Kia K5
28 MPG The 2026 Kia K5 is EPA-rated at 28 MPG combined (24 city / 34.5 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 536 gallons, $1714 a year in fuel, or $0.114 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2021–2026 run it averages 29.1 MPG, falling by 2 MPG over 6 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.089 | $893 | $1339 | $1786 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.107 | $1071 | $1607 | $2143 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.114 | $1143 | $1714 | $2286 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.125 | $1250 | $1875 | $2500 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.143 | $1429 | $2143 | $2857 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.161 | $1607 | $2411 | $3214 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.179 | $1786 | $2679 | $3571 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 28 MPG | 24 | 34.5 | $2225 | 321 | 2 |
| 2025 | 28.7 MPG | 24.7 | 35.3 | $2183 | 313 | 3 |
| 2024 | 29 MPG | 25.5 | 34.5 | $2150 | 313 | 2 |
| 2023 | 29 MPG | 25.5 | 34.5 | $2150 | 313 | 2 |
| 2022 | 30 MPG | 26.7 | 35.7 | $2083 | 300 | 3 |
| 2021 | 30 MPG | 26.7 | 35.7 | $2083 | 300 | 3 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 149 large cars models tracked here, the Kia K5 ranks 11 on current figures, against a class average of 21.5 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Kia Optima FE (29), Hyundai Sonata (30.3), Honda Civic 5Dr (35.3), Ford C-MAX Hybrid FWD (40), Honda Accord Hybrid (48).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 321 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 4.8 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Kia K5 get?
The 2026 Kia K5 is rated at 28 MPG combined by the EPA — 24 city and 34.5 highway. Across all 6 model years in the database it averages 29.1 MPG, ranging from 27 to 32 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Kia K5 cost in fuel per year?
At 28 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 536 gallons — roughly $1714 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.114 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2026 model is $2225.
Has the Kia K5 become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 30 MPG in 2021 to 28 in 2026. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Kia K5 efficient for its class?
It ranks 11 of 149 in the Large Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 21.5 MPG. That is 6.5 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.