Kia K5 Second Facelift Interior Spy Shots Reveal Pleos Large Center Screen, New Column Shifter

Spy photos courtesy of @HO_YAYA12 user give us our first clear look inside the upcoming Kia K5 second facelift (project name: DL3 PE2). The updates reveal a significant overhaul to Kia's midsize sedan interior, bringing it in line with Hyundai Motor Group's next-generation Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture.

Key Interior Highlights

• Pleos Connect Infotainment: The center console is dominated by a brand-new, large central display running Pleos Connect. Featuring a modern three-zone layout, mobile-like multitasking, and deep AI integration, this system marks a major step forward from the outgoing ccNC architecture.

• Column-Mounted Gear Selector: Moving away from the rotary dial on the central console, the updated K5 adopts a column-mounted, stalk-style gear selector positioned behind the steering wheel—freeing up space along the center console for redesigned storage and wireless charging pads.

• Integrated Wiper Controls: Following recent HMG design trends, the wiper controls are now integrated directly onto the light/indicator selector stalk assembly, consolidating stalk controls behind the wheel.

• Redesigned Steering Wheel: The prototype sports a refreshed steering wheel layout, complete with updated physical controls and a cleaner look that aligns with Kia's latest interior identity.

The TMED-II System: Efficiency Meets Performance

Beyond the updated aesthetics visible through the transport truck, the headline for the K5’s second facelift is the introduction of the highly anticipated TMED-II hybrid powertrain. As part of a strategy to double its hybrid lineup to eight models by 2030, Kia is pouring high-performance hardware into the K5 to rival the "instant-torque" feel of EVs.

• 4% Efficiency Boost: The TMED-II system offers a measurable step up in fuel economy and performance over the current generation.

• Next-Gen Handling: Integration of E-Motion Drive and E-AWD ensures that the K5 Hybrid isn't just about saving gas; it’s about enhanced stability, active torque vectoring, and ride comfort.

• V2L Capability: In a move borrowed from the EV6 and EV9, the K5 Hybrid will feature Indoor V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), allowing you to power laptops or small appliances directly from the car's high-voltage battery.

First Kia Model with Pleos Connect in 2027?

While Hyundai is introducing Pleos Connect on select models, this second partial change for the K5 is slated to make it Kia's first production model equipped with Pleos Connect when it officially launches in 2027.

With the second facelift expected to extend the current generation's lifecycle through 2030, this high-tech cabin refresh gives the K5 the software capabilities to stay competitive alongside next-gen hybrid powertrains.