2021 Kia K5 vs. VW Jetta GLI: One Of These Cars Is MUCH Better Than The Other...But Which One?

( www.tflcar.com/ ) In their own way, both the 2021 Kia K5 GT-Line AWD and Volkswagen Jetta GLI offer up quite a bit of fun for just over $31,000. That said, one of these cars is clearly better than the other. In this video, Nathan and Roman decide which of the two is truly the greater experience.
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#Kia #Volkswagen #Compared

[@andrewsmith9575]

Great infotainment!

[@wizeb8282]

This is a total farce of a comparison. Jetta is not the real rival in K5 class (midsize!), its Passat which should have been a Automatic! Plus would have been much more interesting comparing automatic shift technology 6spd vs 8spd automatics. They're both great, but K5 won vs Passat: kzbin.info/www/bejne/enbSi5eNhZVpg68

[@jamesd6801]

I’ve got a 2019 Jetta, I’ve put 80,000 miles on it since I bought it used a year ago. I love the manual! I use it for Uber 6 days a week. Best car I’ve ever owned!

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

Racking up the miles for uber on your personal car you love.

[@biotechben]

I love my Mk7 Jetta, 2019, base model 8A, it's smooth, it's quick, and I got 50mpg going from Baltimore to Pittsburgh. it's so thoughtfully laid out, I've put about 7k miles on it since I got it used at 14k miles, and the seats are just right for my height and body type, the transmission is buttery smooth, and that full throttle turbo whistle is great. wish it had a slightly throatier exhaust under heavy acceleration, but I will happily take the silent cruiser at city speed. if they still offered it in wagon form: I'd definitely have gotten it; hoping that the iD wagon comes in to fill that spot.

[@lickwidgoat3480]

Like all cars they have the bad points, but very few, i hope you have yours many years. I think jettas are legacy cars, maintain and give it to your fist born

[@cgbg89]

​@@BkBk-gy6vr well he loves his car enough for it to make him more money. You only get one life and people should live it how they want.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

@christophergales1529 You mean making zero money when you have to buy a new car 10 years prematurly because you racked up 200000 miles in 2 years and now your $30000 vehicle which is not even paid off is shot and now you need a new one. Are you Clueless!!

[@user-zn7lz8tv8s]

2017 GLI, Charcoal Gray, with tinted windows. Sleeper speed, even without the two tunes. No doubt, VW GLI.

[@clemsonguy99]

The GLI is a steal for what you get. I’ve had my MK7 for 18 months now and I would recommend it to anyone.

[@lsjionredlinesupercharged2049]

That like visiting dealerships lol 😆 God if you have to change a tire with their stupid ass lug nut combo design lol 😆

[@buildmorefarms1007]

It rattles inside.

[@jarrettrisper8101]

I’m kinda confused what exactly is a MK7. I just bought my 2019 gli today

[@douglas12398n]

@@lsjionredlinesupercharged2049 it’s not a lug not it’s a lug bolt. And you don’t need to go to a dealer to take them off 😂

[@lsjionredlinesupercharged2049]

@@douglas12398n German cars are wack except the m3

[@AndreThompson925]

I have a GLI Autobahn 6 speed manual and it's incredibly rewarding. With a $500 tune it's a damn fast car too, if you're in to that.

[@dieselrules4843]

Ditto. No tune though. What kind did you get?

[@AndreThompson925]

@@dieselrules4843 Integrated Engineering Stage 1 low torque

[@TayeAkindedynamo]

I bought a 2020 Kia Forte non GT it had some nice features but speed? It was lacking felt like I was driving a truck the engine was very unresponsive had to floor it half the time I should’ve gone for the GT but I was in a budget at the time nonetheless it gave me no problems.

[@buildmorefarms1007]

It rattles.

[@bobow4075]

@@buildmorefarms1007 lol yeah

[@ARentz07]

I got my 2020 GLI about 3 months ago and have been loving it. I will say the K5 has a much more interesting style to it inside and out, but then again, I sort of like that my GLI could be mistaken for a normal Jetta. I also have the Tornado Red paint like the one in this video, though I have the DSG instead of a manual.

[@weilandcock]

@The Insufferable Tool awesome write-up!

[@lamarmartin4084]

@The Insufferable Tool I’m stuck between choosing a 2.0T Accord or the Gli

[@SturFishProduction]

@The Insufferable Tool you may have just sold me on a gli, I was thinking of getting an si. But with the dsg me girlfriend could easily drive my car too

[@robertbaker3296]

@The Insufferable Tool I e been trying to find a dyno graph for the mk7 jetta 2.0t, but im unable to find one. Could you point me in the right direction?

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

@The Insufferable Tool Ill take the Kia Thanks.

[@madsdgdhg]

I don't understand the comparison. The Jetta rival is the Forte, the K5 rival is the Passat, the Arteon rival is the Stinger... and so on.

[@jbshp2011]

and so on and so on......

[@brianfru1025]

Exactly

[@SonOfTheDawn515]

Lol, KIA being a rival to VW. 😂

[@blainerandolph2191]

The Arteon is definitely not the rival to the Stinger. I'm a VW guy, in fact I sell them. But the Arteon doesn't have near the performance that the GT, GT1, and GT2 Stinger has.

[@SonOfTheDawn515]

@@blainerandolph2191 Because it would step on Audi's territory

[@trailrunnah8886]

I'm sure the Jetta drives nice, but I wouldn't want to own a VW out of warranty. Kia and Hyundai have been killing it the past few years with styling, value, and reliability while having the best warranty in the business. I'm not into sedans, but I would pick the Kia for sure.

[@jeffcarty9901]

Warranty is nice on the Kia but the reliability is shottier on the Kia then the VW. The 2.0T in the GLI has been used for a long time and is pretty reliable plenty of 150k VWs out there. People shy away from German but aren’t as unreliable as they once were.

[@brekdown29]

That’s dumb. I’ve owned several 2007 and newer VW’s. They’ve all been extremely reliable.

[@trailrunnah8886]

@@Mark-eu6mc I don't know, I haven't noticed. I haven't been up close and personal with a Hyundai with leather, everyone I know that has one has cloth seats. My girlfriend's Elantra has heated cloth seats, which I really love. I rented a Genesis sedan about five years ago, that had leather and was a super nice car. I was shocked at how much I enjoyed driving it. I think the worst leather I've ever seen is the mid 2000 Chrysler products. My dad has an 08 Dakota, and it's the worst leather I've ever seen. It's also this very weird color, it looks like it's really dirty, but it's actually a very light olive green-ish tone.

[@LAFooFrmLA]

@@trailrunnah8886 Hyundai/KIA were forced to extend their warranty to 10 years because of lawsuits on their terrible engines. Most recently they settled a huge lawsuit due to their engines catching fire. Seems like the only thing they're killing are the people that buy them

[@AgentOffice]

I've had more problems on a Hyundai but yeah it's free warranty

[@stevenwilhite4026]

I’ve owned 2 Jettas and I loved them. The styling of the latest iteration leaves me cold as do all VW autos. I now drive a Stinger.

[@XDeadlyBlade]

Same I had two Jetta’s, they were good cars, my manual Jetta’s engine gave out randomly, and my automatic transmission Jetta started jerking at 120k miles, I had to get it rebuilt, now I own a ceramic sliver stinger with red interior and I Love it

[@poodabran]

@@XDeadlyBlade I drive a Stinger too! Its orange. I've got no regrets.

[@XDeadlyBlade]

@@poodabran that’s awesome man, I never was a fan of Kia until now 🤙🏼

[@wbwayne8887]

@@poodabran GTS, huh? How's the drift mode?

[@garys2157]

It would be boring if everyone had the same taste, but I thought the previous Jettas were bland looking, saw one of these GLI last year and took me a minute to find what it was, I thought it was stunning. I like most of how the Stinger looks, pretty good value for what it can gives.

[@frommorningnight146]

a wise guy once said. "As always remember, there are no “good deals” to the average Joe. When searching for a vehicle, look at the used market resale prices. That clearly shows you which brands to stay away from."

[@keving7940]

@White Wolf good point

[@kristians2704]

Mercedes, Bmw depreciate fast but they are the best cars that exist.

[@noway234]

@@kristians2704 , you are right, the mechanic shops love them.

[@kristians2704]

@@carbonstar9091 reliability wise yes but in every other category they are still the best out there.

[@factsmatter6980]

@White Wolf old jeep are good. much better than KIA HYUNDIE.

[@joshgallant2433]

I just bought a 2021 GLI Autobahn with the black out pack and I love it. I had a 2015 GTI before it. Of which the gauge cluster in the K5 looks like something out of a VW.

[@byfedericojimenez]

I have a 2020 GLI Autobahn. For anyone wondering if they should get one, the answer is absolutely. It’s a top notch car.

[@kevinbarry71]

If Roman thinks that's one of the best engines ever produced; he's never talk to a mechanic

[@kristians2704]

reliability doesn't always mean the best but yeah I agree it's nowhere near the best

[@Tcflohr]

What makes you say that?

[@bandwagon240]

@@kristians2704 the VW shares neither trait.

[@sigor2011]

It is good, for a bit, till it starts leaving it parts on the road.

[@kristians2704]

@@sigor2011 In Europe VW is by far the best selling brand so if they were that unreliable then nobody would buy them.

[@bh848]

I own the 23 k5 identical to that and I love it. a new exhaust system, like a cat back or whatever route you choose really helped the drive of it and sound. and actual use for the vents lol

[@humbugswangkerton9972]

I have a 2019 Jetta Gli (white 35th edition) and I love it! Great value for what it is: a sporty sedan. Basically it's a cheaper Audi A4....not to mention between the K5 and Gli, the Gli may be cheaper to fix in the long run because of the larger supply chain (i.e interchangeable parts with jettas and Gti)

[@Jpvashon]

Perhaps less good cop bad cop? Difficult for viewers to assess level of honesty

[@mikal305]

Thanks!

[@poodabran]

Wouldn't the Forte be a better choice when comparing a Kia vehicle to a Volkswagen Jetta? Kia K5 is a midsize car.

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

I agree. A Forte GT with the manual transmission and throw it up against a similarly spec'd GLI might be a more apt comparison. If we're talking similarly powered and mid-sized AWD sedan comparisons, then you have to consider 202 hp AWD Toyota Camry, the 182 hp AWD Altima, the 182 hp AWD Subaru Legacy, or maybe even the 260 hp Legacy XT.

[@poodabran]

@@ragweedmakesmesneeze Yo that Legacy XT is a monster. Shame they didn't jump at the chance to bring the 2.5 GT back and utilize the 6MT/9AT system used in most other midsize sedans.

[@seancarleton5745]

Ordered my GLI autobahn last month. Can’t wait!!!

[@SupTJay]

Where the hell did you find a dealer with a new one on hand

[@cleitonmedina8640]

@@SupTJay there's a couple in Massachusetts, they sell out pretty quick.

[@SupTJay]

@@cleitonmedina8640 thank u!

[@AgentOffice]

How is it

[@aymanlockhartable]

I believe the Optima in South Korean market was called K5 and wanted to carry the name in the US to re-invent new area for the new model! Waiting for a rematch with KIA K5 GT 290hp 311 torque!

[@jadon6637]

It’s crazy I watched you guys with my dad when I was 8 and now I’m almost 18

[@tientrinh943]

How old is your sister?

[@wbwayne8887]

@@tientrinh943 😂

[@MandusahRamirez]

You do know the GLI started in 86 and it was basically a Sedan Version of a GTI. All VW did was go back to their roots

[@plutodestroyer12]

i like that kia tho

[@InFiNiTe2013]

On a road trip, I was able to get 38-41mpg in my jetta gli!! Crazy with the level of performance

[@bobow4075]

I’ve gotten 35 before. Honestly if you’re getting above 25+mpg consistently you prob should have bought something else…

[@benbackx1255]

Interesting to see that Roman likes the physical buttons for the AC, but in the Tesla/Mach E comparison, those buttons were such a thing of the past (according to him) :-)

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

To be honest, while I watch and enjoy a lot of TFL content, I think it can often be hard to know what Roman ACTUALLY thinks about certain vehicles. It's like they come up with a concept for a video and give us a performance. This one felt like an Abbot & Costello routine. Like really, we're making fun of car names now? The K5 is a generally well reviewed by everyone, but Roman's character was clearly "scripted" to hate it in every possible way. There are obviously legit good and bad things about both of these vehicles...but I guess that's why we all watch a lot of different channels to get different styles of reviews.

[@TFLcar]

Thanks for the comment. Roman says he’d buy the Jetta all day long over the K5. His opinions are pretty black and white in this video review.

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

@@TFLcar Fair enough. I stand corrected. I guess I was surprised that he disliked the K5 so much. You are right though his opinions were SOOOOO black and white that I thought, "this can't be real?"

[@jbm0866]

Roman has an affinity for Volkswagen, or German cars in general...and as an owner of a 2016 GTI, I can see where's he's coming from. Having said that, a lot of it is smoke and mirrors, and when the German engineering fails you and something breaks (and it will eventually) the love fades a bit. The K5 N-line may not have quite the acceleration and driving dynamics of the GLI, but chances are it will be more rewarding (not to mention less expensive) to own in the long run. It's not just the German luxury brands that are lease only...even mainstream VW's can go in that category. Thats why soon I'll be selling my GTI and getting into a Mazda 3 turbo..hatchback premium+😎

[@zacariaspiedrasdelrio8984]

More Nathan, please!

[@zcbowers94]

Idk what everyone complains about VW for. Have a 2015 Jetta and wouldn’t trade it for the Kia. Only had one issue but aside from that it’s been very reliable (almost at 100k miles). VW may not have the most inspiring looks, but they age extremely well. I’ve never seen a KIA that I think looks good 5 years after it’s released. That being said, if I were to get a sedan I’d get a Passat over the Jetta next time, I’m 6’7” and got the Jetta bc it was a bit cheaper and my wife and I were poor college kids at the time. But driving long distances can get rough in the Jetta for someone my height 😬

[@gunnargeroy8406]

I disagree I think VW makes some of the best looking cars out there. This Kia is kinda ugly. Looks weird.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

Of course you wouldnt get the Kia your biased since you already own a Jetta. You never drove a K5 so what do you know.

[@omercarrothers7537]

Is the engine in the K5 the same one that's in the Forte GT and Elantra N-Line?

[@dfwii]

Correct me if I'm wrong but, isn't the Jetta a competitor to the Forte and the K5 a competitor to the Passot?

[@Uncrowned_King_Benz]

I just let them be. Lol people like to make the Korean cars look bad cuz it’s a “Kia”

[@buzzpedrotti5401]

What do ya know... A $27 Autobahn 6MT is one of the best auto deals out there...

[@colapone1895]

I LOVE my MK7 S, base GLI with a manual, very much a drivers car with Even less distractions on the base

[@viknumbers701]

Which car would you rather drive in stop and go bumper to bumper traffic? Compare the factory warranties.

[@canto_v12]

As usual, the VW is the more refined everyday car, but it's supposed to be the more grown-up player in the class. Same thing happened to the Civic Si. Seems like these Hyundai/Kia performance models are what the Civic Si used to be, an excellent value for a fun sporty everyday useable car.

[@superlight47]

lol. man! You guys are just fun when you all do videos like that showing each vehicle strong point and weakness.

[@Mr.Worf63]

Interesting . I’d go with the K5 .

[@familyherochannel2288]

Sorry Roman I'm going with Nathan on this one

[@chetowfg7338]

How r those day running lights r blinking or something like that?

[@levicharles996]

Have a 13’ VW Jetta and the thing is reliable for now 130k miles. But I will say you need different tools to do things in German cars than others. Plus have to pay for vag com to interact with the computer system, such as priming the fuel system. And factory parts cost a arm and leg to get. So I would definitely go with the Kia. Girlfriend has a Kia Stinger and I’m jealous of that thing.

[@scottroberts5529]

They also have an obd11 dongle which is a cheaper option to vag com it can do all the same tweaks wth ur android or apple phone

[@tomsanders4799]

A 13 foot Jetta?

[@levicharles996]

@@scottroberts5529 they do, but you can’t read the parameters of the injectors. Or if you have to replace one you can’t code it to the engine on those obd dongles. Or even read the pressure differentials on the DPF, so you know you have clean/replace DPF. Those OBD dongles just give general codes, simple coding modulation such as changing lighting to LED setting, so the dashboard doesn’t flash a bulb warning when you converted to LED bulbs.

[@levicharles996]

@@tomsanders4799 haha sorry ‘13 VW Jetta. Actual length is 182.2”

[@scottroberts5529]

@@levicharles996 I know the obd11 could do about 70 percent vs what a vagcom can I do see your point I have a 7.5 Golf R wth the electricronic parking brake when ever I need to disengage the rear calipers to do a rear brake job that obd11 works

[@keshmo12]

My girlfriend has a 2014 optima with 100k miles and it's been very reliable. Had a $60 shift switch thing go out which caused erratic shifting. Not very much power but it's been a good commuter. And it gets 30-35 mpg.

[@stephenhendricks6790]

Given that I own both a VW (a MK7.5 GTI) and a KIA (a 2018 Sorento), it's a difficult choice for me. Both brands (imo) build excellent vehicles. Here's my take. () In terms of engines and drivetrains the win goes to the Jetta. The EA888 2.0 liter turbo is one of the world's greatest engines. Period. And that's before a Stage I APR tune that contrary to claims to the contrary DOES NOT invalidate the VW's manufacturer's warrant and DOES add gobs of HP and torque. Roman is a more than a bit harsh in claiming that the 1.6L turbo is tractor-like but it simply doesn't compare to the VW engine even in stock form. In terms of transmissions the VW takes the prize as well whether the choice is the MT or the superb dual clutch DSG. The K5 GT with its 2.5L turbo and DCT might change the verdict. But that model loses the AWD advantage of the GT-Line K5 since it comes only as a FWD model. Furthermore it lacks the Jetta's electronic limited slip differential and other "Dynamic Chassis Control" features of the Jetta. 300 HP or so in a FWD vehicle with an open differential is a recipe for wheel hop, torque steer, and overall handling issues. Avoiding those issues in the K5 GT means not using the power the vehicle has available. Those whose concept of performance consists exclusively of 0-60 and quarter mile times may differ but I'd still opt for the Jetta with a Stage I tune. () The Jetta's interior is spartan (or at least Germanic) compared to the K5. The infotainment center of the KIA is better than the VW's, as well. All in all the KIA offers more bells and whistles. Nevertheless, those advantages wouldn't outweigh the Jetta's other advantages for me if it weren't for one issue. Sometimes what's a minor issue for some is a deal breaker for others. In my case it's the fact that the Jetta does not offer rear seat climate vents. Considering that the back seat of my GTI is my big dog's second home I wouldn't own a car that denies him a stream of fresh air after an energetic outing to the local dog park. My GTI offers that and the GLI does not. And that makes all the difference.

[@nategunz8983]

K5 for non car enthusiast and moms, GLI for car enthusiasts and tuners

[@Vailwine]

wish you did the DSG VW and the EX K5 for a better comparison. I am thinking about both cars, I love the AWD K5 but why no BOSE and no paddles shifters??? I drive a DCT Elantra GT Sport now and love it but it needs AWD to be able to go full throttle from a stop, esp in rain.

[@freerider604]

I appreciate your review Roman - but I’ve had 3 “fun to drive” Jetta’s and they’ve all been crap. I’ve owned an Optima and Rio - I’d love to have the new K5 **thank you Nathan**

[@kpopkpop5235]

better check out this documentary, before you buying it. Drivers fear for safety as years-long recall fails to catch some engine failures kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJrEfnuejNCGhNk

[@superawesomefuntimego]

I'd say the GLI wins hands down here. Much better looking, faster, more fun to drive and available with a manual. The K5 does have better interior materials and is a competent vehicle for lots of people, but it is just not for me.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

GLI is ugly and crap on gas.

[@WirableCrown1]

Why didn't you show off the k5 with the 2.5T? Didn't want to make the jetta look to bad I guess.

[@devn3813]

That’s like $10,000 more than the GLI

[@WirableCrown1]

@@devn3813 oh dang really? Well nvm then

[@wbwayne8887]

@@devn3813 Not even close. You can get the GT for under $30K in the US. Check Autotrader for proof.

[@ndelafe]

@@wbwayne8887 you get the GT line for under $30k, but not the GT. The GT starts at $30k while the GLI starts at $26k. The GLI with a chip tune will put it at 326hp for just $500. This is already better than even the GT.

[@davva360]

Love my 2019 GLi

[@tuolumne9]

Reality is the MQB is STILL a superior platform to Hyundai’s latest mid-sized iteration. Sorry, but the Optima (K5) is not a comparison point to a GTI or GLI. Anybody who knows how a car should drive would agree with that. Also, the VW is still built better - close the door in both of these cars and tel me which is build better. The K5 is a midsized car glitzed up to fool people. Even with the lager engine - well go drive one - it’s unbalanced with too much power spinning the front tires - typical midsized guises-ied up sedan that mainstream Asian and American car brands have been trying for years - they are still not premium sporty cars. Honestly, go get a CPO A4 2.0T Quattro prestige for LESS money and you’ll have a vehicle actually designed to be a luxury car from the start - that’s the problem with the K5 - it isnt.

[@terere2011]

super fun way to compare 2 awesome cars! Great work guys!

[@slappymcphee]

I loved my 2019 GLI Autobahn. The fact as well that you can easily stage 1 tune it as well as TCU tune it just rocks.

[@sneakersonfeet9045]

You got rid of your 2019 already?

[@82mattlopez]

My 14 had a Apr tune and loved it.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

Really you (loved) it? Couldnt have loved it that much.

[@slappymcphee]

@@BkBk-gy6vr I had to move to a higher entry vehicle due to back injuries from being in the Gulf War unfortunately. I traded the GLI for a 2021 Tiguan SEL Premium and then did the Stage 1+ Unitronic tune with it. Not anywhere as close to as entertaining as my GLI, but still really like my Tiguan.

[@slappymcphee]

@@sneakersonfeet9045 I had to move to a higher entry vehicle due to back injuries from being in the Gulf War unfortunately. I traded the GLI for a 2021 Tiguan SEL Premium and then did the Stage 1+ Unitronic tune with it. Not anywhere as close to as entertaining as my GLI, but still really like my Tiguan.

[@bewarmuhsin1140]

It was a really truly beneficial review about this two wonderful cars from you guys! Thanks

[@82mattlopez]

Compact vs Mid size. K5 vs Passat would be a more equal comparison.

[@dvrify1]

The Passat sold in the US is a disgrace.

[@ZeroFoxtrotx]

I like the jetta plus 6 manual!

[@byfedericojimenez]

Roman talked about the GLI like he loves it. Nathan talked about the K5 like he was defending it. That’s a key difference.

[@1958Cadillac-v2g]

Only comes across that way, Because he didn't go first. In any comparison, the one who speaks second, comes off as defensive.

[@kahless0173]

The vw is the choice of car for people who go to the same restaurant at the same time every week and they order the same thing.

[@skylarmccune9242]

I like this comparison format. In the end, I would take the GLI. The K5 GT-Line (silly nomenclature) is merely competent (not bad), but the GLI is seriously appealing, while not giving up that much in comfort and tech to the Kia.

[@hydro_rebel7741]

I have a 2017 jetta, it only has a 1.4 turbo, but it rips. I love it. And it feels like a premium car even though it's only a SE or SEL. Oh and it has a 5 speed manual

[@Nestle245]

How does it handle in high speeds?

[@gunnargeroy8406]

How has it been? I have a 2010 with 138k no issues besides normal maintenance

[@stephenchisadza4975]

Anybody else struggle with these new turn signals? I find whenever I am driving behind a VW Group car with those lights it takes a while for me to react to the signal which is dangerous me thinks

[@stevenkim9637]

Shouldn’t you compare to K5 GT?

[@davidb9477]

That’s exactly what I was wondering it has more hp and all

[@9847tristan]

Can cars not have piano gloss black? Thanks

[@LondonHasFallin]

8:30 "Less than 3 seconds".🤭 Speed limit must be 40 mph.

[@SuperbikeShaun]

The K5 GT is absolute trash. There is no AWD option, and the K5 lacks the intelligent front diff of the Jetta GLI, so it constantly understeers, torque steers, and has absolutely abominable traction. Literally on a test drive pulling away from a light with anything but a feather foot resulted in tire chirps. The K5 has attractive styling and some cool features, but as something to live with daily (and that’s also a HELL of a lot more fun) the Jetta absolutely crushes it.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

Really I took the lowered powered 180hp K5 AWD and the Gli for a ride yesterday and the K5 seemed to handle better and was smoother just must slower.

[@GameJamz]

i freaking love my 2012 jetta its my first car and its great, it gaps all my friend when it need to and get good gas when it need to.

[@tahsin28]

Dude the optima is k5 in korea since the beginning of time.

[@ethanfonte2342]

Love my 15 jetta which is my daily. However the warranty does in fact SUCK..

[@NoNegotiations]

KIA is on another level recently, if only they would rebrand itself with something different, they would take off big. KIA name is killing itself with that name.

[@rhettthedog7757]

That Jetta has a lot of road noise compared to the Kia. I could barely hear Roman while driving it. Oh, isn't the Jetta a direct competitor to the Forte and Civic? Last I checked the VW Passat is the direct competitor to the k5.

[@mykelwojcinski]

I love these comparisons.....

[@geraldthompson4633]

Why does Kia have wireless infotainment on the eight inch screen and not the 10?

[@occckid123]

Maybe the 10 inch is an older design screen taken from other products?

[@geraldthompson4633]

@@occckid123 so why would you put an older bit in your latest and greatest? It’s a Kia thing. Folks in various forums have asked Kia that and have been politely blown off

[@occckid123]

@@geraldthompson4633 bigger is better right? Lol...

[@geraldthompson4633]

@@occckid123 usually, but not always. Clearly one must buy the smaller screen to get the greater wireless performance...

[@occckid123]

@@geraldthompson4633 yea I was joking. It's funny because the base model nissan frontier comes with a bigger screen than the higher trim model because back up camera is mandatory so the screen. They chose was I think around an 8 inch screen but thr upgraded screen with nav is a 7 inch lol

[@volvo09]

Love your style guys!

[@peterpanini7877]

plenty of friends and family had good luck with VW Jettas from late 80s/early 90s. then not so much. never been back to the jetta after problems with a late 90s one.

[@morgandrives]

Why not the K5 GT (more hp, fwd) vs the GLI? Just curious, not complaining. Love your content! 👍

[@Pilot545]

$$$$

[@TheCompyshop]

The base model K5 GT is as much money as the loaded GLI, that’s why it wasn’t used

[@Schmaoer]

@@TheCompyshop Comparing the top trims of each seems like a reasonable comparison.

[@TheCompyshop]

@@Schmaoer That’s what they did, they compared a top spec K5. Just not a top spec GT, because it would’ve made it unfair considering the Kia would be a ton more money

[@Schmaoer]

@@TheCompyshop Fair point. The K5 GT with the GT1 package would be 35k compared to the GLI being 32K.

[@yellowsnowman9157]

I was wondering where Nathan went. Miss his participation in the show. For the video, the Kia naming is awfuland I'm not sure the flat grey works. Both are nice vehicles. Shame nobody drives sedans anymore.

[@82mattlopez]

Kia saw their sedans earn more market share. With Ford and Gm not making them anymore the asian auto manufacturers have taking up the slack.

[@jonlaprade7977]

I've owned GTI, Civic SI, and now Forte GT. The GTI they sold me was one of the infamous 2019 lemons with the stalling issue, but was my favorite car to drive of the 3. I did just buy the Forte GT over the Jetta GLI, though. I thought the fun factor of the 2 cars were comparable and the Forte has more features for the money, cheaper to maintain, and a much better warranty. Is the GLI a little tighter and slightly faster with a more German feel? Absolutely! But the Kia is surprisingly close. They've done a great job of luring in BMW designers to work on their cars.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

What year Forte? It definetly doesnt have more features than a 22 Gli. The Gli has a limited slip with more HP and Torque. It has active dampers and its a quieter car that rides over bumps better.The only thing the Gli is missing is a heated steering wheel.

[@jonlaprade7977]

@@BkBk-gy6vr I understand the '22 GLI no longer comes in base trim, so I assume it has a ton of features being upper trim only. GLI is going to cost quite a bit more than my 2021 Forte GT2 did. Limited slip diff or not, Forte still a blast to drive and with most of the same features for much less money. Also my car is lighter by several hundred pounds making the DIFF less necessary in corners.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

@@jonlaprade7977 I have test drove both several times and I completly disagree. The Forte with lighter weight cannot turn like the Gli. It doesnt have as much Torque, speed or fun, but to each their own. All of those things plus the better ride lower wind and road noise, better in the snow with a limited slip and reliabilty is worth it to pay more to me. Kias start to lose ride quality after 15 to 20k miles to as I took a few used ones for a ride.

[@jonlaprade7977]

@@BkBk-gy6vr I don't think VW's are known for reliability either. To each their own. Both are comparably fun cars. Both have torque steer, both have plusses and minuses. VW is just going to cost you more up front and to maintain if you're keeping it. Kia has better warranty. Yada, yada, yada. Get your GLI. It's got your name on it!

[@nelsonvanvickle8862]

“Slightly faster” Lol.. I would say the difference is a little more significant than slight.

[@jackfishcampbell6745]

I guess a lot of people like this kind of pretend bickering but it does zip for me . Where I live in Canada I see probably 10 kias for one vw , I think that people are just more confident in the the reliability of Korean cars. People are really spoiled for power nowadays when 180 hp is considered weak.

[@Quantarius]

K5s are now made in the USA...quality is now worse...GLIs are assembled in Mexico...so there i go

[@jackfishcampbell6745]

@@Quantarius We have a 19 Kia Niro hybrid , made in Korea . Four years in and it's been flawless other than one CEL caused by a bad sensor . Under warranty . It is really well put together . If they shifted their location of build , then I could see possible issue arising .

[@stevekraynik2991]

VW offered a 6 year 72,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. For only 2018 and 2019 model years. Then they discontinued it and went back to 3/36 for 2020+. Seems like their reliability is still very questionable to me. I'd probably lease a GTI instead of purchasing either of the 2 reviewed.

[@samireed7946]

Vw warranty is 4/48,000 bumper to bumper

[@Holeyguagaamoley]

Every generation the Kia gets stronger, with VW the opposite is true .

[@jontg429]

"You can change the theme of the car" reminds me of selecting which song to play in the game Outrun

[@schuylerambrose7720]

I love my 2012 Jetta but it's time for an upgrade. New Jetta coming soon

[@ithamarl4570]

Kia Forte GT vs GLI. The optima K5 GT vs Passat 3.6

[@Reddragondesign]

Nah, the K5 is midsize just like the Jetta. The Passat is full size so it would go against the stinger or cadenza from Kia

[@ithamarl4570]

@@Reddragondesign Arteon, is full size

[@Reddragondesign]

@@ithamarl4570 you are correct, I had them mixed

[@VinceVDC]

My dad always said you pick the race and I'll pick the place. Nathan, pick a place covered with snow :)

[@errickkitchin36]

Snow or rain.

[@brandonmcfarland5200]

The Jetta GLI & The Kia Forte GT Are Matched.

[@danielmotas4962]

What's the meaning of the hood holder... means that you have to open the hood constantly for repairs. 🤔🤪😮

[@htiek30120]

In the US the name changed from Optima to the K5. In Korea, it has always been known as the K5.

[@rperez0714fitedu]

I tested both cars last week and end up purchasing the vw GLI. Is just a better car with electronic dampers and the LSD. The only downside of it are that the seats are on the firm side but the car is light and awesome to drive.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

Which one handled better in turns?

[@rperez0714fitedu]

@@BkBk-gy6vr the GLI is much better thanks to the limited slip differential. The Kia k5 is just a regular open differential so the traction control just light up right away and cut power.

[@OnTourWithPattiSmith]

Battleship grey ... .. is a great color. I had a ‘72 BMW 2002ti in battleship grey. That car was “never dirty” ... it just got darker between washes.

[@marco_grt4460]

every time i thought that the VW Jetta was the VW Passat for the american market, now i know they are actually two different models, it took me 15 years to figure it out, i don't understand much about why some models change name from continent to continent other, except for the Fiat Ritmo, the word "ritmo"(in English is rhythm) somewhere meant you know that balloon that is used to avoid unwanted surprises... Look what I have to write to avoid unwanted actions

[@dchase20]

Does the K5 have a Digital Dash, cooled seats, wireless charger, wireless car play? GLI does. Give the GLI the 7 speed DSG when you race the K5 "GT" please.

[@BkBk-gy6vr]

Dont forget no limited slip on that K5 either.

[@bho6486]

The real question is which car would be more reliable? Not sure I would feel good about either one.

[@AndresHernandez-ow3tb]

Kia is pretty reliable

[@vincerocker]

K5 buz its the name in all Asian market

[@Truckerdude8.1]

My money is on the Jetta GLI

[@user-qb2ve]

Which one is more reliable? I live in Cali.

[@Coolmaninmotion]

A used 2019 comes with a 6 yr/72,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty

[@Coolmaninmotion]

The Jetta GLI

[@typxxilps]

GLI is no German acronym cause the Story goes this: GTi stands in Germany for Gran Turismo Injection which are 2 italian and 1 english GLi is the corresponding acronym of GOLF GTi for the Golf sedan called JETTA, a Golf with a trunk for america only, which is not sold in Germany. Welcome to italian english GTi feeling in an american built car from a german car manufacturer.

[@jcwR52]

You can buy a Jetta with 200HP! But it was not in a GTI trim.

[@properdukes9091]

“How a propr car should be.” Thank you!!

[@Rosso488]

Oh Roman you can’t say a VW is baby Beamer. Audi sure but BMW naw.

[@dazzlingd]

Maybe he means the new 228?

[@wbwayne8887]

@@dazzlingd *228 Gran Coupe The 228 is a rwd 2 dr Coupe. So confusing, I know.

[@001barca]

Wrong comparison. Jetta GLI is supposed to be compared with Kia Forte GT. K5 is more of a comparison for VW Arteon. Comparing cars from different categories won't do justice

[@lickwidgoat3480]

Please do a old vs new jetta s? You can use mine 5 sp manny tranny and a 5 cyl and a 2 in lift, on at tires mk 5. Thanks love yall v dub hi life

[@zungalele]

How does the more expensive car could be the sensible one?!

[@jerrymyahzcat]

Grey is absolutely the worst colour for a car. That and volcanic mud pool diarrhoea brown. Auto manufacturers need to just cease making such ugly and unsafe colours. Yuk.

[@calebp6667]

K5 might be better for someone with mountains and snow. On the coast I’d take GLI .

[@johnwjeromejr]

Nearly 50 more HP + 6-speed manual - CASE CLOSED!!

[@devn3813]

It’s actually has about 80 more horsepower

[@kristians2704]

@@devn3813 actually about 40hp

[@devn3813]

@@kristians2704 nope. The ea888 isn’t making 228. It’s severely underrated. It’s making more like 260

[@genesishep]

Compare it to the K5GT and it gets stomped, BAD.