Although a lot of buzz surrounds the ever-growing number of crossovers on the market, compact cars will always be prized for their fuel economy, low starting price and handling prowess. They’re more than just great first cars, they’re great second cars, third cars, fourth cars, and you get the idea. Their smaller wheelbase allows them to turn nimbly and park easily, making them perfect for the dense urban environments. Superstar entries in this class feature practical elements like efficient powertrains and surprising cargo space as well as some fun and city-friendly technology.
Today, we’re comparing the 2019 Kia Forte to the 2019 Mazda3. All-new for 2019, the Kia Forte is a stylish and sporty iteration on Kia’s award-winning compact sedan. Also all-new for 2019, the Mazda3 brings a focus on driver engagement. Let’s see how the two models compare:
2019 Kia Forte Sedan |
Vs. |
2019 Mazda3 Sedan |
---|---|---|
31 city/41highway/31 combined MPG | Base fuel efficiency | 26 city/35 highway/30 combined MPG |
Standard | Active safety features | Available |
Standard | Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Available |
Standard | Automatic climate control | Available |
96 cubic feet | Passenger space | 93 cubic feet |
15.3 cubic feet | Cargo space | 13.2 cubic feet |
10 years/100,000 miles | Engine/powertrain warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles |
$14,210 – Best Friendly Kia VIP pricing* | Starts at | $21,000 |
Although the Mazda3 is all new for 2019, it appears that their focus was not on offering a compelling or competitive model in the compact sedan space, so much as driver engagement. Comparing the two side by side, shows many instances where the 2019 Kia Forte pulls ahead of the Mazda3.
On the technology front, the 2019 Kia Forte is leagues ahead of the 2019 Mazda3. For infotainment drivers who choose the Forte are treated to a standard 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. While the Mazda3 has a comparable display, it lacks the touchscreen capacity and doesn’t see Apple CarPlay/Android Auto in the standard sedan.
Safety features come standard courtesy of Kia DRIVEWiSE and include Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and more. The Mazda3 has similar features, but they aren’t standard. This is a problem since the 2019 Mazda3 Sedan starts at over $5,000 more than the standard price of the 2019 Kia Forte at Friendly Kia.
Practicality also hands the W to Kia as the Forte has more passenger space, more cargo space and engine warranty coverage that nearly doubles the one offered by Mazda.
If you’re looking to see the brilliant Kia Forte in action or would like to schedule a test drive, contact us today!