2021 Kia K5 vs 2022 Subaru WRX

2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Subaru WRX
2022 Subaru WRX
$29,605MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru WRX
$29,605MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Subaru WRX scores 6.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Kia K5 emerges as the more highly rated option, offering a well-equipped interior, advanced technology features, and competitive pricing across different trims. Therefore, the 2021 Kia K5 is the recommended choice based on this comparison.

Overview

MSRP

$23,590

MSRP

$29,605

Average price

$22,779

Average price

$30,065

Listings

1295

Listings

501
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

6.8 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
  • Fun to drive
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Manual transmission available
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Advanced safety features are not standard

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 Subaru WRX Reviews Summary

The 2022 WRX delivers a cocktail of performance and all-weather practicality that remains unmatched at its price point. Although the introduction of Subaru’s 2.4-liter engine doesn’t result in a massive power bump for the WRX, the car still impresses—particularly in the handling department.
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Engine

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

27

MPG City

MPG Highway

37

MPG Highway

2021 Kia K5
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru WRX
2022 Subaru WRX
$29,605MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Kia K5
$23,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru WRX
$29,605MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Subaru WRX scores 6.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Kia K5 emerges as the more highly rated option, offering a well-equipped interior, advanced technology features, and competitive pricing across different trims. Therefore, the 2021 Kia K5 is the recommended choice based on this comparison.

Overview
MSRP
$23,590
$29,605
Average price
$22,779
$30,065
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
5.0
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

6.8 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
  • Fun to drive
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Manual transmission available
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
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 2022 WRX delivers a cocktail of performance and all-weather practicality that remains unmatched at its price point. Although the introduction of Subaru’s 2.4-liter engine doesn’t result in a massive power bump for the WRX, the car still impresses—particularly in the handling department.
Video
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.6L 180 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
27
MPG Highway
37
Look and feel
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2022 Subaru WRX
8/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Kia K5 and the 2022 Subaru WRX both receive an 8 out of 10 rating for their look and feel. The 2021 Kia K5, with its fastback form and stylish design, represents a symbolic break from Kia’s past, exuding sportiness and quality. On the other hand, the 2022 Subaru WRX features a more subtle front end and significant changes along the side, with a more streamlined appearance compared to its predecessor.
Performance
2021 Kia K5
6/10
2022 Subaru WRX
6/10
CarGurus experts rate both the 2021 Kia K5 and the 2022 Subaru WRX with a 6 out of 10 for performance. The 2021 Kia K5, particularly the GT-Line model, offers a sporty appearance but falls short on handling, while the GT trim promises a more powerful engine. On the other hand, the 2022 Subaru WRX features a new 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and a choice between a manual transmission and a continuously variable automatic transmission.
Form and function
2021 Kia K5
9/10
2022 Subaru WRX
7/10
The 2021 Kia K5 receives a 9 out of 10 rating for form and function, offering ample space for passengers and a well-equipped interior. In comparison, the 2022 Subaru WRX scores a 7 out of 10, with a slight increase in cargo capacity and comfortable sport seats.
Technology
2021 Kia K5
7/10
2022 Subaru WRX
8/10
The 2021 Kia K5 is rated 7 out of 10 for technology, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, while the 2022 Subaru WRX scores an 8 out of 10, boasting an impressive 11.6-inch touchscreen display and a Harmon Kardon stereo system.
Safety
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2022 Subaru WRX
5/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Kia K5 receives an 8 out of 10 for safety, offering a range of standard safety features and a strong chassis. On the other hand, the 2022 Subaru WRX scores a 5 out of 10, with standard EyeSight safety features for CVT-equipped models but not available for manual transmission models.
Cost Effectiveness
2021 Kia K5
8/10
2022 Subaru WRX
7/10
The 2021 Kia K5 is rated 8 out of 10 for cost effectiveness, offering a range of trims with competitive pricing, while the 2022 Subaru WRX is expected to remain within the price range of the 2021 model, providing AWD performance at an attractive price point.
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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.