Kia K5 vs Honda Accord Hybrid

There aren’t any obvious downsides to buying a new 2024 Accord Hybrid unless you’re familiar with the previous-generation Accord equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. It was legitimately fast, while today’s Accord Hybrid is merely quick enough. The upside is the hybrid model effortlessly returns fuel economy in the mid 5 litres per 100 kilometres range, a worthy trade-off. Better yet, all 2024 Honda Accords in Canada except for the base EX get the hybrid powertrain as standard equipment.

Verdict: In addition to its impressive fuel economy, the 2024 Accord Hybrid is delightful to drive, thoughtfully detailed, and exceptionally practical, thanks to a roomy interior and a huge trunk. It is also a safe car, from its standard safety features to its crash-test ratings. Looking for a terrific family sedan? You’ve found it.

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.