2023 Kia Rio vs. 2024 Mazda Mazda3 Review

Picture of the 2023 Kia Rio

2023 Kia
Rio

MSRP*: $17,690
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Picture of the 2024 Mazda Mazda3

2024 Mazda
Mazda3

MSRP*: $25,690 to $36,650
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MPG - City 32 MPG 23 - 27 MPG
MPG - Hwy 41 MPG 31 - 36 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 120-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 191-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 227-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Continuously Variable Automatic, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive, Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 120 hp 191 - 227 hp
Exterior Length 160.0 in 175.6 in
Exterior Width 67.9 in 70.7 in
Leg Room Front 42.1 in
Rear 33.5 in
Front 42.3 in
Rear 35.1 in
Head Room Front 38.9 in
Rear 38.0 in
Front 37.5 - 38.0 in
Rear 36.5 - 37.2 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
The Kia Rio offers rear passengers about the same space to stretch out as the Mazda Mazda3 with comparable rear head- and legroom in both vehicles. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Mazda Mazda3, the Kia Rio may be a little roomier and more comfortable for the driver and front seat passengers.

Convenience
You'll be making about the same number of stops at the gas station with the Kia Rio as you will with the Mazda Mazda3, as they get the same number of miles per tank of gas.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Kia Rio is clearly a better financial choice over the Mazda Mazda3.

Dimensions
Since the Kia Rio is much slimmer than the Mazda Mazda3, it'll be much easier to find a wide enough space in a crowded parking lot. If you go with the Kia Rio, you'll have a much easier time finding a large enough space to park than you will with the Mazda Mazda3.

Handling
The Kia Rio has a smaller turning radius than the Mazda Mazda3, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Kia Rio is significantly less powerful than the Mazda Mazda3. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
The Kia Rio has much less torque than the Mazda Mazda3, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Kia Rio and the Mazda Mazda3.