2023 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2022 Kia K5

The 2022 Kia K5 was available in several trims, including LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT, all featuring a turbocharged engine. The LXS and GT-Line offered an optional all-wheel-drive system. Prices ranged from $23,790 to $31,190, excluding destination charges. The test model, a K5 EX with front-wheel drive, extra-cost paint, and the EX Premium package, had an MSRP of $33,945. The K5 was noted for its unique styling, resembling a luxury sports sedan rather than a family car. The interior, with its Glacial White Pearl paint and Ash Blue synthetic leather, exuded an upscale feel, despite some hard plastic surfaces. The controls conveyed a sense of quality, with a solid automatic transmission shifter, hefty door handles, and refined steering wheel stalks.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 featured a bold design with rakish headlights and a large grille, available in sedan and hatchback styles. The hatchback was particularly daring, with futuristic rear angles. Inside, the cabin continued the clean, futuristic theme, with a simple yet stylish layout. The conventional shifter design was a welcome choice, and the climate controls were easy to use. The steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, had an elegant design. Trim levels ranged from the 2.5 S to the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, with various features added at each level. The test model, a 2.5 Turbo AWD Premium Plus hatchback, included advanced driver assistance features and a powerful engine.

The 2022 Kia K5 GT was the performance leader with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, it was the most expensive and least efficient version, lacking all-wheel drive. The standard K5 engine was a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, with a conventional eight-speed automatic. Despite modest figures, the engine offered linear power delivery and could be calibrated with Drive Mode Select. The K5 EX returned 29.1 mpg in testing, slightly below the EPA's 31 mpg estimate. The ride quality was affected by road noise and suspension issues, but wind noise was minimal. The K5's steering and handling were adequate but not as engaging as competitors like the Honda Accord.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's base engine was a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, making 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The test model featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, producing 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The driving experience was engaging, with well-weighted steering and a responsive transmission. Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics, with heavier steering feedback and a sporty brake feel. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, offering precision and refinement while maintaining ride comfort. The tap-shift function mirrored race-car sequential shifters, adding to the performance appeal.

The 2022 Kia K5 offered comfort with dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and a heated steering wheel. The panoramic sunroof added natural light to the interior. Entry and exit were challenging due to the low-slung design, but the front seats were comfortable, and rear passengers had ample space. The controls were logically arranged, blending style with utility. Storage was generous, with a roomy center bin, smartphone charging slot, and integrated door trays. The 16 cubic-foot trunk provided ample cargo space, expandable with the 60/40-split folding back seat.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan had 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet. Rear seating was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline. The front seating area had a decent center console compartment, though the lid was frustrating to operate. Ergonomics were helpful, with sizable cupholders.

The 2022 Kia K5 featured two infotainment systems. The standard system had an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT-Line and higher trims had a 10.25-inch touchscreen, requiring a cable for smartphone integration. The system included satellite radio, Kia Connect services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and navigation. A wireless smartphone charger and a 12-speaker Bose audio system were available. The voice recognition technology was lacking, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 had an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a center console dial, which was unintuitive and cumbersome. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but navigation was confusing. The test model had navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo with excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Kia K5 excelled in safety with the Kia Drive Wise suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The EX Premium package added cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view monitoring system. The K5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came standard with safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree camera system. The hatchback's design created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction risk.