2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2022 Kia K5

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, a continuation of the eighth-generation Sonata introduced in 2020, maintained its bold and distinctive styling. Despite the aggressive designs prevalent in the sedan market, the Sonata Hybrid stood out with its unique catfish-like appearance. The test model's matte gray paint, integrated deck-lid spoiler, and aerodynamic taillight strakes added to its striking presence. Inside, the cabin was more conventional yet refined, featuring soft-touch surfaces and a modern haptic bezel surrounding the vivid touchscreen infotainment system. The seats were comfortable and supportive, making long trips enjoyable for both front and rear passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia K5 presented a sleek, low, and long design that suggested a luxury sports sedan rather than a practical family car. The K5 continued the design leadership established by its predecessor, the Optima. The test car's Glacial White Pearl paint paired with Ash Blue synthetic leather and matte-finish fake wood trim created an upscale interior ambiance. The K5 exuded quality, with solid controls and a refined feel throughout the cabin. The automatic transmission shifter, door release handles, and steering wheel stalks all contributed to a sense of solidity and care in construction, making the K5 feel like a bargain-priced yet well-crafted vehicle.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a battery pack, delivering a combined 192 horsepower to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited trim featured a solar panel roof, adding about two miles per day to the driving range. The Sonata Hybrid offered solid pickup, with quick acceleration and enough power for highway speeds. The Drive Mode toggle allowed drivers to switch between Eco, Sport, Custom, and Smart modes, with flashy graphics in the instrument panel enhancing the experience. The hybrid system often started in battery-only mode, with a seamless transition to the engine. The steering was light yet precise, and the brakes provided solid stopping power with a refined pedal feel.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, the GT was the most expensive and least efficient version, lacking all-wheel drive. The standard K5 featured a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, offering linear power delivery with minimal lag. The Drive Mode Select allowed calibration of the powertrain, and Active Sound Control added personality to the car. The K5 EX returned 29.1 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA's 31 mpg estimate. While road noise was noticeable, wind noise was minimal, and the K5's handling was decent, though not as engaging as some competitors.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered 16 cubic feet of trunk space, matching the conventionally-powered Sonata and surpassing the Camry Hybrid. The cabin provided ample legroom for front passengers and decent rear-seat space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The sloping roofline resulted in a low rear door opening, but once inside, rear headroom was adequate. Front passengers had access to cargo pockets and a center console, with a wireless charging pad in the test model.

The 2022 Kia K5 prioritized comfort, featuring dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and rear air conditioning vents. The panoramic glass sunroof added natural light to the interior. While entry and exit were more challenging due to the low-slung design, the seats were comfortable, and the SynTex synthetic leather was convincing. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space, though reclined front seats could be a hindrance. The K5's controls were logically laid out, blending style with utility. Storage space was generous, with a roomy center armrest bin, smartphone charging slot, and integrated door panel trays. The 16 cubic-foot trunk offered ample cargo space, expandable with the 60/40-split folding back seat.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Limited trim featured a 10.25-inch screen with navigation and real-time traffic updates. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though CarPlay only occupied two-thirds of the larger screen. The intuitive layout and crisp graphics enhanced the user experience, with a traditional volume knob and haptic buttons for channel selection. The Limited trim included a wireless charging pad and a head-up display, though taller drivers might find the HUD's adjustability limited.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered two infotainment systems, with the LX and LXS trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT-Line trim and above had a 10.25-inch screen, requiring a cable for smartphone integration. The larger screen included satellite radio, Kia Connect services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Sounds of Nature tracks. A wireless smartphone charger was standard on most trims, and the Premium package added a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a thoughtful addition, though the voice recognition technology was lacking.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver-attention monitor were also standard. The Limited trim added a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view monitor, and parking sensors. The Sonata Hybrid earned a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety, with the Kia Drive Wise collection offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The EX Premium package added cyclist detection, Junction Turning Assist, adaptive cruise control, and Highway Driving Assist. The K5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Highway Drive Assist was particularly impressive, providing a refined and effective driving experience.