Compare The KIA K5 Vs. Nissan Altima

Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima

When shopping around for a new sedan, you may find yourself stuck deciding between the Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima. While it may seem like a no-brainer to some, it is a common struggle that many car buyers encounter when shopping around.

This comparison between the Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima will help you see the light as you view the pros and cons associated with both of these models. However, only one can come out on top, so keep reading to see which vehicle emerges victorious.

Comparing the KIA K5 vs. Nissan Altima Price and Trim Styles

When it comes to the starting price and available trim styles of the Nissan Altima vs. Kia K5, you will notice they are pretty similar. They both give you front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options. However, the Kia K5 has a lower MSRP than the latter, like when you compare the Kia K5 to the Hyundai Sonata.

These are the starting MSRPs of the various 2022 Kia K5 trims:

  • 2022 Kia K5 LX: $23,690 MSRP.1
  • 2022 Kia K5 LXS FWD: $24,690 MSRP.1
  • 2022 Kia K5 LXS AWD: $26,490 MSRP.1
  • 2022 Kia K5 GT-Line FWD: $26,090 MSRP.1
  • 2022 Kia K5 GT-Line AWD: $27,690 MSRP.1
  • 2022 Kia K5 EX: $28,590 MSRP.1
  • 2022 Kia K5 GT: $31,090 MSRP.1

When looking at Nissan Altima trims, these are the trims and their starting prices:

  • 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5 S: $24,550 MSRP.2
  • 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV: $25,550 MSRP.2
  • 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR: $26,550 MSRP.2
  • 2021 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR VC-Turboâ„¢: $30,900 MSRP.2
  • 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL: $29,990 MSRP.2
  • 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5 Platinum: $34,250 MSRP.2

Similar Features that Won't Make Your Decision Any Easier

When it comes to features in the Kia K5 vs. Altima, these models have similar options available for you to add to your new car. For example, here are some of the add-ons you could have in both of these new cars:

  • Heated Seats
  • Dual Automatic Climate Control with Rear Vents
  • Remote Start
  • Apple CarPlayâ„¢ and Android Autoâ„¢
  • Bose Audio System
  • Sunroof
  • Touchscreen Infotainment System with Navigation
  • Bluetooth®

One of the most significant differences in the interior is the infotainment screen size in the Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima. You will have an 8-inch to 10.25-inch screen in your Kia K5, while the Altima only gives you a 5-inch to an 8-inch infotainment system.

The KIA K5 Pulls Ahead in Terms of Dimensions

You want a car that maximizes its cargo space, despite its compact size, and it is something that the Kia K5 does better when comparing the K5 vs. Altima. It provides you with 16 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Nissan Altima only gives you 15.4 cubic feet.

The Kia K5 is also a bit longer and wider by less than an inch, and yet, it still gives you so much more room to play with, which is why you might want to lease a Kia K5. You can also expect more modern styling of its exterior as it focuses on smooth curves instead of sharp lines when looking at the Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima.

Safety Technology Will Give You Peace of Mind

The Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima both prioritize your safety in the vehicle with specialized technology, but this is not the only aspect of safety you should be inspecting. Accidents do happen, so you want a structure and airbags to keep you safe in the event the worst-case scenario does occur.

Here are the available safety technologies in the 2022 Kia K5:

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Cyclist Detection and Junction Turning Assist
  • Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control-Curve with Highway Driving Assist
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist-Rear (BCA-R)
  • Safe Exit Assist
  • Surround View Monitor (SVM)
  • Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
  • Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
  • Lane Following Assist (LFA)
  • Highway Driving Assist

These are the assistance technologies you will have in the 2021 Nissan Altima:

  • Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
  • Rear Automatic Braking
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert
  • Blind Spot Warning
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • High Beam Assist
  • ProPILOT Assist
  • Intelligent Around View Monitor
  • Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
  • Intelligent Lane Intervention
  • Traffic Sign Recognition
  • Intelligent Driver Awareness

When looking at the Altima vs. K5, you will notice they both sport steel structures, as well as advanced airbag systems. This similarity leads you back to the comparison of their safety technologies, and the two have about the same number of standard features on their base model, putting them on equal ground if safety is what matters most in your eyes.

The Power in Stunning Performance

When it comes to your engine, you have similar options as the Kia K5 has a 1.6L turbo four-cylinder, while the Nissan Altima provides you with a 2.5L turbo four-cylinder engine. They both give you around 180 horsepower, although the Kia K5 does allow you more opportunities for an all-wheel-drive drivetrain.

They even have a similar EPA-estimated mpg, as the Kia K5 has 29/38/32 (city/highway/combined) mpg3 and the Nissan Altima gives you 28/39/32 (city/highway/combined) mpg.4 It makes them both fuel-efficient choices with the ability to take on the curves of the road gracefully. Although, after test driving both models, many declare that the handling of the Kia K5 puts it at the top of their list.

Visit Jim Ellis KIA of Kennesaw for All of Your KIA K5 Needs

Once you discover the difference between the Kia K5 vs. Nissan Altima, there is one clear choice for you to make. The new Kia K5 for sale is the obvious winner when it comes to space and performance. When you come to this conclusion, you should stop by Jim Ellis KIA of Kennesaw and take it for a test drive.

The experience will be unforgettable as you feel its power and perfection at your fingertips. Stop by today and purchase your favorite Kia K5 trim with all of the features you could ever want or need at Jim Ellis KIA of Kennesaw.

KIA K5
Kia K5
Models:LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX, GT
Horsepower:180hp
Drive Type:FWD
Total Standard features:61
Body style:Sedan
EPA estimated range:474
Base MSRP: $23,690
NISSAN ALTIMA
Nissan Altima
Models:2.5S, 2.5SV, 2.5SR, 2.5SL, 2.0SR, 2.5 Platinum
Horsepower:182hp
Drive Type:FWD
Total Standard features:76
Body style:Sedan
EPA estimated range:518
Base MSRP: $24,500

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is bigger: the KIA K5 vs. Nissan Altima?

The Kia K5 is bigger than the Nissan Altima, although not by much on the exterior. Although the added cargo space doesn't reflect this number, there's a 0.3-inch difference in its exterior length and width.

You will have an extra 0.6 cubic feet of space, which could help you squeeze a few more must-have items into your vehicle. It is always better to have it than go without it and regret your decision later.

Is the KIA K5 AWD?

It depends on which Kia K5 trim model you choose because the Kia K5 LX, EX, and GT only come in front-wheel drive. However, the Kia K5 LXS and GT-Line give you the option of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive if you prefer a drivetrain that can tackle any terrain.

Is a Nissan Altima a full-size car?

The Nissan Altima is not a full-size car; rather, it is considered a mid-size car. This class description is why it is often compared to the Kia K5, as it is a competing model in this class.

When you compare these two models, you will see that the Kia K5 comes out on top when comparing size and price, which is something to keep in mind when shopping for a new car.


1"Starting MSRP" price is manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest model trim. See "Build and Price" section for MSRP of model shown. MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license fees, options, and dealer charges. Vehicles shown with optional equipment. Actual price set by dealer and may vary. The applicable destination and handling charge per model are provided in the "Build and Price" section. See dealer for details. Some features only available as part of packages. See "Features & Specifications" and "Options" pages for details. Kia Motors reserves the right to make changes at any time as to vehicle availability, destination, and handling fees, colors, materials, specifications, features, accessories, packages, and models. Not responsible for typographical or computer errors.

2All prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license, and options. Dealer sets actual price

3Learn more about Kia fuel economy at kiampginfo.com.

42021 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 28 City MPG / 39 Highway MPG / 32 Combined MPG for Nissan Altima. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.

Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw - Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)