The 2021 Honda Accord and the 2021 Kia K5 are both midsize sedans that have plenty to offer. However, unlike the Kia K5, the Honda Accord is recognized as a staple among the midsize sedan segment. But does the 2021 Kia K5 have what it takes to rival this year’s Honda Accord? Let’s find out.

2021 Kia K5 vs. 2021 Honda Accord: Engine options

Curious about what’s under the hood of the 2021 Kia K5? We don’t blame you. Standard on most K5 models is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine that offers up 180-hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, Car and Driver reports that the K5’s standard engine is pretty satisfying. But if it’s not powerful enough for you? The K5 is also available with a 2.5-liter turbo. Available on the K5 2.5 GT model, this engine boasts a full 290-hp and 311 lb-ft of torque to its name.

As for the Honda Accord? This year’s new model comes driven by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that’s capable of churning out 192-hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. A powerful 252-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is also available in Sport and Touring models. Unfortunately, the Accord’s 252-hp engine is less powerful than the K5’s available 2.5-liter turbo engine. Meaning, if it’s a powerful sedan that you’re after, it’s the 2021 Kia K5 that has the edge here.

2021 Kia K5 vs. 2021 Honda Accord: Safety features

Perhaps what’s under the hood doesn’t matter all that much to you. Maybe, instead, you’re most concerned about safety features. If that’s the case, you’ll be pleased to know that both of these sedans make nary a compromise when it comes to safety features. 

Opt for the Kia K5, and you can expect standard driver-assist features like forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, driver attention warning with leading vehicle departure alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The K5 is also standard with lane following assist, high beam assist, a rearview monitor with dynamic parking guidance, and rear occupant alerts.

The 2021 Honda Accord is standard with several driver-assist features too, including a collision mitigation braking system, a road departure mitigation system, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, a lane-keeping assist system, forward collision warnings, lane departure warnings, and a traffic sign recognition system.

With so many driver-assist features standard, it’s no surprise that both of these sedans excelled in crash tests. The IIHS even recognized both the 2021 Honda Accord and the 2021 Kia K5 as a Top Safety Pick+.

2021 Kia K5 vs. 2021 Honda Accord: Tech-savvy amenities

It’s worth considering what tech-savvy amenities are offered in each of these sedans too. Both sedans are standard with an eight-inch touchscreen display that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Both are also standard with Bluetooth and multiple USB charging ports.

But when it comes to available tech features? This year’s new Honda Accord is available with sought-after features like wireless device charging, a head-up display, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and voice-activated navigation. The K5, on the other hand, offers up tech-savvy amenities such as wireless device charging, navigation, and a premium audio system.

Is the Kia K5 a better sedan than the Honda Accord?

Maybe, maybe not. All in all, you really can’t go wrong with either of these sedans. Both are available with your choice of engine under the hood. Each also offers a long list of standard and available safety features. And when it comes to interior amenities? These sedans know just how to please. In the end, the Kia K5 might just have what it takes to rival the Honda Accord.