2021 Kia K5 vs 2021 Honda Accord
Overview | |
MSRP$23,590 | MSRP$24,970 |
Listings883 | Listings1267 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews9.2 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2021 Kia K5 Reviews SummarySedans are now the most exciting new cars in the mainstream market. They are to crossovers today what craft beer was in the early 2000s. They’re not on every corner anymore because Americans prefer trucks over cars, but sedans like the 2021 Kia K5 are refreshing to see, surprisingly good to drive, and will make you look cultured and smart without having to try. The K5—and its new name—replaces the Optima and upgrades nearly everything in the pursuit of style and performance. It’s one of the best midsize sedans out there. | |
2021 Honda Accord Reviews SummaryFor the 2021 model year, Honda is taking the Accord in a more elevated direction. The company has refined the Accord’s features list, added a trim level, and priced it right to compete against other heavyweights in the industry. Honda has made safety a priority in the 2021 Accord, helping this fresh version earn high praise. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine1.6L 180 hp I4 | Engine1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower180 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City27 | MPG City30 |
MPG Highway37 | MPG Highway38 |
Engine | |
Engine Name1.6L 180 hp I4 | Engine Name1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Torque195 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | Torque192 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower180 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City27 | MPG City30 |
MPG Highway37 | MPG Highway38 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space16.0 cu ft | Cargo Space16.7 cu ft |
Curb Weight3115 lbs | Curb Weight3150 lbs |
Height56.9 in | Height57.1 in |
Length193.1 in | Length196.1 in |
Width73.2 in | Width73.3 in |
Wheelbase112.2 in | Wheelbase111.4 in |
Maximum Payload1239 lbs | Maximum Payload1149 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $23,590 | $24,970 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 9.2 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | Sedans are now the most exciting new cars in the mainstream market. They are to crossovers today what craft beer was in the early 2000s. They’re not on every corner anymore because Americans prefer trucks over cars, but sedans like the 2021 Kia K5 are refreshing to see, surprisingly good to drive, and will make you look cultured and smart without having to try. The K5—and its new name—replaces the Optima and upgrades nearly everything in the pursuit of style and performance. It’s one of the best midsize sedans out there. | For the 2021 model year, Honda is taking the Accord in a more elevated direction. The company has refined the Accord’s features list, added a trim level, and priced it right to compete against other heavyweights in the industry. Honda has made safety a priority in the 2021 Accord, helping this fresh version earn high praise. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 1.6L 180 hp I4 | 1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 180 hp @ 5500 rpm | 192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City | 27 | 30 |
MPG Highway | 37 | 38 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 1.6L 180 hp I4 | 1.5L 192 hp I4 |
Torque | 195 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | 192 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower | 180 hp @ 5500 rpm | 192 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 27 | 30 |
MPG Highway | 37 | 38 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 16.0 cu ft | 16.7 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3115 lbs | 3150 lbs |
Height | 56.9 in | 57.1 in |
Length | 193.1 in | 196.1 in |
Width | 73.2 in | 73.3 in |
Wheelbase | 112.2 in | 111.4 in |
Maximum Payload | 1239 lbs | 1149 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Look and feel
The 2021 Kia K5 emerged as a beacon of refreshment in the sedan market, replacing the Optima with a significant upgrade in style and performance. It stands out as a testament to Kia's evolution, offering a driving experience that makes it one of the best midsize sedans available. The 2021 Honda Accord, on the other hand, elevated its game by refining features, adding a new trim level, and prioritizing safety, securing its position as a top contender in the midsize sedan category through thoughtful design and competitive pricing.
Performance
The performance ratings from CarGurus experts place the Kia K5 at 6 out of 10 and the Honda Accord at a superior 9 out of 10. The K5's GT-Line styling promises more than it delivers in terms of handling and performance, with its standard engine providing satisfactory but not thrilling power. Although fuel economy is impressive, the absence of all-wheel drive in higher trims and the overall driving experience fell short of sporty expectations.
Conversely, the Honda Accord offers two engine choices, neither compromising on efficiency or drivability. The turbocharged engines provide a satisfying blend of power and fuel economy, with the more potent 2.0-liter offering an engaging driving experience. Despite the lack of all-wheel drive, the Accord's performance is balanced, with upgraded braking systems and paddle shifters enhancing its appeal.
Form and function
Both the 2021 Kia K5 and the 2021 Honda Accord excel in providing a comfortable and functional interior space, earning each a 9 out of 10 rating. The Kia K5, despite its sleek, raked profile, comfortably accommodates two adults in the back, thanks to a smart interior design that maximizes headroom and legroom. The absence of rear air vents is a minor oversight in an otherwise well-thought-out cabin. The front seats strike a perfect balance between support and comfort, ideal for long journeys. The K5's trunk offers 16 cubic feet of space, ample for luggage and groceries, and the layout of controls and the infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly. A wireless charging pad adds a convenient touch for modern-day needs.
The Honda Accord, designed with daily practicality in mind, matches this with its stylish yet spacious interior, capable of comfortably seating five adults. It ensures ample room across both rows, with generous head-, hip-, and legroom. The Accord steps ahead slightly in terms of cargo capacity, offering 16.7 cubic feet in the trunk, providing a bit more space for luggage compared to the K5. The cabin is equipped with a range of standard convenience features across all trims, including dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start. The higher trims add luxurious touches such as leather-wrapped steering wheels and two-position seating memory, alongside heated and ventilated seats for maximum comfort. Rear seats with a 60/40 split not only enhance passenger comfort but also flexibility in handling larger cargo.
Both sedans demonstrate a keen understanding of form and function, offering interiors that blend comfort, style, and practicality. While both vehicles offer commendable trunk space, the slight edge in cargo capacity might sway some buyers towards the Honda Accord, especially those prioritizing luggage space alongside interior comfort and design.
Technology
Technology ratings differ, with the Kia K5 receiving a 7 out of 10 and the Honda Accord a 9 out of 10. The K5 offers a robust standard technology package with wireless connectivity features and a user-friendly infotainment system, albeit with minor glitches and limitations in higher trims. Optional upgrades enhance its appeal but still leave room for improvement compared to rivals.
The Accord shines in this category, providing a comprehensive suite of technology features across all trims. Its infotainment system is intuitive and well-designed, supplemented by a range of connectivity options and premium audio systems in higher trims. Honda's integration of advanced technology, even in base models, sets a high standard for the segment.
Safety
On safety, the Kia K5 is rated 8 out of 10, while the Honda Accord leads with a 9 out of 10. The K5 offers a solid array of standard safety features. Its comprehensive safety package includes several unique aids, reinforcing Kia's commitment to passenger safety.
The Accord's safety credentials are well-established, with top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, and a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety technologies. Its performance in safety tests and the inclusion of advanced driver-assistance features across all trims affirm Honda's dedication to safety.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. The Honda Accord comes out on top in this comparison, offering a superior blend of performance, technology, safety, and value. Its consistent excellence across multiple categories establishes it as the preferred choice for midsize sedan buyers.
Choose the 2021 Kia K5 if:
- You value a sporty design and unique styling inside and out.
- Fuel economy and a competitive warranty are top priorities.
- You're looking for a sedan with a solid blend of standard features and driving comfort.
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Choose the 2021 Honda Accord if:
- You prioritize safety and technology in your vehicle.
- A more engaging driving experience with efficient powertrain options is desired.
- You seek a car with high resale value and cost-effectiveness over time.
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CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Honda Accord scores 9.2 out of 10. The Honda Accord comes out on top in this comparison, offering a superior blend of performance, technology, safety, and value. Its consistent excellence across multiple categories establishes it as the preferred choice for midsize sedan buyers.
Choose the 2021 Kia K5 if:
Shop Now- You value a sporty design and unique styling inside and out.
- Fuel economy and a competitive warranty are top priorities.
- You're looking for a sedan with a solid blend of standard features and driving comfort.
895 results
Choose the 2021 Honda Accord if:
Shop Now- You prioritize safety and technology in your vehicle.
- A more engaging driving experience with efficient powertrain options is desired.
- You seek a car with high resale value and cost-effectiveness over time.
1287 results
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.
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