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2026 Kia K4 vs. 2026 Kia K5 Comparison

See how the 2026 Kia K4 and 2026 Kia K5 performed in our rigorous, independent road tests. Our experts evaluate hundreds of vehicles annually at our 327-acre testing facility, putting each model through over 50 data-driven assessments—including braking, emergency handling, fuel economy, and cabin noise. Review our side-by-side comparison of tested specifications, real-world fuel efficiency, and crash-test safety ratings to see which is the best for reliability, performance, and more.

Comparing 2 Models

K4 2026

Small sedans/hatchbacks

2026 Kia K4

$22,290 - $28,890

All Test Results

K5 2026

Midsized cars

2026 Kia K5

$27,490 - $34,990

All Test Results
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About
About
The K4, which replaces the Forte, is one of the best small sedans on the market. The base 147-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder and CVT are a fine, if slightly underpowered, combo, free of low-speed hiccups. We like that the CVT performs simulated 'upshift...
 
The K5 is pleasant, roomy, and fuel-efficient, and it handles securely. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is responsive and predictable but not particularly powerful. We got an impressive 31 mpg overall in our testing. The K5 aced all our braking an...
Highs
Highs
Green Checkmark Icon Comfortable ride
Green Checkmark Icon Great fuel economy
Green Checkmark Icon Short dry stopping distance
Green Checkmark Icon Relatively roomy cabin
Green Checkmark Icon Intuitive controls
 
Green Checkmark Icon Short stopping distances
Green Checkmark Icon Secure handling
Green Checkmark Icon Excellent fuel economy
Green Checkmark Icon Roomy cabin
Lows
Lows
Red 'X' Icon Rear exterior door handles are hard to find
Red 'X' Icon Low stance makes getting in and out challenging
Red 'X' Icon Limited front seat and steering wheel adjustments
 
Red 'X' Icon Mediocre acceleration
Red 'X' Icon Split-use audio/climate control panel is a nuisance
Red 'X' Icon Lacks a hybrid option
Road Test Score
Road Test Score
/ 100
 
/ 100
Reliability
Reliability
/ 100
 
/ 100
Owner Satisfaction
Owner Satisfaction
/ 100
 
/ 100

Overview

Body Styles
Body Styles

4-door hatchback, sedan

 

sedan

Trim Lines
Trim Lines

LX, LXS, EX, GT-Line, GT-Line Turbo

 

EX, GT, GT-Line, LXS

Base Price Range
Base Price Range

$22,290 - $28,890

 

$27,490 - $34,990

Drive Wheels
Drive Wheels

FWD

 

AWD, FWD

Seating Capacity
Seating Capacity

2 Front, 3 Rear

 

2 Front, 3 Rear

Engines/Motors
Engines/Motors

1.6-liter 4 turbo (190 hp); 2-liter 4 (147 hp)

 

2.5-liter 4 (191 hp); 2.5-liter 4 turbo (290 hp)

Transmissions Available
Transmissions Available

8-speed Automatic, CVT

 

8-speed Automatic, 8-speed Sequential

Performance

Comfort & Convenience

Fuel Economy & Range

Vehicle Safety

Specification

Warranty

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Auto Test Center

Precision testing comes standard at our 327-acre auto test center.

TESTING LIKE NOBODY ELSE

50+

tests are conducted on every car we buy.

PERFORMANCE TESTING

6

miles of track for testing acceleration, ride, handling, braking, and advanced driver assist systems.

TIRE TESTING

400

tires tested a year for all-weather grip and rolling resistance.