2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR vs 2025 Kia K5 GT
$2,810 less and awd vs 108 more hp and 133 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,810 price gap, 182 vs 290 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Altima 2.5 SR leads on $2,810 less, AWD. The K5 GT leads on 108 more hp, 133 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR | 2025 Kia K5 GT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,480 | $33,290 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 15.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,442 lbs | 3,596 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 112.2" |
| Length | 192.9" | 193.1" |
| Width | 72.9" | 73.2" |
| Height | 57.4" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2025 Kia K5 GT?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR starts at $30,480, $2,810 less than the 2025 Kia K5 GT at $33,290. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $49/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,810 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia K5 GT?
The 2025 Kia K5 GT is the stronger pick when the extra 108 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR or 2025 Kia K5 GT?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR or 2025 Kia K5 GT?
The 2025 Kia K5 GT produces 290 hp, 108 more than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR at 182 hp. The 2025 Kia K5 GT also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Kia K5 GT uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR, FWD on the 2025 Kia K5 GT.
Is the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR bigger than the 2025 Kia K5 GT?
The 2025 Kia K5 GT is 0.2″ longer at 193.1″ vs 192.9″. The 2025 Kia K5 GT has a 1.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2025 Kia K5 GT have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD, while the 2025 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 Nissan Altima comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia K5 offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims, Kia trims, Kia K5 trims
- 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Kia K5 GT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Altima vs K5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2025 Kia K5 GT are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $2,810 gap is about $49/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Kia K5 GT uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Kia K5 GT has 108 more hp (290 vs 182). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Kia K5 GT adds 133 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD; the 2025 Kia K5 GT uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Altima vs K5
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR when you want to keep $2,810 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Kia K5 GT when the extra 108 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $49/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Nissan or Kia or any dealership.