South Korean cousins go tire-to-tire

Midsize sedans are a dying breed, but there’s still healthy competition within the segment. While segment leaders stem from Japanese automakers, South Korean offerings are still alive and well. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata, available from $26,900, and the Kia K5, priced from $27,190, have similar spec sheets, but which model presents the better value? 

The Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 share powertrains

The Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 are both built by Hyundai Motor Group, so it’s no surprise they share quite a few components, including a platform and powertrains. Most Sonata and K5 models come powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the front wheels. That powertrain puts out 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque and each sedan also features one trim level that’s available with all-wheel drive.

If performance is what you’re interested in, there’s a Sonata and K5 model built to deliver. The Sonata N Line, available from $35,500, and K5 GT, priced at $33,290, come powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. That powerplant comes paired with an eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.

Despite sharing the same powertrains, the Hyundai Sonata is the more fuel-efficient of the two, earning up to an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg in combined driving. The Kia K5 earns two miles per gallon less in the city and one mile less on the highway.

If you want even higher fuel economy, then the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the top choice of the two sedans. It comes powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 192 horsepower. The Sonata Hybrid earns up to 47 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Interestingly, the Kia K5 is available in hybrid form in South Korea, but not in the United States. In South Korea, the K5 Hybrid also shares the Sonata Hybrid’s powertrain.

Kia K5 turns heads, Hyundai Sonata blends in

The Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 may ride on similar platforms and share parts, but their styling couldn’t be more different. The Sonata wears a more traditional sedan style, one that blends into the crowd rather than draws attention. The Kia K5, on the other hand, features more angles and curves that create a sportier aesthetic and will have some bystanders doing a double-take as you pass by.

While both models have 16-inch wheels at the base level, the Kia K5 steps up to 18-inch wheels at the next trim level. The Hyundai Sonata only steps up to 17-inch wheels, and you’ll have to go up to the Sonata’s third trim level to get 18-inch wheels. Both models come equipped with LED headlights, heated sideview mirrors, and a hands-free smart trunk release, among other amenities.

Inside, both midsize sedans seat up to five passengers, but the Kia K5 offers a bit more rear legroom than the Sonata, with 35.2 versus 34.8 inches. Trunk space is identical in both sedans, at 15.6 cu ft. Both models feature a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, but the range-topping K5 EX gets a 12.3-inch curved instrument display. The Sonata doesn’t offer a matching feature.

The Kia K5 also gets a wireless phone charger a trim level earlier than the Sonata. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard at all trim levels in both South Korean sedans. The base K5 gets standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an optional feature in the base Sonata, and a wireless phone charger at the second trim level, whereas the Sonata gets that feature at the third trim level.

The Kia K5 is a better value

While the Kia K5 and Hyundai Sonata share a platform and powertrains, the former proves to be the better value. While it’s slightly more expensive at the base level, the K5 comes with a few more comfort and convenience features than the Sonata. Once you reach the performance trims, the Sonata overtakes the K5 in price, from $35,500 versus $33,290.

If you’re in the market for a midsize sedan that’s great on fuel economy, however, the Sonata takes the win. In addition to slightly higher fuel economy, the Sonata Hybrid has a distinct advantage over the K5 since there’s no hybrid version available in the United States. Perhaps that may change in the future, but until then, the Kia K5 takes home the best value award, while the Sonata wins the fuel efficiency competition. Before you buy, however, make sure to give both models a test drive.

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