2026 Kia K5 GT vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR
2 mpg better and 108 more hp vs $3,260 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 290 vs 182 hp, 30 vs 28 MPG.
The K5 GT leads on 2 MPG better, 108 more hp. The Altima 2.5 SR leads on $3,260 less, AWD. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 specifications.
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.
| Spec | 2026 Kia K5 GT | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,590 | $30,330 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 37 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.8 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,596 lbs | 3,442 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 111.2" |
| Length | 193.1" | 192.9" |
| Width | 73.2" | 72.9" |
| Height | 56.9" | 57.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR starts at $30,330, $3,260 less than the 2026 Kia K5 GT at $33,590. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $58/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia K5 GT?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel; the extra 108 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,260 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Kia K5 GT or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT rates 30 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia K5 GT or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT produces 290 hp, 108 more than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR at 182 hp. The 2026 Kia K5 GT also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Kia K5 GT runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Kia K5 GT, AWD on the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR.
Is the 2026 Kia K5 GT bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2026 Kia K5 GT is 0.2″ longer at 193.1″ vs 192.9″. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has a 1.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia K5 GT uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia K5 comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Nissan Altima offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia K5 trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
- 2026 Kia K5 GT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
K5 vs Altima: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Kia K5 GT and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-3,260 gap adds up to $58/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Kia K5 GT runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Kia K5 GT has 108 more hp (290 vs 182). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Kia K5 GT adds 133 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia K5 GT uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: K5 vs Altima
The 2026 Kia K5 GT saves roughly $100/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $500.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Kia K5 GT when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR when you want to keep $3,260 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR covers your needs.
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 Kia or Nissan or any dealership.