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If you’re comparing the 2027 Kia K5 vs. K4, it’s important to know the similarities and differences between them. Although these practical, exciting sedans are stablemates, they vary in size, performance, fuel economy, and features you should consider before signing on the dotted line. To help you shop, the experts at SONS Kia of Montgomery have compiled this guide comparing the Kia K4 vs. K5 so you can choose the model that best fits your lifestyle. Follow along to learn more, and feel free to reach out to our team with any questions.
The Kia K5 vs. K4 main difference is the size of each sedan. The Kia K4 is classified as compact, while the K5 is classified as midsize. Both sedans seat up to five passengers comfortably, but the K5 creates a more relaxing atmosphere thanks to more interior space. Compared to the Kia K4, the K5 has over an inch more front-seat headroom, nearly two inches more shoulder room, and over four inches more legroom.
Rear-seat passengers may prefer the K4, as it offers nearly three more inches of rear-seat legroom than the K5. However, the K4 provides slightly less rear-seat headroom and shoulder room, which taller passengers may want to consider. Its more compact dimensions make the Kia K4 easier to maneuver through busy streets and park in tight spaces.
The Kia K4 measures up to 55.9 inches tall, 72.8 inches wide, and 185.4 inches long. By comparison, the K5 is about an inch taller, nearly half an inch wider, and almost eight inches longer, giving it a larger footprint. When you visit our showroom to shop new Kia inventory, we’ll give you a tour of both models so you can experience their sizes in person for yourself.
Although it’s easy to see that the Kia K4 and K5 both have diverse measurements, a closer look at their specs reveals even more differences between the two. In addition to size, the chart below illustrates how both models also compare when it comes to performance.
| 2027 Kia K4 | 2027 Kia K5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine |
|
|
| Horsepower |
|
|
| Torque |
|
|
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD or AWD |
| Transmission | Intelligent variable transmission or 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic or 8-speed dual clutch transmission |
| MPG (Combined) |
|
|
| Length | 185.4 in | 193.1 in |
| Width | 72.8 in | 73.2 in |
| Height | 55.9 in | 56.9 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd Row) | 42.3 / 38.0 in | 46.1 / 35.2 in |
| Standard Cargo Room | 14.6 cu ft | 15.6 cu ft |
As noted above, these two sedans differ significantly in performance: when equipped with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Kia K4 reaches 147 horsepower; by comparison, the Kia K5 sedan’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine boosts the horsepower to 186.
When it comes to trims, the Kia K4 has five models to choose from, while the K5 has three.
The 2027 Kia K4 trims include:
The 2027 Kia K5 trim level lineup includes:
Inside is a range of technologies designed to keep you connected wherever you go. Depending on your selected equipment level, you’ll have access to the following:
While both cars share a lot of the same amenities, some are exclusive to each model. For example, the Kia K4 has an available 8-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system, while the K5 offers a more robust 12-speaker Bose® premium audio system. The larger sedan also features a larger 4.2-inch instrument panel display and a curved instrument display for a more sophisticated look.
There are more similarities found around the cabin of each vehicle as well. Both models have heated and ventilated front seats and come with cloth upholstery on their lower trims, which can be upgraded to SynTex-covered seats on higher trims. Both provide an available wide sunroof that allows the sun to enter the cabin with the touch of a button.
The interior layout looks similar in both sedans: a clean, minimalist look without much distraction. There are hard buttons for the climate controls, so you won’t have to fiddle with the screen to adjust the cabin temperature, and the infotainment interface on each model is intuitive, making it easy to toggle your favorite apps and menus.
Since both sedans offer similar interior features, the differences come down to size and aesthetics. Shop Kia K5 models if you want extra space, but the K4 offers many similar features, giving you a similar in-cabin experience to its larger stablemate.
Although the Kia K4 and K5 are in different size classes and offer different powertrain options, both deliver competitive fuel economy. The Kia K4 achieves up to an EPA-estimated 29/39/33 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2, while the K5 returns up to an EPA-estimated 26/37/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2 with its base engine.
Opting for a turbocharged engine brings the two models closer in efficiency. The turbocharged Kia K4 achieves up to an EPA-estimated 26/33/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),2 while the Kia K5 GT-Line Turbo achieves similar efficiency ratings, reaching up to an EPA-estimated 23/33/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 While both models offer similar fuel economy with their turbocharged powertrains, the K5 can travel farther between fill-ups with its larger fuel tank capacity.
The Kia K4 and K5 have different combinations of features and amenities to suit a range of driving needs. As a compact sedan, the Kia K4 may be appealing if you prioritize fuel efficiency, practicality, and everyday efficiency. The midsize Kia K5, on the other hand, has a larger cabin, additional passenger space, available premium amenities, and a more performance-oriented driving experience.
The right choice will depend on which features matter most to you. Whether you choose the Kia K5 or shop Kia K4 models, our team can help you find the perfect configuration for your lifestyle.
After reviewing the specs on both sedans, visit SONS Kia of Montgomery to see both of them side by side. Our friendly sales team will help you compare your options, including our available trim levels, and take you for a test drive so you can decide which one suits you best. Call today to schedule your appointment!
No, the Kia K4 is not replacing the K5. In fact, the K4 replaced the outgoing Kia Forte, giving budget-conscious shoppers a value-packed sedan option. Meanwhile, the Kia K5 replaced the Kia Optima and provides a comfortable option well-suited for families.
No, the Kia K5 GT and GT-Line trim levels are not the same. The GT-Line offers sporty exterior accents and more comfort features, and it’s powered by a 186-horsepower 2.5-liter engine. The K5 GT trim has similar comfort and tech features, but amps up driving excitement with a 290-horsepower turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension.
No, this comparison guide doesn’t include the Kia K4 hatchback because it focuses solely on the two sedan body styles.
1Based on latest available competitive data.
2Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov.
