Price point, performance, interior quality, and tech features were all considered during this detailed look at the pair. For size consideration and spec-driven starters, the K4 is smaller than the K5. The K4’s compact persona somewhat resembles the Honda Civic, while the K5 is in the same size category as competitors such as the Honda Accord. The K4 measures 185.4 inches overall in length, with the K5 coming in formidably at 193.1 inches long. The K4 appeals to many based on its best-in-class second-row headroom and legroom, while the two models vary slightly on truck space as well.
The Kia K4 is working with 14.6 cubic feet of trunk space, with the K5 arriving and ready to go with 15.6 cubic feet of space. Since the K4 will be offered as a five-door hatchback, this option would present more cargo capacity than either of the pair. The K4 has more legroom than the outgoing Forte, but slightly less trunk space and headroom. While some drivers see performance as a predominant concern, some are understandably after every extra inch they can acquire for the journey.
The K4’s powertrains are essentially identical to those in the Forte, equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four that cranks out 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This juice is sent to the front wheels by a CVT automatic, with AWD not currently available as an option. Fuel economy is expected to reside at 23-26/33-37 mpg, which will ultimately depend on configuration type. Both the K5 and K4 offer the option of a turbocharged upgrade, with the K4 GT-Line’s number being the 1.6-liter inline-four that cranks out 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
This is the same powertrain used in the Forte GT, existing with just slightly lowered stats from its previous 201 horsepower. The K5 GT is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbo inline 4 which cranks out 290 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque using an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. During the Motor Trend team’s official testing, the K5 blasted from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. In higher-end trim levels, both models are appealing to the currently very screen-crazed public with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital cluster.
The brand-new ccNC user interface made its debut in the EV9 and is much more responsive and user-friendly than the outgoing system. Entry-level versions of both models will get 4.2-inch digital displays, and all versions will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Stepping up to the premium-level tech features on the K4 and K5 will set the driver up nicely with a 360-degree camera, premium speakers, and phone-as-key capability.
The final thoughts for anyone interested in either of these two conclude that the K4 may cost a bit less and boast a bit more legroom while offering the convenience of a hatchback’s stance. The Kia K5 exists as more of a competent-and-clean midsize sedan, with more cargo space and undoubtedly more powerful engines. We hope you stop by to visit us this spring here at Jim Butler Kia, where this progressive and polished pair will soon be available for spirited test drives! Our experienced sales and service professionals are standing by to introduce you to the thrill and benefits of Kia ownership.
