2019 Kia Optima Vs. 2018 Mazda6

In the world of vehicles, the midsize sedan has been a trusty class that seeks to balance most of the features and specs that inspire drivers to choose certain models and body styles over others. These four-door, five-seat, three-box cars are usually picked for their excellent handling, great fuel efficiency and a smooth and quiet ride. Because they’ve historically been among the most popular classes, they’ve also been the first to receive new technology and really show off the type of design and engineering of which a manufacturer is capable.

For Kia, the Optima spent years a budget-friendly alternative to models by Toyota, Honda and Nissan. Recently, it’s surpassed them for quality, reliability, safety and standard features without flinching on its affordability. This has made it a striking dark horse option in the class. It’s not the only vehicle attempting to fill this role, however. The Mazda6 is in a similar spot. Let’s see how they compare:

2019 Kia Optima	Vs.	2018 Mazda6
245 horsepower (SX Turbo)	Available horsepower	227 horsepower (Signature)
6-speed automatic	Standard transmission	6-speed manual
Standard	Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility	Available
45.5 inches	Front-row legroom	42.2 inches
15.9 cubic feet	Maximum cargo volume	14.7 cubic feet
Top Safety Pick + (2018)	IIHS safety designation	Top Safety Pick
Yes – four years running	J.D. Power Initial Quality Study mass-market winner?	No
5 years / 60,000 miles	Bumper-to-bumper warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
10 years / 100,000 miles	Powertrain warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles

Enjoy Superior Comfort, Reliability and Performance from Kia!

With the 2019 Kia Optima, you get a car that is clearly superior to the good-but-not-great Mazda6. Start with the engine – the heart of the vehicle. The 2019 Kia Optima’s available engine outputs a massive 245 horsepower. For the Mazda6 that number is almost 10% less. Also, the 2019 Kia Optima features a smooth and precise 6-speed automatic transmission as standard. For the Mazda6, you’re stuck with a stick.

Moving inside and the appointments become even better for Kia. The standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto-compatible, 8-inch touchscreen with Kia UVO is snappy and responsive. Although the Mazda6 also includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, you must move up to a more expensive trim level to get smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. More legroom is on hand for maximum comfort as well.

Reputable organizations like the IIHS and J.D. Power have also placed the 2019 Kia Optima above the Mazda6 through their awarding of coveted distinctions in the fields of safety and reliability.

Finally, you’ll get more warranty coverage with the 2019 Kia Optima compared to the Mazda6. For more information on the 2019 Kia Optima or to schedule a test drive, contact us today.