Happy Memorial Day to all! Hope everyone is enjoying a safe and fun holiday weekend. For this comparison, we were supposed to get the Sonata N-Line to do a proper comparison test with the K5 GT. At the last minute, the Hyundai wasn’t available but they sent us a Limited. We were surprised to see the Limited is actually more expensive versus the N-Line so we decided a $35k dollar question comparison would be a helpful way of showing the two vehicles. We like speed and tech, but what if you had to choose one or the another? Let us know which you’d go with!
I agree with you Sofyan, K5 is the best looking but disagree about visibility over the hood, I want to see the hood/bulge when I look out, hate when you cant see the hood, just mt 2cents
I like the K5 better. I feel like I'd still want a Stinger GT2 AWD, but I'd like to test drive the 2.5T version of the K5. My biggest question to all of these manufacturers: Why are you still using non-LEDs for **any** lighting? Do you have a huge parts bin you need to use up? Nothing ruins a nice LED setup by tossing in the random incandescent, arbitrarily...
@Sofyan, great job as always. Also, per Torque News Subaru has released HP figures on the 22 WRX. 286 HP from the FA24. 6 spd MT and updated CVT are being used as transmission choices. I realize this has nothing to do with this post, but I had to share it.
Both are nice, but I like the Sonata overall design better. The way the strip goes from the leadlight all the way into the lower door trim is an excellent design cue.
Agreed. I have a 2020 Accord Sport 2.0T and it’s just a more attractive and better car. The Hyundai looks hideous indeed. Even though the Hyundai has a lot more tech and graphics/animation, it felt cheaper and not as buttoned down/put together. Cheaper parts and more plastic inside. Kia looks a lot better.
Just got the 2021 K5 GT Line with red interior and wolf gray outside. LOVE the car. Definitely a head turner. It’s quick, wide and relatively low to the ground, making it feel very sporty. Also love the orange DRLs, makes them stand out against all the white ones on every other car.
I really like how Hyundai and KIa are going with more distinctive fascia designs; it's a breath of fresh air in an industry where everyone plays it safe with their design language, and nearly every car on the road looks identical to the one behind it. Between the two of these I think I prefer the K5 overall, even if the name itself is lame.
@@jjx45678 Power folding mirrors, 360 degree camera, and front parking sensors…that’s about it though Unfortunately, Still no fully digital speedometer
Just got a 2021 sonata limited in phantom black with black interior. The catfish design isn't as noticeable with darker colors and once I get all the windows tinted, its going to look gucci. I don't care about speed, I am not a kid anymore I like all the cool tech, looks, and safety features. It destroys my 2015 accord.
Hardly any Sonata lovers in here! I personally bought a red N-line and I love it. It’s the best looking trim. The K5 is cool but although the design is new it still seems played out. The Sonata is unique and fresh and I know will continue to look great moving forward. The Sonata looks way better in person as well. Of course I am a biased buyer but the interior takes the cake for me. I do wish the Sonata had an LSD, but I don’t plan on racing it like that. Someone in the comments did mention that the Kia is more for the driver enthusiast and I agree with them. The Sonata gives you still a fun driving experience but the interior is amazing eye candy and just so smooth. I have never been happier about a purchase
Anthony I also chose the Sonata but in Hampton Grey. Also loved the red which was originally my top choice but after weeks of debating decided on the grey. That was only months of debating whether to buy the K5GT or the Accord 2.0 Turbo.
I really like both. Was shooting for a 22 Stinger GT wasn't available at the time. End up with the Sonata N Line murderer out. Gets lots of attention. Wish it had LSD, A traditional shifter like the KIA. Also the seats don't lower down as far as I like my 19 Camry did. Hyundai/Kia/Genesis needs a round of applause.
i applaud hyundai for shaking up the market and actually bringing some innovation in the mid size sedan segment. fresh, crisp looking cars with good tech.
Here is my take. I test drove the K5 EX and Sonata Limited twice. I really liked the K5 exterior over the Sonata'; however, I found the K5 ran harsher/noisier than the Sonata (same tranny and engine). The Sonata has a better interior with digital dash and HUD. I love tech features and I wanted these things in my daily drive. Over all, the Sonata won out. I must say the K5's Wolf Gray color is outstanding, so I got the closest color to that in the Hampton Gray with the Sonata. So far, I enjoy the Sonata. But both cars are excellent products.
I would suggest getting a Sonata N-Line. It's got the best of both of these. Most of Sonata Limited's features. 290 HP like the Kia. I got one and love it.
Not really my guy when you compare the GT with the N-line the GT has a couple of better features like a 360 view camera system, power passenger seat and power folding mirrors, which are features absent from the N-line honestly the only exclusive feature on the N-line is the digital cluster. Now if you compare the EX with premium package against the Sonata Limited then the Hyundai destroys the Kia.
I'm considering a loaded AWD K5 over the Stinger. The big thing of course is the power difference, but a top tier K5 comes with some serious tech for around the same price as a base Stinger.
I just bought a new K5 a few weeks ago. I got the AWD GTLine (not GT) in wolf-gray paint / red interior. I wanted AWD for winter driving. The downside is AWD only comes with the 1.6L (not the GT) but I also have to say - the 1.6 engine is tuned to be very torque-y in the low range. She gets up and moves and has more than enough power for someone like me. So far I love the car, no complaints. :)
You might want to think about that. The Stinger GT-Line has the same engine as the K5 GT, a far more upscale interior, a much better sound system (with the "Sun and Sound" package) , and most importantly an RWD platform that tames the inevitable torque steer and wheel hop of the K5 GT. All for an MSRP of $38K compared to the $35K for a fully loaded K5 GT. Further, if you want RWD biased AWD you can have it for another $2K, or so, a feature not available at any price on the K5 GT or the Sonata.
I have the Sonata N-Line and I get people asking me questions about the car, more than any other car I owned. People can talk about how the front looks etc. I really don't care because I'm going to be in the car driving it and with what the N-Line offers, I'm very happy with it and the way it drives. I was getting ready to leave the mall one day, putting bags in the back and this guy asked me from his car that was parked near me what car it was, I told him and he asked if he could see the inside. I showed him and he explained that he was always a Benz guy but he said he loved the different look of this car and I explained to him all the features for the price and he said he's going to a dealer to test drive it. Get what you like, I don't base my thoughts on what others think of it. I love nothing more than putting the panoramic sunroof back on a summer day, putting it in Sport mode and having some fun on the open road.
Thanks for this. Somehow I needed to hear this. I LOVE the Sonata - especially the limited and I don’t care much for the grill and back of the car (though it could grow on me) but once I got inside, I forgot all about those. I’ve ridden in a 2018 Benz S class and in a 2021 Sonata limited and I can’t believe I’m admitting this out loud but I’ll take the Hyundai any day. It also has this feel of “unpredictability” to it. Like people hear “Hyundai” and they expect low end but then you actually get inside the 2021 sonata limited and it blows your mind. I’m giddy like a kid with the tech features. The limited has a little more tech specs than the N line. I love it!
At the end of my Stinger GT1 lease, i traded it in for a Sonata N-Line, and I just love it! It's more comfortable than the Stinger, brakes are WAY better, and all the fun tech. I would have liked to have test driven the K5 GT, but there are none to be found anywhere near me.
Kia and Hyundai are both stepping their games. The K5 is good looking but I'd take the Sonata a beautiful car don't get me wrong but are stylish cars it seems the Sonata might have more aggressive look.
the sonata’s design just flows better than the k5’s. also, i hate kia’s faux hatch look in the back. i’m like, just give the car a hatch, instead of that horrible black trim. i think hyundai has it on the elantra, but the elantra is also a weird looking car from the side profile.
I have the Sonata Limited in white with tan interior with blacked out tinted windows. I've never gotten more compliments on any other vehicle that I've ever owned. Looks and feels like a much more expensive car
Just my 3 cents.. Yeah, maybe the K5 has a bit more pop on the styling... but the Sonata still looks nice, and will still get stares from people. I'd go with the Sonata, as since I will be inside the car, spending all my time, that's where I want all the goodies. Which, I think the general consensus is, the Sonata comes out ahead So I'm inside all the time, wouldn't we want that? Outer styling? K5 a slight advantage Inner looks, amenities, styling? Sonata, huge advantage Others may have different things they are looking for in this mid-size class, but the basics as he outlines, Sonata for me, as even though the K5 might have a slight edge on the outer, Sonats nails it with the interior
Funny! My wife and I just went through this. I liked the look and features of the Sonata N line. My Wife like the look of the K5 GT! We ultimately chose the K5 GT believe it or not, only because the seats were more comfortable!
I agree, the K5 is way sexier in my opinion and it's more distinguished from other offerings in the segment. However, the Sonata does have the nicer more advanced interior. Combined the exterior design and engine from the K5 GT with the interior and tech from the Sonata and you'd have the perfect sport-touring sedan.
I'd take the K5 GT with the GT1 package. You may not get the digital display cluster that you get in the Sonata but I'd take ventilated seats over the digital display everytime. You also get a power passenger side seat in the K5 GT. The K5 GT looks better than the Sonata N-Line in my opinion, it would be nice if you could get more exterior and interior color options, for instance for the Canadian market you can get the K5 GT in gravity gray that's not an option for the American market.
People just want a better looking car. Ya trash too much on the sonata. I got a sonata 2010 230,000 miles been driving for 2 years. Feels like new. Super reliable for me. I’ll take the sonata any day.
@@mybro727 It's a shame. Hyundai cars looked great until 2018-2019. The whole line had uniformity. After that, they started to look very uncohesive, cheap and busy. And it seems theyare becoming radically different from each other everytime they are redesigned.
@@leumamk5259 I agree and it’s sad because the opposite is supposed to happen. HMG should be getting more cohesive over time, and it seems Genesis has been getting all of their TLC considering it’s the *only* brand from the company that’s over the years somewhat become more cohesive across the lineup with the “double line” poor man’s Bentley theme applied to every model for 2021. The same cannot be said for either Hyundai nor KIA’s 2021 lineup. Nearly every car looks different in some way. It’s like they left a stack of redesign assignments on the receptionist desk and random executives grabbed one as the wobbled in one morning until there were no more Hyundai/KIA’s left to redesign. The ones that got redesigned all have a different face, rear end, or both. It just looks all over the place from a consumer standpoint.
so I've been deciding between the GT and the N-Line for the last 2-3 months and the test drives sealed the deal for me; the N-Line had everything I wanted in terms of drivability, fun factor and interior design and amenities while the GT gave off really strong rental car vibes once you were inside. It's just so lackluster compared to its N-Line cousin
Both sedans are good-looking. I rather have the Kia K5. The styling and setup are more of my level taste. I am happy simply getting for just the GT-Line or EX trim for the Kia K5. For a sub-$30K with Kia is fantastic.
The Sonata doesn’t look bad in person, but it depends on the color. The interior on the Hyundai is far better in my opinion. Too bad they don’t offer AWD like the K5. Honestly though, I’d probably snag an Accord 2.0T over either of these
I'm impressed with what Kia has done but I would still choose the Sonata because it has a more refined feel and appearance overall. The K5 has distinctive styling but still has a simpler, cheaper appearance. Great comparison though, keep the content coming!
The 2022 Kia K5 EX with the EX Premium package & the GT trim with the GT1 package now include the Surround View Monitor (SVM) which is the 360° camera system
I just came off lease on a great 2019 Kia Optima SXL turbo but the newer K5 offered less equipment than my Optima. I now am iny the 2023 Sonata Limited due to the interior design and tech which is more important to me than the exterior design. I think both the Sonata and K5 are better looking than any of their competitors but give a slight edge to the K5. I find the Sonata's acceleration and handling more than sufficient for my needs.
Although both have cohesive design elements and come across as a complete package, the Kia is just so well put together with seemingly a lot of extra detail to make it look just more finessed where the Hyundai looks classy and dynamic but just not as polished and dynamic.
Thank you for this video! I’m planning on upgrading my econobox forte to a sonata N line or K5 GT. The GT has the ventilated seats but the sonata has the nicer interior 😿 and I personally like the front end of the sonata I just don’t like the rear. The K5 has a nice exterior but not a fan of the interior, it doesn’t even have ambient lighting which is something I want tbh.
I picked up a sonata limited last month. I liked the looks ok the kia alot more but wanted the Hyundai tech. 360 cam HUD and digital gauges in particular. I dive over 100 miles a day for work and frequently average 40 mpg highway.
Another awesome review by you…….I always watch your reviews! I had the OPTIMA EX and it was such a great vehicle, I stuck with KIA and bought the new KIA SORENTO TURBO which I love! You can’t beat THIS CAR COMPANY!
Great video Sofyan! For me, any Hyundai or Kia model that doesn't have an "N" at the end of the model number doesn't really get my attention any more. "N-Line" might perk me up a bit, but its the N models that to me represent the true extent of Hyundai/Kia car technology. The tendency for most American shoppers these days frankly is going to be to just ignore the sedans and go directly to the Tuscon or Santa Fe or Telluride. I suspect only the N or N-Line would be enough to change that, and I really love all the power Hyundai and Kia have managed to get out of the N. Without that N power, if I'm thinking solely about the sedan form factor, then frankly my mind gravitates toward a model Y or an IS350 or a Mach E.
I think I like the Sonata from an every day safety standpoint, especially the blind spot cameras which would come into use virtually every time you drive it.
Unpopular opinion i love the way the sonata looks. I feel like they did really good with it. I like the DRLs on the hyundai better than the k5. To me i could care less about performance. Dont need anything speedy like many people like / want here. Although... my mother owns the 2021 Hyundai Sonata 1.6t in glowing yellow. Got it in November and now has 21k miles. Been a great car for her. Not to many features like the limited but enough for her. She loves it. Also cant tell you how many complements she gets on the car.. literally all the time. People love the color / shocked its a Hyundai.
I was really on the fence on this one but I ultimately end up going with the 2022 K5. I'm really happy I did as not only is this car going to get noticed. But has an interior which feels a bit more executive then it really is. No complaints so far but I do recommend the higher trims if you can get it. EX or GT would be my recommendations here. The GT has the bigger 2.5 Turbo Engine with dual clutch transmission I believe. But as someone who just came from a dual-clutch in my 18 Ford Focus. I have to be honest I'm not a big fan of them. K5 does have a dual-clutch but it's in the GT model. Ford's had problems though so maybe it's just a manufacturer issue.
I like the Sonatas better because of its sporty luxury look especially the headlights. I have a 2023 SEL Plus with 1.6 turbo, such amazing gas saver (30-35+ mpg), best car I’ve ever owned
Traded my ‘19 Grand Cherokee Altitude 4x4 in to save some money. Chose the Sonata Limited thinking it would be a downgrade, but so far this is my favorite vehicle I’ve owned. Only 200 miles in so time will tell, but I’m loving the tech and real leather. Portofino Grey looks fantastic in sunlight and I really like the camel interior. I like the design but could see why many people wouldn’t. N Line was tempting but dealer discount and manufacture rebates made it a no brained for me.
Anyone dislike the front/rear of the sonata as much as me, it's hideous. The K5 is basically a knock off tlx so it's not bad looking. But my neighbor has the Sonata same color and the front and rear is just really bad in my opinion. I hate to be negative. It irs really like.. Ehhh
having driven both for a while, the Sonata will be my pick just because of comfort. Plus a lot of the interiors of the K5 feel less premium and very plastic-ish (I mean its plastic). Also a bit flimsy. The Sonata has metallic or some kind of metal compound with its buttons and switches giving it a more premium feel. The inside in the Sonata is definitely better designed. The outside design of both cars are really good. The K5 gives a more sporty, aggressive and speedy look, or as one client would describe it "Sporty boy look". For the sonata, it boasts a very elegant look rather than sporty and aggressive. Cabin noise.. eh about the same. But the engine of the K5 definitely sounds a lot better. Both very good cars with many similarities and differences. If thinking about getting one, I suggest test driving them first before buying. My choice. Sonata, just because of its features. Younger me would definitely go for the K5.
@@PanameraTurboSEHybrid SUVs are favored in America over sedans by most, and Mazda doesn’t sell to rental car companies like Toyota, Honda, and Kia. They are a smaller company. I love sitting low in a sedan for a more comfortable sitting position, but we also have a cx9 as a family and cargo hauler. If people would only drive Mazda when shopping instead of blindly going over the Toyota and Honda cliff.
I honestly 100% prefer the Hyundai- especially the sonata limited but the only thing stopping me is that grill. I’m only undecided because of the grill and maybe the back. But at night, the Hyundai with the front and tail lights looks so cool.
I dont think you need to particularly love one over the other. When i was car shopping, i loved both. I ended up with the N Line since I was able to get it very lightly used (5k miles 2023) and was able to get it off the lot for about $7k cheaper.
They sold lots of Sonatas in my area, primarily to the elders, but others as well . If U had an "N Line", hardly any avg person would notice the differences between yours & other Sonata models. People aren't that savvy. To me, they all look like big Cod fish! Hands down it's the K5 for me. I just wish they'd complete ALL the lighting in LED, rather than mixed. No reason to hold back on LED Brake lights or indicators in 2020. Technology's got'em, USE'em!
Agreed. I find the majority of Sonata buyers are similar to Toyota buyers in that they're NOT car people. They made a nice choice in transportation,but hardly understand any differences in other models of same line. N-Line will be seen so seldom & also doesn't stand out in a big way from "generic" Sonatas, their owners will have an exceptional "generic" car. Similar scenario to the Taurus SHO line. I'll PASS. Every KIA K5 looks sharp as heck!
The a spec is smaller and 10k more, and Kia and Hyundai are pretty good quality for the price, better than Toyota, also the Acura has less power than both
It was time for them to retire the Optima name and bring in the global name. I also prefer the looks of the K5, but the Sonata might look better in black or Hampton Gray, I’m not a fan of red sedans in general, red and chrome don’t blend together well.
@@EpicDrew15 Red and black go good together. Bright chrome is just meant to stand out on it‘s own so chrome on bright paint looks overwhelming. Chrome on black, white or any dark conservative color is more tasteful.
I have an 18 se Sonata and the N line is in my sights. I like the front end of the K5 better. Another option im considering is the Stinger GT line. AWD is important to me but our second vehicle is a 22 Tucson so... We will be ok for the inclement weather. Im torn but overall im leaning tward the N line. I hope Hyundai brings the full Sonata N and adds AWD. At that point its a no brainer.
Happy Memorial Day to all! Hope everyone is enjoying a safe and fun holiday weekend. For this comparison, we were supposed to get the Sonata N-Line to do a proper comparison test with the K5 GT. At the last minute, the Hyundai wasn’t available but they sent us a Limited. We were surprised to see the Limited is actually more expensive versus the N-Line so we decided a $35k dollar question comparison would be a helpful way of showing the two vehicles. We like speed and tech, but what if you had to choose one or the another? Let us know which you’d go with!
Great Review 👍
I agree with you Sofyan, K5 is the best looking but disagree about visibility over the hood, I want to see the hood/bulge when I look out, hate when you cant see the hood, just mt 2cents
I like the K5 better. I feel like I'd still want a Stinger GT2 AWD, but I'd like to test drive the 2.5T version of the K5. My biggest question to all of these manufacturers: Why are you still using non-LEDs for **any** lighting? Do you have a huge parts bin you need to use up? Nothing ruins a nice LED setup by tossing in the random incandescent, arbitrarily...
@Sofyan, great job as always. Also, per Torque News Subaru has released HP figures on the 22 WRX. 286 HP from the FA24. 6 spd MT and updated CVT are being used as transmission choices. I realize this has nothing to do with this post, but I had to share it.
E the same interior as the limited. Luxury sport. Big miss Hyundai.
I would take the Kia honestly
i'm glad Kia changed their logo
That exterior looks way better
They all ugly trash
Even though hyundai sonata has more features than kia k5, I love kia k5 styling
For sure, the K5 is all around a better looking car.
Too bad it’s called. K5….
My thoughts exactly
@@robertleidner9703 k5 is the optima just a name change
@@robertleidner9703 eh who cares it's just a name
Sonata all day!
Based on technology, I would definitely go with the Sonata!
Both are nice, but I like the Sonata overall design better. The way the strip goes from the leadlight all the way into the lower door trim is an excellent design cue.
I’d do the K5 honestly. I despise the catfish design of the Hyundai no matter how many features it has.
Agreed... the Hyundai is hideous.
yea.. but if you put front lip bodykit.. it wouldnt be too bad...
Me too!!
The Hyundai looks like a flounder.
Agreed. I have a 2020 Accord Sport 2.0T and it’s just a more attractive and better car. The Hyundai looks hideous indeed. Even though the Hyundai has a lot more tech and graphics/animation, it felt cheaper and not as buttoned down/put together. Cheaper parts and more plastic inside. Kia looks a lot better.
Just got the 2021 K5 GT Line with red interior and wolf gray outside. LOVE the car. Definitely a head turner. It’s quick, wide and relatively low to the ground, making it feel very sporty. Also love the orange DRLs, makes them stand out against all the white ones on every other car.
I really like how Hyundai and KIa are going with more distinctive fascia designs; it's a breath of fresh air in an industry where everyone plays it safe with their design language, and nearly every car on the road looks identical to the one behind it.
Between the two of these I think I prefer the K5 overall, even if the name itself is lame.
The 2022 K5 actually will receive the new emblem as well as a plethora of more standard features :)
Care to give specifics on the "plethora of more standard features"?
@@jjx45678 Power folding mirrors, 360 degree camera, and front parking sensors…that’s about it though
Unfortunately, Still no fully digital speedometer
Lmao 🤣 plethora , I like it
@@Kobster808 Thanks. Got any info on any additional features\changes for the 2022 Sonata N Line?
2022 not a plethora of new features, only some. The top trim has some new features, compared to the other lower trims of just one or two new features.
I perfer the KIA. I love its design and how it's not overly tech'd out. More of a driver's car.
I'm picking the Sonata #elbagre...I like the orange DRL on the k5 gt line but HATE the fake exhaust 🤣 while the sonata has quite an attractive pipe
Redline Reviews viewer (me) also watch your channel!!! :)
The K5 GT has real quad pipes?
@Losttouchjs but isnt the GT higher than gt line
K5 exterior with Sonata interior and that's a Car!
I love my 2020 Sonata Limited
Just got a 2021 sonata limited in phantom black with black interior. The catfish design isn't as noticeable with darker colors and once I get all the windows tinted, its going to look gucci. I don't care about speed, I am not a kid anymore I like all the cool tech, looks, and safety features. It destroys my 2015 accord.
Just got mine sonata limited but with camel interior. Can’t wait for the window tinting
You say It’s faster than your accord because I have 2022 sonata 1.6T sel plus tech package
@@sametyldrm8837 i was meaning everything about it destroys my old Accord including speed.
@@oakleyguy89 you think my 2022 sonata 1.6T can destroy 2017 accord 2.4 .
I'd choose neither, because dealerships are price gouging at the moment.
For sure! Kia dealers are slapping a 4k "market adjustment" premium on all new vehicles. Absolutely insane.
Damn thats ridiculous. Ill just hold on to my 14 optima sx
Negotiate. Dealership had marked up my gtline special edition by 5k bringing the total to about 36k.. walked out of the door with 29k 0 down 🤘
@@z32PureHardDance if you got a gt 2.5t for that 👌🏾, but if you paid 29k for a 1.6t appearance package congrats you played yourself lol
@@daphenom45 nope 29k was a steal as i was one of the first to get a k5 in my area. Lol 😝
Wow, it's like he read my mind on which cars I had in mind. The exact comparison I was looking for.
Hardly any Sonata lovers in here! I personally bought a red N-line and I love it. It’s the best looking trim. The K5 is cool but although the design is new it still seems played out. The Sonata is unique and fresh and I know will continue to look great moving forward. The Sonata looks way better in person as well. Of course I am a biased buyer but the interior takes the cake for me. I do wish the Sonata had an LSD, but I don’t plan on racing it like that. Someone in the comments did mention that the Kia is more for the driver enthusiast and I agree with them. The Sonata gives you still a fun driving experience but the interior is amazing eye candy and just so smooth. I have never been happier about a purchase
Anthony I also chose the Sonata but in Hampton Grey. Also loved the red which was originally my top choice but after weeks of debating decided on the grey. That was only months of debating whether to buy the K5GT or the Accord 2.0 Turbo.
I prefer look of k5 but I agree the sonata looks much better in person. The camera doesn't do it justice
I really like both. Was shooting for a 22 Stinger GT wasn't available at the time. End up with the Sonata N Line murderer out. Gets lots of attention. Wish it had LSD, A traditional shifter like the KIA. Also the seats don't lower down as far as I like my 19 Camry did. Hyundai/Kia/Genesis needs a round of applause.
Stinger is a beast
U could’ve bought the older stinger GT2 instead of the Sonata N line?
i applaud hyundai for shaking up the market and actually bringing some innovation in the mid size sedan segment. fresh, crisp looking cars with good tech.
Here is my take. I test drove the K5 EX and Sonata Limited twice. I really liked the K5 exterior over the Sonata'; however, I found the K5 ran harsher/noisier than the Sonata (same tranny and engine). The Sonata has a better interior with digital dash and HUD. I love tech features and I wanted these things in my daily drive. Over all, the Sonata won out. I must say the K5's Wolf Gray color is outstanding, so I got the closest color to that in the Hampton Gray with the Sonata. So far, I enjoy the Sonata. But both cars are excellent products.
Sonatas look real sexy in person..the video doesn't do it justice
My exact dilemma and trim choices im struggling with. Just test drove the limited today and man oh man I was impressed
I would suggest getting a Sonata N-Line. It's got the best of both of these. Most of Sonata Limited's features. 290 HP like the Kia. I got one and love it.
Not really my guy when you compare the GT with the N-line the GT has a couple of better features like a 360 view camera system, power passenger seat and power folding mirrors, which are features absent from the N-line honestly the only exclusive feature on the N-line is the digital cluster. Now if you compare the EX with premium package against the Sonata Limited then the Hyundai destroys the Kia.
I'm considering a loaded AWD K5 over the Stinger. The big thing of course is the power difference, but a top tier K5 comes with some serious tech for around the same price as a base Stinger.
It does haven't AWD?
I just bought a new K5 a few weeks ago. I got the AWD GTLine (not GT) in wolf-gray paint / red interior. I wanted AWD for winter driving. The downside is AWD only comes with the 1.6L (not the GT) but I also have to say - the 1.6 engine is tuned to be very torque-y in the low range. She gets up and moves and has more than enough power for someone like me. So far I love the car, no complaints. :)
You might want to think about that. The Stinger GT-Line has the same engine as the K5 GT, a far more upscale interior, a much better sound system (with the "Sun and Sound" package) , and most importantly an RWD platform that tames the inevitable torque steer and wheel hop of the K5 GT. All for an MSRP of $38K compared to the $35K for a fully loaded K5 GT. Further, if you want RWD biased AWD you can have it for another $2K, or so, a feature not available at any price on the K5 GT or the Sonata.
@@seedub8560 is the GT line a higher trim than the GT I thought it was the other way around
@@benjaminbenson8914 - No, the GT is above a GT-Line, but only the GT-Line offers AWD.
I like BOTH, but I Choose the Hyundai.
K5 all the way; such a better road presence in person vs the Sonata IMO
I have the Sonata N-Line and I get people asking me questions about the car, more than any other car I owned. People can talk about how the front looks etc. I really don't care because I'm going to be in the car driving it and with what the N-Line offers, I'm very happy with it and the way it drives.
I was getting ready to leave the mall one day, putting bags in the back and this guy asked me from his car that was parked near me what car it was, I told him and he asked if he could see the inside. I showed him and he explained that he was always a Benz guy but he said he loved the different look of this car and I explained to him all the features for the price and he said he's going to a dealer to test drive it.
Get what you like, I don't base my thoughts on what others think of it. I love nothing more than putting the panoramic sunroof back on a summer day, putting it in Sport mode and having some fun on the open road.
Thanks for this. Somehow I needed to hear this. I LOVE the Sonata - especially the limited and I don’t care much for the grill and back of the car (though it could grow on me) but once I got inside, I forgot all about those.
I’ve ridden in a 2018 Benz S class and in a 2021 Sonata limited and I can’t believe I’m admitting this out loud but I’ll take the Hyundai any day. It also has this feel of “unpredictability” to it.
Like people hear “Hyundai” and they expect low end but then you actually get inside the 2021 sonata limited and it blows your mind. I’m giddy like a kid with the tech features. The limited has a little more tech specs than the N line. I love it!
At the end of my Stinger GT1 lease, i traded it in for a Sonata N-Line, and I just love it! It's more comfortable than the Stinger, brakes are WAY better, and all the fun tech. I would have liked to have test driven the K5 GT, but there are none to be found anywhere near me.
I agree that the optima nameplate was better suited for the Kia but I'll still take the K5 for sure.
Hyundai is the real brand. I really prefer Hyundai over Kia with not doubt about it.
Kia and Hyundai are both stepping their games. The K5 is good looking but I'd take the Sonata a beautiful car don't get me wrong but are stylish cars it seems the Sonata might have more aggressive look.
the sonata’s design just flows better than the k5’s. also, i hate kia’s faux hatch look in the back. i’m like, just give the car a hatch, instead of that horrible black trim. i think hyundai has it on the elantra, but the elantra is also a weird looking car from the side profile.
Interior of a car is what you experience the most and in that department the Sonata has the win.
I have the Sonata Limited in white with tan interior with blacked out tinted windows. I've never gotten more compliments on any other vehicle that I've ever owned. Looks and feels like a much more expensive car
Happy memorial day!
I would take k5 with sonata's interior. However, sonatas in dark gray or black look stunning!
Just my 3 cents..
Yeah, maybe the K5 has a bit more pop on the styling... but the Sonata still looks nice, and will still get stares from people.
I'd go with the Sonata, as since I will be inside the car, spending all my time, that's where I want all the goodies. Which, I think the general consensus is, the Sonata comes out ahead
So I'm inside all the time, wouldn't we want that?
Outer styling? K5 a slight advantage
Inner looks, amenities, styling?
Sonata, huge advantage
Others may have different things they are looking for in this mid-size class, but the basics as he outlines, Sonata for me, as even though the K5 might have a slight edge on the outer, Sonats nails it with the interior
Funny! My wife and I just went through this. I liked the look and features of the Sonata N line. My Wife like the look of the K5 GT! We ultimately chose the K5 GT believe it or not, only because the seats were more comfortable!
Front end: Kia
Rear end: Hyundai
This is it right here
Agree 100%!
I agree, the K5 is way sexier in my opinion and it's more distinguished from other offerings in the segment. However, the Sonata does have the nicer more advanced interior. Combined the exterior design and engine from the K5 GT with the interior and tech from the Sonata and you'd have the perfect sport-touring sedan.
I'd take the K5 GT with the GT1 package. You may not get the digital display cluster that you get in the Sonata but I'd take ventilated seats over the digital display everytime. You also get a power passenger side seat in the K5 GT. The K5 GT looks better than the Sonata N-Line in my opinion, it would be nice if you could get more exterior and interior color options, for instance for the Canadian market you can get the K5 GT in gravity gray that's not an option for the American market.
People just want a better looking car. Ya trash too much on the sonata. I got a sonata 2010 230,000 miles been driving for 2 years. Feels like new. Super reliable for me. I’ll take the sonata any day.
The Hyundai looks elegant and classy.
The Kia looks sporty and cool.
Both stand out.
@@Eric_In_SF In other words you like cars that all have the same boring look.
Yesss!!! This was the review I needed! Definitely going with the Kia K5 GT 👍🏽
I don't really understand what Hyundai is doing with the designs.
It's horrific...
Trying way too hard. But you can blame all the domestic fanboys telling the company they’ve been “on a roll” lately with these hideous designs.
@@justthevoicebackup280 Adam?
@@mybro727 It's a shame. Hyundai cars looked great until 2018-2019. The whole line had uniformity. After that, they started to look very uncohesive, cheap and busy. And it seems theyare becoming radically different from each other everytime they are redesigned.
@@leumamk5259 I agree and it’s sad because the opposite is supposed to happen. HMG should be getting more cohesive over time, and it seems Genesis has been getting all of their TLC considering it’s the *only* brand from the company that’s over the years somewhat become more cohesive across the lineup with the “double line” poor man’s Bentley theme applied to every model for 2021.
The same cannot be said for either Hyundai nor KIA’s 2021 lineup. Nearly every car looks different in some way. It’s like they left a stack of redesign assignments on the receptionist desk and random executives grabbed one as the wobbled in one morning until there were no more Hyundai/KIA’s left to redesign. The ones that got redesigned all have a different face, rear end, or both. It just looks all over the place from a consumer standpoint.
so I've been deciding between the GT and the N-Line for the last 2-3 months and the test drives sealed the deal for me; the N-Line had everything I wanted in terms of drivability, fun factor and interior design and amenities while the GT gave off really strong rental car vibes once you were inside. It's just so lackluster compared to its N-Line cousin
Not having all the nanny cams isn’t necessarily a bad thing, so shouldn’t be knock. More tech means more to break after warranty.
Both sedans are good-looking. I rather have the Kia K5. The styling and setup are more of my level taste. I am happy simply getting for just the GT-Line or EX trim for the Kia K5. For a sub-$30K with Kia is fantastic.
Great show! Personally I prefer the styling of the K5 - especially its sporty front so much Mustangish:))
I chose the K5 and man I love that thing so much!
Me too! :)
The Sonata doesn’t look bad in person, but it depends on the color. The interior on the Hyundai is far better in my opinion. Too bad they don’t offer AWD like the K5. Honestly though, I’d probably snag an Accord 2.0T over either of these
Honda and Toyota are played out I’m soo sick 🤒 of them literally! Here where I live they’re taxis
Which color looks better in person in your opinion?
I have a white sonata with black trim and it looks pretty good IMO.
@@willstaxx0730 the Koreans cannot compete with the Japanese for reliability. Mazda 6 if you want something different or Subaru Legacy.
I'm impressed with what Kia has done but I would still choose the Sonata because it has a more refined feel and appearance overall. The K5 has distinctive styling but still has a simpler, cheaper appearance. Great comparison though, keep the content coming!
I have been really looking forward to this one. Great comparison review.
The 2022 Kia K5 EX with the EX Premium package & the GT trim with the GT1 package now include the Surround View Monitor (SVM) which is the 360° camera system
I’d choose Hyundai
I just came off lease on a great 2019 Kia Optima SXL turbo but the newer K5 offered less equipment than my Optima. I now am iny the 2023 Sonata Limited due to the interior design and tech which is more important to me than the exterior design. I think both the Sonata and K5 are better looking than any of their competitors but give a slight edge to the K5. I find the Sonata's acceleration and handling more than sufficient for my needs.
Bought a 2023 K5 GT about two months ago. LOVE IT!!!!! Damn that thing is fast.
Although both have cohesive design elements and come across as a complete package, the Kia is just so well put together with seemingly a lot of extra detail to make it look just more finessed where the Hyundai looks classy and dynamic but just not as polished and dynamic.
El Sonata vien Deportivo 😍👌
Thank you for this video! I’m planning on upgrading my econobox forte to a sonata N line or K5 GT. The GT has the ventilated seats but the sonata has the nicer interior 😿 and I personally like the front end of the sonata I just don’t like the rear. The K5 has a nice exterior but not a fan of the interior, it doesn’t even have ambient lighting which is something I want tbh.
I picked up a sonata limited last month. I liked the looks ok the kia alot more but wanted the Hyundai tech. 360 cam HUD and digital gauges in particular. I dive over 100 miles a day for work and frequently average 40 mpg highway.
Good choice. I like the look of the sonata better myself. And the tech does make a difference.
@@wtfx5757 I do like the color it's the same red as the one in the video and I spend more time inside it and do like the gray and brown interior.
Another awesome review by you…….I always watch your reviews! I had the OPTIMA EX and it was such a great vehicle, I stuck with KIA and bought the new KIA SORENTO TURBO which I love! You can’t beat THIS CAR COMPANY!
I like both of them but for the money I'd get an Accord Sport or Touring 2.0t, Civic SI, or Mazda Miata.
Definitely the Accord 2.0 sport
You should instead get an Accord 2.0T
No. No LSD. The more you tune the Accord the worse it gets........ Slow.
@@heffaazul Ktuned Accords pushing 314 HP 366 TQ don't seem to be having much issues putting the power down. So I disagree.
Especially a 2020 2.0T Sport with 6spd manual. Unfortunate it's not available in a manual anymore.
I would take the Sonata over the K5, definitely has more of a luxurious look to it.
The K5 design will age better in my opinion. I think the Sonata depends on colour in all black they look really good.
I just bought the 2023 KIA K5 GT in White. Great value for the money.
I like the rear view of the Sonata, THATS where it ends. The K 5 is gorgeous.
Love your videos
I would skip both and pick up an Accord 2.0.
Accord is nice choice ,but like camry is shorter
The Accord is ugly The k5 looks better I’m waiting for the re design of the accord hopefully they add the panoramic roof and I be happy with it lol
This comparison was much needed! Thanks!
Great review. Happy Memorial Day. My Opinion Is The Hyundai Sonata
Great video Sofyan! For me, any Hyundai or Kia model that doesn't have an "N" at the end of the model number doesn't really get my attention any more. "N-Line" might perk me up a bit, but its the N models that to me represent the true extent of Hyundai/Kia car technology. The tendency for most American shoppers these days frankly is going to be to just ignore the sedans and go directly to the Tuscon or Santa Fe or Telluride. I suspect only the N or N-Line would be enough to change that, and I really love all the power Hyundai and Kia have managed to get out of the N. Without that N power, if I'm thinking solely about the sedan form factor, then frankly my mind gravitates toward a model Y or an IS350 or a Mach E.
I think I like the Sonata from an every day safety standpoint, especially the blind spot cameras which would come into use
virtually every time you drive it.
Rather buy a Honda Accord 2.0T Touring
Unpopular opinion i love the way the sonata looks. I feel like they did really good with it. I like the DRLs on the hyundai better than the k5. To me i could care less about performance. Dont need anything speedy like many people like / want here. Although... my mother owns the 2021 Hyundai Sonata 1.6t in glowing yellow. Got it in November and now has 21k miles. Been a great car for her. Not to many features like the limited but enough for her. She loves it. Also cant tell you how many complements she gets on the car.. literally all the time. People love the color / shocked its a Hyundai.
I’ve always been into luxury sport sedans. I would only downgrade for a K5 !
I got a 2021 Glowing Yellow Sonata SEL Plus with the Tech Package 2 days ago. Love it. My favorite car so far!!
I was really on the fence on this one but I ultimately end up going with the 2022 K5. I'm really happy I did as not only is this car going to get noticed. But has an interior which feels a bit more executive then it really is.
No complaints so far but I do recommend the higher trims if you can get it. EX or GT would be my recommendations here. The GT has the bigger 2.5 Turbo Engine with dual clutch transmission I believe.
But as someone who just came from a dual-clutch in my 18 Ford Focus. I have to be honest I'm not a big fan of them. K5 does have a dual-clutch but it's in the GT model. Ford's had problems though so maybe it's just a manufacturer issue.
I like the Sonatas better because of its sporty luxury look especially the headlights. I have a 2023 SEL Plus with 1.6 turbo, such amazing gas saver (30-35+ mpg), best car I’ve ever owned
I’d probably spend the extra money and get a Stinger AWD
Pet peeve to me: Actually Kia dropped the US “Optima” name and reverted to the origin name of K5 which has been used all along in Korea.
You're right. I still wish Kia had left the name as Optima.
Optima sounded cuter
K5 sounds way better. Optima kinda sounds cheap.
@@AUA-camChannelwithNoName I don't think their going for cute. lol The K5 looks like the Charger's little brother.
You can still call it an Optima.
I'd get the Accord Sport 2.0T and save a few grand, but that's just me.
Honda's K-series engines are amazing.
@@asdfghjqwertyu1858 I personally prefer their old j series v6 but that’s just me
@@naveenthemachine same
I prefer both of these over the Accord.
The Accord’s infotainment system is behind both of these, but it’s still a good option. Just doesn’t stand out as much as these two.
Traded my ‘19 Grand Cherokee Altitude 4x4 in to save some money. Chose the Sonata Limited thinking it would be a downgrade, but so far this is my favorite vehicle I’ve owned. Only 200 miles in so time will tell, but I’m loving the tech and real leather. Portofino Grey looks fantastic in sunlight and I really like the camel interior. I like the design but could see why many people wouldn’t. N Line was tempting but dealer discount and manufacture rebates made it a no brained for me.
The k5 from Korea is way better then the u.s version because it has a digital display it's a damn shame they didn't bring it to the u.s
Anyone dislike the front/rear of the sonata as much as me, it's hideous. The K5 is basically a knock off tlx so it's not bad looking. But my neighbor has the Sonata same color and the front and rear is just really bad in my opinion. I hate to be negative. It irs really like.. Ehhh
having driven both for a while, the Sonata will be my pick just because of comfort. Plus a lot of the interiors of the K5 feel less premium and very plastic-ish (I mean its plastic). Also a bit flimsy. The Sonata has metallic or some kind of metal compound with its buttons and switches giving it a more premium feel. The inside in the Sonata is definitely better designed.
The outside design of both cars are really good. The K5 gives a more sporty, aggressive and speedy look, or as one client would describe it "Sporty boy look". For the sonata, it boasts a very elegant look rather than sporty and aggressive.
Cabin noise.. eh about the same. But the engine of the K5 definitely sounds a lot better.
Both very good cars with many similarities and differences. If thinking about getting one, I suggest test driving them first before buying.
My choice. Sonata, just because of its features. Younger me would definitely go for the K5.
I prefer those built on the tnga platform. Well done video.
THE SHOW MUST GO ON!!!🙌
I think there both very attractive vehicles. I would pick the Sonata I really love the way it's styled it's a beautiful looking vehicle.
I got a k5 gt love it, the engine is the difference, 290hp all day long
Hows the power and handling. I got a stinger premium 4 cyl 250 hp. I hear kia is underating the hp. On dyno its 320.
If I had to choose between this two, I'd go with K5. But I am waiting for KONA N.
Sonata Hybrid is the one to get!
$35K for Kia? Hard pass. Accord Touring, no brainer.
Just got the same sonata limited. Love it
I would take accord for sure 🤓
I would take the v6 Camry
@Oddwolf 799 yessss 😄
Yikes
@@naveenthemachine the V6 Camry will get gapped by the Accord, the K5 and the Sonata.
@@drivescene6747 if you buy a camry to race with then you deserve to get gapped
A better deal and better looking is the Mazda 6. I know it’s been discontinued but it’s also a more refined ride. Get yours while you can :)
Its been discontinued? Why? I thought it was one of the most popular sedans...
@@PanameraTurboSEHybrid SUVs are favored in America over sedans by most, and Mazda doesn’t sell to rental car companies like Toyota, Honda, and Kia. They are a smaller company. I love sitting low in a sedan for a more comfortable sitting position, but we also have a cx9 as a family and cargo hauler. If people would only drive Mazda when shopping instead of blindly going over the Toyota and Honda cliff.
There is no Mazda 6 anymore?
@@edwardvalivonis23 the 2021 is the last year of the current 6. They may bring it back later. Right now everyone is crazy over suvs.
@@TroubleshootLIfe yes SUVs are crazy hot
Get the Sonata N Line for the tech and speed!
I like what kia and hyundai cars so far but I'm more on hyundai right now especially the N performance models.
Yeah me too. The N line is a better buy
@@willstaxx0730 good point
I honestly 100% prefer the Hyundai- especially the sonata limited but the only thing stopping me is that grill. I’m only undecided because of the grill and maybe the back. But at night, the Hyundai with the front and tail lights looks so cool.
Black exterior is where it's at then! Nowhere noticeable, same with the new Elantra N front end!
I dont think you need to particularly love one over the other. When i was car shopping, i loved both. I ended up with the N Line since I was able to get it very lightly used (5k miles 2023) and was able to get it off the lot for about $7k cheaper.
They sold lots of Sonatas in my area, primarily to the elders, but others as well . If U had an "N Line", hardly any avg person would notice the differences between yours & other Sonata models. People aren't that savvy. To me, they all look like big Cod fish!
Hands down it's the K5 for me. I just wish they'd complete ALL the lighting in LED, rather than mixed. No reason to hold back on LED Brake lights or indicators in 2020. Technology's got'em, USE'em!
Agreed. I find the majority of Sonata buyers are similar to Toyota buyers in that they're NOT car people. They made a nice choice in transportation,but hardly understand any differences in other models of same line. N-Line will be seen so seldom & also doesn't stand out in a big way from "generic" Sonatas, their owners will have an exceptional "generic" car. Similar scenario to the Taurus SHO line. I'll PASS.
Every KIA K5 looks sharp as heck!
For 35,000, I'd rather get a TLX A-SPEC over a plastic Kia/Hyundai
The a spec is smaller and 10k more, and Kia and Hyundai are pretty good quality for the price, better than Toyota, also the Acura has less power than both
It was time for them to retire the Optima name and bring in the global name. I also prefer the looks of the K5, but the Sonata might look better in black or Hampton Gray, I’m not a fan of red sedans in general, red and chrome don’t blend together well.
@@EpicDrew15 Red and black go good together. Bright chrome is just meant to stand out on it‘s own so chrome on bright paint looks overwhelming. Chrome on black, white or any dark conservative color is more tasteful.
I have an 18 se Sonata and the N line is in my sights. I like the front end of the K5 better. Another option im considering is the Stinger GT line. AWD is important to me but our second vehicle is a 22 Tucson so... We will be ok for the inclement weather. Im torn but overall im leaning tward the N line. I hope Hyundai brings the full Sonata N and adds AWD. At that point its a no brainer.
I bought an N-Line and I have never been happier with my decision. Go see one in person and drive it and I promise you’ll fall in love