2024 Kia K5 vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a diverse range of options to suit various preferences and budgets. Starting with the affordable Elantra Essential, it provided a cost-effective entry point, while the Preferred and Luxury trims added more upscale features. The Elantra Hybrid, available as an option on the Luxury trim, maintained the same exterior design as the standard model, with only a subtle "Hybrid" badge to differentiate it. For driving enthusiasts, the Elantra N Line Ultimate and the high-performance Elantra N, with its 276-horsepower engine, catered to those seeking a sportier experience. The Elantra's exterior design was polarizing, but its interior, especially in the Luxury trim, impressed with its stylish and high-tech features, despite some hard plastic elements.

The 2024 Kia K5, particularly in the GT-Line trim, garnered attention with its striking design, exemplified by the Passion Red Tint Coat. Despite being in the market since 2021, the K5 remained relatively unknown to some, yet its aesthetic appeal was undeniable. The GT-Line trim, positioned as a mid-level option in the U.S., offered more equipment in Canada, making it a compelling choice. While the interior featured some inexpensive-looking plastic, the overall design and detailing were commendable. The K5's pricing was competitive, though the cabin quality reflected its cost. The GT-Line trim provided a sporty appearance, but the true performance enhancements were reserved for the higher-priced GT model.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Luxury, with its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, might not have excited performance enthusiasts on paper. However, its driving dynamics exceeded expectations. The Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) was among the best in its class, and the Elantra Luxury achieved a commendable fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km during testing. While not as thrilling as the Elantra N Line Ultimate or the Elantra N, the Luxury trim offered a balanced ride and handling, with 17-inch alloy wheels and 225/45 tires contributing to its stability. The steering, though not particularly sharp, and the brakes, which showed some heat-induced shuddering, were minor drawbacks in an otherwise impressive package.

The 2024 Kia K5 featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard in Canada for most trims, except the GT, which boasted a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The GT-Line trim, while visually sporty, focused more on fuel efficiency, with an official rating of 8.3 L/100 km. However, real-world testing revealed a higher consumption of 11.5 L/100 km. The GT-Line's suspension offered a comfortable yet controlled ride, though the brakes struggled during spirited driving. The electric steering, while adequate, lacked the precision of a rack-mounted system.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra combined style with practicality, offering ample space for a family of four. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, a comfortable leather-wrapped driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. However, rear-seat passengers might have found the seating position less comfortable, and the absence of rear air conditioning vents and USB ports was a drawback. The Elantra's trunk provided 402 litres of cargo space, with a hands-free release feature available on some models, enhancing its utility.

The 2024 Kia K5 excelled in comfort and utility, with SynTex artificial leather upholstery in the GT-Line trim. The 10-way power driver's seat and manual front passenger seat height adjuster were notable features. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control were standard in Canada. The panoramic sunroof, available on all trims except the base LX, added a touch of luxury. The K5's interior offered generous storage, though some areas had plastic linings that could produce noise. The trunk provided 453 litres of cargo space, with a Smart Trunk function for added convenience.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, offering them in various trims. These screens elevated the Elantra's appeal, providing features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a navigation system. However, only Bluetooth supported wireless connectivity, requiring a USB connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The voice recognition system had mixed results, and the Bose audio system fell short of expectations compared to competitors. Digital Key technology allowed a compatible smartphone to function as the vehicle's key.

The 2024 Kia K5 offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the LX and EX trims, while higher trims received a 10.25-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless connectivity on the LX and EX. The larger display included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. Voice recognition was inconsistent, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable. A wireless phone charging pad was available on all trims except the base LX, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system was exclusive to the GT trim.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its comprehensive safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Elantra Luxury added cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crash protection.

The 2024 Kia K5 came equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, such as forward collision warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The K5 received high marks from the NHTSA but scored poorly in updated IIHS tests for moderate overlap frontal-impact and side-impact protection.