2021 Kia K5 vs 2022 Kia Forte

2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia Forte
2022 Kia Forte
$19,090MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia Forte
$19,090MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview

MSRP

$23,590

MSRP

$19,090

Average price

$22,858

Average price

$19,296

Listings

1274

Listings

738
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 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
  • Spacious
  • Impressive technology
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Noisy
  • Unimpressive NHTSA crash-test rating

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.

2022 Kia Forte Reviews Summary

With inflation and gas prices delivering a one-two punch to American budgets, could compact cars like the 2022 Kia Forte make a comeback? The segment is full of good choices, and you can easily get one with all of the modern infotainment technology and safety features for under $30,000. Plus, today’s compact cars are the size of midsize sedans from a decade or two ago.

Good thing Kia has updated the 2022 Forte with sharper styling and new infotainment, driver assist, and collision avoidance systems. Just in case consumers decide their next ride needs to be thriftier and more affordable.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 147 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

147 hp @ 6200 rpm

MPG City

27

MPG City

29

MPG Highway

37

MPG Highway

39
2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia Forte
2022 Kia Forte
$19,090MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia Forte
$19,090MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Overview
MSRP
$23,590
$19,090
Average price
$22,858
$19,296
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
4.7
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 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
  • Spacious
  • Impressive technology
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Noisy
  • Unimpressive NHTSA crash-test rating
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.

With inflation and gas prices delivering a one-two punch to American budgets, could compact cars like the 2022 Kia Forte make a comeback? The segment is full of good choices, and you can easily get one with all of the modern infotainment technology and safety features for under $30,000. Plus, today’s compact cars are the size of midsize sedans from a decade or two ago.

Good thing Kia has updated the 2022 Forte with sharper styling and new infotainment, driver assist, and collision avoidance systems. Just in case consumers decide their next ride needs to be thriftier and more affordable.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.6L 180 hp I4
2.0L 147 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
147 hp @ 6200 rpm
MPG City
27
29
MPG Highway
37
39
CarGurus logo

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.