2021 Kia K5 vs 2020 Nissan Altima

The 2020 Nissan Altima, available in Canada in S, SV, and Platinum trims, presented a sleek and modern design, especially in its Platinum variant. The car's exterior was enhanced by 19-inch machined-finish aluminum wheels, although some design elements, like the door handle alignment and rear diffuser panel, were less appealing. Inside, the Altima boasted a clean and contemporary design with an ergonomic layout. The infotainment system was user-friendly, featuring a high-mounted touchscreen with stereo knobs, and the climate controls were straightforward. The interior materials were on par with the midsize sedan segment, predominantly in black or gray, with matte chrome and simulated wood trim adding a touch of elegance.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia K5, particularly in the GT-Line trim, was a striking sedan with a fastback form reminiscent of the Kia Stinger. Styled with flat Wolf Gray paint and red seats, the K5 exuded a sporty and upscale vibe. The exterior design was marked by unique taillights and a polished black trim, giving it a wide and aggressive stance. The K5's interior was equally impressive, with a driver-focused dash and quality materials throughout. The GT-Line featured a flat-bottom steering wheel and an 8-inch touchscreen, with options for a larger 10.25-inch display. The K5's design and materials conveyed a sense of sportiness and quality, setting it apart from many competitors.

The 2020 Nissan Altima in Canada was powered by a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing up to 188 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This setup aimed to make the Altima more competitive against SUVs. The Altima featured a strut front, multi-link rear suspension, dual-pinion electric steering, and 4-wheel-disc brakes. The ride quality was enhanced by Intelligent Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control, which adjusted engine torque and applied brakes for smoother handling. The CVT was designed to mimic a traditional automatic, though it could produce sudden power surges.

The 2021 Kia K5, particularly in the GT-Line trim, did not deliver the sporty performance its aggressive styling suggested. The standard engine was a 1.6-litre turbo-four with 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The K5's ride was balanced and isolated, but the GT-Line's handling fell short. The GT trim promised better performance with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower, though it was front-wheel drive only. The K5's fuel efficiency was commendable, with an estimated 9.2 L/100 km in the city and 6.9 on the highway. The GT's performance was yet to be rated, but the K5's sporty trim did not fully meet expectations.

The 2020 Nissan Altima's interior was designed for comfort, with NASA-inspired seats providing a sensation of weightlessness. However, the lack of a front passenger seat height adjuster and ventilated front seats was a drawback. The Altima offered heated front seats, side mirrors, and an optional heated steering wheel. In-cabin storage was ample, though a wireless charging pad was absent. The trunk space measured 436 litres, with optional grocery bag hooks and an interior grab handle for convenience.

The 2021 Kia K5 accommodated two adults comfortably in the back, despite its raked profile. The front seats were supportive and firm, ideal for long drives. The K5's interior featured hard buttons for climate and stereo controls, and a wireless charging pad was conveniently located. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with an optional 10.25-inch display. Trunk space was slightly smaller at 434 litres, but the rear seats could fold down for additional room.

The 2020 Nissan Altima offered a nearly perfect infotainment system with an 8-inch display, stereo knobs, and physical buttons for easy navigation. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with options for SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose audio system. NissanConnect Services provided connected services for six months, with plans for extended features. The door-to-door navigation was particularly useful, though the voice recognition system could be improved.

The 2021 Kia K5 featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, though there were occasional connectivity issues. Standard features included LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and lane-keep assist. The GT-Line added a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a 10.25-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth and SiriusXM. The GT trim offered additional performance features. The K5's adaptive cruise control worked well, even without navigation.

The 2020 Nissan Altima came with standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with additional features like pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning on higher trims. ProPilot Assist offered semi-autonomous driving assistance, though it was not entirely reliable. The Altima received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2021 Kia K5 earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with the latter awarding it a Top Safety Pick+ designation. Standard safety features included rear side airbags, forward collision avoidance, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The K5 EX trim and above included Junction Turning for intersection safety.