2024 Kia K5 vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

If you can overlook the real-world fuel economy and unimpressive crash-test ratings, then a 2024 Kia K5 is a steal of an automobile. (Don’t worry, it has an engine immobilizer system to prevent theft.) In Canada, it comes in LX, EX, GT-Line, and GT trim levels. Turbocharging is standard, and all-wheel drive is standard in Canada on every trim except the performance-oriented GT. The latter is a rare offering in this segment, and south of luxury brands it’s one matched only by the Nissan Altima.

Verdict: It’s a shame Kia doesn’t offer the K5 with a hybrid powertrain, and its performance in new, tougher-to-pass crash tests is worrisome. But there is no doubt the 2024 Kia K5 is a stylish, comfortable, enjoyable, and technologically advanced midsize car. And the price is undeniably nice.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an automotive icon that fulfills its lofty expectations for comfort, performance, technology, and refinement. Last redesigned for the 2021 model year, the brand’s flagship sedan receives only small changes for 2025.

Verdict: Quite simply, the S-Class is the best luxury sedan that doesn't wear a Bentley or Rolls-Royce badge. With several models to choose from and a dizzying array of options, there seems to be a perfect match for a variety of tastes, provided you have a six-figure budget.