This 290-HP sedan costs less than you'd expect

A new 290-hp Kia K5 GT targets performance-sedan buyers who expect to pay far more. The article says the K5 GT starts under $35,000, offering a 2.5-liter turbocharged Smartstream four-cylinder rated at 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Peak torque arrives at 1,650 rpm, helping the car deliver strong acceleration without forcing high revs. Kia claims a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds, placing it in the range of “genuine performance sedans.” The car also pairs the engine with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, designed for faster gear changes than a torque-converter automatic. It notes possible brief turbo lag at very low rpm, but says boost is strong through the midrange. The transmission’s sport mode holds gears longer and sharpens throttle response, while steering feel is adjusted for a sportier character.