2023 Toyota Prius vs 2024 Kia K5

2023 Toyota Prius
2023 Toyota Prius
$27,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia K5
2024 Kia K5
$25,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Toyota Prius
$27,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia K5
$25,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$27,450

MSRP

$25,590

Average price

$28,562

Average price

$27,177

Listings

480

Listings

352

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10
Pros
  • More powerful than older Prius models
  • Sleek new styling
  • Excellent fuel efficiency
Cons
  • Significant price bump over previous model
  • Engine can drone loudly when pushed hard
  • Interior space and cargo room have decreased
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Concerning crash-test ratings

2023 Toyota Prius Reviews Summary

After decades of being the frumpy leader of the fuel-efficiency movement, the Prius emerges as one of the better-looking new cars to hit the market recently. This fifth-generation revelation in looks is then backed up by a huge jump in power without sacrificing any of the fuel-sipping ways of the earlier model. Add in impressive standard safety features and a reasonable suite of interior tech and comfort goodies, and you have an impressive hatchback that just now happens to be a hybrid.

Search for a Toyota Prius on CarGurus

2024 Kia K5 Reviews Summary

If you can overlook the real-world fuel economy and unimpressive crash-test ratings, then a 2024 Kia K5 is a steal of an automobile. (Don’t worry, it has an engine immobilizer system to prevent theft.) It comes in LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT trim levels, and the only change for 2024 is standard heated seats for the GT-Line trim. Turbocharging is standard, and you can get all-wheel drive if you live where the sun often doesn’t shine.

Verdict: It’s a shame Kia doesn’t offer the K5 with a hybrid powertrain, and its performance in new, tougher-to-pass crash tests is worrisome. But there is no doubt the 2024 Kia K5 is a stylish, comfortable, enjoyable, and technologically advanced midsize car. And the price is undeniably nice.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 194 hp I4 Hybrid

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

EV Battery Capacity

0.9 kWh

EV Battery Capacity

MPG City

57

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

56

MPG Highway

37
2023 Toyota Prius
2023 Toyota Prius
$27,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia K5
2024 Kia K5
$25,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Toyota Prius
$27,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2024 Kia K5
$25,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$27,450
$25,590
Average price
$28,562
$27,177
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.4
5.0
Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • More powerful than older Prius models
  • Sleek new styling
  • Excellent fuel efficiency
Cons
  • Significant price bump over previous model
  • Engine can drone loudly when pushed hard
  • Interior space and cargo room have decreased
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Concerning crash-test ratings
Summary

After decades of being the frumpy leader of the fuel-efficiency movement, the Prius emerges as one of the better-looking new cars to hit the market recently. This fifth-generation revelation in looks is then backed up by a huge jump in power without sacrificing any of the fuel-sipping ways of the earlier model. Add in impressive standard safety features and a reasonable suite of interior tech and comfort goodies, and you have an impressive hatchback that just now happens to be a hybrid.

Search for a Toyota Prius on CarGurus

If you can overlook the real-world fuel economy and unimpressive crash-test ratings, then a 2024 Kia K5 is a steal of an automobile. (Don’t worry, it has an engine immobilizer system to prevent theft.) It comes in LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT trim levels, and the only change for 2024 is standard heated seats for the GT-Line trim. Turbocharging is standard, and you can get all-wheel drive if you live where the sun often doesn’t shine.

Verdict: It’s a shame Kia doesn’t offer the K5 with a hybrid powertrain, and its performance in new, tougher-to-pass crash tests is worrisome. But there is no doubt the 2024 Kia K5 is a stylish, comfortable, enjoyable, and technologically advanced midsize car. And the price is undeniably nice.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 194 hp I4 Hybrid
1.6L 180 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
0.9 kWh
MPG City
57
27
MPG Highway
56
37
Look and feel
2023 Toyota Prius
9/10
2024 Kia K5
7/10

Toyota absolutely transformed the 2023 Prius with a complete redesign—a necessary move given the rising competition from cheaper electric cars and other hybrids. The new Prius revealed a sleeker and more contemporary look, blending curves and edges to achieve a futuristic but accessible design. Vehicle handling and aesthetics improved as the wheels were pushed further into the corners, enlightening the Prius with a planted and athletic stance. Additionally, the model got longer, lower, and wider compared to its predecessor.

The car rode comfortably on a robust platform, feeling sturdy over rough roads and never like a lightweight hybrid. The doors closed with a reassuring 'thunk,' and the interior boasted high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish. The dual-screen setup, featuring both an instrument panel and a dashboard-mounted infotainment screen, proved to be a welcome change from previous center-mounted displays.

While the cabin layout prioritized functionality over aesthetics, lacking decorative trims or avant-garde materials, the overall comfort level remained high. However, some might have found the interior a bit stark. Despite this, the new Prius represented a vast improvement in terms of both exterior attractiveness and interior refinement.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Kia K5, especially in the GT-Line trim, sported eye-catching aesthetics that drew positive attention wherever it went. Introduced in 2021 to replace the Optima, the K5 impressively captured passerby's interest with its design. The GT-Line's positioning between the base LXS and the more upscale EX trim added an attractive option for those seeking a sporty feel without breaking the bank.

For a starting price range of $25,390 to $31,790, plus destination charges, the K5 GT-Line offered excellent value. Despite a cabin somewhat laden with inexpensive plastic, the remarkable interior design showed thoughtful detailing—from textured metallic trims around the air vents to a sophisticated transmission shifter. The result was a visually compelling and semi-luxurious interior.

Performance
2023 Toyota Prius
7/10
2024 Kia K5
7/10

The 2023 Prius significantly improved its performance figures with a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, up from the previous 1.8-liter engine. Paired with a more powerful electric motor and lithium-ion battery, the new setup delivered a combined 194 horsepower in FWD and 196 horsepower in AWD models. This upgrade was substantial compared to the outgoing model's 121 horsepower. The continuously variable automatic transmission ensured smooth power delivery.

In everyday driving, the new Prius felt lively and responsive, offering ample but not excessive acceleration. With a 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds, it was a significant improvement over the previous model's 10.5 seconds. The car handled well thanks to a revised suspension and a longer wheelbase, which provided better agility and stability. The brakes, although slightly squishy, performed adequately for a hybrid vehicle.

On the other hand, most 2024 Kia K5 models came equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, while an AWD system was optional on the GT-Line trim. For those seeking even more power, the K5 GT offered a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Driving modes varied from Smart, Normal, Sport, and Custom, with an additional Snow mode for AWD versions. The K5 GT featured an exclusive Sport+ mode with launch control, enhanced suspension, quicker steering, more substantial brakes, and larger alloy wheels. Though the GT-Line modeled itself after the sportier GT, its fuel efficiency earned an official EPA rating of 31 mpg combined for FWD (28 mpg for AWD). However, real-world tests revealed lower figures, averaging around 24.5 mpg.

Despite this, the GT-Line's turbo engine offered satisfying torque and a decent auditory experience during acceleration. Its suspension provided a balanced blend of ride comfort and handling agility, although the brakes showed limitations under aggressive driving.

Form and function
2023 Toyota Prius
7/10
2024 Kia K5
8/10

Despite the slight reduction in some interior dimensions, the 2023 Prius compensated with increased legroom and overall comfort. Taller passengers found adequate room in the rear seats. Opting for the fixed glass roof improved cabin openness, though it didn’t open for air circulation.

Cargo space took a hit, decreasing to 20 cubic feet for the XLE and Limited trims and 24 cubic feet for the LE. Rear visibility was slightly compromised due to the loss of the split rear window. Interior storage was practical yet compact, with minimalist designs and USB-C charge ports in both front and rear seats. Additionally, the center console featured wireless smartphone charging and various pockets for storage.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia K5 interior was as practical as it was stylish. The GT-Line trim had SynTex artificial leather and cloth seat inserts, which sometimes hampered entry and exit due to stickiness. However, Kia equipped it with numerous comfortable and practical features, like a 10-way power driver's seat and manual front passenger seat height adjuster.

The dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats were standard, with additional options like ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof enhancing comfort. Legroom was generous, though the sunroof slightly impacted headroom for taller passengers. Comprehensive interior storage ensured convenience, though some compartments were noisy due to hard plastic linings.

The K5's trunk offered 16 cubic feet of space. The remote keyless entry fob allowed for effortless trunk access, with the lid opening fully. The Smart Trunk function automatically opened the trunk when the user stood behind it with the key.

Technology
2023 Toyota Prius
7/10
2024 Kia K5
6/10

The 2023 Prius came with various technology features. The base LE and XLE models included an 8-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The XLE could be upgraded to a 12.3-inch touchscreen, standard on the Limited trim. While the screen was responsive and intuitive, the cloud-connected navigation required a $160 annual subscription to Toyota’s Drive Connect system.

A 7-inch digital instrument cluster provided information but seemed too crowded. There were six USB-C charging ports throughout, wireless smartphone charging on higher trims, and an AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot, though requiring a subscription. Three subscription-based connectivity bundles offered remote access, safety features, and cloud navigation.

On the other hand, the Kia K5 LXS had an 8-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on the LXS but required a wired connection on higher trims. The infotainment system supported Bluetooth for multiple devices and included navigation, SiriusXM, and Kia Connect services, which provided remote start, stolen vehicle recovery, teen usage notifications, and other functions.

An optional wireless phone charging pad and a 12-speaker Bose audio system were available on higher trims. Despite lacking an active subscription during testing, the Kia's voice assistant showed promise but struggled to match the capabilities of Siri or Google Assistant.

Safety
2023 Toyota Prius
9/10
2024 Kia K5
7/10

The 2023 Prius was equipped with Toyota’s latest suite of active safety features, bundled as Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This suite included adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-departure alerts, lane-tracing assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. We found the latter impressively functional, mimicking EV regenerative braking.

Standard safety features also included stability control, traction control, eight airbags, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts. The Limited trim could be upgraded with hands-free automatic parallel parking. However, crash tests from IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available.

The 2024 Kia K5 came with Kia Drive Wise, featuring advanced driver-assistance systems like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure and keeping assistance, and a safe exit warning system. Additional standard features included automatic high-beam headlights, driver monitoring, and a rear-seat reminder system.

Upgrade options included cyclist detection, automatic intersection braking, parking sensors, rear automatic braking, and a surround-view camera. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and Highway Driving Assist (HDA) were also available. During our tests, HDA performed exceptionally well in various driving conditions, though it had minor issues in more complex scenarios.

The K5 received high safety marks from NHTSA but scored poorly in updated IIHS tests for moderate overlap frontal impact and side-impact protection.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Toyota Prius was 7.5 out of 10, while the 2024 Kia K5 scored 7.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, we recommend the 2023 Toyota Prius for its overall higher rating. It showcased a more balanced offering of efficiency, refined design, advanced safety features, and technological advancements, making it the better choice for those seeking an all-rounder hybrid vehicle.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2023 Toyota Prius was 7.5 out of 10, while the 2024 Kia K5 scored 7.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, we recommend the 2023 Toyota Prius for its overall higher rating. It showcased a more balanced offering of efficiency, refined design, advanced safety features, and technological advancements, making it the better choice for those seeking an all-rounder hybrid vehicle.

CarGurus logo

By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

Popular vehicle comparisons

2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Acura Integra2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Honda Civic Hatchback2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 BMW 5 Series2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI2023 Honda Civic vs 2024 Toyota Prius2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Honda Accord2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Honda Civic2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Hyundai Elantra2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Toyota Prius2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Subaru Impreza2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Audi A42023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Toyota Crown2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Hyundai Sonata2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Lexus ES2023 Kia K5 vs 2024 Chevrolet Malibu2023 Honda Civic Hatchback vs 2024 Toyota Prius2022 Lexus ES vs 2022 Kia K52022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Chrysler 3002022 Kia K5 vs 2022 BMW 5 Series2022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class2022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Volkswagen Jetta2022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Honda Civic Hatchback2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Chrysler 3002022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Hyundai Elantra2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2022 Kia K52022 Honda Civic Hatchback vs 2023 Kia K52022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Lexus ES2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback2022 Audi A4 vs 2023 Kia K52022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Honda Accord2022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Honda Accord2022 Toyota Prius vs 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Kia K52021 Toyota Prius vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2021 Toyota Prius2021 Subaru Impreza vs 2022 Kia K52021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Honda Civic Hatchback vs 2022 Kia K52021 MINI Cooper vs 2022 Kia K52021 BMW 5 Series vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Toyota Prius vs 2021 Lexus ES2021 Toyota Prius vs 2021 Volkswagen Jetta2021 Subaru Impreza vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Chevrolet Malibu vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Hyundai Sonata vs 2022 Kia K52021 Chrysler 300 vs 2021 Toyota Prius2021 Chrysler 300 vs 2022 Toyota Prius2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Chevrolet Malibu vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Hyundai Elantra vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Subaru Impreza vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 BMW 5 Series vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Hyundai Sonata vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Volkswagen Passat vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 MINI Cooper vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Audi A4 vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Lexus ES vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Honda Civic vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Honda Accord vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Toyota Prius vs 2021 Toyota Prius2020 Chrysler 300 vs 2021 Toyota Prius