The Kia K5 has been a brilliant surprise for me in Dubai. In a city where everyone notices your car, its sleek, head-turning design stands out for all the right reasons, but without the intimidating price tag of a luxury sedan.

What I love most is its balance. The 1.6-liter turbo engine is peppy enough for quick highway merges, yet it’s surprisingly efficient on petrol—a huge plus with our daily driving distances. The ride is comfortable, smoothing out bumps on older roads, and the cabin is a quiet, tech-filled haven from the chaos of Sheikh Zayed Road. The air conditioning is powerful and quick to cool, which is an absolute necessity here.

It’s not a sports car, but it’s stylish, modern, and incredibly smart for the cost. For anyone wanting a premium-feeling sedan without the premium cost, the K5 is a perfect fit.