2024 Kia K5 vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 was a striking vehicle with its rakish headlights and large, menacing grille. Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, the sedan had conventional proportions, while the hatchback boasted a daring and futuristic design. The clean lines and forward-thinking aesthetics of the hatchback were among the most innovative in the market, though the design had its drawbacks. Inside, the cabin continued the theme of clean futurism, with a simple yet elegant layout. The infotainment system rose organically from the dash, and the conventional shifter design was a welcome touch. Despite the modern design, the climate controls remained user-friendly, and the steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, had an elegant design.

The 2024 Kia K5, particularly in the GT-Line trim, was a head-turner with its Passion Red Tint Coat. Despite being around since 2021, the K5 still managed to draw attention and curiosity. The GT-Line trim sat between the base LXS and the more upscale EX, offering a sporty look without the high-powered performance of the GT model. The K5's interior was a mix of style and practicality, with SynTex artificial leather and cloth seat inserts. The cabin featured dual-zone automatic climate control and a 10-way power driver's seat, providing comfort and utility. The panoramic sunroof was a delightful addition, though it slightly compromised headroom for taller passengers. The K5's cargo space was generous, and the Smart Trunk function added convenience.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine, producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive available. A manual transmission was also an option for front-wheel drive Premium models. The test model featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The turbo engine provided an engaging driving experience, with well-weighted steering and a fantastic sound. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, offering precision and refinement, and the Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics with more forceful steering feedback and clever transmission shifts.

The 2024 Kia K5 came with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder base engine, generating 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive available on the GT-Line trim. The K5 GT model featured a more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The GT-Line offered various driving modes, including Sport and Custom, but lacked the high-performance features of the GT. The K5 GT-Line's fuel efficiency fell short of expectations, averaging 24.5 mpg in mixed driving. Despite this, the K5 GT-Line provided a delightful driving experience, with a well-tuned suspension and predictable dynamics, though the brakes were not up to the task for spirited driving.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was small compared to competitors. The hatchback provided 20.1 cubic feet, offering more usable space. However, the rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom due to the sloping roofline. The front seating area was more accommodating, with a decently sized center console and ergonomic design.

The 2024 Kia K5 provided ample comfort and utility, with a spacious interior and generous legroom. The GT-Line trim featured SynTex artificial leather and cloth seat inserts, though the material could be sticky. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, and the back seat offered excellent support. The K5's cargo space measured 16 cubic feet, with a convenient Smart Trunk function. Storage areas were plentiful, though some had plastic linings that could cause noise.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial, which was a weak point due to its clumsy menu navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the interface was unintuitive. The Mazda3 also featured two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control. The test model had upgrades like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system.

The 2024 Kia K5 LXS had a standard 8-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured a 10.25-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless connectivity in the LXS. The larger display included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The K5 also offered a wireless phone charging pad and an optional 12-speaker Bose audio system.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive headlights, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. However, the massive C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction risk.

The 2024 Kia K5 featured Kia Drive Wise, a collection of advanced driver-assistance systems, including forward collision warning, active blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance. Upgrades included cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, and Highway Driving Assist. The K5 received high marks from the NHTSA but scored poorly in updated IIHS tests for moderate overlap frontal-impact and side-impact protection.