2022 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2021 Kia K5
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta scores 6.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Kia K5 is the recommended choice for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped sedan.
Choose the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta if:
- You want a compact car with excellent fuel economy for city commuting.
- You appreciate a driver-centric cabin with intuitive controls and ample storage.
- You prefer a vehicle with a comprehensive driver-assistance package.
Choose the 2021 Kia K5 if:
- You prioritize a stylish and sporty design with a well-crafted interior.
- You value a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for long drives.
- You seek a vehicle with a strong suite of standard safety features.
Overview | |
MSRP$23,590 | MSRP$20,365 |
Average price$21,696 | Average price$19,955 |
Listings1298 | Listings249 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.7 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2021 Kia K5 Reviews SummarySedans 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 Volkswagen Jetta Reviews SummaryVolkswagen’s career sales leader, the Jetta receives a mild but value-minded refresh for the 2022 model year. Although the compact sedan’s lineup has been pared down (farewell, SEL Premium and R-Line), the Jetta’s standard features, technology, and power rating get a welcomed boost. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine1.6L 180 hp I4 | Engine1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower180 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower |
MPG City27 | MPG City29 |
MPG Highway37 | MPG Highway43 |
Engine | |
Engine Name1.6L 180 hp I4 | Engine Name1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Torque195 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | Torque |
Horsepower180 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City27 | MPG City29 |
MPG Highway37 | MPG Highway43 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity5 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space16.0 cu ft | Cargo Space14.1 cu ft |
Curb Weight3115 lbs | Curb Weight2915 lbs |
Height56.9 in | Height57.7 in |
Length193.1 in | Length186.5 in |
Width73.2 in | Width70.8 in |
Wheelbase112.2 in | Wheelbase105.7 in |
Maximum Payload1239 lbs | Maximum Payload915 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Kia K5 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta scores 6.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Kia K5 is the recommended choice for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped sedan.
Choose the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta if:
Shop Now- You want a compact car with excellent fuel economy for city commuting.
- You appreciate a driver-centric cabin with intuitive controls and ample storage.
- You prefer a vehicle with a comprehensive driver-assistance package.
Choose the 2021 Kia K5 if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a stylish and sporty design with a well-crafted interior.
- You value a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for long drives.
- You seek a vehicle with a strong suite of standard safety features.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $23,590 | $20,365 |
Average price | $21,696 | $19,955 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.7 | 5.0 |
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 6.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
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. | Volkswagen’s career sales leader, the Jetta receives a mild but value-minded refresh for the 2022 model year. Although the compact sedan’s lineup has been pared down (farewell, SEL Premium and R-Line), the Jetta’s standard features, technology, and power rating get a welcomed boost. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 1.6L 180 hp I4 | 1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Horsepower | 180 hp @ 5500 rpm | |
MPG City | 27 | 29 |
MPG Highway | 37 | 43 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 1.6L 180 hp I4 | 1.5L 158 hp I4 |
Torque | 195 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | |
Horsepower | 180 hp @ 5500 rpm | |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 27 | 29 |
MPG Highway | 37 | 43 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 16.0 cu ft | 14.1 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3115 lbs | 2915 lbs |
Height | 56.9 in | 57.7 in |
Length | 193.1 in | 186.5 in |
Width | 73.2 in | 70.8 in |
Wheelbase | 112.2 in | 105.7 in |
Maximum Payload | 1239 lbs | 915 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
The 2021 Kia K5 represented a significant shift in Kia's design philosophy, moving away from the brand's past of uninspiring sedans. With its fastback form and striking GT-Line trim, the K5 was reminiscent of the more performance-oriented Kia Stinger. The vehicle's design was marked by a long rear window, unique taillights, and a sleek front with Z-shaped LED running lights. Despite some fake vents and exhaust tips, the K5's proportions gave it a sporty appearance, enhanced by its lower and longer stance compared to the Optima. Inside, the K5's interior was driver-focused, featuring a split dash, red seats, and quality materials that exuded sportiness and quality.
In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta maintained its status as a best-seller for the brand, even amidst challenging market conditions. The Jetta received a mild makeover with subtle exterior tweaks, including a redesigned grille and bumper with more chrome accents. The Jetta's design was understated, likened to a suitcase in its simplicity. However, the vehicle's profile appeared more aggressive due to its lower front fascia and new wheel designs. Inside, the Jetta offered a comfortable cabin with ergonomic controls and ample storage space. The interior updates included a new rhombus pattern on the seats and contrast stitching, adding a premium touch to the overall design.
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 adequate power for city driving but lacking excitement in handling. The GT trim promised more with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 290 horsepower, but it was limited to front-wheel drive, which could lead to handling issues. The K5's fuel economy was commendable, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway for FWD models. However, the sporty trim fell short of expectations in terms of driving dynamics.
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, an upgrade from the previous year's 1.4-liter engine, offering 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Jetta's performance was adequate for city commuting, with impressive fuel economy ratings of up to 43 mpg highway for manual models. However, the Jetta's powertrain was criticized for its touchy throttle and turbo lag, leading to a less refined driving experience. The vehicle offered various drive modes, but the overall dynamics were considered tepid. Despite these shortcomings, the Jetta provided a comfortable ride on long journeys, with good visibility and supportive seats.
The 2021 Kia K5 offered a spacious interior, comfortably accommodating two adults in the back despite its raked profile. The front seats were supportive, and the cabin featured easy-to-use controls for climate and audio. The K5's trunk provided 16 cubic feet of space, with the option to fold down the rear seats for additional storage. However, the absence of rear air vents was a notable omission in terms of passenger comfort.
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta, despite its compact size, provided ample passenger space for four adults, with the option to fit a fifth. The cabin was driver-centric, with well-placed controls for climate and audio. Storage options included door pockets, a center console bin, and a sunglass holder. The Jetta's trunk space was practical, though the center storage bin lacked a latch, which was an unusual design choice.
The 2021 Kia K5 came equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to set up without factory navigation. Standard features included LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims offered additional features like a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a Bose stereo system. The GT trim added performance-oriented features like paddle shifters and 19-inch wheels.
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on the SEL trim. The infotainment system included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, while the SEL trim offered an 8-inch system with navigation and wireless charging. The Jetta's voice activation system was criticized for its lack of intuitiveness, but the touchscreen was responsive and easy to use.
The 2021 Kia K5 had not yet been rated by safety organizations, but it was expected to receive high scores due to its strong chassis and body shell. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear emergency braking.
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta came standard with IQ.Drive, which included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Jetta had not yet been rated for 2022, but the previous model received high safety ratings, with some shortcomings in headlight performance and LATCH use.
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