2022 Kia K5 vs 2022 Toyota Camry

In Canada, the 2022 Kia K5 was available in LX, EX, GT-Line, and GT trims, all featuring a turbocharged engine. The LX, EX, and GT-Line came with standard all-wheel-drive (AWD), while the GT's more powerful engine was paired with front-wheel drive (FWD) only. 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, although this colour was not available in Canada. The cabin exuded quality, with solid controls and a refined feel, making the K5 seem like a bargain-priced vehicle without compromising on quality.

The 2022 Toyota Camry, particularly in the TRD model, turned heads with its eye-catching Cavalry Blue paint, a new addition for 2022. The Camry offered 13 different versions, with prices starting at $27,750 for the base LE and reaching $41,390 for the XSE V6. The TRD model featured an aerodynamic body kit, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and red accents, giving it a sporty appearance. The interior had an unusual dashboard layout and driver-oriented centre console, but the red gauge illumination and other red accents were considered tacky. Despite its bold styling, the Camry TRD was well-engineered, offering a solid and secure driving experience.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the performance leader in the lineup, with 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 lacked AWD and was the least efficient version. The standard K5 engine was a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, offering a linear power delivery and decent performance for daily driving. Fuel consumption was rated at 8.2 L/100 km, and the car returned 8.1 L/100 km during testing. The K5's handling was competent but not as engaging as some competitors, with decent grip but noticeable squeal in tighter curves.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and FWD. The TRD model offered track-tuned driving dynamics, with increased torsional rigidity, stiffer suspension, and larger brakes. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.4 L/100 km, and the car achieved 9.5 L/100 km during testing. The Camry TRD provided a solid and planted feel, with a communicative suspension and excellent brake pedal feel. However, the lack of AWD made it easy to break the front wheels loose.

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 interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for rear-seat passengers. Storage space was generous, with a 434-litre trunk and 60/40-split folding back seat. However, the low-slung design made entry and exit more challenging.

The 2022 Toyota Camry TRD had a sporty driving position and comfortable front seats with power height adjustment. The back seat accommodated two adults comfortably, but the TRD model lacked rear-seat air vents and a folding rear seatback, limiting cargo flexibility. The trunk offered 428 litres of space, smaller than some competitors. In-cabin storage was generous, with a large bin under the centre armrest.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for LX and EX trims, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen for GT-Line and GT trims, requiring a cable for smartphone integration. The larger system included satellite radio, Kia Connect services, and a navigation system. A wireless smartphone charger was standard on most trims, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system was exclusive to the GT trim. However, the voice recognition technology was lacking.

The 2022 Toyota Camry featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The TRD model had a 9-inch touchscreen with additional subscription services and a 9-speaker JBL audio system. The Camry did not offer dynamic navigation or voice recognition technology, but smartphone integration allowed for the use of Siri or Google Assistant. Other Camry models offered a head-up display and surround-view monitoring, but not the TRD.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety, with features like forward-collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The K5 also offered Safe Exit Assist and Kia Connect technology with 911 Connect and teen driver settings. The K5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Camry came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Blind-spot monitoring was standard on the TRD and XSE trims. The Camry's lane-keeping assist could be overly insistent, but Safety Connect provided emergency assistance and a stolen vehicle locator. The Camry also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.