2021 Toyota Camry vs 2022 Kia K5

2021 Toyota Camry
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$25,045

MSRP

$23,790

Listings

218

Listings

238

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Spacious

  • TRD trim adds extra performance and style

Cons

  • Outdated technology

  • Underwhelming base engine

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Comfortable

  • Great safety ratings

Cons

  • Fairly pedestrian performance

  • Unimpressive voice recognition system

  • Can't match the similar Hyundai Sonata for value

2021 Toyota Camry Reviews Summary

The Toyota Camry has long been many new-car buyers’ default choice—but not because it’s interesting. Reliability and practicality have traditionally been the Camry’s strengths, not sportiness or style.

Toyota tried to change that for the 2018 model year, when the Camry was last redesigned. The current-generation Camry adopted more extroverted styling, and engineers tried to make the driving experience more exciting, too. While Toyota’s approach has changed, the Camry still competes against the same array of midsize sedans, including the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, and Volkswagen Passat.

Changes for the 2021 model year include subtle styling tweaks, new infotainment displays, an upgrade to the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) package of driver aids, some changes to the dashboard trim, and the discontinuation of the Camry L trim level. That leaves the Camry LE as the new base trim level.

The Camry offers buyers more choices than many rivals, encompassing three powertrains (inline-four, V6, and hybrid), six trim levels (LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade Edition, XSE, and TRD), and the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test car was an AWD SE Nightshade Edition, positioned close to the middle of the lineup.

2022 Kia K5 Reviews Summary

Last model year, as part of a redesign of its midsize sedan, Kia changed the car’s name from Optima to K5. Rakishly attractive and an undeniably good value, the new Kia K5 is an appealing choice in a shrinking vehicle segment where it faces fewer rivals with each year that passes. For the 2022 model year, the K5 wears Kia’s redesigned emblems, upper trim levels add standard features, and a new Premium option package for the GT-Line AWD installs upgraded headlights, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, Highway Driving Assist technology, and adaptive cruise control that can automatically adjust vehicle speed for curves.
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.5L 203 hp I4

Engine

1.6L 180 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

Horsepower

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

28

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

39

MPG Highway

37
2021 Toyota Camry
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Toyota Camry
$25,045MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia K5
$23,790MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$25,045
$23,790
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.7

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Spacious

  • TRD trim adds extra performance and style

Cons

  • Outdated technology

  • Underwhelming base engine

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Comfortable

  • Great safety ratings

Cons

  • Fairly pedestrian performance

  • Unimpressive voice recognition system

  • Can't match the similar Hyundai Sonata for value

Summary

The Toyota Camry has long been many new-car buyers’ default choice—but not because it’s interesting. Reliability and practicality have traditionally been the Camry’s strengths, not sportiness or style.

Toyota tried to change that for the 2018 model year, when the Camry was last redesigned. The current-generation Camry adopted more extroverted styling, and engineers tried to make the driving experience more exciting, too. While Toyota’s approach has changed, the Camry still competes against the same array of midsize sedans, including the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, and Volkswagen Passat.

Changes for the 2021 model year include subtle styling tweaks, new infotainment displays, an upgrade to the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) package of driver aids, some changes to the dashboard trim, and the discontinuation of the Camry L trim level. That leaves the Camry LE as the new base trim level.

The Camry offers buyers more choices than many rivals, encompassing three powertrains (inline-four, V6, and hybrid), six trim levels (LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade Edition, XSE, and TRD), and the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test car was an AWD SE Nightshade Edition, positioned close to the middle of the lineup.

Last model year, as part of a redesign of its midsize sedan, Kia changed the car’s name from Optima to K5. Rakishly attractive and an undeniably good value, the new Kia K5 is an appealing choice in a shrinking vehicle segment where it faces fewer rivals with each year that passes. For the 2022 model year, the K5 wears Kia’s redesigned emblems, upper trim levels add standard features, and a new Premium option package for the GT-Line AWD installs upgraded headlights, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, Highway Driving Assist technology, and adaptive cruise control that can automatically adjust vehicle speed for curves.
Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.5L 203 hp I4
1.6L 180 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
28
27
MPG Highway
39
37
Look and feel

2021 Toyota Camry

6/10

2022 Kia K5

6/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2021 Toyota Camry scores 6 out of 10 for look and feel, while the 2022 Kia K5 scores 9 out of 10. The Toyota Camry has made significant strides in distancing itself from its generic past design, opting for a more exciting look with styling elements such as flared wheel arches and thin headlights. However, the Kia K5 stands out with its sleek and luxurious design, offering a blend of style and practicality.
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Picture of 2021 Toyota Camry
Performance

2021 Toyota Camry

9/10

2022 Kia K5

7/10
CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Toyota Camry at 9 out of 10 for performance, while the 2022 Kia K5 scores 7 out of 10. The Toyota Camry offers a range of powertrains, including a Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and a potent V6 option, delivering a lively driving experience. On the other hand, the Kia K5 impresses with its turbocharged engine options, with the GT model offering a powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
Form and function

2021 Toyota Camry

8/10

2022 Kia K5

8/10
Cargo capacity is a key consideration when choosing between the 2021 Toyota Camry and the 2022 Kia K5. The Camry provides 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Kia K5 offers a spacious 16 cubic-foot trunk. In terms of comfort and utility, both vehicles excel, with the Camry boasting ample rear passenger space and the K5 featuring comfortable front seats and a user-friendly layout.
Technology

2021 Toyota Camry

7/10

2022 Kia K5

6/10
For technology, CarGurus rates the 2021 Toyota Camry at 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Kia K5 at 6 out of 10. The Camry comes equipped with an infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a user-friendly touchscreen. Meanwhile, the Kia K5 offers various tech features, such as a large touchscreen display, wireless smartphone charging, and advanced driver assistance systems.
Safety

2021 Toyota Camry

9/10

2022 Kia K5

9/10
Both the 2021 Toyota Camry and the 2022 Kia K5 score impressively in safety ratings, with 9 out of 10 ratings from CarGurus experts. The Camry boasts a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, while the K5 offers a suite of driver assistance systems like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Kia K5 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, both vehicles offer excellent features and value, making them solid choices in the midsize sedan segment. While the Camry shines with its performance and reliability, the Kia K5 stands out with its sleek design and advanced features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preferences and priorities in a vehicle.

Choose the 2021 Toyota Camry if:

7.8of 10overall
  • You prioritize a refined driving experience with a variety of powertrain options.
  • You value reliability and a solid reputation for quality.
  • You prefer a spacious interior and comfortable ride.
218 results
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Choose the 2022 Kia K5 if:

7.8of 10overall
  • You seek a stylish design with advanced technology features.
  • You want a car with a generous warranty and ownership perks.
  • You prioritize value with an affordable price point and attractive fuel economy.
238 results
See all

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Toyota Camry is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Kia K5 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, both vehicles offer excellent features and value, making them solid choices in the midsize sedan segment. While the Camry shines with its performance and reliability, the Kia K5 stands out with its sleek design and advanced features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preferences and priorities in a vehicle.

Choose the 2021 Toyota Camry if:

Shop Now
7.8of 10overall
  • You prioritize a refined driving experience with a variety of powertrain options.
  • You value reliability and a solid reputation for quality.
  • You prefer a spacious interior and comfortable ride.
218 results

Choose the 2022 Kia K5 if:

Shop Now
7.8of 10overall
  • You seek a stylish design with advanced technology features.
  • You want a car with a generous warranty and ownership perks.
  • You prioritize value with an affordable price point and attractive fuel economy.
238 results
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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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