Kia K5 Vs. Kia K4 Full Comparison
Kia K4 vs. Kia K5 at a Glance
- Comparing Kia K4 vs. Kia K5 models shows that the K4 is smaller and has less powerful, yet it offers better MPG values.
- Take your pick from four trim options for the K4 or five editions for the K5.
- The Kia K5 sedan offers a turbocharged engine, while the K4 lineup is expected to add a turbo engine in the near future.
- The Kia K4 sedan has a much lower starting MSRP than the Kia K5.
Kia K4 vs. Kia K5: Specs & Performance
When comparing the Kia K4 vs. Kia K5, the first thing to note is the official size classifications for each Kia sedan. Kia denotes the Kia K4 as a compact sedan, while the Kia K5 is referred to as a midsize sport sedan. As a result, the more nimble K4 is ideal for saving money at the gas pumps on long road trips, while the more spacious K5 allows you and your passengers to stretch and pack more items in the trunk.
The 2025 Kia K4 is an all-new model that replaces the Kia Forte. If you're on the fence between the two, check out our Kia K4 vs. Kia Forte review. The 2025 Kia K5 outshines the Kia K4 when it comes to available trim levels and engine power. The Kia K5 offers a GT model with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces up to 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. For the 2025 Kia K4, the upcoming GT-Line Turbo trim is expected to have a 1.6-liter engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.
Visit Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw today for back-to-back test drives of either model to see which level of performance you prefer.
Kia K4 vs. Kia K5: MPG
The Kia K4 LX has the best MPG out of all the trim levels in this comparison. This model achieves an EPA-estimated 30/40/34 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 In comparison, the Kia K5 LX FWD scores an EPA-estimated 26/37/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 So, if you're looking for a sedan with higher fuel efficiency ratings, see our Kia K4 inventory.
The entire Kia K4 lineup has front-wheel drive only, while the Kia K5 lineup offers one GT-Line AWD edition. Adding all-wheel drive enhances your traction to take on challenging terrain or slick roads. Browse our selection of the new Kia K5 for sale if your lifestyle requires this type of capability.
When it comes to 0-60 acceleration times, independent testing has revealed the following metrics:
- Kia K4 0-60: 7.1 seconds for the anticipated 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo by MotorTrend2
- Kia K5 0-60: 5.2 seconds for 2025 Kia K5 GT by Car and Driver3
Kia K4 vs. Kia K5: Dimensions
The Kia K5 is larger than the K4 in every aspect: You'll find more headroom, legroom, and cargo capacity in the K5. However, what the Kia K4 lacks in size, it makes up for in fuel efficiency and price. Each sedan has a comfortable and feature-rich interior, so the best choice for you comes down to what you prioritize in a vehicle.
Kia K4 vs. Kia K5: Interior & Features
Depending on the trim, the Kia K4 interior offers:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats
- Wireless phone charging
- Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays
- Heated front seats
- Kia AI Assistant
- Harman Kardon® Premium Audio System
- Wide sunroof
- Cloth or SynTex seat trim
The Kia K5 interior features also vary throughout the lineup. Depending on the model, this sedan may have the following amenities:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Smart Trunk
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front seats
- 360-degree Surround View Monitor
- Bose® Premium Audio
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Cloth or SynTex seat trim
- Ventilated front seats
Kia K4 vs. Kia K5: Price & Trims
The Kia K4 offers four trim levels, each with a much lower starting MSRP than the Kia K5 lineup. A GT-Line Turbo edition is expected to join the lineup later this year or early next. The Kia K4 trims include:
- LX
- LXS
- EX
- GT-Line
The Kia K5 trims are:
- LX FWD
- GT-Line FWD
- GT-Line AWD
- GT
- EX
Now that we've covered the basic similarities and differences between these new Kia sedan options, are you ready to tour them in person? Contact our team at Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw today to book an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower does a Kia K5 have?
The 2025 Kia K5 makes 191 horsepower with the standard engine, but when you upgrade to the GT model, this capability shoots up to a stunning 290 maximum horsepower. The GT model has a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, as opposed to the regular 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine on every other model. If horsepower is what you're after, consider the Kia K5 GT!
Does the Kia K5 have Apple CarPlay®?
Every model of the new 2025 Kia K5 is equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay® capabilities for compatible devices. You can access this capability through the 12.3-inch touchscreen display. The Kia K5 also features wireless Android Auto™ capability throughout the entire trim lineup, making accessing your favorite apps and media easy and intuitive. Shop the new Kia K5 at Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw!
What is the difference between the K5 and K4?
The main differences between the Kia K5 and K4 are their size, powertrains, pricing, trim levels, and available features. The Kia K5 is a midsize sedan with more available trim levels and a more powerful engine lineup and offers AWD. The Kia K4 is a lower-priced compact sedan that comes with FWD across the entire trim lineup and better fuel economy ratings.
Is the Kia K4 replacing the K5?
The Kia K4 replaces the Kia Forte sedan, which was discontinued after the 2024 model year. The Kia K5 remains in production, and each sedan offers unique benefits to drivers with different tastes. If you missed out on owning a new Kia Forte, explore our selection of the new 2025 Kia K4 for sale at Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw!