Checking out midsize sedans brings up a slew of options. Fortunately, this means everyone is likely to find something they like. Whether they want leading-edge design and plenty of power, or perhaps someone’s tastes are more sedate and reserved, the field is varied enough to accommodate anyone.
With that in mind, the 2025 Kia K5 and 2025 Chevrolet Malibu are compelling alternatives to the stalwart best-sellers in this class, so let’s compare the two.
2025 Kia K5
For the 2025 model year, Kia took a good car and made it better, apologies to the Beatles. Among the better offerings in the midsize segment, the automaker made a few improvements, including boosting the power output of the base engine from 180 horsepower to 191 hp. While you won’t set any records with that, more is better when it comes to ponies.
The exterior styling gets a few minor tweaks to the front and rear fascias, but the design remains fresh for a vehicle introduced four years ago. The K5 comes in four trim levels: LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT. The GT retains its 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, putting out a stout 290 hp. The other trim levels get the new engine. Front-wheel drive is standard, although all-wheel drive (AWD) is an option for the GT-Line.
The interior received a freshening for the new year as well as a new dual display unit comprised of a 12-inch gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen offered as standard equipment. With room for five, the cabin is comfortable and roomier than expected. The trunk is among the largest in the segment. Pricing starts at $28,145, including destination fees.
Kia K5 Highlights
More technology: Kia’s Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go as well as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist incorporating junction turning and cyclist detection is now standard across all trim levels.
Infotainment: Every new K5 includes a new infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Best protection: All of the shiny new technology, engine upgrades, and design tweaks are nice, but buying a Kia means you also get some peace of mind with the best warranty coverage in the industry: 5 years/60,000 miles bumper to bumper and 10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the K5 models for sale near you.
2025 Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet’s been making the Malibu for quite some time in one form or another. The current iteration hasn’t seen significant updates in recent years. Still, it retains many qualities that buyers count on, such as good ride quality, a large cabin, and a simple, clean exterior.
With four trim levels — LS, RS, LT, and 2LT — it’s not too difficult to get the 2025 Malibu equipped the way you want. It offers some sporty touches and a slew of technology, making it an appealing choice. Pricing on the Malibu begins at $26,995, including destination charge.
Chevrolet Malibu Highlights
Keyless entry: Optional in all but the RS model, this is a 5-digit keypad set vertically in the driver’s side door pillar. It means drivers can lock their keys in the car and go surfing or something equally key-unfriendly yet still have access.
Great for teens: Letting that new driver take the new Malibu out tonight? Good news! It comes with a standard pre-programmable key fob that can control audio system levels, set speed limits, and provide an in-vehicle report card that some parents might describe as “evidence.” Additionally, the Malibu can’t be removed from Park unless the driver’s seatbelt is securely latched.
Very safe: With a 5-star crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a “Good” rating in five of six tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, you can feel at ease each time you get behind the wheel.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Malibu models for sale near you.
Similarities
Roomy interiors and reasonable pricing make the Kia K5 and Chevy Malibu comparable sedans.
Conclusion
Although they’re in the same class, there are some significant differences between the Kia K5 and Chevrolet Malibu. The Kia features aggressive sporty exterior styling with a slew of modern amenities, while the Chevy hasn’t seen a significant update in eight years, although the design still holds its own. Take the Kia K5 … if for no other reason than the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
| 2025 Kia K5 | 2025 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Starting Price | $28,145 | $26,995 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6,100 rpm | 163 hp @ 5,700 rpm |
| Torque | 181.5 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 184 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 26 city/37 highway/30 combined mpg | 28 city/36 highway/31 combined mpg |
| Also Available | 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder, AWD | |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches | 111.0 inches |
| Overall Length | 193.1 inches | 194.2 inches |
| Width | 73.2 inches | 73.0 inches |
| Height | 56.9 inches | 57.3 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 36.0 feet | 37.0 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 40.2 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 37.8 inches | 37.5 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 46.1 inches | 41.5 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 35.2 inches | 38.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58.0 inches | 58.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 56.1 inches | 57.1 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 15.6 cubic feet | 15.7 cubic feet |