2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Lexus ES

The 2022 Lexus ES had long been a staple in the Lexus lineup, evolving over seven generations since its debut in 1990. Despite a decline in sales since its peak in 2007, the ES remained a popular choice among an older demographic. Lexus faced the challenge of attracting younger buyers without alienating its loyal customer base, resulting in a design that was both safe and slightly unconventional. The latest generation, launched in 2018, was built on the Global Architecture-K platform, offering a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with optional all-wheel drive. The ES featured elegant proportions and a sleek roofline, though its prominent spindle grille and assertive headlamp shapes were polarizing. Inside, the ES boasted a well-assembled interior with bold two-tone leather seating in the F Sport model, though the asymmetrical dashboard design was somewhat cluttered.

The 2022 Kia K5, available in multiple trims, offered a unique and sleek design that stood out on the road. The K5 EX test car featured a Glacial White Pearl exterior with an Ash Blue synthetic leather interior, accented by matte-finish fake wood trim and polished metallic accents. The K5 exuded quality, with solid controls and a refined feel. The automatic transmission shifter, door release handles, and steering wheel stalks all demonstrated a sense of solidity. Despite some hard plastic surfaces, the K5's interior was upscale, and the car's overall design suggested a luxury sports sedan rather than a practical family sedan. The K5's styling continued the tradition of its predecessor, the Optima, as a design leader in its segment.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models with distinct powertrains. The base ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It achieved an EPA rating of 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway/28 mpg combined. The ES 350, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The hybrid ES 300h combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a net 215 hp, achieving 43 mpg city/44 mpg highway/44 mpg combined. The ES 250 AWD test car, while smooth and predictable, felt slow for a luxury sedan, with the V6 and hybrid variants offering more engaging performance and better fuel economy.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the performance leader, with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. However, the K5 EX test car featured a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, offering linear power delivery and decent acceleration. The K5's Drive Mode Select allowed for powertrain calibration, and Active Sound Control added personality to the driving experience. The K5 EX returned 29.1 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA's 31 mpg combined rating. While road noise and suspension issues affected ride quality, the K5's handling was reasonably capable, though not as engaging as some competitors.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space, with a pass-through for long items and fold-flat rear seats in the ES 250 and ES 350 models. The sedan's lower center of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling compared to its SUV counterpart, the Lexus RX. Inside, the ES featured ample storage, including bottle pockets, cupholders, and a spacious glove compartment. The dashboard layout was functional, with a prominent volume knob for the audio system.

The 2022 Kia K5 provided comfort with dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The K5's interior was spacious, with plenty of room for rear passengers and generous storage options, including a roomy center armrest bin and a dedicated smartphone charging slot. The K5's 16 cubic-foot trunk offered ample cargo space, expandable with the 60/40-split folding back seat. However, the lack of a handle on the inside of the trunk lid was a minor inconvenience.

The 2022 Lexus ES came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker Pioneer sound system. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson audio, and a head-up display. The ES featured a touchpad interface, which was an improvement over previous setups but still challenging to use on rough roads. Lexus Enform connected services included Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote, with various trial memberships.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered two infotainment systems, with the base 8-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch touchscreen on higher trims required a cable connection for smartphone integration but added satellite radio, navigation, and Kia Connect services. A wireless smartphone charger and a 12-speaker Bose audio system were available. The K5's voice recognition technology was lacking, but the infotainment system's graphics and features like Leading Vehicle Departure Alert added value.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, thanks to its standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which included a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags.

The 2022 Kia K5 also earned top safety ratings, with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems under the Kia Drive Wise collection. Features included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. The EX Premium package added cyclist detection, Junction Turning Assist, and Highway Driving Assist, among other features. The K5's safety technology was praised for its effectiveness, though some features required refinement.