2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL vs 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line

These two are closer than you would think. The data shows minimal separation. Key numbers: $290 price gap, 191 vs 191 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.

The short answer

The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.

$290
Price Gap
Same
HP Diff
1 MPG
Efficiency Diff
Lower price
2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL
Starts at $29,500
VS
Higher price
2025 Kia K5 GT-Line
Starts at $29,790

Key Differences at a Glance

Fuel Economy
28 MPG combined
vs
27 MPG combined
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,550/yr
vs
$1,600/yr
Curb Weight
3,466 lbs
vs
3,463 lbs
Fuel Tank
15.9 gal
vs
15.8 gal

What's Actually Different

These two vehicles differ in 4 specifications.

MSRP
$29,500Sonata SEL
$29,790K5 GT-Line
City MPG
25Sonata SEL
24K5 GT-Line
Highway MPG
34Sonata SEL
33K5 GT-Line
Combined MPG
28Sonata SEL
27K5 GT-Line
Fuel Tank
15.9 galSonata SEL
15.8 galK5 GT-Line
Annual Fuel Cost (EPA)
$1,550/yrSonata SEL
$1,600/yrK5 GT-Line
Curb Weight
3,466 lbsSonata SEL
3,463 lbsK5 GT-Line
Wheelbase
111.8"Sonata SEL
112.2"K5 GT-Line
Length
193.3"Sonata SEL
193.1"K5 GT-Line
Corrosion
7yr/unlimitedSonata SEL
5yr/100kK5 GT-Line
Roadside Assistance
5yr/unlimitedSonata SEL
5yr/60kK5 GT-Line

Full Specification Comparison

Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.

Spec2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL2025 Kia K5 GT-Line
Pricing
MSRP$29,500$29,790
Powertrain
Engine2.5L I42.5L I4
Horsepower191 hp191 hp
Torque181 lb-ft181 lb-ft
Transmission8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic
DrivetrainAWDAWD
Fuel Economy
City MPG2524
Highway MPG3433
Combined MPG2827
Fuel Tank15.9 gal15.8 gal
Annual Fuel Cost (EPA)$1,550/yr$1,600/yr
Dimensions
Curb Weight3,466 lbs3,463 lbs
Wheelbase111.8"112.2"
Length193.3"193.1"
Width73.2"73.2"
Height56.9"56.9"
Safety
NHTSA Overall5/5 stars5/5 stars
IIHS AwardTSP+No published data
Warranty
Bumper-to-Bumper5yr/60k5yr/60k
Powertrain10yr/100k10yr/100k
Corrosion7yr/unlimited5yr/100k
Roadside Assistance5yr/unlimited5yr/60k

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line?

The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL starts at $29,500, $290 less than the 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line at $29,790. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.

Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?

The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $290 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.

Who should choose the 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line?

The 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line is the stronger pick when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize sedan segment.

Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL or 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line?

The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.

Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL or 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line?

Both produce 191 hp.

Is the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL bigger than the 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line?

The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is 0.2″ longer at 193.3″ vs 193.1″. The 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.

How do the warranties compare?

Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.

Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims, Kia trims, Kia K5 trims

Official sources

How the Sonata and K5 Stack Up

Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL starts at $29,500; the 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line at $29,790. The $290 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.

Powertrain: Sonata vs K5

Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. Both produce 191 hp. Both use AWD.

What It Actually Costs to Own

The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.

Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL when you want to keep $290 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize sedan segment.

Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Kia or any dealership.

Keep Exploring