2022 Kia K5 vs 2023 Chrysler 300

In Canada, the 2022 Kia K5 was available in LX, EX, GT-Line, and GT trims, each equipped with a turbocharged engine. The LX, EX, and GT-Line offered standard all-wheel-drive (AWD), while the GT featured a more powerful engine paired with front-wheel drive (FWD). 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 luxury sports sedan aesthetics. 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 car exuded quality, with solid controls and a refined feel, making it a bargain-priced vehicle without compromising on construction quality.

The 2023 Chrysler 300, introduced in 2005, was often compared to a Bentley due to its round headlights, bold grille, and stately proportions. Over the years, the 300 underwent updates, but its styling remained timeless. For its final production year, the 300 was available in Touring, Touring L, 300S, and 300C trims. The 300C, limited to 2,000 units, featured a powerful V8 engine and RWD. Prices ranged from $48,945 to $72,995, with the 300C at the top of the pricing spectrum. The interior, while featuring premium materials like carbon-fibre trim and Laguna leather, did not match the exterior's luxury promise. The 300C's interior felt its age, with limited storage and outdated technology, but it offered a unique driving experience reminiscent of older AMG-tuned Mercedes-Benz models.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the performance leader in its lineup, boasting a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft 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 fuel economy of 8.1 L/100 km. The K5's handling was competent but not as engaging as competitors like the Honda Accord, with some road noise and suspension issues affecting ride quality.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C revived the spirit of the 300 SRT with a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine producing 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. The 300C featured an adaptive damping suspension, Brembo brakes, and performance tires, with driving modes to tailor the experience. The car's Germanic ride and handling were reminiscent of older Mercedes-Benz models, offering a unique driving experience. However, the 300C's performance came at the cost of cabin noise and fuel economy, with a consumption rate of 13.4 L/100 km.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered comfort with dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was spacious, with ample storage and a 434-litre trunk. However, the low-slung design made entry and exit challenging. The K5's controls were well-organized, blending style with functionality.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C's front seats provided comfort with premium Laguna leather and heating/ventilation, but the rear seats were less accommodating due to limited legroom and a slouch-inducing backrest angle. Storage was limited, lacking modern conveniences like wireless charging. The 461-litre trunk offered ample cargo space, but the interior showed its age with outdated features.

The 2022 Kia K5 featured two infotainment systems, with the base offering an 8-inch touchscreen and the GT-Line and above featuring a 10.25-inch display. The larger screen required a cable for smartphone integration, but offered satellite radio, navigation, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system was subpar, but the system's graphics were vibrant.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C used an older Uconnect system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The system was user-friendly but dated, with acceptable voice recognition. The 300C included an SRT Dashboard for performance tracking and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. However, it lacked modern features like a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety, with features like forward-collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Drive Assist. It achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The safety systems were effective, though some features like lane-keeping assist had minor issues.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 offered limited standard safety features, with most available through the optional SafetyTec Plus Group. The adaptive cruise control was basic, and the car's crash-test ratings were outdated. The 300 received a Marginal rating in the IIHS moderate-overlap test, highlighting its age in safety performance.