The Kia K5 and Nissan Altima are mid-size sedans that are more than just practical transportation. That’s right, each has room for five and an affordable base price to appeal to car buyers who might switch to rivals like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. But the Kia K5 has a sleek exterior that helps it stand out, while the recently updated Altima features a revised front end and a more aggressive set of standard active safety features. Let’s see how these two sedans compare, based on information from Wapcar Automotive News.
The Kia K5 is available in five main trim levels, offers a choice of two turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and can be fitted with all-wheel drive (AWD) instead of front-wheel drive (FWD). standard. Most K5s are powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that sends 180 horsepower to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While that doesn’t exactly give the K5 the flash of a sports car’s performance, it’s still good on gas and offers a decent level of dynamics. All-wheel drive can also be added if you want more grip. To add to the excitement, the 290hp turbocharged four-cylinder is only available on the top GT trim.
Highlights of Kia K5
Head-turning silhouette: Mid-size sedans are best known for blending into the background when it comes to design. This is not the case with the Kia K5. The sleek headlights and the swept-forward grille give this sedan a bold and aggressive look.
Optional high-output engine: As soon as it’s signaled, the K5’s engine upgrades will ramp up for the occasion. We appreciate the excellent fuel economy, though it’s hard not to be impressed by the outstanding performance this engine brings to the K5 party. This powertrain is complemented by larger brakes, firmer suspension and a sharper ride.
Great Guarantee: Numbers don’t lie; The Kia K5 has one of the most impressive warranties you’ll find on a midsize sedan. The 5-year/60,000-mile base warranty and the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty can close the deal for buyers looking for a long-term relationship.
2023 Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima 2023 has a completely new look, including a redesigned front grille, standard LED headlights and the appearance of a new redesigned Nissan logo. It’s not as wild as the K5, but the update has added some refreshing touches to this sedan.
The same is true inside, where a new large touchscreen sits on top of the dashboard. It is available on SV and SR versions and standard on SL. Like the K5, all-wheel drive is optional, but only with the Altima’s base 188-hp engine. Highlights of Nissan Altima
Big screen: The Altima’s new 12.3-inch touchscreen easily outperforms the K5’s 10.3-inch display. That’s no small difference, especially for a growing number of buyers, for whom screen size is a new power.
Zero Gravity Seat: Nissan says its chair design philosophy is inspired by the weightlessness of space, where “the human body adopts a neutral spine posture”. We’re no rocket scientists, but we can confirm that the Altima has some of the most comfortable seats in its class.
Optional all-wheel drive: This counts as a boon for the Altima and K5. While the four-wheel drive isn’t as hard to find on a midsize sedan as it was a few years ago, it’s not available on all of them. If you regularly drive on slippery roads but don’t want an SUV, here are two vehicles for your shopping list.
Similarities
Mid-size sedan, 5 seats, many standard safety features, standard Android Auto / Apple CarPlay, comfortable ride, optional all-wheel drive, engine upgrade available.
Conclusion
The Nissan Altima and the Kia K5 take very similar approaches when it comes to attracting car buyers. Each has an economical base engine, plus a more powerful powertrain for enthusiasts. The K5’s 290-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder makes it a sensible sports sedan. Each room has a spacious cabin with an adult-friendly space, not to mention the large touchscreen available and smartphone connectivity on every version.
