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, excluding some electric vehicles. Inside, the cabin continued the theme of clean futurism, with a simple yet elegant design. The infotainment system rose organically from the dash, and the conventional shifter design was a welcome feature. The climate controls were straightforward, and the steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, had an elegant design.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia K5 was a head-turner, especially in the GT-Line trim with its Passion Red Tint Coat. Despite being around since 2021, the K5 was still relatively unknown in North America, yet it drew attention with its great looks. The interior design was outstanding, with textured metallic trim and a robust transmission shifter. However, the cabin had its share of inexpensive-looking plastic. The K5 GT-Line trim in Canada came with more equipment than its U.S. counterpart, offering a good balance of style and utility. The interior was comfortable, with SynTex artificial leather and a 10-way power driver’s seat, though the material could be sticky depending on attire.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a range of engine options, starting with a Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated inline-four, available on the GS and standard on the GT, delivered 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, optional on the GT trim, produced 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The driving experience was engaging, with well-weighted steering and a fantastic sound from the turbo engine. The Mazda3 excelled in handling, offering precision and refinement, and the Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics.

The 2024 Kia K5 featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder base engine with 180 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The K5 GT model boasted a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine generating 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The K5 offered various driving modes, including a Sport+ mode with launch control on the GT. The GT-Line trim, while sporty in appearance, was more fuel-efficient than the GT, though real-world fuel economy fell short of estimates. The K5 GT-Line delivered a comfortable ride with predictable dynamics, though the brakes were not up to the task for spirited driving.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 374 litres of cargo space, which was small compared to other compact sedans. The hatchback offered 569 litres, which, while not as spacious as many small SUVs, was still usable. The rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, making it suitable for occasional use. The front seating area was more accommodating, with a decently sized centre console and ergonomic design.

The 2024 Kia K5 excelled in comfort and utility, with generous legroom and supportive seating. The GT-Line trim featured SynTex artificial leather, which could be sticky, and a 10-way power driver’s seat. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control were standard in Canada. The panoramic glass sunroof added to the appeal, though taller adults might find headroom limited. The K5 offered ample storage areas, 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 was not a touchscreen, and the learning curve was steep. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control. Our test model had upgrades like navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system.

The 2024 Kia K5 offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the LX and EX trims, while others had a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless connectivity on the LX and EX. The larger display included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition technology was hit and miss, and a USB cable was recommended for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. A wireless phone charging pad was available on all trims except the base LX, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system was exclusive to the GT trim.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 in Canada included standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The GS trim added features such as forward automatic emergency braking, automatic cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The GT grade offered adaptive headlights, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The Mazda3 hatchback had a significant blind spot due to its design, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction. The Mazda3 received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Kia K5 came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Upgrades included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and Highway Driving Assist (HDA). The HDA system was smooth and accurate, though it had room for improvement. The K5 received high marks from the NHTSA but low scores in updated IIHS tests for moderate overlap frontal-impact and side-impact protection.