2022 Lexus IS vs 2022 Kia K5

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance carried forward the legacy of its predecessor, the 2008 Lexus IS F, with a similar formula. It featured a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Priced at $56,500, plus a $1,075 destination charge, it offered a thrilling driving experience, blending emotional excitement with daily comfort and reliability. The IS 500 F Sport Performance maintained a subtle yet powerful presence, with minor trim modifications and exclusive 19-inch wheels, while its interior mirrored the IS 350 F Sport, providing a comfortable and quality space for four passengers.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia K5 presented a striking design, with its low, long, and sleek appearance suggesting a luxury sports sedan. Available in various trims, the K5 offered a turbocharged engine across the lineup, with the LXS and GT-Line providing optional all-wheel drive. Our test car, a K5 EX, featured front-wheel drive, a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, and a price of $33,945, including destination. The K5's interior, adorned with Ash Blue synthetic leather and polished metallic accents, exuded an upscale feel. Despite some hard plastic surfaces, the cabin was well-constructed, with controls that conveyed a sense of quality and solidity.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance was a powerhouse, equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering 472 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 395 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive sedan featured an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential, offering driving modes like Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Sport+. The IS 500 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, thanks to its adaptive variable suspension and Yamaha rear performance damper, which enhanced ride comfort and stability. Despite its thrilling performance, the IS 500's fuel efficiency was a drawback, averaging 17.7 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT, the performance variant, boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, the K5 GT lacked all-wheel drive and was less fuel-efficient. The standard K5 models featured a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, offering a linear power delivery. The K5's Drive Mode Select allowed customization of the powertrain, while the EX model's Active Sound Control added character to the driving experience. The K5 EX achieved 29.1 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA's 31 mpg estimate.

The 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance excelled in comfort, with its effective climate control system and seat ventilation. The front seats provided excellent support and a snug fit, while the rear seats accommodated average-height adults. However, the IS 500's storage space was limited, with a small 10.8 cubic-foot trunk. The control layout was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs clearly labeled, enhancing the overall driving experience.

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

The 2022 Lexus IS featured a touchscreen infotainment system, solving previous ergonomic issues. The IS 500 Premium included a 10.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. The dynamic voice command system was highly effective, handling queries accurately. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered two infotainment systems. The standard setup included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen, requiring a cable for smartphone integration. The K5's Premium package added a 12-speaker Bose audio system. However, the K5's voice recognition technology was lacking, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2022 Lexus IS came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. While some features were helpful, others could be irritating. The IS earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a "Top Safety Pick+" designation and a five-star overall rating.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety, with the Kia Drive Wise package offering a range of driver assistance systems. The EX Premium package added advanced features like cyclist detection and Highway Driving Assist. The K5 achieved a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.