Decoding Sleek-Spec Distinction: 2025 Kia K4 vs. K5 – Which Sedan Steals the Show?

In 2021, here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, the Kia Optima was replaced by the very sleek and stylish K5! The Motor Trend group was trilled with the K5's 2025 refresh and went straight to work on the blog with an informative and long-form comparison between it and the K4. The new Kia K4 is arriving on deck to smartly replace the Forte, which will be available in both hatchback and sedan variants. 

Price point, performance, interior quality, and tech features were all considered during this detailed look at the pair. For size consideration and spec-driven starters, the K4 is smaller than the K5. The K4’s compact persona somewhat resembles the Honda Civic, while the K5 is in the same size category as competitors such as the Honda Accord. The K4 measures 185.4 inches overall in length, with the K5 coming in formidably at 193.1 inches long. The K4 appeals to many based on its best-in-class second-row headroom and legroom, while the two models vary slightly on truck space as well. 

The Kia K4 is working with 14.6 cubic feet of trunk space, with the K5 arriving and ready to go with 15.6 cubic feet of space. Since the K4 will be offered as a five-door hatchback, this option would present more cargo capacity than either of the pair. The K4 has more legroom than the outgoing Forte, but slightly less trunk space and headroom. While some drivers see performance as a predominant concern, some are understandably after every extra inch they can acquire for the journey. 

The K4’s powertrains are essentially identical to those in the Forte, equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four that cranks out 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This juice is sent to the front wheels by a CVT automatic, with AWD not currently available as an option. Fuel economy is expected to reside at 23-26/33-37 mpg, which will ultimately depend on configuration type. Both the K5 and K4 offer the option of a turbocharged upgrade, with the K4 GT-Line’s number being the 1.6-liter inline-four that cranks out 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. 

This is the same powertrain used in the Forte GT, existing with just slightly lowered stats from its previous 201 horsepower. The K5 GT is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbo inline 4 which cranks out 290 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque using an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. During the Motor Trend team’s official testing, the K5 blasted from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. In higher-end trim levels, both models are appealing to the currently very screen-crazed public with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital cluster.

The brand-new ccNC user interface made its debut in the EV9 and is much more responsive and user-friendly than the outgoing system. Entry-level versions of both models will get 4.2-inch digital displays, and all versions will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Stepping up to the premium-level tech features on the K4 and K5 will set the driver up nicely with a 360-degree camera, premium speakers, and phone-as-key capability.

The final thoughts for anyone interested in either of these two conclude that the K4 may cost a bit less and boast a bit more legroom while offering the convenience of a hatchback’s stance. The Kia K5 exists as more of a competent-and-clean midsize sedan, with more cargo space and undoubtedly more powerful engines. We hope you stop by to visit us this spring here at Jim Butler Kia, where this progressive and polished pair will soon be available for spirited test drives! Our experienced sales and service professionals are standing by to introduce you to the thrill and benefits of Kia ownership. 

New Details On the 4-Door Scene: A Closer Look at the 2024 Kia Sedan Lineup

2023 ended on an exhilarating note, with the promise of new models to come to the lot here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis! This past year, Kia recorded its highest-ever sales, with a 13% increase over 2022. Captivating exterior designs, interiors with all the latest features, and world-class warranty coverage have won over fans such as the writers at TopSpeed.com. 

Today, we are going to offer a closer look at the 2024 Kia Sedan Lineup: crossovers have long been king, but these models provide a more driver-focused connection to the ever-inviting road.

The 2024 Kia Forte comes ready for daily drive duty in LX, LXS, GT-Line, and GT trims. As you ascend the trim levels, it becomes sportier and more aggressive. Drivers have lately demanded larger screens, as enjoying the best in tech features on the go has become essential. The Forte’s base LS trim now features an 8-inch infotainment screen as standard, along with the LXS variant. The GT-Line and GT both have the larger 10.3-inch display with Sirius XM and in-dash navigation. 

Hardcore purists will appreciate the opportunity to score a manual transmission, along with the GT-Line’s turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder that cranks out 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The interior is so well-designed that it rivals much pricier competition, and it’s a sedan that the Edmunds.com review crew praised for being “grown-up yet small, and a fantastic value for the money.”

The 2024 Kia K5 is known for bold and boisterous styling, along with a roofline that screams “fast enough and sleek enough” for rightfully power-hungry times. The K5 comes to the table with a very well-organized interior and is a prideful benchmark of where the good stuff starts regarding upscale materials. Refined wood trim and ambient interior lighting are a few extras that have done so remarkably well at helping Kia stand out from other dreadfully ordinary options.

The top-of-the-line GT variant features a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that puts out 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It is highly recommended for anyone looking to escape the confines of cars that don’t strive to be special. Stake your claim on the streets with bigger brakes, XL 19-inch rims with wide tires, and an automatic 8-speed transmission. Car and Driver deemed the K5 “One handsome devil, and full of unnecessary fun”, while also praising it for sophisticated and straightforward looks. 

The 2023 Kia Stinger was unquestionably the most powerful sedan in the Kia lineup, with last year’s model seeing its final run. Graced with meaningful dark chrome and dual twin-exit exhausts, the Stinger existed as a symbol of everything fantastic that could be injected into a modern vehicle. A 9-speaker audio system comes as standard, with the option of upgrading to the placidly clear and exorbitant 15-speaker Harmon/Kardon audio system. 

The Stinger’s full and g-force-inducing potential Is unleashed courtesy of the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, which cranks out 368 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Here a haven of sorts for performance enthusiasts was born, along with very firm competition to revolt against the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. Going out with a well-seasoned bang was made possible with the Apex Special Edition, which adds upgraded Brembo brakes, black fender trim, black mirror housing, and carbon-fiber-look interior trim. 

If you’re looking for a sedan, we can help! Head to Jim Butler Kia and we’ll help you upgrade to your perfect new Kia.

2022 Kia Forte is Fantastic Summer Choice with Turbo GT Model, High-Performance Sport Premium Package

With a fresh new front and rear design, sporty appearance, new performance options, high-tech driver assistance, and an extremely efficient non-hybrid version, the 2022 Kia Forte shows up strong in all the areas Missouri drivers are looking for.

Even though this is technically a compact sedan, the Forte’s cabin is roomy, and the back seat can host two adults while offering extreme comfort, with room for three if need be. Every 2022 Forte comes standard with front-wheel drive, disc brakes, electric power-assist steering, power windows, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and remote keyless entry. After that, the performance range divides into the FE, LX, LXS, and top-of-the-line GT model. 

The FE, LXS, and GT-line all come with the punchy power source under the hood in the form of the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, paired nicely with an automatic transmission. The GT and GT MT feature a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine instead, which is paired with either a 6-speed manual that we are extremely excited about, or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We know that during this summer, gas efficiency is a concern on everyone's minds, and the Kia Forte FE is the fuel efficiency champ of the lineup.

You'll also be enjoying standard equipment such as an 8-inch touchscreen center display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, two useful 12 Volt power outlets, cruise control, and USB multimedia. The LXS adds to the stellar equipment list with 60/40 split folding rear seats, an amazing soft-touch dash, upper door panels, and ready-to-take on urban terrain 16-inch alloy wheels. 

Whether you are just getting through the workweek’s driving or shuttling the family around, the available access technology package also adds blind spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance, heated outside mirrors, and safe exit warning. 

The 2022 Kia Forte GT line starts at an amazingly low price for the great features it offers. With this model, you’ll be cruising with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and fog lights, door handle pocket lighting for the front doors, gloss black exterior, the GT line signature emblem, alloy sport pedals, and a wide range of upgrades for the interior, and it doesn’t end there! The GT2 package gives you a power sunroof, 10-way adjustable power driver seat, heated ventilated front seats, Centex seating material, and a 320-Watt Harman Kardon 8 speaker audio system.

2022 Kia Forte GT Possesses “Throttle That Begs to be Gunned,” Sharp Handling, and All-Season Skill

The average price of a new car has been rising fast during recent years, and finding yourself in a brand-new car that is also a blast to drive is a more difficult task than in years past. Motortrend.com recognized Kia for bucking this high-priced trend, and models such as the Forte GT provide top-notch performance with an affordable price tag.

The Forte GT arrives with a turbocharged 1.6- 4-cylinder engine producing 195 lb-ft of torque, 18-inch alloy wheels, a stiff sport suspension, and an excellent-sounding sport exhaust. It sings a unique note after a cold start, which will undoubtedly draw buyers that are looking for the type of high-octane performance. 

The Forte GT hits 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds. The transmission offers clean and smooth shifting and allows for playful acceleration. If you are willing to fully engage while taking corners, the Forte GT is more than willing to play along, and the Comfort, Sport, and Smart drive modes all provide different characteristics to help customize the fun and adaption the vehicle will provide for the constantly changing road ahead. 

This team’s GT2-equipped test car features a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, an electric parking brake, auto-hold brakes, heated and ventilated front seats, LED interior lighting, rear parking sensors, a power sunroof, a premium Harman Kardon eight-speaker audio system, highway driving assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist with cyclist detection. Each Forte GT boasts a 10.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, keyless entry and push-button ignition, dual climate control, and full LED exterior lighting. 

With a consistently affordable base price, great fuel economy, large trunk, roomy cabin, and brand-new exterior style refresh, the 2022 Kia Forte GT is breathing life into the sports sedan. The Forte will be right here at Jim Butler Kia waiting for you to come give it a drive!

2021 Kia K8 XL Grille Offers Up Bold Visual Statement, Definition By Distinction

Everyone here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis was watching intently when one of our major German rivals endured a large amount of criticism when they began placing very large-sized grills on their cars. We believe that it was ultimately for the better, as it may have been the beginning of a distinct visual and engineering trend. Kia has since introduced the K8 to replace the Cadenza and gave it the quite noticeably extra-large treatment for its prominent Tiger Nose grille. 

Flanked by sharp headlights and connected to a fantastically-sculpted hood, the K8 possesses a distinct look and upper-end charm that is noticeable when you first see it coming. Even car lovers who are looking for an athletically-stanced and muscular model will appreciate the K8's sense of charm and elegance: it is similar to the excitement you experience when the trip to a formal ballroom or other celebratory soiree allows for a dress-up night. The Cadenza was a massive change in Kia's design language when it debuted 5 years ago, and the character line present on the K8 finishes overall with a look that will certainly be well-received and have you hopping online to see when the Symphony will be performing soon!

When asked about the origins of inspiration for the K8, global designers stated some of the inspiration even came from the most technically-advanced yachts in the world, a fitting source for a car that will be inspirational for anyone who has an enthusiasm for the finer things in life. The sedan that Car and Driver claimed “could be a worthy competitor to the likes of the Lexus ES”, it appears to continue with a transverse-engine layout, and front-wheel-drive. The final measurement of the K8 is 197.4 inches, and images show in detail the diamond-like lattice pattern on the grille and full-width light bar. 

There is also a chrome trim-piece that starts at the front from the LED DRLs and continues below the doors, and a metallic ornament just above the fuel cap. The fastback roofline and rear taillight design derives inspiration from both the souped-up Stinger and K5, and will not at all be a car you'll miss while on the road. We are expecting to get our first official peek at the K8 this spring during March or April, and in the meantime have several accomplishments to be proud of via the J.D. Power Awards. This year we stole the show in terms of the quality, dependability, performance, and both dealership sales and service awards, remaining a benchmark source of safety and longevity for your next purchase! 

Models at Jim Butler Kia top BMW, Mercedes-Benz in Consumer Reports ranks

USA Today reported that Kia beat such renowned car brands as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Acura, Infiniti and Ford in Consumer Reports’ 2015 Car Brand Report Cards. Jim Butler Kia in St. Louis congratulates the Kia brand on its high marks.

Kia earned an overall score of 68 which tops Mercedes-Benz by 12 points. Kia also edged out Infiniti, Acura and BMW among an array of other brands.

Consumer Reports attempts to blend reliability and road performance when naming its top brands and cars. The ratings let perspective car owners decide which car will be both reliable and fun to drive. 

Kia besting long-time brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Ford gives a testament to how much the Kia brand has grown and progressed in recent years. As Kia took a higher ranking than Acura and Infiniti, it shows how Kia models such as the 2015 K900 and 2016 Sorento can provide a fun and reliable ride more than some high-end brands.

The K900 is seen as a business-class upgrade to the Kia’s regular lineup and is comparable to some BMW models without the luxury price tag. An extremely roomy interior gives plenty of leg space, and a white leather motif with light-wood touches accentuates a quiet cabin. Kia has a habit of offering consumers much more for their spending less, so it should come as no surprise that Kia’s luxury sedan offers the value of the German sedans at a portion of the price.

Under the hood, the 2015 K900 boasts a 420 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 that produces 376 lb.-ft. of torque. The most luxurious feature of the 2015 K900 might be the rear-seat console which features controls for those sitting in the backseat. Those enjoying the luxurious ride from the rear seats have control of their heated and ventilated seats. The rear console also provides individual recline functionality and a power sunshade.

The adventurous CUV can be found at Jim Butler Kia in Chesterfield Valley. The 2016 Kia Sorento is larger and more capable of hauling cargo and seating passengers comfortably. The Sorento possesses first-class amenities across five trim levels and comes with three engine choices — including a 240 horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-charged inline four-cylinder engine.

These models and more are available from Jim Butler Kia of Chesterfield Valley’s inventory. To learn more about our Kia models, call us today at 888-392-6606. As your St. Louis Kia dealer, we invite you to check out our new Kias in person at our Chesterfield dealership. If you’re in the St. Louis, Chesterfield Valley, Creve Coeur or Maryland Heights area, stop by our lot at 722 Long Road Crossing in Chesterfield. Here at Jim Butler Kia, you can make your Sorento, K900 and Soul purchases with confidence. We are located in Chesterfield, Mo., and serve as your St. Louis, Chesterfield Valley, Creve Coeur and Maryland Heights Kia dealer.

Check out our new Kia inventory!