As selfies and weekend get-togethers for the tragically hip can understandably be a bit more appealing than cracking the books, popular automobiles today must possess a certain charm to be favored among teenagers. U.S News & World Report has officially awarded the 2023 Kia K5 with the “Best Car for Teens $25k to $35k”, recognizing the vehicle’s dependability, long-term reliability, safety features, and available technology.
This can be a difficult age group to find the ideal vehicle for here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, and details such as modern styling and affordable price are frequently on parents’ and teens’ wish lists alike. The K5 is available in five trim levels and comes equipped as standard with some of today’s best safety features. You’ll be happy to hand over the keys before homeroom knowing that Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, and Lane Departure Warning will assure that each trip pass it's some form of sensible boundaries.
This segment of drivers has a few tendencies that may allow you to want other forms of a watchful eye, and you'll appreciate Geofence Alert, Curfew Alert and Speed Alert, which are all available with the Kia Connect telematics system. After being put to the test against other models in the same segment, the K5 enjoyed so many of the features that render it an excellent midsize car to also boost its new driver appeal. With consistently high scores in reliability and a segment-leading powertrain warranty, this is a stellar car for those who are still fine-tuning their behind-the-wheel performance.
Exclusively available with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive options, the K5 is always suited for battle up against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and its running mate the Hyundai Sonata. The GT-Line is now offered with a Panoramic Roof package, and includes a heated steering wheel for extra comfort and dexterity during arctic temps. The Motor Trend team reflected after their test drive that “this is a model that makes perfect sense for those who are tired of forgettable SUV designs.”
The K5 has a striking visual profile that is hard to miss, while competitors such as the Subaru Legacy have much less in the visually alluring department. Standard variants are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder that cranks out 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Those on the hunt for more power can look toward the K5 GT, which comes with a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder that is good for 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
The more powerful engine will propel you rapidly on up to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, rendering it one of the fastest in its segment. All K5 Trims are equipped with a 10.3-inch infotainment system, in every variant also receives integrated navigation along with rear USB charge ports. The GT-Line was the front-running choice of this testing team, with the added features of LXS-LED foglights and taillights, a power driver seat, the larger 10.3-inch infotainment system, and one-touch up/down front windows.
Always generating excitement and guaranteed to be a hit with even the moodiest of high schoolers, the Kia K5 is outright sensational, and loaded with college-bound potential!
