KNOCKOUT Or STRIKEOUT? 2021 Kia 'K5' Comes Riding Into Dealers Like A Lean Charger.

KNOCKOUT Or STRIKEOUT? 2021 Kia 'K5' Comes Riding Into Dealers Like A Lean Charger.
The K5 new identity starts with the advanced third-generation platform, which will serve as the foundation for future Kia models. In this application, the platform allows the K5 to sit longer, lower and wider compared to its predecessor, resulting in its aggressive profile and deeper center of gravity for a more exciting driving experience. Additional highlights include:

Head-Turning Design, Enticing Powertrain Options, and Exciting Technology

Powerful and bold appearance incorporates Stinger design DNA while expanding Kia’s future design language
All-new N3 platform is stronger while being longer, wider and lower  
New all-turbocharged engine lineup delivers improved efficiency and higher horsepower; including a new 2.5-liter that produces 290 horsepower and best-in-class available torque
New standard 8-speed automatic transmission
Segment exclusive available 8-speed “wet” dual-clutch transmission
New all-wheel drive option available with 1.6T engine delivers peace of mind with improved stability and capability
Proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia alongside the award-winning Telluride SUV





















* Shark skin-inspired mesh design on front grille and dual chrome exhaust tip garnish (GT-Line, GT)
* Signature “Heart Beat”  daytime running lights and taillights with available LED “dashes” span the width of the rear deck lid
* Gloss black applique on rear glass enhances fastback shape while maintaining sedan functionality and cargo space
* Newly designed 16-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels (18- and 19-inch wheels come with sporty Pirelli P-Zero tires)
* Aircraft-type shift knob
* A mix of premium and sporty upholstery options including red leatherette seating, satin chrome metallic and wood-like finishes on the dashboard and door panels, depending on trim
* Panoramic sunroof
* Flat-bottom, sport steering wheel (GT-Line, GT)

Funniest description of the grill came from Son or 001. "If Tesla made a BBQ Grill.


atc98092atc98092 - 8/11/2020 7:57:37 PM
+3 Boost
I'd have to see that front end in person. I've found pictures like this often doesn't really convey very well. But without a plug, I wouldn't be in the market for this anyway.


dlindlin - 8/12/2020 12:31:49 AM
+4 Boost
That front end is simply creepy


Car4life1Car4life1 - 8/11/2020 7:59:28 PM
+3 Boost
Nope...the design team should keep that same energy they had for the Telluride...consistency is key for you Kia, I want to see you eat Toyota/Honda up, they’ve been unchallenged for decades


cidflekkencidflekken - 8/11/2020 8:01:33 PM
+3 Boost
Those close-ups of the grille give me the heebie-jeebies.

I'm sure this is a very solid car, but it won't be a game changer. It will take the the folks who wanted a sedan and would have gotten a Malibu or Fusion, but it would be difficult to conquest Accord or Camry faithful. I think the car most at risk is the Altima in this scenario due to the fact that the new model is just so weak. Also the Mazda6 might face extinction.


carloslassitercarloslassiter - 8/11/2020 8:07:17 PM
+5 Boost
Looks like it's about to eat some krill.


MDarringerMDarringer - 8/11/2020 8:15:37 PM
-1 Boost
This is one of those cars that looks a lot better in person. Customers are finding it stylish...which is a relief. Several have left the lot without a lot of dickering...which is nice.


Agent001Agent001 - 8/11/2020 8:36:56 PM
+4 Boost
I would disagree. Doesn't look good from many angles. And the profile screams Honda Crosstour to me. But straight on and from the rear I see leaner Dodge Charger.

I vote miss. But it doesn't matter. No one wants sedans anyway.

001


MDarringerMDarringer - 8/11/2020 8:47:17 PM
0 Boost
You (1) aren't one of the customers and (2) you're not one of the buyers. Sure, have an opinion, but this is looking like a brighter spot than we could have imagined. Hyundai-Kia is getting some sales because the Altima is shit, the Fusion is dead and disappearing, and the Malibu is shit that is about to die. The Sonata/K5 are every bit as good as a CamCord, but for less money and a better warranty. HK playing this diminishing market very well by staying in and putting out vastly better products than the already good products they were selling.


Agent001Agent001 - 8/11/2020 11:12:51 PM
+3 Boost
Two dealers told me today nothing is hot in their lineup except Telluride.

001


cidflekkencidflekken - 8/12/2020 2:46:16 AM
+3 Boost
Agree 001. The only good angle is the side profile and even then,it screams Civic.

Regarding the Telluride, I'm sorry, but I just can't anymore with it. For its class, sure it's at or near the top. But in person, it looks like a minivan from the rear, and the side profile is Envoy. The front end is as mundane as any SUV can get and also scream Chevy/GMC. Looks like a bit, bloated wagon on small wheels.


MDarringerMDarringer - 8/12/2020 9:50:01 AM
0 Boost
OK 001 tell me exactly where I said sales of the K5 were hot. I didn't. So don't ascribe things to me that I didn't say. You aren't "in the know" anyway. Of the initial 6 that came in, 4 left without any real dickering within days of arrival to customers that really liked them.


CcoxxCcoxx - 8/11/2020 10:03:13 PM
+8 Boost
This is a WTF design and the only reason why MDarringer loves it is because he has to sell them to bring home the bacon.


jtz7jtz7 - 8/11/2020 11:11:13 PM
+2 Boost
I like it especially the front.


valhallakeyvalhallakey - 8/12/2020 12:14:36 AM
+3 Boost
Is this a special version? The K5 snake head model?


trboaccordtrboaccord - 8/12/2020 12:36:52 PM
+4 Boost
its such a hodge podge of challenger, maxmia, corolla, etc its downright awful!


DutchmanDutchman - 8/12/2020 2:42:49 PM
+4 Boost
To quote the great Charles Barkley.....terrrrrrrrrrribllll


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