2021 Kia K5 vs 2021 Honda Accord

2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Honda Accord
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

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.

Overview

MSRP

$23,590

MSRP

$24,970

Average price

$21,901

Average price

$24,852

Listings

1276

Listings

2029
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

9.2 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Fun to drive
  • Stylish design
Cons
  • Drives less sporty than it looks
  • All-wheel drive not available
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great handling
  • Spacious
Cons
  • All-wheel drive not available
  • Outdated technology

2021 Kia K5 Reviews 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.

2021 Honda Accord Reviews Summary

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.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Engine

1.5L 192 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

192 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

27

MPG City

30

MPG Highway

37

MPG Highway

38
2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Honda Accord
$24,970MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

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.

Overview
MSRP
$23,590
$24,970
Average price
$21,901
$24,852
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
4.8
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

9.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Fun to drive
  • Stylish design
Cons
  • Drives less sporty than it looks
  • All-wheel drive not available
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great handling
  • Spacious
Cons
  • All-wheel drive not available
  • Outdated technology
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
Look and feel
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2021 Honda Accord
8/10
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
2021 Kia K5
6/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
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
2021 Kia K5
9/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
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
2021 Kia K5
7/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
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
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2021 Honda Accord
9/10
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.
Cost Effectiveness
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2021 Honda Accord
10/10
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