Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Kia K5
Our scoring places the 2023 Kia K5 at 8.2/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.5/10. 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. We score reliability at 8.3/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The safety score of 8.4/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.6/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. The cabin tech earns 8.1/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $26,762–$31,175, 31 MPG, seating 5, the Kia K5 sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.5/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. At 3 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.
Our take: The 2023 Kia K5 is a solid, well-rounded sedan that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
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 2023 Kia K5 ranks #74 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 94% of the segment. Its 8.2/10 overall score is 0.7 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $26,762 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $27,664.
$0 — 4 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which K5 Year Should You Buy?
Across the K5 model years we've scored, the 2023 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
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price
NHTSA Recalls — 2023 Kia K5 (4 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 with our free VIN recall checker.
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.
Structure / Body / Roof and pillars 28/07/2025 · 25V493000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 K5 vehicles. The left and right rear window trim pieces may loosen and detach.
Fuel system, gasoline 17/11/2025 · 25V794000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2024 K5 vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2023 Kia K5 that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2023 Kia K5
Is the 2023 Kia K5 reliable?
We rate the 2023 Kia K5's reliability 8.3/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 4 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 2023 Kia K5 have?
4 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 2023 Kia K5 worth buying?
It scores 8.2/10 overall, ranking #74 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 94% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Kia K5 cost?
The 2023 Kia K5 starts at $26,762 and ranges up to $31,175 across trims (MSRP when new). At 31 MPG, expect roughly $1,694/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which K5 years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 6 K5 model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (8.3/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2023 Kia K5 have?
The documented issues for the 2023 Kia K5 are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Power train, Air bags, Structure, Fuel system, gasoline (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
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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