2020 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2019 Kia Optima

The 2019 Kia Optima, while not as revolutionary in design as its earlier models, still managed to capture attention with its signature tiger-nose grille, stylish fender-vent trim, and optional black panoramic glass roof. The variety of trim levels allowed buyers to find a look that suited their taste and budget. However, the limited availability of interior color options, except for black, posed a challenge for those seeking a specific aesthetic. The price range for the Optima spanned from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the Limited Package, with the plug-in hybrid model being the most expensive. The SX Turbo trim, without the Limited Package, featured a sleek blacked-out exterior, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and a sporty interior with black leather and red inserts, priced at $33,505.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 offered both sedan and hatchback body styles, with the hatchback standing out due to its unique curves and silhouette. Despite the hatchback's appeal, many U.S. buyers preferred the sedan for its upmarket competition. The Mazda3 sedan with the Premium Package and AWD featured 18-inch alloy wheels and a striking blacked-out mesh front grille. The car's side profile was sculpted, avoiding the sharp, angular styling of competitors. However, the sedan's rear dimensions felt disproportionate compared to the larger Mazda6. Inside, the Mazda3 embraced simplicity and minimalism, with creamy white leather and a cockpit-style feel. Despite the premium design, the sheet metal felt less sturdy, lacking the solid construction of luxury sedans.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered a range of five engines, including hybrid options. The base LX and sporty S trims featured a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the EX Turbo had a 178-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. The hybrid models provided 41 mpg in combined driving, and the plug-in hybrid offered up to 28 miles of electric range. The SX Turbo trim, with a 245-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, delivered smooth acceleration and was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The car offered four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart, with Smart mode adjusting to driving behavior. The SX Turbo's unique steering system provided good feel, though it lacked crispness on mountain roads. The sport-tuned suspension offered a firm ride, but excess body motion reduced confidence on challenging terrain.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3, redesigned for 2019, featured a torsion beam rear suspension, a cost-cutting decision that affected ride quality. While enthusiasts missed the previous multi-link suspension, everyday drivers might not notice the difference. The steering remained precise, with minimal roll through corners. All Mazda3 models used a 2.5-liter SkyActiv engine with 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous generation. The engine lacked the punch of turbocharged motors, but a turbo version was announced for 2021. The Mazda3 offered a six-speed manual transmission for FWD hatchback models with higher trim packages, while most vehicles came with a six-speed automatic.

The 2019 Kia Optima excelled as a daily driver, offering comfort, simplicity, and ample storage. The controls were logically arranged, with buttons and knobs for easy interaction with the infotainment system. The spacious interior included a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk and numerous storage cubbies. The front seats provided various power adjustments, with available heating and ventilation. The backseat offered impressive legroom and comfort, with rear air-conditioning vents and quick-charging USB ports. The Smart Trunk feature was convenient for hands-free access but could open unintentionally. Overall, the Optima was practical and comfortable, with the SX Turbo's Limited Package adding a touch of luxury.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan measured 183.5 inches in length with a 107.3-inch wheelbase, while the hatchback was more compact at 175.6 inches. Despite its size, the interior offered ample room for the driver, though backseat legroom was tight. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with materials that held up well over time. The large transmission hump in the rear middle seat was a drawback. The sedan's trunk provided 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet, both smaller than competitors like the Honda Civic.

The 2019 Kia Optima came with a generous standard infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with UVO technology, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. The Optima S and EX Turbo added satellite radio and UVO eServices, which relied on the owner's smartphone data plan. The SX Turbo included a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the font choice was unique, and the voice-recognition technology was flexible with commands.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3's interior design integrated an 8.8-inch infotainment display high on the dashboard, avoiding a tacked-on look. Mazda eliminated touchscreen functionality, opting for a rotary dial controller between the front seats. The system included dedicated buttons and a volume knob with additional controls. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were standard, with Sirius XM available. The infotainment software was faster, with sharp graphics and a minimalist design. The head-up display reflected off the windshield, enhancing the premium feel.

The 2019 Kia Optima was a standout in safety, with standard driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems. It received top crash-test ratings, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist worked well, providing subtle electronic inputs. The Optima earned high ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with only minor exceptions.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with Good ratings in all crash tests. The Premium Package's LED headlights also received a Good rating, while lower trims were rated Acceptable. The NHTSA awarded the Mazda3 a five-star overall safety rating. The car offered a range of advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.