Standard and Available Engine Output

When evaluating the engines on these two models, you’ll find they compare quite closely. The Accord comes with a 1.4L 4-cylinder engine under the hood, while the K5 comes with a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine. As the difference in displacement would suggest, the Kia can pump out more in terms of output.

When looking at torque, you’ll find the K5 pumps out 195 lb-ft while the Honda produces 192 lb-ft. This difference may seem slight, but you will feel it as you look to accelerate up to your desired speed, say entering a highway onramp.

While there is this difference in standard engines, there is also a difference when it comes to available engines. The Accord offers a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that will increase your output to 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. While this is adequate, the Kia outdoes the Honda here, offering a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that offers 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.

Optimizing Engine Performance

While your engine itself is critical to your ride’s performance, the force generated will need to be optimized and distributed. This is where your transmission will come into play. Again, we’ll see a difference between these two automobiles in this area.

Both come with automatic transmissions. However, the Accord comes with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that does not use set gear ratios and does not provide a typical shifting experience. On the other hand, the Kia comes with an 8-speed Automatic transmission that’ll arm you with a sportier drive.

If you elect to upgrade to the larger engines in either, you can expect a similar transmission performance. Additionally, both add paddle shifting capabilities with these enhanced powertrains.

Technology All Around

So far, these two rides have proven they are complex pieces of machinery. That does not stop at their powertrains, extending into the interior and helping to determine comfort on the go. Both options come with state-of-the-art multimedia systems that feature:

• 8-inch displays
• Android Auto™
• Apple CarPlay®
• Bluetooth® connectivity

Aside from entertainment, these two rides were also designed with innovative driver-assistive systems. Some of these technologies consistent across both the K5 and Accord include:

• Lane Keeping Assist
• High Beam Assist
• Available Blind Spot Monitoring

You will, however, find a feature on the Kia K5 that is not available on the Honda Accord. This is the Driver Attention Warning (DAW). This system monitors your driving behavior, detecting if you have become tired or distracted, and alerting you if you exhibit either of these. This could help you determine it may be time to take a break from the roadways.