Combined, the 2021 Kia K5 GT should return 27 mpg. Aside from that all-you-can-eat buffet of torque, there's nothing particularly magical about the way this sedan drives.

The new look is part of a complete overhaul for Kia's family sedan. New for 2021, the K5 replaces the much tamer-looking Optima, a middling competitor in the segment.

Buyers opting for the upgrade-engine K5 will be pleased that the K5 GT's 2.5-liter turbo-four makes 45 additional horses and 50 extra lb-ft of torque compared to the Optima SX's 2.0-liter turbo-four.

The 2021 K5 is Kia's replacement for the Optima, which was discontinued after the 2020 model year. The 290-horsepower K5 GT is the new car's sportiest trim — and the one we tested out for a week.

The recall covers certain 2021-23 K5 vehicles. The K5 was formerly called the Optima and received the new name in 2021. No injuries have been reported as a result of the defect, according to NHTSA.