2021 Kia K5 GT-Line: Optimized for winter\’s reign

The tale of the tape

The K5 GT-Line resides in the middle of the K5 (formerly named Optima) lineup, and is one of two K5s with all-wheel drive available; the other is the LXS. Base MSRP is $25,490, $33,335 as tested during the week it was with me.

Befitting its chilly surroundings, the K5 GT-Line\’s Wolf Gray paint (a $445 option) is exclusive to it and the top-tier GT. To make this example more exclusive, though, it also has the GT-Line AWD Special Edition package. The $800 option (available after selecting the $3,700 All-Wheel Drive package) combines Wolf Gray with Red SynTex seating, as well as a few upgrades we\’ll get into later. A set of 18-inch alloys wrapped in Pirelli P Zero all-seasons plant the power upon the road.

Under the hood is a 1.6-liter turbo-four, the same engine found in all but the GT, which has a 2.5-liter turbo-four. Output is 180 hrsprs and 195 lb-ft of torque, spreading out to the corners through an eight-speed automatic; the GT\’s turbo-four delivers 290 horses and 311 trqs, for comparison.

Though it may be cold outside, the red SynTex seating brings all the warmth you need. Speaking of warmth, the steering wheel and front seats are ready to chase away winter within minutes.

While the base GT-Line features an eight-inch touchscreen, the GT-Line Special Edition package gives you a 10.25-inch touchscreen for maximum infotainment. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available for use, along with Kia\’s own UVO system, plus Bluetooth multi-device audio streaming, and a three-month Sirius XM subscription. Wireless charging will keep your friend\’s phone ready to go, while rear passengers have two USB ports to do the same. Two USB ports are available up front, too: one for connecting to the touchscreen, one for charging.

And, of course, the all-wheel drive option also brings a panoramic sunroof, perfect for the few winter days when the sun is out, and the sky is as blue as the promise of warmer days ahead.