Midsize sedans no longer enjoy the popularity of SUVs, but car shoppers still have plenty of picks to ponder. Two, in particular, stand out from the crowd. The 2023 Toyota Camry and Kia K5 are dressed to impress. Aggressive, sporty styling boosts their attractiveness without sacrificing safety and reliability. And with starting prices just north of $25,000, the Camry and K5 won’t leave buyers with empty pockets. However, the 2023 Toyota Camry has three advantages over its Kia rival.

1. The 2023 Toyota Camry has a more powerful engine than the 2023 Kia K5

Most midsize sedans have moved to four-cylinder engines and hybrid drivetrains for better fuel economy. Toyota offers both powertrains for the 2023 Camry, but customers can also opt for a brawny V6. The 3.5-liter produces 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque pushed through the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. That’s more powerful than even the 290-hp Kia K5 GT. The V6 Camry might not achieve the K5’s gas mileage, but it can sprint to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, CarIndigo reports.

2. The Camry has a nifty head-up display

Even though the 2023 Toyota Camry’s head-up display (HUD) might make you feel like a fighter pilot, it’s only one of the many safety features. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) says it projects audio settings, navigation, speed, and transmission gear. It can’t send text messages, but it helps decrease driving distractions. Even better, the HUD is in color. 

3. Toyota boasts a one-of-a-kind reputation

The Toyota Camry has been dotting American highways and byways for over 40 years. But the Kia K5 — formerly the Optima — has been cruising since the beginning of the 21st century. By then, the Camry had become the leader in the U.S. automotive market for its famed reliability. Thanks to the Japanese manufacturer’s “Kaizen” philosophy of continual improvement, 80% of its vehicles built in the past 20 years are still on the road. So it’s hard to beat a Toyota.

Is the 2023 Toyota Camry better than the 2023 Kia K5?

The Honda Accord sits atop many lists as the clear choice for an affordable family sedan. For example, U.S. News asserts the Accord is “terrific” and boasts the safety and reliability ratings that consumers value. However, the Honda sedan doesn’t offer all-wheel drive, whereas the Toyota Camry and Kia K5 do. Moreover, the Accord’s styling looks a bit plain compared to the competition. 

No matter how it’s put, the 2023 Camry and the K5 will likely please demanding owners. Ample room for five riders, excellent infotainment features, and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems will ensure satisfaction. Yet, each sedan attracts for different reasons.

The K5 provides a stunning exterior and interior for the price, and the optional 290-hp turbo-four is no slouch. However, for its long-lasting build quality, numerous tech features, and potent V6, the 2023 Toyota Camry is a prime contender for this year’s best midsize sedan.