2024 BMW 5 Series vs 2024 Kia K5

The 2024 BMW 5 Series was designed with a focus on aerodynamics and modern styling, presenting a clean and minimalist aesthetic both inside and out. The 530i test car featured a prominent shiny grille and intricate 21-inch wheels, with the M Sport bodywork adding a touch of flair, especially when paired with the Carbon Black paint. Inside, the M Sport treatment continued with Smoke-color Veganza artificial leather, aluminum trim, and artistic metal speaker grilles, contrasting with the predominantly black cabin. However, the interior surfaces often caused reflections and glare, complicating the use of controls. The BMW Curved Display housed most functions on a screen, with traditional iDrive controls on the center console, though many were touch-sensitive and located on gloss black surfaces, which could be frustrating to use. Despite these issues, the 530i M Sport exuded luxury, with advanced technology like the BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8.5 infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia K5 GT-Line was praised for its striking appearance, especially in the Passion Red Tint Coat, which drew attention from onlookers. Although the K5 name was relatively new, the car's design and style were well-received. The GT-Line trim, positioned between the base LXS and the more upscale EX, offered a sporty look without the high-powered performance of the GT model. The test vehicle included extras like a Premium Package and a Panoramic Sunroof Package, bringing the price to $30,530. While the interior featured some inexpensive-looking plastics, the design and detailing were commendable, with textured metallic trim and a refined transmission shifter. The K5 GT-Line provided a comfortable and stylish driving experience, though it lacked the high-end materials found in more expensive models.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series, specifically the 530i model, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine, aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, allowed the car to accelerate to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The 530i offered smooth and quiet acceleration, with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifted seamlessly. The M Sport suspension provided a comfortable ride, and the car handled well on twisty roads, thanks to its variable-ratio sport steering and M Sport braking components. However, the driving experience felt somewhat disconnected, akin to playing a video game, which was disappointing for a BMW. Fuel economy was also a concern, with the 530i M Sport returning 24.7 mpg on the evaluation loop, below the EPA estimate of 30 mpg in combined driving.

The 2024 Kia K5 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder base engine with 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in the GT model, producing 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The GT-Line, which was tested, featured the base engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available. The K5 GT-Line provided a satisfying driving experience, with a sport-tuned suspension and various driving modes, including Sport and Custom. However, the test car's fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 24.5 mpg over nearly 300 miles, compared to the EPA rating of 31 mpg in combined driving. Despite this, the K5 GT-Line was enjoyable to drive, with predictable dynamics and a comfortable ride, though the brakes were not as robust as those in the GT model.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series excelled as a luxury car, offering a spacious and comfortable interior. The driver’s seat provided a commanding view, and the power-adjustable front seats were wrapped in perforated Veganza artificial leather. The rear seats were equally comfortable, with ample legroom, headroom, and footroom. Interior storage was adequate, with a tray for smartphones, door armrests, and a split-top center armrest. The trunk offered 18.4 cubic feet of space, though a spare tire storage box reduced cargo room. The enclosed trunk hinges maximized available space, and deep wells on either side of the spare tire container were useful.

The 2024 Kia K5 provided comfort and utility, with SynTex artificial leather and cloth seat inserts in the GT-Line trim. The test car featured a 10-way power driver’s seat and a manual front passenger’s seat height adjuster, with dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats. The optional panoramic sunroof was a highlight, though it reduced headroom for taller passengers. The K5 offered generous storage areas, though some had plastic linings that could cause noise. The trunk provided 16 cubic feet of cargo space, with a remote keyless entry fob to open the lid. The Smart Trunk function allowed hands-free access, making it convenient for loading and unloading.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a single curved display, running BMW Operating System 8.5. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected services, a personal eSIM 5G connection, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, navigation, and wireless smartphone charging. The Premium Package added a head-up display and Natural Interaction, allowing voice and gesture controls. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) voice control was inconsistent, and the Bowers and Wilkins surround-sound system did not meet expectations. The Premium Package also included Parking Assistant Plus, with an exterior camera array and an interior camera for remote monitoring.

The 2024 Kia K5 LXS came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while other trims had a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless connectivity in the LXS and wired in higher trims. The larger display offered navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services, including remote start and vehicle recovery. The test car lacked an active subscription to Kia Connect, so the digital voice assistant was not tested. The larger display also included a wireless phone charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system was optional with EX and GT trims.

The 2024 BMW 5 Series came with Active Driving Assistant, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. BMW Assist eCall provided automatic collision notification and an SOS emergency request button. The Driving Assistant Professional Package offered more advanced features, but the test car did not have it. The lane-departure warning system was sophisticated, issuing alerts only when necessary. The 5 Series earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it had not been assessed in a new moderate-overlap frontal-impact evaluation.

The 2024 Kia K5 featured Kia Drive Wise, with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, active blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance. Additional safety features included automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, and a rear-seat reminder. Upgrades included cyclist detection, automatic intersection braking, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist (HDA). The HDA system was praised for its smooth and accurate performance. The K5 received high marks from the NHTSA, but the IIHS gave it low scores in updated moderate overlap frontal-impact and side-impact tests.