The 2021 Kia K5 arrived on the automotive scene as a replacement for the Kia Optima. It’s competitively priced, fuel-efficient, and has plenty of great features to offer. But if it’s not the right fit for you? Then you may want to consider these alternatives to the 2021 Kia K5 instead.

The 2021 Toyota Camry is a reliable alternative to the 2021 Kia K5

No one shows up at the dealership and asks to be put behind the wheel of the least reliable vehicle on the lot. And why would they? Doing so would make for a pretty terrible investment. But unfortunately, for the 2021 Kia K5, its predicted reliability ratings are pretty disappointing. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model earned a lowly three out of five predicted reliability rating.

For a more reliable alternative to the 2021 Kia K5? You’re going to want to consider the 2021 Toyota Camry. The Camry is practically an icon among its segment and is well-known for being reliable. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, this year’s model earned a perfect predicted reliability rating. Impressive, right? We thought so too.

The 2021 Hyundai Sonata offers better ownership perks than the 2021 Kia K5

And if the Toyota Camry isn’t quite your style? The 2021 Hyundai Sonata makes for another worthwhile alternative to the 2021 Kia K5. The K5 and the Hyundai Sonata are pretty similar in price. Both will have you spending just under $24,000 on a base model. But when it comes to ownership perks, it’s the 2021 Hyundai Sonata that has the edge.

Unlike the 2021 Kia K5, this year’s Sonata comes standard with Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This complimentary maintenance plan covers everything from ⁠oil and oil filter changes to tire rotations. 

For an all-wheel drive alternative to the 2021 Kia K5, choose the 2021 Subaru Legacy

If you’re after a sedan with all-wheel drive, the Kia K5 may not be the best choice for you. Sure, this year’s model is available with all-wheel drive, but it’s going to cost you. For a 2021 Kia K5 equipped with all-wheel drive, you’ll be spending a minimum of $26,690.

The 2021 Subaru Legacy, on the other hand, comes standard with all-wheel drive. It won’t break the bank either. While a Kia K5 equipped with all-wheel drive will have you spending upwards of $26,000, a Subaru Legacy with all-wheel drive will only have you spending $22,895. That not only makes the Legacy an all-wheel drive alternative to the Kia K5, but also a more affordable alternative to the Kia K5.

Choosing between these alternatives to the K5 is going to take a test drive

These aren’t the only alternatives to the Kia K5. So if you aren’t sold on any of them? Not to fear. You’ve got several other options to choose worth considering. But to find the best alternative to this year’s new K5? Well, that’s going to take a few test drives.