2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Acura TLX

In 2022, the Kia K5 was available in Canada in four trim levels: LX, EX, GT-Line, and GT. Each model featured a turbocharged engine, with the LX, EX, and GT-Line offering standard all-wheel-drive (AWD), while the GT's more powerful engine was paired with front-wheel drive (FWD) only. The base prices ranged from $29,595 to $40,495, excluding a $1,800 destination charge. The K5's design was striking, with a low, long, and sleek profile that suggested a luxury sports sedan rather than a practical family car. The interior of the test car, a U.S.-specification K5 EX, was upscale, featuring Glacial White Pearl paint and Ash Blue synthetic leather, complemented by matte-finish fake wood trim and polished metallic accents. The controls exuded quality, with a solid feel to the automatic transmission shifter, door release handles, and steering wheel stalks, contributing to a sense of care in the vehicle's construction.

The 2022 Acura TLX had a wide and long stance, reminiscent of a luxury sedan from a larger class. It was notably wider than the BMW 3 Series, with a track width that enhanced stability and handling. The TLX's design featured thin headlights, a five-sided grille, and large tailpipes, creating a substantial yet fuss-free appearance. The Type S variant added unique elements like Tiger Eye Pearl paint, Performance Red Pearl, and 20-inch Y-spoke gray alloy wheels inspired by the Acura NSX. Inside, the TLX was snug, with impressive detailing and a Scandinavian airport lounge vibe in upper trims. The infotainment system was not a touchscreen, requiring acclimation to Acura's true touchpad interface. Despite its compact interior, the TLX offered a comfortable driving position and well-marked controls.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the choice for maximum power and performance, featuring a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, it was the most expensive and least efficient version, lacking AWD. The standard K5 engine was a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder with 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, offering linear power delivery and decent performance for daily driving. The K5's fuel economy was rated at 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test car achieving 8.1 L/100 km. While the K5 allowed road noise into the cabin and had a suspension that struggled with small road imperfections, it offered excellent outward visibility and a responsive steering system.

The 2022 Acura TLX featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the TLX came standard with Super Handling-All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), enhancing stability and handling precision. The Type S variant boasted a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, excelling on the track with its double-wishbone front suspension and adaptive dampers. The TLX's steering offered decent road feel, and the Brembo front brakes provided strong stopping power. The Type S had an active exhaust, though it was subdued. Fuel efficiency for the Type S was 12.3 L/100 km in the city, 9.8 on the highway, and 11.2 combined, while the regular TLX with SH-AWD had slightly better figures.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered comfort with dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and a heated steering wheel. The panoramic sunroof added natural light to the interior. While the low-slung design made entry and exit challenging, the front seats were comfortable, and the rear seats provided ample space. The K5's controls were logically laid out, blending style with utility. Storage space was generous, with a 434-litre trunk and 60/40-split folding back seat for expanded cargo capacity.

The 2022 Acura TLX, despite its large exterior, had a tight interior for four passengers. The back seat offered decent headroom but limited legroom. The front seats were comfortable, with adjustable side bolsters and a low driving position. Acura's true touchpad interface for the infotainment system required acclimation, and the trunk space was limited to 382 litres. The TLX's design prioritized the double-wishbone suspension, which affected interior space.

The 2022 Kia K5 featured two infotainment systems. The LX and EX trims had an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT-Line and higher trims had a 10.25-inch touchscreen with satellite radio, Kia Connect services, and a navigation system, though it required a cable for smartphone integration. A wireless smartphone charger was standard on most trims, and the GT trim had a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The K5's voice recognition was limited, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2022 Acura TLX had a simple and quick infotainment interface, though some typefaces were small. The head-up display was available only on the Platinum Elite trim. Heated rear seats were also limited to this trim, while features like 360-degree cameras and a heated steering wheel were available on the Type S. The ELS Studio premium audio system with 17 speakers was included on higher trims. Acura's voice recognition was quick and accurate, and the climate control linked to navigation for automatic adjustments.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety, with features like forward-collision-avoidance assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Safe Exit Assist system and Kia Connect technology added to its safety credentials. The K5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Acura TLX also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall score from the NHTSA. It featured standard knee airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were included on higher trims.