2021 Kia K5 vs 2021 Toyota Camry: How Do They Compare?

The all-new redesigned 2021 Kia K5 has been a favourite of reviewers and critics since it arrived in Canada in October. Newly-introduced, many mid-sized sedan drivers will undoubtedly be curious about how the K5 matches up to their current vehicle. This comparison will pit the K5 against one of the best selling vehicles in the segment, the 2021 Toyota Camry. So, how do they compare?

Manufacturer Comparison

While Toyota has a long storied history of reliability, Kia has recently elevated itself past competing with other car brands by the incredible value provided by its pricing and warranty. Along with a lower price tag than the Camry across all trim levels, Kia provides a superior warranty in the form of an incredible 5-year/100,000 km comprehensive warranty for coverage across the entire vehicle. Toyota provides a 3-year/60,000 km comprehensive warranty. Kia also offers an additional 2 years of roadside assistance compared to Toyota.

 

Trim to Trim Comparison

       

2021 Kia K5 LX vs 2021 Toyota Camry LE

The entry-level LX option for the K5 uses the 1.6L turbo engine option that offers more torque (acceleration of the vehicle) but less horsepower (top vehicle speed) compared to the 2.5L engine of the Camry LE. More torque allows for more quick and responsive accelerations which are perfect for merging into traffic effortlessly. Another significant difference is the technology packed into the base level Kia K5 LX. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Following Assist, Safe Exit Warning, LED headlights, and a built-in remote start is standard on the K5 LX while not being offered by the Camry LE. Interior comfort features like a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and dual-zone climate control further differentiate the K5 and Camry entry-level options. Save $995 for the K5 LX versus the Camry LE.

2021 Kia K5 EX vs 2021 Toyota Camry SE

The mid-level options offer a step-up from the entry-level by including additional features and upgrades. Both the Camry SE and K5 GT features a sporty rear spoiler and paddle shifters. In addition, the EX trim of the Kia offers a panoramic sunroof to replace the traditional sunroof, Smart Cruise Control (Full Range Stop & Go), Front Collision-Avoidance Assist, and rear parking sensors. Kia aims to offer a robust array of safety and convenience features that clearly set it apart from its competitors. Save $1255 with the K5 EX versus the Camry SE.

2021 Kia K5 GT-Line vs 2021 Toyota Camry XLE

The top tier trim for AWD is the K5 GT-Line and Camry XLE. The main advantage the XLE holds over the GT-Line is a power passenger seat and a slightly larger instrument cluster. While the GT-Line offers a larger audio display, heated windshield and washer nozzles, air-cooled front seats, heated rear seats. The Kia K5 also retains its exclusive technology by offering Front Collision-Avoidance Assist that isn’t offered on any Camry trim level. Sporty options seen on the Camry SE are on the GT-Line in the form of a rear spoiler and a “D-Cut” Sports steering wheel. Other than that the biggest difference between these two vehicles is that the K5 costs $2655 less than the Camry.

2021 Kia K5 GT vs 2021 Toyota Camry XSE

Now for the exciting part, The Camry XSE and K5 GT offer a superior engine for the ultimate driving experience. Both vehicles ditch the AWD drivetrain for a lighter and more responsive FWD body. While the GT has some exclusive styling and technology features like LED fog lights and Front Collision Avoidance, the biggest difference between these trims is the dedication to performance and handling that Kia has made with the K5 GT. A 2.5L turbo engine delivers an exhilarating 290 horsepower and class-leading 311 lb-ft of torque. A sport-tuned suspension tightens the body of the vehicle for precise handling and pairing with 19 inch Pirelli performance tires allowing for better grip on the road tightly even under high-speed cornering.

So how does the Kia K5 compare to the Toyota Camry?

Though both models offer capable performance features packed in a sporty design, it's no surprise that the Kia K5 leads in its segment. If purchasing for value, reliability and fuel efficiency alone is not enough, the 2021 Kia K5 offers more standard features at every trim level in comparison to the 2021 Toyota Camry, backed by Kia's impressive warranty.

Built for Canadian winters, the Kia K5 has arrived just in time for the season and available at Kia Victoria. Contact one of our sales consultants to book a test drive or if you have any further questions, at 250-360-1111.