Made by the same parent company, the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 are stylish, roomy, and comfortable midsize sedans. Which one should you drive?
If you’re contemplating a new Sonata or Kia K5 for sale, it might be difficult to choose between the two. Let’s take a closer look to see if one might be a better choice than the other.
Price Range
You might expect the Kia K5 to start at a lower price than the Hyundai Sonata, but the opposite is true. The K5 starts at $25,590 and the Sonata’s base trim goes for $25,100. The K5 has four trims with the GT model being the top of the line with a starting price of $31,990. On the other hand, the Sonata has five trims and its range-topping Limited trim starts at $35,325. So, the Sonata is more affordable at the lower end but tops out higher.
Dependability
The Hyundai Sonata scores 81 out of 100 for predicted reliability from JD Power, but the Kia K5 does slightly better with a score of 85. Any JD Power reliability score between 81 and 90 is considered Great, so both cars fall roughly into the same category. Both cars also have excellent warranty coverage with 10 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain.
Cargo Space
Even though many people lean toward SUVs for cargo space, it’s hard to beat the room and convenience of a large trunk. The Hyundai Sonata has 16 cubic feet of space in its trunk. It also offers standard split folding seats to increase the room if necessary. The Kia K5 has both of those features, but it goes a little further by adding a hands-free power trunk lid as standard on all trims. You’ll need to step up to the SEL trim on the Sonata to get it.
Power and Performance
The Hyundai Sonata’s base engine makes 191 horsepower, but you can also upgrade to the N Line and get a turbo-four that makes 290 horsepower. The Kia K5 is similar, but its base engine is a turbo-four that makes 180 horsepower. Even though the max output is less than the Sonata, it has more torque, which helps it accelerate faster. Like the Sonata, the K5 offers an optional engine that makes 290 horsepower.
Fuel Efficiency
Both sedans offer competitive fuel economy. Compared to most SUVs and crossovers, you’ll be stopping at the gas station less often in these cars. The Kia K5 gets up to 37 MPG on the highway and 27 MPG in the city with its base engine. The Sonata’s base engine is even more efficient with 38 MPG on the highway and 28 MPG in the city.
Driving Experience
Most buyers look at midsize sedans for comfort, space, and a cushioned ride. The Hyundai Sonata does well in this area with a composed ride and stable handling.
The Kia K5 arguably looks sportier than the Sonata, but it’s not particularly athletic. Instead, the K5 delivers an even cushier ride than the Sonata with its sturdy suspension. It can also be had with AWD to improve traction. The Sonata doesn’t offer this feature.
In the end, both the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 for sale are good choices for different reasons.
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