The 2023 Kia K5’s 2.5L four-cylinder engine gets a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG, offering a good middle ground. It’s not a hybrid that aims for maximum efficiency, and it’s also not a performance sedan that focuses on thrills above everything else. Instead, the K5 2.5L hits a sweet spot, providing sufficient power and modern styling while keeping fuel costs manageable for families and commuters on a budget.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Kia K5 2.5L are 24 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating. The highway number shows the benefits of the K5’s eight-speed automatic transmission (AM-S8), designed to keep the engine operating at lower, more efficient RPMs during steady cruising. These numbers give drivers a good idea of what to expect in different driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Kia K5 2.5L at $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Individual driving habits and local fuel costs can significantly impact this figure, causing you to spend more or less than the EPA indicates. The $1,600 figure provides a benchmark for comparison with other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy can vary slightly. The K5’s quickness can be tempting, leading to faster acceleration and reduced gas mileage. Tire pressure, vehicle weight, and weather conditions also play a role in fuel economy differences. Drivers who accelerate gently and follow speed limits will likely see numbers closer to the EPA estimates. But, drivers who enjoy a more spirited driving style may find themselves visiting gas stations more often.

How it compares

The Kia K5 2.5L’s fuel economy compares favorably to its competitors. The base 2.5L engine in the Toyota Camry gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined, while the Honda Accord 1.5T gets 32 MPG combined. Shoppers often consider these vehicles when looking at K5 MPG across all years. The Hyundai Sonata shares a platform and powertrain with the K5, which means they have nearly identical fuel economy. For buyers comparing these mid-size sedans, the K5’s fuel economy is competitive when you also consider styling, features, and price. If you’re looking for even better gas mileage, consider the hybrid versions of the Camry, Accord, or Sonata, but those models have trade-offs in price and performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keeping your tires properly inflated is important for maximizing fuel economy. Check your tires often and inflate them to the pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Making sure your tires are properly inflated could improve your fuel bill.

Avoid idling unnecessarily. If you’re going to be waiting for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart easily, and idling wastes gas without moving the car forward. The K5’s engine doesn’t need to idle for long periods to warm up, so minimize idling to save fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway when you can. Consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which reduces fuel economy. The K5’s adaptive cruise control system can further improve gas mileage by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a safe distance, avoiding sudden braking and acceleration.

Reduce the weight in your car. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and backseat. More weight reduces fuel economy, especially in the city. Every pound adds up, so decluttering your vehicle can improve efficiency. Think about removing infrequently used items like sporting equipment or tools.

Service your K5 according to the maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance keep the engine running well and efficiently. Poorly maintained vehicles get worse performance and lower fuel economy. Consider looking into all Kia fuel economy data to see how important keeping your vehicle well maintained can be.