2025 Kia K5 GT w/ GT1 Package MSRP $39,500 + $1,850 rebate = $37,650
2026 Honda Civic Sport Hybrid Touring MSRP $35,150 + potential rebate = $35,150
Test drove both of them.
Kia K5 GT:
I immediately enjoyed and had fun in.
Sporty, has all the bells and whistles.
Was the only car that put somewhat of a smile on my face.
Only downside was the dealerships. Had a terrible experience with them which ended up with two salesmen from different locations but under the same ownership competing to secure a deal with me which ultimately ended in both salesmen backing out of the deal once the sales manager found out and effectively blamed me for price shopping (unknowingly) umbrella dealerships. Sales manager basically told me in a kind way to "Fuck off and go to the dealership that sent you here and work with them, we don't want to work with you." I would have bought the car day one if they simply removed the $1,300 fee for the Theft Protection Tracker when I asked. They did wave it the next day right before they both backed out on the deal though. And before you suggest, no, I cannot simply go to another KIA dealership because I live on an island.
Honda Civic Sport:
Great gas mileage.
Hatchback, so if I actually need to fit something of size into the car, I can.
Was only in the dealership for maybe 30 minutes tops, not including the test drive. Overall better dealer experience, actually seemed knowledgeable about the car and didn't really try to pressure me.
Downside was the driving experience, technology and what you get for being similarly priced. Overall just felt pretty meh. I don't want to spend this much money on a car that makes me go "meh". If I were to get the Honda, I'd want to change out the wheels to the black Sport version, looks much better but that'd be an extra $1,600.
There aren't really many options at this price range as far as I know that offer a sporty driving experience.
Any suggestions?
picrel