2025 Kia
K5
Starting MSRP
$26,975
Combined MPG
32
Horsepower
191
Your Comparison
2025 Nissan
Altima
Starting MSRP
$26,890
Combined MPG
36
Horsepower
188
Quick Category Winners
Value
Tie
Performance
K5
Comfort
Altima
Fuel Economy
Altima
Reliability
Altima
Interior
K5
Technology
K5
Overall
K5
Scorecard Comparison
8.4
Performance
7.8
7.9
Comfort
8.1
8.6
Value
8.6
7.9
Ownership Cost
8.2
8.3
Technology
7.8
8.1
Safety
8.1
7.7
Reliability
7.9
8.0
Interior Quality
7.9
K5
Altima
CHOOSE THE K5 IF YOU:
- Want sportier styling at the lowest price
- Prefer a more aggressive driving feel
- Value strong standard equipment
CHOOSE THE ALTIMA IF YOU:
- Want comfortable, easygoing daily driving
- Prefer available all-wheel drive
- Value a quiet, relaxed cabin
5-Year Ownership Cost
| Category | K5 | Altima | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $6,500 | $5,900 | +$600 |
| Insurance | $6,300 | $6,500 | -$200 |
| Maintenance | $3,750 | $3,900 | -$150 |
| Repairs | $1,500 | $1,700 | -$200 |
| Depreciation | $13,800 | $14,200 | -$400 |
| 5-Year Total | $31,850 | $32,200 | -$350 |
$
The K5 costs an estimated $350 less to own over 5 years.
Size Comparison
K5
Altima
K5
Altima
Diff
Length
193.1
192.9
+0.2
Width
73.2
72.9
+0.3
Height
56.9
56.8
+0.1
Wheelbase
112.2
111.2
+1.0
Cargo Volumecu ft
16.0
15.4
+0.6
Trim-to-Trim Comparison
- K5 LXvsAltima S
- K5 GT-LinevsAltima SR
- K5 GTvsAltima Platinum
Final Verdict
The Kia K5 is the smarter overall pick across our scoring categories, especially in the areas it leads. The Nissan Altima remains a strong alternative if its standout strengths better match your priorities. Either way, both are credible choices in this segment.
Winner
Kia K5
Best For…
- CommutersAltima
- FamiliesAltima
- Resale ValueAltima
- Driving EnjoymentK5
- TechnologyK5
- Best OverallK5
Frequently Asked Questions
The Kia K5 is better for shoppers who weight want sportier styling at the lowest price, while the Nissan Altima is better if you want comfortable, easygoing daily driving. Both compete closely overall.
Our scoring gives the edge to the Nissan Altima, though the Kia K5 also performs well in long-term reliability data.
The Nissan Altima leads with up to 36 combined MPG versus 32 for the Kia K5.
The Nissan Altima is the better family pick thanks to its higher comfort scoring, slightly more usable cabin space, and a more relaxed ride.
Over a five-year ownership window, the Kia K5 costs an estimated $350 less to own once you factor in fuel, insurance, maintenance, repairs, and depreciation.
The Kia K5 tends to hold its value better in the used market, helped by stronger demand and a higher overall value score.