2026 Kia K5 LXS vs 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE
44 more hp and 49 more lb-ft torque vs $4,865 less and 5 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 191 vs 147 hp, 30 vs 35 MPG.
The K5 LXS leads on 44 more hp, 49 more lb-ft torque. The Elantra SE leads on $4,865 less, 5 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 LXS | 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,490 | $22,625 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 37 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 35 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.8 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,230 lbs | 2,868 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 107.1" |
| Length | 193.1" | 185.4" |
| Width | 73.2" | 71.9" |
| Height | 56.9" | 55.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia K5 LXS and 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE starts at $22,625, $4,865 less than the 2026 Kia K5 LXS at $27,490. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $86/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia K5 LXS?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS is the stronger pick when the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,865 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $200/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Kia K5 LXS or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE rates 35 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia K5 LXS or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS produces 191 hp, 44 more than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2026 Kia K5 LXS bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS is 7.7″ longer at 193.1″ vs 185.4″. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS has a 5.1″ 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: Kia trims, Kia K5 trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Elantra trims
- 2026 Kia K5 LXS Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The K5–Elantra Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the K5 and Elantra will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-4,865 gap adds up to $86/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS has 44 more hp (191 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS adds 49 more lb-ft of torque (181 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE saves roughly $200/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,000.
Living With the K5 vs the Elantra
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS has a 5.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS weighs 362 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Kia K5 LXS when the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE when you want to keep $4,865 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE 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 Hyundai or any dealership.