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2021 Kia K5 vs 2021 Toyota Camry

2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Toyota Camry
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
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 Toyota Camry scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Toyota Camry slightly edges out the Kia K5 in this comparison. The Toyota Camry's combination of performance, safety, and a slight edge in overall rating make it the recommended choice for consumers looking for a well-rounded midsize sedan. However, those drawn to the Kia K5's design, value, and comfort features will find it to be a compelling option worth considering.

Choose the 2021 Kia K5 if:

Shop Now
7.7of 10overall
  • You value a modern, sporty design with a premium feel.
  • Interior space and comfort are a priority, especially for rear-seat passengers.
  • You're attracted to a vehicle with a strong value proposition and comprehensive warranty coverage.

Choose the 2021 Toyota Camry if:

Shop Now
7.8of 10overall
  • Driving dynamics and performance are important to you, especially with options like the V6 or hybrid powertrain.
  • You prioritize safety ratings and want a vehicle recognized for its safety features.
  • Brand reputation and the potential for higher resale value are significant factors in your purchasing decision.
Overview

MSRP

$23,590

MSRP

$25,045

Average price

$22,811

Average price

$23,644

Listings

1291

Listings

3106
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 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
  • Comfortable
  • Spacious
  • TRD trim adds extra performance and style
Cons
  • Outdated technology
  • Underwhelming base engine

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 Toyota Camry Reviews Summary

The Toyota Camry has long been many new-car buyers’ default choice—but not because it’s interesting. Reliability and practicality have traditionally been the Camry’s strengths, not sportiness or style.

Toyota tried to change that for the 2018 model year, when the Camry was last redesigned. The current-generation Camry adopted more extroverted styling, and engineers tried to make the driving experience more exciting, too. While Toyota’s approach has changed, the Camry still competes against the same array of midsize sedans, including the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, and Volkswagen Passat.

Changes for the 2021 model year include subtle styling tweaks, new infotainment displays, an upgrade to the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) package of driver aids, some changes to the dashboard trim, and the discontinuation of the Camry L trim level. That leaves the Camry LE as the new base trim level.

The Camry offers buyers more choices than many rivals, encompassing three powertrains (inline-four, V6, and hybrid), six trim levels (LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade Edition, XSE, and TRD), and the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test car was an AWD SE Nightshade Edition, positioned close to the middle of the lineup.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Engine

2.5L 203 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

27

MPG City

28

MPG Highway

37

MPG Highway

39
2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Toyota Camry
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
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 Toyota Camry scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Toyota Camry slightly edges out the Kia K5 in this comparison. The Toyota Camry's combination of performance, safety, and a slight edge in overall rating make it the recommended choice for consumers looking for a well-rounded midsize sedan. However, those drawn to the Kia K5's design, value, and comfort features will find it to be a compelling option worth considering.

Choose the 2021 Kia K5 if:

Shop Now
7.7of 10overall
  • You value a modern, sporty design with a premium feel.
  • Interior space and comfort are a priority, especially for rear-seat passengers.
  • You're attracted to a vehicle with a strong value proposition and comprehensive warranty coverage.

Choose the 2021 Toyota Camry if:

Shop Now
7.8of 10overall
  • Driving dynamics and performance are important to you, especially with options like the V6 or hybrid powertrain.
  • You prioritize safety ratings and want a vehicle recognized for its safety features.
  • Brand reputation and the potential for higher resale value are significant factors in your purchasing decision.
Overview
MSRP
$23,590
$25,045
Average price
$22,811
$23,644
Listings
1291
Shop all listings
3106
Shop all listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
4.5
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 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
  • Comfortable
  • Spacious
  • TRD trim adds extra performance and style
Cons
  • Outdated technology
  • Underwhelming base engine
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.

The Toyota Camry has long been many new-car buyers’ default choice—but not because it’s interesting. Reliability and practicality have traditionally been the Camry’s strengths, not sportiness or style.

Toyota tried to change that for the 2018 model year, when the Camry was last redesigned. The current-generation Camry adopted more extroverted styling, and engineers tried to make the driving experience more exciting, too. While Toyota’s approach has changed, the Camry still competes against the same array of midsize sedans, including the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, and Volkswagen Passat.

Changes for the 2021 model year include subtle styling tweaks, new infotainment displays, an upgrade to the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) package of driver aids, some changes to the dashboard trim, and the discontinuation of the Camry L trim level. That leaves the Camry LE as the new base trim level.

The Camry offers buyers more choices than many rivals, encompassing three powertrains (inline-four, V6, and hybrid), six trim levels (LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade Edition, XSE, and TRD), and the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test car was an AWD SE Nightshade Edition, positioned close to the middle of the lineup.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.6L 180 hp I4
2.5L 203 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
27
28
MPG Highway
37
39
Look and feel
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2021 Toyota Camry
8/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Kia K5's look and feel at an 8 out of 10, surpassing the 2021 Toyota Camry, which scores a 6 out of 10 in this category. The Kia K5 represents a significant departure from Kia's past, showcasing a bold new identity that incorporates a sportier, more premium design reminiscent of higher-end European models. Its introduction symbolizes Kia's evolution from producing mundane to visually striking and high-quality sedans. The K5, with its fastback silhouette, Audi A5 Sportback-like appearance, detailed styling, and high-quality interior, positions itself as a standout in its segment. Contrarily, the Toyota Camry attempts to shake off its history of uninspired design with added styling details aimed at injecting excitement into its appearance. Despite these efforts, the Camry's design, marked by an overuse of fake vents and a somewhat cluttered appearance, may not appeal to everyone's tastes as strongly as the K5's cohesive and refined design.
Performance
2021 Kia K5
6/10
2021 Toyota Camry
9/10
In terms of performance, the Kia K5 earns a 6 out of 10, while the Toyota Camry outpaces it with a 9 out of 10, according to CarGurus experts. The K5's GT-Line, despite its aggressive look, falls short of delivering a true sports sedan experience, primarily due to its softer suspension and lack of paddle shifters. However, it offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, especially in its GT trim with a turbocharged engine. On the other hand, the Camry impresses with a base powertrain that delivers spirited performance and handling that balances fun and comfort. The availability of a V6 engine and a hybrid option further enhances the Camry's appeal for those seeking more power or better fuel economy. Despite the K5's aspirations, the Camry provides a more rewarding driving experience for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
Form and function
2021 Kia K5
9/10
2021 Toyota Camry
8/10
Regarding form and function, CarGurus experts award the Kia K5 a score of 9 out of 10, while the Toyota Camry receives an 8 out of 10. The Kia K5 shines in providing passenger comfort, offering abundant space for adults in the backseat despite its stylishly executed exterior design that might suggest otherwise. Its interior is not only visually appealing but also functionally superior, boasting features like a seamlessly integrated wireless charging pad and a user-friendly infotainment system. In terms of luggage capacity, the K5 provides a slightly more accommodating space at 16 cubic feet, giving it an edge over the Camry for those who value cargo room for their travels or daily needs. The Toyota Camry, while offering generous amounts of rear headroom and legroom, compromises a bit on front headroom and legroom. It comes with a cargo space of 15.1 cubic feet, which, although practical, doesn't lead the segment. Both vehicles present comfortable seating and practicality with their array of features, but the K5 marginally surpasses the Camry in this category due to its more generous space and thoughtfully designed interior features.
Technology
2021 Kia K5
7/10
2021 Toyota Camry
7/10
Technology-wise, both the Kia K5 and Toyota Camry are rated 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. The K5 impresses with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a suite of standard and available tech features that enhance convenience and comfort. Optional upgrades, like a larger touchscreen and advanced voice-command features, further enrich the K5's tech offerings. The Camry counters with a solid tech package that includes a standard infotainment system with smartphone integration, available navigation, and a premium audio system. While both sedans offer compelling technology features, neither stands out as the clear leader in this category, reflecting their equal ratings.
Safety
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2021 Toyota Camry
9/10
Safety ratings reveal a slight edge for the Toyota Camry, which scores a 9 out of 10, compared to the Kia K5's 8 out of 10. The Camry's "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and five-star NHTSA rating underscore Toyota's commitment to safety. The inclusion of the TSS 2.5+ package as standard equipment across all Camry models brings enhanced safety features that build on Toyota's already strong safety reputation. While the Kia K5 also boasts a comprehensive array of safety features and is expected to perform well in safety ratings, it has yet to match the Camry's top accolades in this category.
Cost Effectiveness
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2021 Toyota Camry
8/10
CarGurus experts rate both the Kia K5 and Toyota Camry at 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The K5 offers a compelling value proposition with its starting price, stylish design, and comprehensive warranty. The GT variant, while more expensive, promises enhanced performance that could justify its price for some buyers. The Camry, on the other hand, provides competitive fuel economy, reliable performance, and a reputation for reliability that may justify its slightly higher starting price for some consumers. Both sedans offer strong value, but the choice between them may come down to individual preferences for style, brand reputation, or specific features.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.

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