Kia K5 vs Toyota Prius

Decades ago, few cars were anywhere near as fuel efficient as the Toyota Prius. Today, the 2025 Prius remains the fuel economy champion, but numerous alternatives are close behind. Some even offer more interior room at a lower price. That reality, coupled with the Prius’ cramped interior, limited trunk space, and general weirdness, means hybrid car buyers have options. In response, Toyota adds a new Nightshade trim level with a blacked-out look to the 2025 Prius lineup.

Verdict: The point of the 2025 Toyota Prius is fuel economy, but our Prius Nightshade test car averaged 39.2 mpg, falling significantly short of the EPA estimate of 52 mpg in combined driving. That certainly isn’t superior to roomier hybrid cars from Honda, Hyundai, or from within Toyota’s own lineup.

Kia has updated the stylish 2025 K5 with new exterior lighting, revised front and rear styling, and redesigned wheels. The only turbocharged version is now the GT sports sedan; other K5 models have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with less real-world driving punch than the previously-standard turbo four. New technology, redesigned dashboard controls, and more standard features are also on the menu, and Kia’s family car remains a good value.

Verdict: Unfortunately, the 2025 Kia K5 still doesn’t offer a hybrid powertrain like its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Sonata, does. It’s also less enjoyable to drive, thanks to this year’s engine swap. However, the new tech impresses, the K5 remains stylish and comfortable, and it costs less than some rivals.