2024 Kia Forte vs. 2024 Mazda Mazda3 Review

Picture of the 2024 Kia Forte

2024 Kia
Forte

MSRP*: $19,990 to $25,390
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Picture of the 2024 Mazda Mazda3

2024 Mazda
Mazda3

MSRP*: $24,170 to $35,450
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MPG - City 22 - 30 MPG 23 - 27 MPG
MPG - Hwy 31 - 41 MPG 32 - 37 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 147-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 201-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 Automatic, Continuously Variable, Manual Automatic
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive, Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 147 - 201 hp 191 - 227 hp
Exterior Length 182.7 in 183.5 in
Exterior Width 70.9 in 70.7 in
Leg Room Front 42.2 in
Rear 35.7 in
Front 42.3 in
Rear 35.1 in
Head Room Front 38.8 in
Rear 37.5 in
Front 37.6 - 38.0 in
Rear 36.7 - 37.3 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 Forte offers a bit more room for passengers in the back seat than the Mazda Mazda3. Offering just a little more front head- and legroom than the Mazda Mazda3, the Kia Forte may be a little roomier and more comfortable for the driver and front seat passengers.

Convenience
The Kia Forte will require fewer stops at the gas station than the Mazda Mazda3, making it more convenient to drive.

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). When looking only at MSRP, the Kia Forte will have less of an impact on your bank account than the Mazda Mazda3.

Dimensions
The Kia Forte is about the same width as the Mazda Mazda3. When looking at overall length, the Kia Forte takes up about the same amount of space in your garage as the Mazda Mazda3.

Handling
The Kia Forte has about the same turning radius as the Mazda Mazda3, allowing equal maneuverability in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Kia Forte 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 Forte 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 Forte and the Mazda Mazda3.