The Kia K5 is the newer mid-size sedan, but how does it compare against its Japanese rival the Honda Accord? With years of legacy to fall back on, can the Kia compete well in terms of safety, practicality, and features? What are the major similarities and differences between the K5 and the Accord?

2022 Kia K5

This generation has been refreshed for the 2022 model year. With captivating looks and efficient engine choices, it is a strong contender in the sedan market. With a 1.6L engine it may be small, but it is boosted with a turbo charger and 8-speed auto transmission.

Sport mode adds to the driving flair, and the GT-Line spec adds 18-inch wheels with some upgraded meaner looking exterior pieces. The highest GT spec comes with a 2.5L engine and 290 horsepower, ideal for a quick runabout. Despite optional all-wheel drive on other trim levels, the GT trim comes in front wheel drive only.

Interior is of good quality, with comfy seating and is extra supportive. The infotainment is sophisticated too, with an 8-inch touch screen housing most of the controls and a minimalist look.

The standard features include wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Despite blind spot monitoring not being standard, the safety feature list is quite extensive. With Auto Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist and auto High Beams to keep you safe. Upgrades include larger wheels, more USB ports, and a large panoramic sunroof.

MPG: Up to 38 Highway, 29 City

Power: From 180hp – 1.6L Turbocharged Gas Engine. 

Price: From $23,790 MSRP

2022 Honda Accord

A huge following and popularity for generations, the Accord is Honda’s core sedan. With a 1.5L unit, it has similar MPG rating to the K5 at up to 38 on the highway. An upgraded 2.0L Turbocharged unit can be had with 252hp and a 10-speed auto transmission. A further Hybrid model is available with 212hp, having a combined 48mpg and is a lot more efficient than Kia’s lineup. However, all Accords offer front wheel drive only.

Whilst rear seat legroom is better than the Kia K5, the overall look is less exciting. Interior offers more buttons and switches to operate controls, which can be appealing for old-school drivers, the base model has plenty of equipment too.

Upper trim levels switch the cloth fabric to leather but does not upgrade the standard 8-inch touch screen – the same as the K5. Apple Carplay and Android Auto are standard, paired with a 160W sound system to blast your playlists. 

Safety features are good too, with the Honda Sensing Suite coming with Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Keep Assist as standard.

MPG: Up to 48 Highway (Hybrid), 30 City (Gas)

Power: From 187hp – 1.5L Turbocharged Gas Engine. 

Price: From $26,120 MSRP

Similarities Between K5 and Accord

Trunk space

Base power 

Safety Features

5-Star NHTSA Safety Rating.

Differences Between K5 and Accord:

Powertrain options – no hybrid in Kia’s lineup

Drivetrain Options – no all-wheel drive in Honda’s lineup

Price – Honda starts at $3,000 more MSRP

Rear Legroom and Headroom is more in the Accord

K5 vs Accord Conclusion

The K5 is exciting to drive, looks the part and has optional all-wheel drive to handle more extreme weather conditions. It starts at a lower price point too but has a couple of drawbacks including rear legroom. The Honda Accord is a practical family sedan that can fit a lot inside. With a Hybrid option it offers fuel saving in the long run but is more expensive up-front.