been redesigned for the new year and new decade. Its signature Kia “tiger face” front end has been modernized with a thinner and wider front grille with stunning “shark skin” mesh extending all the way out to the headlights. The exterior profile delivers a sleek, fastback look that conveys the speed, power and stylish architecture of this new K5. At the rear, you’ll find beautiful dual-chrome exhaust tips on the GT-Line, a distinct upgrade from the base-level LX model.

On top of all that, the GT-Line is riding on stunning 18-inch sport alloys, matched up with a gloss black rear spoiler to complete the athletic effect of this trim. It also gets its own special GT-Line front and rear bumpers.

Powertrain and Performance

The GT-Line is powered by a 1.6L 4-cylinder Turbo engine delivering 180hp and 195lb-ft of torque. It’s smaller than the top-end GT with its 2.5L Turbo, but still packs a punch around town. To further boost the performance of the K5, is the AWD system that comes as standard on the GT-Line as well as the LXS models.

The AWD system is front-wheel drive based, the first time we’ve seen that in any Kia sedan to date. It makes use of an electro-hydraulic system, which controls the AWD coupling to deliver faster response times and better, more precise control. Those taking their GT-Line into the snow will love the “Snow” drive mode, which further enhances the AWD system for better traction and control.

Another industry first is the adoption of Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) in all K5 models carrying the 1.6L engine, which allows for independent control of valve duration. The result is yet further boosts to overall performance and efficiency.

Technology

The integration of high-tech features helps to bolster both the safety and comfort of the all-new 2021 Kia K5 GT-Line. The GT-Line enjoys lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, high beam assist, automatic emergency braking and more standard ADAS features to enhance the already strengthened and secured architecture of the K5 sedan. 

It’s not all just function, however. The amount of comfort and entertainment tech packed into the GT-Line is equally impressive. It all starts with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display in the center stack, which includes a high-definition rearview monitor for parking and reversing. Good news for smartphone integration is that the GT-Line offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also dual-zone climate control, smart keyless entry with push-button start and USB ports in the front and rear. The standard 8-inch screen can be upgraded to a 10.25-inch screen for those who want even more visibility.

Interior Comfort

From the driver cockpit to the rear seating, the K5 is set up for simple elegance that delivers great comfort for driver and passenger alike. The GT-Line features SynTex upholstery, along with an optional 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat that also comes with 2-way lumbar support. The front seats are also heated.

Furthermore, the K5 GT-Line is as practical as it is stunning and sporty. It offers 16 cubic feet of trunk space, as well as an ample 35.2 inches of legroom in the rear seats, allowing comfort for even a car full of six-foot passengers. There’s equally plenty of head room and internal storage. Rear passengers can keep their devices charged with the rear USB ports.

Redefining the Sedan Genre for 2021

The Kia K5 GT-Line, along with its other siblings in the K5 lineup, is helping to reshape the sedan market, offering sleek style with practical utility, and all at an affordable sticker price. It’s so rare to see this much on offer and all for a price just north of $25,000. The larger alloys, sportback silhouette, athletic finishes and additional drive features typically come at a much greater premium. This new K5 is sure to shake up the marketplace in 2021.