2022 BMW 3 Series vs 2021 Kia K5

The 2021 Kia K5 rebranded Kia’s image, offering a fresh, modern identity. The K5 replaced the Optima nameplate and presented a sedan with a fastback form comparable to the performance-oriented Kia Stinger. The GT-Line trim featured flat Wolf Gray paint and fire-engine red seats, which emphasized a resemblance to the Audi A5 Sportback. Thanks to acclaimed designer Peter Schreyer, who brought his expertise from Volkswagen Group to Hyundai Motor Group, the K5 featured a polished and detailed design. Key elements included a long, ovoid rear window, unique taillights with dashed LEDs in a thin strip, and a killer front end with Z-shaped amber LED running lights. However, the base 16-inch wheels made the K5 look less impressive, suggesting an upgrade for a better style.

Inside, the K5's dash was divided between driver and passenger, with a Supra-style divider and an angled center stack. The GT-Line's red seats with black accents and a flat-bottom steering wheel enhanced the interior’s upscale feel. Despite having standard analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen, the K5 felt refined with polished black trim and quality materials, including padded door tops and dash. In contrast to most GM and Ford interiors, the K5 exuded sportiness and quality.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series, especially the M340i, offered an exterior design with undeniable appeal, avoiding the controversial grille seen on the M3. The M340i’s Barbera Red special-order paint, combined with a Cognac-color SensaTec simulated leather interior and exclusive exterior designs including Shadowline trim and blue brake calipers, contributed to its striking look. The 19-inch wheels in Cerium Grey provided a perfect stance for the car.

Inside, the SensaTec upholstery convincingly mimicked leather, while the technical design focused on driving enjoyment rather than plush luxury. The Cognac-colored interior provided a sharp contrast against the dark cabin. Overall, the 3 Series boasted quality materials and a driver-focused layout that emphasized comfort without sacrificing style.

The 2021 Kia K5’s performance didn’t quite match its sporty appearance, especially in the GT-Line trim. While competitive with models like the Volkswagen GLI, the K5 lacked paddle shifters and had softer suspension damping. The 1.6-liter turbo-four engine, producing 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, offered decent performance with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy was commendable, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and we averaged nearly 36 mpg on highway trips.

However, the GT trim promised enhanced performance with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, this power was fed through the front wheels, which could be problematic without all-wheel drive (AWD) options for the GT trim. The GT’s final performance ratings were still pending.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i provided an exceptional driving experience with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. Featuring mild-hybrid technology, it delivered 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission. BMW claimed a 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds. Fuel economy was impressive, achieving 24.9 mpg during tests.

The M340i featured M Sport four-wheel ventilated-disc brakes, variable sport steering, and an M Sport suspension, offering dynamic handling. The optional Adaptive M Suspension further enhanced driving dynamics. The M340i felt hard-wired to the driver, reacting precisely and offering a thrilling experience whether navigating mountain roads or daily commutes. It represented the benchmark for sports sedans, rivaling the performance of the more capable M3.

Despite the 2021 Kia K5’s raked profile, it comfortably accommodated two adults in the back, with enough headroom and legroom provided by scallops in the roof and front seatbacks. The omission of rear air vents was a drawback, but overall comfort was good. The front seats were supportive and firm, ideal for long drives. The K5’s wireless charging pad was cleverly placed for convenience, and the infotainment system was straightforward to use. Trunk space was a generous 16 cubic feet.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i balanced driving satisfaction with passenger comfort and practicality. The power-adjustable front sport seats supplied ample support for various driving conditions. The driving position was perfect, with a thick-rimmed steering wheel and an overall intimate driver-focused feel. Rear-seat passengers found sufficient legroom, although the middle seating position might be uncomfortable for taller occupants. The 3 Series included a three-zone automatic climate control system and the option for heated seats. A notable feature was the 17 cubic-foot trunk with a 40/20/40-split folding design, adding extra utility.

Comparing cargo capacities, the K5 had 16 cubic feet of trunk space, while the 3 Series slightly edged it out with 17 cubic feet, providing a bit more storage room.

The 2021 Kia K5 was easy to set up with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although occasional glitches with Apple CarPlay were noted. Standard features on the LX trim included LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, lane-keep assist, and manual seats. The LXS trim added essentials like folding rear seats, proximity entry, and remote start. The GT-Line trim featured 18-inch wheels, additional USB ports, and power seats. Options included a 10-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and an advanced infotainment system with voice command features and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series featured Live Cockpit Professional with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and a navigation system. The iDrive 7.0 system was user-friendly, integrating with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. BMW’s Connected Package Pro included Remote Services and an Intelligent Personal Assistant with excellent voice recognition. Standard safety tech included a head-up display and various driving assistance features.

The 2021 Kia K5 was too new for ratings from the NHTSA or IIHS but was expected to score highly. It came with numerous safety features standard, including rear side airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, forward emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Blind-spot monitoring with Safe Exit Assist was standard from the LXS trim and above, while additional features like rear emergency braking and parking sensors were available on higher trims.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series came with a basic Active Guard package that included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and city-speed automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and semi-autonomous driving features were available through optional packages. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings across the board from the NHTSA.