The 2023 Kia K5 1.6L achieves 31 MPG combined, making it a contender for mid-size sedan buyers looking to save money. This car appeals to drivers who want a good value, stylish looks, and a comfortable ride, more than high performance. The K5 1.6L prioritizes efficient and reliable transportation, and its fuel economy shows that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the K5 1.6L gets 27 MPG in city driving. Stop-and-go traffic affects this number, but acceleration and anticipating traffic help. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly to keep the engine at lower RPMs for better efficiency. On the highway, the K5’s 37 MPG rating shows its long-distance capabilities. Its design and taller gearing help it achieve this number, making it a good choice for commuters and road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Kia K5 1.6L at $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average fuel prices. Your fuel costs will change depending on your driving, the fuel you use, and local prices. Still, $1,400 is a benchmark for comparing the K5’s costs to other vehicles. Explore all Kia fuel economy data to see how the K5 compares to other models.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are standard, but real-world fuel economy varies. Many things affect your MPG, from driving style, to weather, to tire pressure. Fast starts, hard braking, and high speeds will lower fuel economy. Keeping a steady speed, watching traffic, and inflating tires helps you get the EPA estimates or better. Expect your MPG to change, but drive efficiently to use less gas.

How it compares

The mid-size sedan segment offers many fuel-efficient options, and the K5 1.6L is competitive. The Toyota Camry LE gets 28 MPG combined, while the Honda Accord LX gets 32 MPG combined. The Nissan Altima S is similar to the Camry at 28 MPG combined, making the K5’s 31 MPG competitive. The K5 has bolder styling and more standard features for the price. While the Accord has slightly better fuel economy, the K5 balances efficiency, value, and design. For a more engaging driving experience, the Mazda6 is an option, but that sedan only reaches 29 MPG combined with its base engine. Compare K5 MPG across all years to see how this model has changed.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently to save fuel in the K5 1.6L. Avoid pressing the gas pedal hard, especially from a stop. The engine and transmission are most efficient when operating smoothly, and quick acceleration wastes fuel. Watch the road and anticipate traffic lights to improve your MPG.

Tire pressure is important for fuel economy. Check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Low tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Even a few PSI below the recommended pressure decreases your MPG.

Use less air conditioning, especially on short trips. The AC compressor strains the engine, reducing fuel economy. Open the windows or use the AC only when needed. AC affects fuel economy less on longer highway drives, but makes a difference in the city.

Remove extra weight from the vehicle. Extra weight increases the load on the engine, lowering fuel efficiency. Remove items from the trunk or backseat you don’t need. Every pound matters, and reducing weight helps you save fuel.

Engage cruise control on the highway when possible. Keeping a consistent speed minimizes changes in engine RPM and fuel use. Cruise control allows the engine to operate more efficiently, saving fuel, especially on flat roads.