Remapping the Kia K5 (2016-2019), 1.6 T-GDI 178HP.
The Kia K5 (2016-2019)'s 1.6 T-GDI 178HP sees a torque-led Stage 1 remap: pulling power climbs 32.1% to 350Nm, well ahead of the 23.6% rise in BHP from 178 to 220.
Turbocharged petrol engines have plenty of scope for a Stage 1 remap, and this transformative improvement is best felt through sharper throttle response across the rev range. These figures apply to 2016-2019 models.
Typical remap gains for the K5 1.6 T-GDI 178HP
Standard vs Remapped
Standard vs Remapped
- Power: 178bhp standard, 220bhp after a Stage 1 remap.
- Torque: 265Nm standard, 350Nm after a Stage 1 remap.
- This is a torque-led gain: pulling power increases by more than BHP, which is felt mainly as a stronger mid-range.
- This is a turbocharged engine, which typically means further headroom exists beyond Stage 1 if hardware is upgraded.
- As a petrol engine, the practical benefit is mainly felt as sharper throttle response and a broader power band.
- These figures apply specifically to 2016-2019 models.
- These are Stage 1 figures only, achieved without any hardware changes.
Questions about remapping your K5 1.6 T-GDI 178HP
How much power and torque does a Stage 1 remap add to the Kia K5 (2016-2019) 1.6 T-GDI 178HP?
A Stage 1 remap typically takes the Kia K5 (2016-2019) 1.6 T-GDI 178HP from 178bhp to around 220bhp, and torque from 265Nm to around 350Nm. This is a transformative gain achieved entirely through software, with no hardware changes required.
Is the Kia K5 (2016-2019) 1.6 T-GDI 178HP a good candidate for remapping?
Generally, yes: as a turbocharged engine it has the headroom to respond well to a quality remap, and the transformative gain shown here reflects that. The main caveats are condition, not the engine itself, a healthy service history, no outstanding fault codes, and (for diesels) a clear DPF and EGR are what actually determine whether this particular car is ready for a remap.
Will remapping affect the warranty on my Kia K5 (2016-2019)?
A manufacturer can only void the parts of a warranty that the remap directly affects, not the entire vehicle, under the Consumer Rights Act and EU Block Exemption principles. In practice, on a Kia K5 (2016-2019) 1.6 T-GDI 178HP this usually means engine and transmission-related claims are the ones worth discussing with a reputable tuner before booking.
What should I check before booking a remap for my Kia K5 (2016-2019) 1.6 T-GDI 178HP?
Before booking, confirm the tuner uses a custom or bespoke file rather than a generic off-the-shelf map, ask whether they do a pre-remap health check, and check service history and mileage on your specific Kia K5 (2016-2019).
What's the difference between a Stage 1 and Stage 2 remap for the 1.6 T-GDI 178HP?
Stage 1 is software-only and is what the figures on this page reflect. Stage 2 builds on that, but on a turbocharged engine like this, Stage 2 usually adds further gains but requires supporting hardware such as an upgraded intake or exhaust, so it is a separate conversation with a tuner rather than an automatic next step.
Will remapping my Kia K5 (2016-2019) affect my insurance?
Yes, always, a remap is a modification and must be declared to your insurer regardless of size. Given this transformative gain on the 1.6 T-GDI 178HP, expect a likely premium increase, and it is worth getting a quote from a specialist modified-vehicle insurer before booking the remap itself.