2021 Lexus ES vs 2021 Kia K5

The 2021 Kia K5 represented a fresh identity for Kia, moving away from its past of drab and unattractive sedans. It was a symbolic break from the Optima, with a design that was both sporty and sophisticated. The K5's fastback form and GT-Line trim, featuring flat Wolf Gray paint and red seats, gave it an Audi A5 Sportback-like appearance. The car's design was highlighted by unique taillights, a long rear window, and a killer front with Z-shaped LED running lights. Despite some fake vents and exhaust tips, the K5's proportions made it sportier, with a lower and longer stance than the Optima. The interior was equally impressive, with a driver-focused dash, red seats, and quality materials, exuding sportiness and quality.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus ES expanded its lineup with the new ES 250 series, offering a 2.5-liter engine and AWD. The ES 350, with a 3.5-liter V6, was available in various trims, including the F Sport Black Line Special Edition. This edition featured unique styling elements, such as black wheels and a black and white interior, and came with a limited production run. The ES's design was characterized by its dramatic grille and artful details, with the F Sport trim adding sporty touches. Inside, the ES offered a striking black and white interior with quality materials, maintaining its reputation as a luxurious sedan.

The 2021 Kia K5, particularly in the GT-Line trim, did not deliver the sporty performance its aggressive styling suggested. The standard 1.6-liter turbo-four engine produced 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, providing decent acceleration but lacking the verve of a true sports sedan. The GT trim promised better performance with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 290 horsepower, but it was limited to FWD, which could be problematic without a limited-slip differential. The K5's fuel economy was impressive, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway for FWD models. However, the GT-Line's handling fell short of expectations, making it more of an appearance package.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The ES 350 F Sport, with its adaptive damping suspension, offered Sport+ and Custom driving modes, enhancing its driving dynamics. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, the ES 350 F Sport demonstrated unexpected competence and driving enjoyment, especially in Sport modes. While not an outright sports sedan, the ES 350 F Sport provided a firm ride, flat cornering stance, and overall athleticism, making it a sporty yet comfortable cruiser.

The 2021 Kia K5 offered a comfortable interior for both front and rear passengers, with supportive front seats and ample headroom and legroom for rear passengers. However, it lacked rear air vents, which should have been standard. The K5's infotainment system was user-friendly, with an optional 10-inch display. Trunk space was generous at 16 cubic feet, providing ample storage for a sedan.

The 2021 Lexus ES excelled in interior comfort, with sport-bolstered front seats offering 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom and comfort, with rear air vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The ES's interior layout was unique yet functional, with excellent outward visibility. Storage was plentiful, though configured with nooks and crannies. The trunk measured 13.9 cubic feet, slightly smaller than some competitors, but the hands-free power trunk was a convenient feature.

The 2021 Kia K5 came equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to set up. Standard features included LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and lane-keep assist. The GT-Line trim added 18-inch wheels, fog lights, and a power driver's seat. The EX trim offered heated and ventilated seats, a Bose stereo, and a 10-inch infotainment system. The K5's adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist provided semi-automated driving capabilities.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a touchpad interface that required attention to operate, but its dynamic voice command technology was excellent. The optional 12.3-inch widescreen display enhanced the infotainment experience, though it was not a touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker sound system. The Mark Levinson high-end sound system was available for audiophiles. The ES's connected services offered free trial periods, with dynamic navigation and voice command technology available with the larger display.

The 2021 Kia K5 was equipped with a robust suite of safety features, including forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Blind-spot monitoring and Safe Exit Assist were standard on LXS and above trims. The K5's stronger chassis and body shell suggested it would receive top safety ratings, though it had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2021 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System 2.0, which included forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims except the base. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.