2022 BMW i4 vs 2022 Kia K5

The 2022 Kia K5 was available in several trim levels, each equipped with a turbocharged engine, and some offered an optional all-wheel-drive system. The base prices ranged from $23,790 to $31,190, excluding the destination charge. The test car, a K5 EX with front-wheel drive, extra-cost paint, and the EX Premium option package, had an MSRP of $33,945, including destination. The K5 was noted for its distinctive styling, resembling a luxury sports sedan rather than a practical family car. The interior featured a combination of synthetic leather and matte-finish fake wood trim, creating an upscale feel despite some hard plastic surfaces. The controls conveyed a sense of quality, with a solid feel to the transmission shifter, door release handles, and steering wheel stalks.

The 2022 BMW i4 shared its styling with the gasoline 4 Series Gran Coupe, featuring an oversized grille and a four-door sedan design with a rear hatch. The i4 was more aerodynamic than its gasoline counterpart, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base eDrive40 and 0.25 for the M50. The i4's design included a smooth underbody, front spoiler, rear diffuser, and an active flap for airflow control. The interior balanced minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls. Material quality was up to BMW's standards, though leather upholstery was not standard. The i4's design aimed to provide a sporty yet comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the performance-oriented model, featuring a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, it was the most expensive and least efficient version, lacking all-wheel drive. The standard K5 engine was a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder, producing 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, with power delivery that was surprisingly linear. The K5 EX, with its 1.6-liter turbo, offered decent performance for daily driving, though it lacked surplus passing power. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 31 mpg, but the test car returned 29.1 mpg. The K5's ride quality was affected by road noise and suspension issues, but it handled speed bumps well and had excellent outward visibility.

The 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40 had 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The M50 model, with a two-motor powertrain, produced 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The i4's battery pack contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling despite its weight. Both models featured rear air suspension and lift-related shocks, with the M50 offering adaptive M suspension and sport brakes. The test car's adaptive suspension provided a smooth ride, and the steering and brakes delivered a precise and communicative driving experience. The i4's regenerative braking system was adaptive, though it sometimes lacked the strength for one-pedal driving.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered comfort with dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and a heated steering wheel. The panoramic sunroof added natural light to the interior. While the low-slung design made entry and exit challenging, the front seats were comfortable, and rear passengers had ample space. The K5's controls were logically arranged, and storage space was generous, with a 16 cubic-foot trunk and folding rear seats for additional cargo space.

The 2022 BMW i4 had a low seating position despite the battery pack, with limited headroom due to the fastback roof. The interior felt open, with an efficiently designed center console. However, the seats were flat and hard, lacking bolstering. The i4's cargo space was limited to 10 cubic feet, less than competitors, but the hatchback design allowed for easier loading. The i4 lacked a front trunk, unlike some rivals.

The 2022 Kia K5 featured two infotainment systems, with the base models having an 8-inch touchscreen and higher trims a 10.25-inch display. The larger screen required a cable for smartphone integration, but offered satellite radio, navigation, and Kia Connect services. A wireless charger and Bose audio system were available. The voice recognition system was limited, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2022 BMW i4 showcased the iDrive8 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and OTA updates. The user experience was familiar to BMW drivers, with a rotary controller and effective voice recognition system, reducing the need for touchscreen use.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The EX Premium package added cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. The K5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 BMW i4's safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Parking Assistant Package offered a 360-degree camera and parking assistance. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.