2025 Mazda 3 vs 2026 Kia K5

$24,150 · Sedan

$27,390 · Sedan

Comparison Overview

The primary numerical divergence between the 2025 Mazda 3 and the 2026 Kia K5 is the MSRP, with the Mazda 3 starting at $24,150, undercutting the Kia by $3,240. Performance metrics are nearly identical; both produce 191 hp, though the Mazda achieves slightly higher torque at 186 lb-ft compared to the K5’s 181 lb-ft. Fuel efficiency slightly favors the Mazda 3, netting 31 combined MPG versus the K5’s 30 combined MPG. Where the Kia K5 establishes a quantitative lead is in utility, offering 15.6 cu ft of cargo capacity, significantly surpassing the Mazda 3's 13.2 cu ft. Additionally, the K5 is physically larger, measuring 193.1 inches in length versus the Mazda’s 183.5 inches. These specification differences dictate suitability for diverse buyer priorities, particularly concerning initial outlay versus interior space.

Size Comparison

Performance

Fuel Efficiency

Full Specifications

Our Verdicts

🚗 Best for Commuters

2025 Mazda 3

The 2025 Mazda 3 offers marginally better combined fuel economy at 31 MPG compared to the Kia K5's 30 MPG, optimizing daily running costs.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families

2026 Kia K5

The 2026 Kia K5 provides superior utility with 15.6 cu ft of cargo capacity, exceeding the Mazda 3’s 13.2 cu ft.

🏎️ Best for Enthusiasts

2025 Mazda 3

Although horsepower is equal at 191 hp, the Mazda 3 generates 186 lb-ft of torque versus 181 lb-ft, suggesting a marginal advantage in initial responsiveness.

💰 Best Value

2025 Mazda 3

The 2025 Mazda 3 has a substantially lower entry price point at $24,150, saving the buyer $3,240 upfront.

Choose the Mazda 3 if...

If maintaining the lowest possible initial purchase price is the primary objective, due to the $24,150 MSRP.
If maximizing miles per gallon is desired, as the Mazda 3 achieves 31 combined MPG versus 30 MPG for the K5.
If a more compact exterior footprint (183.5 inches long) is preferable for urban maneuverability.

Choose the Kia K5 if...

If maximizing usable storage space is crucial, as the K5 boasts 15.6 cu ft of cargo capacity.
If a longer wheelbase and overall presence are preferred, given the K5’s 193.1-inch length.
If utilizing an 8-speed automatic transmission setup is preferred over the Mazda 3's 6-speed unit.

Key Dimensions

Dimension	Mazda 3	Kia K5
Length	183.5"	193.1"
Width	70.7"	73.2"
Height	56.9"	56.9"
Wheelbase	107.3"	112.2"

Features Comparison

Safety

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Blind Spot Monitor	✓	✓
Lane Departure Warning	✓	✓
Lane Keeping Assist System	✓	✓
Rear Cross Traffic Alert	✓	✓
Driver Attention Alert	✓	✓
Pre-Collision Safety System	✓	✓
Post-Collision Safety System	✓	✓
Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags	✓	✓
Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags	✓	✓
Front Head Airbags	✓	✓
Rear Head Airbags	✓	✓
Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation	✓	✓
Electronic Stability Control	✓	✓
Traction Control System	✓	✓
LATCH System	✓	✓
Rear Door Child Safety Locks	✓	✓
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)	4-Wheel	4-Wheel
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes	✓	✓
Rear Solid Disc Brakes	✓	✓
Brake Preparation System	✓	—
Brake Assist	✓	✓
Tire Pressure Monitoring System	✓	✓
Automatic Headlights	✓	✓
LED Headlights	✓	✓
Daytime Running Lights	✓	✓
Front Headrests	2	2
Front Height Adjustable Headrests	✓	✓
Rear Headrests	3	3
Rear Height Adjustable Headrests	✓	✓
Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt	✓	✓
Engine Immobilizer	✓	✓
Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote)	—	✓

Engine

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Base Engine Displacement	2.5 L	2.5 L
Number of Cylinders	inline 4	inline 4
Base Engine Type	gas	gas
Horsepower	191 hp @ 6000 rpm	191 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque	186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	181 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Number of Valves	16	16
Camshaft Type	Double overhead cam (DOHC)	Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Variable Valve Timing	Variable	Variable
Fuel Injection Type	✓	✓
Cylinder Deactivation	✓	—

Drive Train

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Transmission Type	6-speed shiftable automatic	8-speed shiftable automatic
Drivetrain Type	front wheel drive	front wheel drive

Fuel

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Fuel Type	regular unleaded	regular unleaded
EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway)	27/37 MPG	26/37 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy (Combined)	31 MPG	30 MPG
EPA Driving Range (City/Highway)	356.4/488.4 mi.	410.8/584.6 mi.
Fuel Tank Capacity	13.2 gal.	15.8 gal.

Comfort & Convenience

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Push Button Start	✓	✓
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel	✓	✓
Audio Controls on Steering Wheel	✓	✓
Cruise Control on Steering Wheel	✓	✓
Electric Power Steering	✓	✓
Rear View Camera	✓	✓
Adaptive Cruise Control	✓	✓
Front Cupholders	✓	✓
Front Door Pockets	✓	✓
Rear Door Pockets	✓	✓
Single Zone Climate Control	✓	—
Dual Vanity Mirrors	✓	✓
Front Parking Sensors	—	✓
Rear Parking Sensors	—	✓
Rear Cupholders	—	✓
Front Seatback Storage	—	✓
Dual Zone Climate Control	—	✓
Extended Cabin Heating/Cooling	—	✓

In Car Entertainment

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Infotainment Display	8.8 in	12.3 in
AM/FM Stereo	✓	✓
Speaker System	6	6
Android Auto (Wired)	✓	—
Apple CarPlay (Wired)	✓	—
USB Port	✓	✓
Android Auto (Wireless)	—	✓
Apple CarPlay (Wireless)	—	✓
USB Port with External Media Control	—	✓
Satellite Radio	—	✓
Satellite Radio Trial Period	—	3 months

Power Feature

Feature	Mazda	Kia
One-Touch Power Windows	4	1
Remote Keyless Entry	✓	—
Heated Mirrors	✓	✓
Keyless Entry	—	✓

Frontseats

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Front Head Room	38.0 in.	40.2 in.
Front Leg Room	42.3 in.	46.1 in.
Front Shoulder Room	55.7 in.	58.0 in.
Front Hip Room	54.6 in.	56.6 in.
Seat Material: Cloth	✓	✓
Front Seat Type: Bucket	✓	✓
Driver Seat Manual Adjustments	6-way	6-way
Driver Seat Height Adjustment	✓	✓
Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments	4-way	6-way
Passenger Seat Height Adjustment	—	✓

Rearseats

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Rear Head Room	37.3 in.	37.8 in.
Rear Leg Room	35.1 in.	35.2 in.
Rear Shoulder Room	53.5 in.	56.1 in.
Rear Hip Room	50.9 in.	56.6 in.
Split-Folding Rear Seatback	✓	✓
Folding Center Armrest	—	✓

Tires and Wheels

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Wheel Material	Alloy	—
Wheel Size	16 x 6.5 in	16 x 6.5 in
Tire Type	All Season	All Season
Tire Size	205/60R16	205/65R
Spare Tire Type	Temporary	Temporary
Spare Tire Location	Inside Mounted	Inside Mounted
Wheel Finish	—	Painted Alloy

Suspension

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Front Suspension Type	Independent	—
Stabilizer Bar	✓	—
Four-Wheel Independent Suspension	—	✓
Front Stabilizer Bar	—	✓
Rear Stabilizer Bar	—	✓

Warranty

Feature	Mazda	Kia
Basic Warranty	3 yr./ 36000 mi.	5 yr./ 60000 mi.
Drivetrain Warranty	5 yr./ 60000 mi.	10 yr./ 100000 mi.
Corrosion/Rust Warranty	5 yr./ unlimited mi.	5 yr./ 100000 mi.
Roadside Assistance	3 yr./ 36000 mi.	5 yr./ 60000 mi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about comparing the 2025 Mazda 3 and 2026 Kia K5.

What is the precise difference in horsepower and torque between the 2025 Mazda 3 and 2026 Kia K5?

Both sedans deliver an identical 191 horsepower from their base engines. However, the 2025 Mazda 3 has a slight torque advantage, producing 186 lb-ft compared to the 2026 Kia K5’s 181 lb-ft.

How significant is the difference in fuel economy ratings for these two front-wheel-drive models?

The Mazda 3 offers a slight edge in efficiency, rated at 31 combined MPG (27 city/37 highway). The Kia K5 is rated at 30 combined MPG (26 city/37 highway), showing a 1 MPG difference in city driving.

Which vehicle offers more interior hauling capability?

The 2026 Kia K5 is the clear winner for cargo utility, offering 15.6 cubic feet of space. The 2025 Mazda 3 sedan provides 13.2 cubic feet, resulting in a 2.4 cu ft deficit.

Considering the price difference, does the Kia K5 justify its $3,240 higher starting MSRP?

The Kia K5 justifies its higher price point primarily through greater size and utility, specifically its 193.1-inch length and 15.6 cu ft cargo area compared to the Mazda 3's smaller dimensions and lower cost of $24,150.

Do the different transmission types affect performance between these two similar FWD sedans?

Both cars use shiftable automatics, but the K5 utilizes an 8-speed unit while the Mazda 3 uses a 6-speed. This difference may contribute to the K5’s marginally lower city MPG despite having more gears for cruising.