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Kia Spectra vs Mazda MAZDA3

2009 Kia Spectra
2009 Kia Spectra
$13,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2009 Kia Spectra
$13,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

2000-2009

Years produced

2004-Present

MSRP

$13,550

MSRP

$24,550

Listings

3

Listings

219

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Available all-wheel drive

  • Stylish design

  • Fun to drive

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

  • Cramped back seat

  • Outdated technology

Reviews Summary

Reviews Summary

Compact sedans are some of the most affordable vehicles today, which often leads to cheaper interiors, disappointing performance, and uninspired styling. The 2026 Mazda 3 bucks that trend with a cabin that could easily be mistaken for entry-level luxury fare, a spirited driving experience, and head-turning style. The current-generation Mazda 3 debuted as a 2019 model, but despite its age few updates are expected for 2026.

Verdict: The Mazda 3 proves that small cars don’t have to be boring.

No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 138 hp I4

Engine

2.5L 186 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

138 hp @ 6000 rpm

Horsepower

186 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG City

24

MPG City

27

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

36
2009 Kia Spectra
2009 Kia Spectra
$13,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2009 Kia Spectra
$13,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
2000-2009
2004-Present
MSRP
$13,550
$24,550
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.1

4.6

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Available all-wheel drive

  • Stylish design

  • Fun to drive

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

  • Cramped back seat

  • Outdated technology

Summary

Compact sedans are some of the most affordable vehicles today, which often leads to cheaper interiors, disappointing performance, and uninspired styling. The 2026 Mazda 3 bucks that trend with a cabin that could easily be mistaken for entry-level luxury fare, a spirited driving experience, and head-turning style. The current-generation Mazda 3 debuted as a 2019 model, but despite its age few updates are expected for 2026.

Verdict: The Mazda 3 proves that small cars don’t have to be boring.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 138 hp I4
2.5L 186 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
138 hp @ 6000 rpm
186 hp @ 6000 rpm
MPG City
24
27
MPG Highway
32
36
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