Thanks for watching!🙏 To clarify, since we are getting a lot of questions about this, the upcoming K5 GT trim will *not* have more equipment than this EX trim. It will have added performance and pretty much identical equipment to this EX, for a small price increase
What I'm really curious about is that the k5 sold to Korea is the same as the Sonata. Like Sonata, the digital instrument cluster is also equipped and has all the features Sonata has. Strangely enough, the US version k5 lacks such a function. I guess it is.
@@lowlanz i think they used to be below Hyundai, but now i think since Hyundai has its own luxury brand and kia has some halo models like Stinger and k900, kia is slowly moving above Hyundai.
Exactly!!! I was heartbroken when I saw how stripped the US version of K5 was gonna be. Maybe extra features available for more powerful GT when it comes out? I hope so. Otherwise I’ll get the Sonata N-Line.
I was waiting for a K5 like Korean version and same prices trim like sonata but when I saw this k5 version was disappointing no leather seat only leatherette no digital cluster no cover on frontal usb zone no electric mirror nothing the optima ex 2016 that I had has better quality than this k5 on all aspect my opinion this k5 looks like a fake Chinese copy of Korean k5 When I saw the first video of K5 here I went for a sonata sel full loaded trim I don’t like the design but it is better than this k5 on quality and features.
@@alejandromtb Exactly how I feel, I was so excited for this k5, because it looked way better than the Sonata but when they revealed it June 30th I was majorly let down.
Le Roy oh yeah, me too. No smart park, no digital gauge cluster, no HUD, no 360 camera, no cool interior ambient lighting, no next gen switch gear...... come on KIA!!!! I know we’re just Americans but we can actually work that stuff...... and we want it.
That cockpit in the Sonata Limited won me over. I love the tech in the Sonata too. I’m real happy with mine. No reviews on the blue link app. It’s amazing too
I personally like the style of the K5 more but to be honest, you can’t go wrong with both of these cars.But I have to admit the sonata is more feature rich I just personally don’t like the front or rear design of the sonata
I think that the K5 exterior styling is clearly much nicer and more aggressive looking than the Sonata, but the Sonata has slightly nicer interior styling with the advantage of the bigger infotainment screen and nicer design.
can you guys do more videos like this? It really helps a lot of us car buyers make a decision. This channels is honestly a god send. You guys give very honest opinions as opposed to being quirky or making the review too complicated to understand.
A bunch of these new Hyundai and Kias have the new 2.5 engines (with and without turbos) with Port Injection added on. This gets rid of the carbon built up and oil burning issues of the older engines. Thank you for finally fixing this issue!
I’m probably in the minority but the K5’s interior just doesn’t match up to its exterior. It looks kinda cheap and plasticky, especially that shifter which I’ve hated since the Stinger. Really unfortunate because the exterior is amazing.
I’ll be honest with you. The interior of the K5 looks way better in person. It looks expensive and luxurious. But I got the EX. I was surprised at how good this car looked in person vs the videos.
Kia’s are supposed be more sporty versions of Hyundais. Hyundais are more for luxury looks exterior and interior, though most of the older models of both of the brands have the same interiors. I just bought a 2020 Kia Optima(K5) and I can say the exterior looks awesome but the interior doesn’t look bad but it definitely could’ve been better. Luckily they updated the interior in the K5 which made me want to stick to Kia and not go to Hyundai
Just bought a 2022 hyundai Sonata love it I am a big guy and a lot of room in the back and front for me, still trying to firgure out all the damn buttons and switches.
The parts(every part) used for K5 abroad are much more durable and long-lasting than those of Korea's. Having more interior features do not really matter. One thing I am giving props to the K5s and sonatas abroad is that they have remote start which Korean models do not have from the factory.
Le Roy Not a big deal to me. Less things to break. I couldn’t stand the exterior look of the Sonota so it wasn’t a hard choice for me. Plus my car has Apple CarPlay wireless ^^
I love my new sonata sel plus!!! Just saying; its gorgeous.. Sometimes I just like to stare at it. The dark silver and the leather mesh seats... Love it 1.6 T
I find it remarkable how the separate design teams at Hyundai and KIA come up with such different vehicles from a common set of parts bins. (e.g. Telluride vs Palisade; Sorento vs Santa Fe; K5 vs Sonata; Forte vs Elantra; Seltos vs Kona, etc.) In some cases the differences are only "skin deep" with different "vibes." (e.g. Telluride vs Palisade) In others it's difficult to imagine two competing vehicles share so many attributes (e.g. Sorento vs Santa Fe; Seltos vs Kona.) Adding to the differences is the fact that the schedules for new generations and face lifts are typically offset by a year, or so. Thus, the comparison here is between a 2020 Sonata vs a 2021 K5. All in all, the two brands have a remarkable capacity to slice standard market categories into sub-categories with appeals to slightly different sets of consumers. Hyundai appeals to a slightly higher income demographic than KIA though the difference has been shrinking for years and in the midsize sedan category KIA slightly outsells Hyundai in the US. (Hyundai counters that disadvantage with wider appeal in international markets.) It may well be that KIA's traditional appeal to budget constrained customers and the overall weakness of the midsize sedan market led KIA to limit some of the bells and whistles in the K5 compared both to the version available in Korea and to the Sonata. If there's anything that dealers hate it's having higher priced (and profit) vehicles sit unsold on their lots until they're finally sold at steeper discounts. Whether KIA will add some of those features to the forthcoming performance version of the K5 or to a face lift in following model years will be interesting to watch. Personally, I'm inclined to prefer the K5 over the Sonata. I find Hyundai's designs typically somewhat overstyled and "fussy." (Looking at you, Palisade.) Others will disagree, of course, and claim the Sonata is more "upscale" inside and out. But to me, the K5 design is simpler and more elegant. Furthermore, living in climate where winters are messy, the AWD option in the K5 is significant and compensates for some of the features the Sonata has and the K5 lacks. I'm not currently in the market for a midsize sedan but if I were I'd wait to compare the performance versions of K5 and the Sonata with the 2.5L turbo engine and DCT before making a decision. Time will tell.
I like the exterior styling of the K5 more and the simplicity of the interior from bigger climate control buttons, a manual shifter plus the analog gauge cluster.. the lane veiw camera would be nice though.. the Sonata looks elegant but they can keep that push button shifter
So is it only the Kia that can do wireless Apple CarPlay? And you have to take a smaller screen size to get that? 🤔. Great video, gents! Appreciate the in-depth comparison of these two seemingly (at first) similar cars. Keep up the nice work.
The new Hyundai Elantra also has wireless carplay, bigger infotainment screen and actual digital gauge. Elentra might be a better buy if you don’t care about all wheel drive.
Awesome comparison guys! I have to admit that I’d go for the K5 because I think it looks better inside and out, but that’s just me! Also, did you guys see where Cartown Kia is rebuilding there facilities?😸😻😸
I was so set on getting the K5 until it was confirmed that alot of the tech in the Korean K5l isn't making it to the US K5. I don't understand why they would that. I may have to go with the Sonata now.
I bought a '21 Sonata SEL 2 weeks ago and I love it. Traded in my '18 Sonata SEL which had zero problems. I just wanted the new technology and the new 2.5 engine, which has nothing in common with the outgoing 2.4GDI engine.
Nicely done comparison! The Kia is better looking but lacks the 360 camera system, real leather, and full digital instrument cluster which is a shame. It’s almost like the two divisions sabotage their own car’s features and sometimes even drivetrains as a concession to their sister company. They should let people choose based on the styling and otherwise use the same tech in both vehicles. It would also save money and, in theory, allow for lower prices.
This is a great comparison. I still prefer the Sonata. I did sit in the Sonata and my first reaction was that the seat was a bit firm - any comments? Also, I'm probably more interested in the Sonata hybrid. Do you guys know when these will be hitting the local dealers? Anyway, you guys are awesome. Thanks.
Thanks so much! The Sonata Hybrids we're supposed to already be out but we assume there is some kind of COVID-19 delay. There are just a few in the entire country right now, but hopefully they will be widespread in the next month or so
@@CarConfections Thanks for response! I actually got on some southern CA dealer websites and they had them on the lot. So, the limited supply (?) may be going to areas of the country where these cars are more saleable??? I know I am having difficulties in finding local stock of hybrids I'm interested in.
Drove them both. My personal opinion: Sonata wins in almost everything. Even driving dynamics.....it’s nice. The Kia’s brakes even were choppy and BAD on my tester with 13K miles. Unacceptable. I wanted a Sonata. What made me say “no?” I wanted cooled seats, and the N-Line doesn’t have cooled seats. That means I would have to have gotten the EX, which does not have the higher powered engine. The lack of power is what kills the non N-Line Sonata. Or just add cooled seats to the N-Line. C’mon Hyundai!
I go with the Sonata. It's cleaner and sleeker inside and out. I know people talk about the catfish front end but it doesn't bother me. Inside, I prefer the Sonata by a lot. The Kia is nice, kind of like a sedan Telluride but I like the Palisade interior over the Telluride (and prefer sedans and don't consider SUVs at all). But in terms of styling, they're consistent with their SUV counterparts. The Sonata's interior is just really nice and understated and flowing. There's elegance in the Kia, but it is more boxy and busy looking, overall. I've always like the Optima more than the Sonata but this time, the Sonata gets the nod.
Super helpful video, just what I was looking for, thank you! Agree with previous responses that a combo of K5 exterior with Sonata interior would be near perfect for the segment.
The new K5 is missing a lot of cool tech that the Korean version has like memory seats, real leather, all digital instrument panel, smart park, has smaller screen than the sonata, missing 360 degree camera, rotary gear type selector, moving the vehicle up and down with the remote, pedestrian sensors in the front and back, turn signal camera, side buttons on the passenger seat so the passenger in the back can move the seat forward or back. I'm sure that I'm missing more and tbh I really don't care if it has AWD especially when it's not available in the more powerful engine. Kia dropped the ball big time Here's a video of what it should've been: ruclips.net/video/UmFDYCqa9Ug/видео.html
Agree, I am so disappointed. I have seen how the K5 interior looks and the tech features it has in South Korea and it is such a beauty. Then, the K5 arrives in the U.S. with such a cheap looking interior. Damn it Kia...
I feel like the K5 was designed for drivers who like a sporty looking sedan while the Sonata was designed from luxury standpoint. In order to attract an audience to the Sonata, the K5 had to lose some amenities when it came to the American market. For example, luxury cars before the 2000 was unattractive but the only reason people own one was because the name holds value and the interior quality outdid the exterior. Vice-versa when it comes to the charger/challengers, nice exterior but more than enough plastic interior.
I love the way the K5 looks but for the love of God they need to put LEDs in the turn signals. The halogens look bad on such a new car. I have no idea why manufacturers continue to use them on new cars, especially in a place that would be seen as often as a turn signal.
Was either one quieter than the other? Seemed like in the vid the K5 had more engine noise leaking into the cabin. It sucks that I have to chose between the much better looks of the K5, versus the LCD gauges of the sonata.
Sonata was designed to be luxurious, while looking a bit sporty.. And you can see this in the interior too.. Affordable "Luxury" vehicle.. And it's amazing
Great review on both. As a KIA owner, I have always found KIA vehicles to be more sporty, while Hyundai's seem to lean toward luxury. I watched a few Korean videos on these when they were release and the presenters said as much. I am disappointed though that KIA didn't bring the new tech, such as rotary shifter, paddle shifters, digital instrument panel and the 10.2 inch infotainment screen to their EX line, which as of now, is their top model until the GT comes out. I typically buy the hybrid so I am curious to see if they Hybrid EX (which is the top level of the hybrid line), will have those features.
I got the feeling that Hyundai is now the Entry Level Luxury Brand while Genesis/Eqqus are the Premium Luxury Brand and Kia is a Performance/Brand! It’s kinda like Pontiac,Buick,and Cadilac!
I still chose the K5 Gt-Line with red Interior package; such a bad ass car to be cruising around. The Sonata... ehhhh... has a different age group there focused on I guess.
I will say personally Hyundai and Kia have stepped up their game, but I'm a bit biased cause I love my sonata se , it is the perfect car for me and I love everything about it 😤
PHT Tran it is true no one talk about that real leather is more expensive and better quality than fake leather I bought the sonata more quiet cabin the k5 has more noise cabin
I'm starting to feel the same way. I love the exterior styling on the K5 but man...the interior is so lackluster! I'm still not a huge fan of the front end of the Sonata BUT I also think color can make a difference! I really like the Sonata in the Hampton Grey. Just still not ready to pull the trigger yeton either. #Decisions
I feel like the Kia looks more sporty and should have been the model to receive the additional tech. Such as the key card, digital instrumentation, push button shifter and heads up display
Y does everybody always brag about what they bought. It's like y'all have to let the world know what you have. If u truly loved the car it would be enough that I just knew u had it. You're under 30 I bet.
Based on looks alone, K5 hands down for me. I'm waiting for the catfish looks of the Sonata to grow on me, but hasn't happened yet. I know that digital guage packages are all the rage, but give me a clearly legible analog cluster any day. Can't wait for the K5 SX and the 2.5t! Very good review... Thank you
I guess I’ll have to wait for the full release of k5 since buying it now with not even half of the things it has like in the Korean market seems like a waste, crazy that they might not offer it though since they’re more focused on Hyundai sales with the tech stuff.
Thanks for watching!🙏 To clarify, since we are getting a lot of questions about this, the upcoming K5 GT trim will *not* have more equipment than this EX trim. It will have added performance and pretty much identical equipment to this EX, for a small price increase
Do you guys have any idea if there are more trims coming in the future, with the features legit everyone in the comments wants?
Kia hasn't said, but perhaps in 2022 or with the refresh they might add some new trims or features
I wonder if they are also going to strip the upcoming US Sorento of its cool tech found on the Korean version......
Lucas Naceri that’s just an estimate it could be mid August
is sonata mid-trim has blind spot detection camera like sel or sel plus???
I want the exterior of K5 with interior of Sonata lol.
RIGHT LMAO
Hell yea...kkkk
What I'm really curious about is that the k5 sold to Korea is the same as the Sonata. Like Sonata, the digital instrument cluster is also equipped and has all the features Sonata has. Strangely enough, the US version k5 lacks such a function. I guess it is.
Rear light of sonata looks exactly like honda civic wth
Where do you plan on spending most of your time? behind the steering wheel or looking at it in the driveway....I'm a driver, so Sonata for me.
I'm getting mad at Kia for not bringing all the features to the USA
Yeah a lot of manufacturers do this. It is crazy.
that's because somehow, kia is considered as a brand that is even cheaper than hyundai. So they need to make it cost cheaper..
@@lowlanz i think they used to be below Hyundai, but now i think since Hyundai has its own luxury brand and kia has some halo models like Stinger and k900, kia is slowly moving above Hyundai.
Dude only US gets the AWD.
@@signfang no digital display no hud
I pray who ever reads this becomes successful.
Same to you
God bless you
SAME BLESS TO YOU!
😊
Likewise buddy
I think sonata looks amazingly luxurious.
I would say k5 love the looks, but I want the features the Sonata has.
Exactly!!! I was heartbroken when I saw how stripped the US version of K5 was gonna be. Maybe extra features available for more powerful GT when it comes out? I hope so. Otherwise I’ll get the Sonata N-Line.
Me too
I was waiting for a K5 like Korean version and same prices trim like sonata but when I saw this k5 version was disappointing no leather seat only leatherette no digital cluster no cover on frontal usb zone no electric mirror nothing the optima ex 2016 that I had has better quality than this k5 on all aspect my opinion this k5 looks like a fake Chinese copy of Korean k5 When I saw the first video of K5 here I went for a sonata sel full loaded trim I don’t like the design but it is better than this k5 on quality and features.
@@alejandromtb Exactly how I feel, I was so excited for this k5, because it looked way better than the Sonata but when they revealed it June 30th I was majorly let down.
Le Roy oh yeah, me too. No smart park, no digital gauge cluster, no HUD, no 360 camera, no cool interior ambient lighting, no next gen switch gear...... come on KIA!!!! I know we’re just Americans but we can actually work that stuff...... and we want it.
That cockpit in the Sonata Limited won me over. I love the tech in the Sonata too. I’m real happy with mine. No reviews on the blue link app. It’s amazing too
I was amazed I have the glow gold Sonata. Also you can start your engine with your cellphone with blue link
Good choice 👍
I personally like the style of the K5 more but to be honest, you can’t go wrong with both of these cars.But I have to admit the sonata is more feature rich I just personally don’t like the front or rear design of the sonata
I agree. The front grill just make my blood crawl lol.. The back lights not a fan either
agreed
@Shamur Stewart lol not from my angle on the dealership lot.
@@wowsers64 lmfaooooooooooooo lmfaooooooooooooo
I am a Hyundai fan, but the styling is ugly. The Kia for me ...
Really loved how you showed both at the same time making it way easier to differentiate between the two 🤩
I think that the K5 exterior styling is clearly much nicer and more aggressive looking than the Sonata, but the Sonata has slightly nicer interior styling with the advantage of the bigger infotainment screen and nicer design.
I agree. Really wish the K5 had the LCD dash gauges that you can get on the sonata.
Just like the Paliride
can you guys do more videos like this? It really helps a lot of us car buyers make a decision. This channels is honestly a god send. You guys give very honest opinions as opposed to being quirky or making the review too complicated to understand.
Yeah we have some more of them coming soon!
A bunch of these new Hyundai and Kias have the new 2.5 engines (with and without turbos) with Port Injection added on. This gets rid of the carbon built up and oil burning issues of the older engines. Thank you for finally fixing this issue!
Sonata's catfish front facia never grew on me, the K5 is the better looking sedan Nice comparison review
right
i like the front of the sonata.. i dont like the rear lights its like upside down civic taillights lmao
Right
I’m probably in the minority but the K5’s interior just doesn’t match up to its exterior. It looks kinda cheap and plasticky, especially that shifter which I’ve hated since the Stinger. Really unfortunate because the exterior is amazing.
I’m sure next year if it sells better they’ll match it to the Korean market K5
Dante Everheart I think the forte has more standard features than the base k5
I’ll be honest with you. The interior of the K5 looks way better in person. It looks expensive and luxurious. But I got the EX. I was surprised at how good this car looked in person vs the videos.
Kia’s are supposed be more sporty versions of Hyundais. Hyundais are more for luxury looks exterior and interior, though most of the older models of both of the brands have the same interiors. I just bought a 2020 Kia Optima(K5) and I can say the exterior looks awesome but the interior doesn’t look bad but it definitely could’ve been better. Luckily they updated the interior in the K5 which made me want to stick to Kia and not go to Hyundai
Just bought a 2022 hyundai Sonata love it I am a big guy and a lot of room in the back and front for me, still trying to firgure out all the damn buttons and switches.
I really like this format for comparing vehicles keep up the awesome work!!
Thanks man! 😁
I was about to compliment them on the same thing but you already did it so I agree Amen! Keep it up guys ! Love from Toronto 🇨🇦
The Hyundai Sonata is giving me a old school retro Infiniti and Jaguar vibes which isn’t a bad thing at all.
Dante Everheart are you blind!? Get your eyes checked!
얼빵하노
dat Sonata look'n Gangsta Style!
Yes! Maybe INfiniti Q45, the original one, which was the most interesting one.
@@Saturdayz_In_The_Fall You dun seen't'd one, you reckon?
The sonata feels much more premium I tell you that.
yep korean car is soooo more luxery
@@narkensayson9723 they are both Korean
@@morbius768 but i more like the sonata......
@@narkensayson9723 yeah me too I'm saying they are both made in Korea
@@morbius768 i just like the car...
Jeez, this is the earliest I’ve ever been! Hi Mason and Drew! I even beat the notification alert lol!
I love both the 2021 Kia K5 and 2020 Hyundai Sonata! Both are very Stylish! I love the Technology in the sonata!
If only I could combine the style of the optima, tech of the Sonata, and the gas mileage of a hybrid that would be my perfect car.
The Korean K5 has better features than the American K5.
This is common knowledge, on about every Kia model, not just the K-5.
Move to Korea,
The parts(every part) used for K5 abroad are much more durable and long-lasting than those of Korea's. Having more interior features do not really matter. One thing I am giving props to the K5s and sonatas abroad is that they have remote start which Korean models do not have from the factory.
@@Darkness-js9qh the Korean models have a smart park feature, which means they have remote start.
It’s funny how korean customers always complain about crap quality of domestic K5s and Sonatas vs the ones made for US market
Just bought a K5 EX Sapphire blue. Going to black out the windows and blacken the wheels.
Congrats. But why tint the windows? You look so handsome. 😏😏
Matt, how do you feel about no digital gauge cluster and other features the Sonata has the k5 doesn't?
Congrats Matt! You've certainly got to be one of the first K5 owners in the nation!
Le Roy Not a big deal to me. Less things to break. I couldn’t stand the exterior look of the Sonota so it wasn’t a hard choice for me. Plus my car has Apple CarPlay wireless ^^
@@TheTechnicalRecruiter Well enjoy it, such a good looking car.
The fact that these cars are doing alot for such low prices is good. This is what we need,
Great Video! I honestly don't like the interior styling for the K5. I think the exterior of the K5 and the interior of the Sonata would be perfect.
Me too
Both are excellent options but the Sonata if I have more money available
I love my new sonata sel plus!!! Just saying; its gorgeous.. Sometimes I just like to stare at it. The dark silver and the leather mesh seats... Love it 1.6 T
Love your videos. Wish K5 had Sonata's technology, especially the blind spot monitoring.
Thank you!
If you could combine the interior of the Sonata with the K5 you have a 100% winner for anyone who is looking for these kinds of sedans.
It took me a while to like the Sonata’s face but now I love it! Honestly both cars are nice and are something different from what’s out.
Been waiting for this! Thanks.
Probably Sonata...
K5 ain't coming with the heat this year.. shame
Man the K5 in Korea has all the bells and whistles, the American K5 is standard.
@@polofunk if all of those bells and whistles came to the US, it would be 5k more.
Have a 2015 Sonata Sport and it still runs super strong and smooth. Great car!
The best design ever! I love their interiors
Sonata 100%
The Kia's styling looks way more attractive.
Let's face it, in terms of looks alone, the KIA looks 1000x better than that Hyundai.
They should've given the K5 a point for the amazing color "Wolf Grey" that was only used on the stinger GT until now.
yea tha interior & the exterior of tha k5 are both nice. they pulled off tha blu interior very nicely. 😭
I just finished a test drive in a Canadian k5 gt and it does have heads up display and fully digital dash. It's a family mustang gt killer.
Just want to say thank you . I know this took probably weeks to edit , and put it all together very well done side by side comparisons love it.
Thank you! We appreciate that!
Kia looks very cheap inside and yes i did check both of them. I bought a sonats and it is awesome daily driver, love it!!
Exactly why I chose the Elantra over the Kia. The interior so much cleaner
My dad has a 2012 Optimia, I have had a 2016 LX Optima and I am leasing a 2019 S class Optimia currently; however I may have to give the Sonata a try
Why does the U.S. spec K5 get such a stripped down version of the Korean K5. Highly Disappointing..
fossil996 agree and most expensive for it offers
@Tyrel Tolliver that's also what has me concerned. Because the k-5 with 290 horsepower is not confirmed to get all wheel drive.
Exactly. Sucks.
@hiroshima thompson I keep hearing that it isn't getting AWD with that k5 gt. Hopefully Canada gets it tho.
@@levaranoia The GT line with the base engine is getting AWD for sure however, the k-5 GT with 290 horsepower is not confirmed.
Love this! Just bought a K5 blacked out!
Me too😉 love it!
So.
I honestly love the sonata design way more I’m not into super sporty looks but luxury designs
Both look great! I love the sonata body style. It's unique.
I find it remarkable how the separate design teams at Hyundai and KIA come up with such different vehicles from a common set of parts bins. (e.g. Telluride vs Palisade; Sorento vs Santa Fe; K5 vs Sonata; Forte vs Elantra; Seltos vs Kona, etc.) In some cases the differences are only "skin deep" with different "vibes." (e.g. Telluride vs Palisade) In others it's difficult to imagine two competing vehicles share so many attributes (e.g. Sorento vs Santa Fe; Seltos vs Kona.) Adding to the differences is the fact that the schedules for new generations and face lifts are typically offset by a year, or so. Thus, the comparison here is between a 2020 Sonata vs a 2021 K5. All in all, the two brands have a remarkable capacity to slice standard market categories into sub-categories with appeals to slightly different sets of consumers.
Hyundai appeals to a slightly higher income demographic than KIA though the difference has been shrinking for years and in the midsize sedan category KIA slightly outsells Hyundai in the US. (Hyundai counters that disadvantage with wider appeal in international markets.) It may well be that KIA's traditional appeal to budget constrained customers and the overall weakness of the midsize sedan market led KIA to limit some of the bells and whistles in the K5 compared both to the version available in Korea and to the Sonata. If there's anything that dealers hate it's having higher priced (and profit) vehicles sit unsold on their lots until they're finally sold at steeper discounts. Whether KIA will add some of those features to the forthcoming performance version of the K5 or to a face lift in following model years will be interesting to watch.
Personally, I'm inclined to prefer the K5 over the Sonata. I find Hyundai's designs typically somewhat overstyled and "fussy." (Looking at you, Palisade.) Others will disagree, of course, and claim the Sonata is more "upscale" inside and out. But to me, the K5 design is simpler and more elegant. Furthermore, living in climate where winters are messy, the AWD option in the K5 is significant and compensates for some of the features the Sonata has and the K5 lacks.
I'm not currently in the market for a midsize sedan but if I were I'd wait to compare the performance versions of K5 and the Sonata with the 2.5L turbo engine and DCT before making a decision. Time will tell.
I like the exterior styling of the K5 more and the simplicity of the interior from bigger climate control buttons, a manual shifter plus the analog gauge cluster.. the lane veiw camera would be nice though.. the Sonata looks elegant but they can keep that push button shifter
Strangely the more you look sonata the more you get to like it. Kinda addicted to the style. Especially sonata hybrid model is good.
That's how I'm starting to feel especially for me personally, seeing the Sonata in the Hampton Grey. Starting to grow on me.
Yay! I would have the Yellow/ gold sonata or the red, blue, or mud gray K5!!!!
So is it only the Kia that can do wireless Apple CarPlay? And you have to take a smaller screen size to get that? 🤔. Great video, gents! Appreciate the in-depth comparison of these two seemingly (at first) similar cars. Keep up the nice work.
Thanks! And that is correct, only the K5 has wireless abilities and only the smaller 8-inch display
The new Hyundai Elantra also has wireless carplay, bigger infotainment screen and actual digital gauge. Elentra might be a better buy if you don’t care about all wheel drive.
The way you guys have improved on presentations is good. You two work so well together, I can imagine you Own a dealership together someday.
In general I like styling the K5 better, but I do like that yellow/gold color on the Sonata. So much so I'm seriously considering one.
One of the first to do it
Great jobs Guys
Awesome comparison guys! I have to admit that I’d go for the K5 because I think it looks better inside and out, but that’s just me! Also, did you guys see where Cartown Kia is rebuilding there facilities?😸😻😸
Thanks! And yep, that's why were reviewing in the grass because a lot of space is taken up by the new facility
@@CarConfections That makes sense!
I was so set on getting the K5 until it was confirmed that alot of the tech in the Korean K5l isn't making it to the US K5. I don't understand why they would that. I may have to go with the Sonata now.
Same
Mason, Drew. Fantastic review.. Great comparison.
Cant't wait for the N-Line and GT variants of these two :)
Sonata all the way.
I bought a '21 Sonata SEL 2 weeks ago and I love it. Traded in my '18 Sonata SEL which had zero problems. I just wanted the new technology and the new 2.5 engine, which has nothing in common with the outgoing 2.4GDI engine.
Who fuckin cares.
The Sonata looks so so much better in real life.
Nicely done comparison! The Kia is better looking but lacks the 360 camera system, real leather, and full digital instrument cluster which is a shame. It’s almost like the two divisions sabotage their own car’s features and sometimes even drivetrains as a concession to their sister company. They should let people choose based on the styling and otherwise use the same tech in both vehicles. It would also save money and, in theory, allow for lower prices.
Man! I love the sonata esp with its warranty but that grill tho🤦🏾♂️
I don’t mind that grill. What annoys me is the chrome lines on the hood
The side by side was nice.
I'm kinda an older guy and was confused which car you were talking about during your handling portion.
Thank you
This is a great comparison. I still prefer the Sonata. I did sit in the Sonata and my first reaction was that the seat was a bit firm - any comments? Also, I'm probably more interested in the Sonata hybrid. Do you guys know when these will be hitting the local dealers? Anyway, you guys are awesome. Thanks.
Thanks so much! The Sonata Hybrids we're supposed to already be out but we assume there is some kind of COVID-19 delay. There are just a few in the entire country right now, but hopefully they will be widespread in the next month or so
@@CarConfections Thanks for response! I actually got on some southern CA dealer websites and they had them on the lot. So, the limited supply (?) may be going to areas of the country where these cars are more saleable??? I know I am having difficulties in finding local stock of hybrids I'm interested in.
Seriously well done comparison. Couldn't have asked for better for someone considering both cars
So glad you enjoyed!
Drove them both.
My personal opinion: Sonata wins in almost everything. Even driving dynamics.....it’s nice. The Kia’s brakes even were choppy and BAD on my tester with 13K miles. Unacceptable.
I wanted a Sonata. What made me say “no?” I wanted cooled seats, and the N-Line doesn’t have cooled seats.
That means I would have to have gotten the EX, which does not have the higher powered engine. The lack of power is what kills the non N-Line Sonata. Or just add cooled seats to the N-Line. C’mon Hyundai!
I go with the Sonata. It's cleaner and sleeker inside and out. I know people talk about the catfish front end but it doesn't bother me. Inside, I prefer the Sonata by a lot. The Kia is nice, kind of like a sedan Telluride but I like the Palisade interior over the Telluride (and prefer sedans and don't consider SUVs at all). But in terms of styling, they're consistent with their SUV counterparts. The Sonata's interior is just really nice and understated and flowing. There's elegance in the Kia, but it is more boxy and busy looking, overall. I've always like the Optima more than the Sonata but this time, the Sonata gets the nod.
Super helpful video, just what I was looking for, thank you! Agree with previous responses that a combo of K5 exterior with Sonata interior would be near perfect for the segment.
Great comparison video. Love the way you show both cars simultaneously.
Thanks! Glad you liked the video and we hope you'll subscribe!
The new K5 is missing a lot of cool tech that the Korean version has like memory seats, real leather, all digital instrument panel, smart park, has smaller screen than the sonata, missing 360 degree camera, rotary gear type selector, moving the vehicle up and down with the remote, pedestrian sensors in the front and back, turn signal camera, side buttons on the passenger seat so the passenger in the back can move the seat forward or back. I'm sure that I'm missing more and tbh I really don't care if it has AWD especially when it's not available in the more powerful engine. Kia dropped the ball big time
Here's a video of what it should've been: ruclips.net/video/UmFDYCqa9Ug/видео.html
Agree, I am so disappointed. I have seen how the K5 interior looks and the tech features it has in South Korea and it is such a beauty. Then, the K5 arrives in the U.S. with such a cheap looking interior. Damn it Kia...
I can't wait to see Honda & Toyota's response to these tech fill cars Kia offers.
I feel like the K5 was designed for drivers who like a sporty looking sedan while the Sonata was designed from luxury standpoint. In order to attract an audience to the Sonata, the K5 had to lose some amenities when it came to the American market.
For example, luxury cars before the 2000 was unattractive but the only reason people own one was because the name holds value and the interior quality outdid the exterior. Vice-versa when it comes to the charger/challengers, nice exterior but more than enough plastic interior.
great comparison, waiting for K5 GT vs Sonata N line comparison in the near future
Still waiting for the N-Line Sonata!!
wait longer for the Elantra N
🥶
I like the side by side (above below) comparisons
Thanks! Subscribe for more of them!
I love the way the K5 looks but for the love of God they need to put LEDs in the turn signals. The halogens look bad on such a new car. I have no idea why manufacturers continue to use them on new cars, especially in a place that would be seen as often as a turn signal.
Was either one quieter than the other? Seemed like in the vid the K5 had more engine noise leaking into the cabin. It sucks that I have to chose between the much better looks of the K5, versus the LCD gauges of the sonata.
K5 higher trim got also a digital gauges and an identical amount of technology as the sonata on this video.
Yahiaoui Fedi Kia showed the top trim and it doesn’t have a digital gauge
Both Beautiful Vehicles! Drew and Mason, which should I get!! Both like amazing, have the 1.6T, and have amazing equipment levels!!!
I'd get sonata more features
Whichever one you like more at the end of the video haha
Car Confections Which would you buy if you had the cash in hand and had to spend it or you would lose it
Well..... I love the K5 design.... best among the mid size sedan in my opinion.
If you’re reading this, I hope you have a successful day 🙏🏽
The sonata is more reliable but the Kia looks better.
Hyundai Sonata beautiful 👌😻
Sonata was designed to be luxurious, while looking a bit sporty.. And you can see this in the interior too..
Affordable "Luxury" vehicle.. And it's amazing
Great review on both. As a KIA owner, I have always found KIA vehicles to be more sporty, while Hyundai's seem to lean toward luxury. I watched a few Korean videos on these when they were release and the presenters said as much. I am disappointed though that KIA didn't bring the new tech, such as rotary shifter, paddle shifters, digital instrument panel and the 10.2 inch infotainment screen to their EX line, which as of now, is their top model until the GT comes out. I typically buy the hybrid so I am curious to see if they Hybrid EX (which is the top level of the hybrid line), will have those features.
I got the feeling that Hyundai is now the Entry Level Luxury Brand while Genesis/Eqqus are the Premium Luxury Brand and Kia is a Performance/Brand!
It’s kinda like Pontiac,Buick,and Cadilac!
I still chose the K5 Gt-Line with red Interior package; such a bad ass car to be cruising around. The Sonata... ehhhh... has a different age group there focused on I guess.
I will say personally Hyundai and Kia have stepped up their game, but I'm a bit biased cause I love my sonata se , it is the perfect car for me and I love everything about it 😤
the k5 interior is UGLY!!!! Sonata wins! I'd pay the extra $2000
Same! Plus the features of the Sonata won me over.
@@smartkid1201 Real Leather Sonata > Fake Leather K5
PHT Tran it is true no one talk about that real leather is more expensive and better quality than fake leather I bought the sonata more quiet cabin the k5 has more noise cabin
@@alejandromtb last longer too
And the sonata exterior is pretty ugly - so I’d rather have the k5
In my opinion i really like the styling in the k5 but the sonata has a more nicer interior so I would get the sonata because of that.
I'm starting to feel the same way. I love the exterior styling on the K5 but man...the interior is so lackluster! I'm still not a huge fan of the front end of the Sonata BUT I also think color can make a difference! I really like the Sonata in the Hampton Grey. Just still not ready to pull the trigger yeton either. #Decisions
K5 for the win… AWD did it for me..,.
Bought the K5 GT Line AWD in Wolf Grey with the red interior.
By looking at both cars side by side. I like the styling of the Hyundai more. The Kia looks more sporty though!
I feel like the Kia looks more sporty and should have been the model to receive the additional tech. Such as the key card, digital instrumentation, push button shifter and heads up display
Exterior: k5 wins
Interior: Sonata wins
Overall features: Sonata wins
Hybrid availability: Sonata wins
Result: Sonata Rocks!
Best rental cars I ever drove. Last years Sonata, and 2018 Optima
I still would choose my K5 any day of the week.
Y does everybody always brag about what they bought. It's like y'all have to let the world know what you have. If u truly loved the car it would be enough that I just knew u had it. You're under 30 I bet.
Based on looks alone, K5 hands down for me. I'm waiting for the catfish looks of the Sonata to grow on me, but hasn't happened yet. I know that digital guage packages are all the rage, but give me a clearly legible analog cluster any day. Can't wait for the K5 SX and the 2.5t! Very good review... Thank you
Glad you enjoyed!
That sonata front end looks incredible! But the k5 is better overall for my taste
Inside: Sonata
Outside: K5
I guess I’ll have to wait for the full release of k5 since buying it now with not even half of the things it has like in the Korean market seems like a waste, crazy that they might not offer it though since they’re more focused on Hyundai sales with the tech stuff.
Also might have to wait and see what the incoming 2022 Mazda6 would offer
Ill pass these two and wait for 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, it’s totally awesome over any new car!