Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Kia K5
The 2021 Kia K5 is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 8.0/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.5/10, while Performance at 7.2/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 8.1/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety lands at 8.4/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.2/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. On technology it rates 8.0/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $25,106–$31,764, 29 MPG, seating 5, the Kia K5 sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. Its value score of 8.5/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2021 Kia K5 will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and it does what a good sedan should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2021 Kia K5 ranks #201 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 85% of the segment. Its 8.0/10 overall score is 0.5 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $25,106 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 9%.
Across the K5 model years we've scored, the 2021 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Kia K5 (6 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Air bags / air bag/restraint control module 11/03/2021 · 21V164000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and Detection System (OCS/ODS) unit may not detect the presence of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these…
Kia Motor America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Sorento and 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
Lane departure / lane keep / steering assist 14/06/2021 · 21V447000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L T-GDI engines. The Rack-Mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) system lacks the ability to diagnose communication faults. If a communication fault occurs while…
Power train / Automatic transmission 11/10/2022 · 22V760000
Kia Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of…
Air bags / Side/window / Curtain 07/03/2023 · 23V149000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been installed incorrectly, causing them not to deploy properly in the event of a crash.
Showing 5 of 6 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Common Questions — 2021 Kia K5
Is the 2021 Kia K5 reliable?
We rate the 2021 Kia K5's reliability 8.1/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia K5 have?
6 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Kia K5 worth buying?
It scores 8.0/10 overall, ranking #201 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 85% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Kia K5 cost?
The 2021 Kia K5 starts at $25,106 and ranges up to $31,764 across trims (MSRP when new). At 29 MPG, expect roughly $1,810/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Kia K5
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More Kia Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Kia models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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