2023 Kia K5 vs. 2022 Hyundai Sonata

Deciding between midsize Kia vs. Hyundai sedans? The Kia K5 and the Hyundai Sonata are natural rivals with little to separate them in terms of performance (both midsize sedans are equipped with identical 1.6L turbo I-4 engines). However, they take a very different design approach inside the cabin, and a decision between them is likely to hinge here. Get the details in our head-to-head Kia K5 vs. Hyundai Sonata comparison.

Kia K5 vs. Hyundai Sonata: Interior Design & Amenities

Where the Sonata cabin attempts to convey a sense of speed, the Kia K5 offers a fresh take on luxury. It’s almost as though the designers at Hyundai tried to overturn the brand’s more mature reputation to compete with upstart competitors like Kia – but then Kia threw a curve ball by taking the K5 in a completely different direction. While some drivers may prefer the Sonata cabin’s black seating, sporty red accents, and push-button shifter, others will appreciate how the K5 combines modern minimalism with old-school touches and rich materials. Here are just a few highlights to look out for inside the K5:

• Analog gauges
• Traditional shifter
• Leatherette map pockets
• Brushed-nickel and matte-finish faux wood trim materials
• Light gray leatherette seating

Kia K5 vs. Hyundai Sonata: Interior Dimensions

Dimensions are another key comparison point for smaller vehicles such as sedans – so which model offers a more comfortable drive? The K5 cabin is roomier in ways that can make or break a long ride to Macclenny or Gainesville:

• Hip Room: The K5’s front-row bucket seats measure 56.6 inches across, a full two inches wider than the Sonata front seats.
• Second Row: Rear passengers can get more comfortable in the K5, with an extra inch-plus of head room and leg room.
• Passenger Volume: In terms of volume, these small differences add up to an extra cubic foot (and then some) of total passenger volume for the K5.

Kia K5 vs. Hyundai Sonata: Performance

Both sedans run on a 1.6L turbocharged I-4 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, so you can expect near-identical acceleration and performance on Live Oak-area highways. Take a closer look at the specs here:

2023 Kia K5 Engine Specs

• 29 city/38 highway MPG
• 180 hp @ 5500 RPM
• 195 pound-feet of torque @ 1500 RPM

2022 Hyundai Sonata Engine Specs

• 28 city/38 highway MPG
• 191 hp @ 6100 RPM
• 181 pound-feet of torque @ 4000 RPM

Compare the Kia K5 vs. Hyundai Sonata in Lake City

If you’re interested in learning more about the K5, check out our guide to the 2022 trim levels and features. Or, please feel welcome to visit us here at Rountree Moore Kia to take a test drive! We’re here to assist with the next steps, whether you’d like to continue your research or explore leasing vs. financing options. Contact us to get started today!