VS
At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 5800
228hp @ 6500
Torque
311lb-ft @ 1650
258lb-ft @ 4000
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the KIA K5 and the Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The KIA K5 delivers 290hp @ 5800 while the Volkswagen Jetta produces 228hp @ 6500. Pricing starts at $33,590 for the K5 and $33,745 for the Jetta. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
290hp @ 5800
228hp @ 6500
Torque (lb-ft)
311lb-ft @ 1650
258lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Number of Gears
8
7
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
23mpg
26mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33mpg
35mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.8gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
193.1in
186.9in
Width (in)
73.2in
70.8in
Height (in)
56.9in
57.3in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
105.6in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3596lbs
3311lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
KIA K5
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
K5
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
KIA K5
Lower starting price ($33,590)
Few notable weaknesses
Volkswagen Jetta
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the K5 or Jetta?
The K5 produces 290hp @ 5800 and 311lb-ft @ 1650 of torque while the Jetta delivers 228hp @ 6500 and 258lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the K5 and Jetta?
The K5 starts from $33,590 and the Jetta from $33,745. The K5 is cheaper by $155 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the K5 or the Jetta?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider