Lexus ES vs Kia K4

The midsize Lexus ES is fully redesigned for 2026, with a larger footprint, modern styling, and both hybrid and all-electric variants. Among the few remaining rivals, it's the sensible and affordable choice, with very few drawbacks.

Verdict: While the Lexus ES 350h may not be all that exciting to drive, it more than makes up for it with a glassy-smooth ride quality, a quiet cabin, and a starting price that undercuts its German rivals by a sizable margin. As good as the ES 350h hybrid may be, we suggest checking out the all-electric ES 350e as well.

Kia’s new compact sedan replaces the oft-overlooked Kia Forte, an option that traded on value more than merit. Although the Forte provided practical packaging and decent performance (particularly in GT trim), shoppers driving home in a Forte were usually doing so because it was cheaper, rather than better, than the competition. With a revamped design and an impressive suite of standard tech, the new 2025 Kia K5 doubles down on the Forte’s fortes–particularly cargo space–while adding attractive features and retaining fuel efficiency and an affordable price tag.

Verdict: The 2025 Kia K4 is better than the outgoing Kia Forte. It offers more impressive tech, more standard safety features, more passenger space, and more cargo space. It’s still not quite as satisfying to drive as the segment leader, but with a starting price hovering around $22,000, it’s a far sight less expensive, too.