2026 Kia K4 vs. 2026 Mazda3 Comparability

January 13, 2026

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Whenever you assume “compact automotive,” a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla would possibly first come to thoughts, however fashions from Kia and Mazda are additionally value contemplating. The 2026 Kia K4 and 2026 Mazda3 convey enjoyable driving dynamics and affordability to the compact section.

Let’s examine them.

2026 Kia K4

A plethora of options at an inexpensive value level is what this sharply styled sedan is all about. Additionally accessible as a hatchback or with a turbocharged engine, the Kia K4 is a roomy and sensible selection that comes with 5 trim choices.

Kia K4 Highlights

Reasonably priced pricing: Beginning at about $23,500, the price of a Kia K4 is tough to beat. Even the top-tier GT-Line Turbo begins beneath $30,000. The Mazda3 begins about $2,500 increased on the base trim, with the top-of-the-line Turbo Premium Plus costing about $38,000.

Distinctive guarantee: Kia is thought for its industry-leading guarantee. This features a 10-year/100,000-mile restricted powertrain guarantee, a 5-year/60,000-mile primary guarantee, and roadside help. The Mazda3 is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile primary guarantee and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain guarantee.

Roomy inside: Though a compact automotive, adults gained’t really feel cramped using within the backseats. The K4 affords 42 inches of entrance legroom and 38 inches of rear legroom. This contrasts with the 35 inches of rear legroom within the Mazda3.

Examine this week’s Truthful Buy Worth or see the K4 fashions on the market close to you.

2026 Mazda3

The Mazda3 is accessible in six trim ranges, together with one turbocharged possibility. Its good design and upscale inside make this compact automotive a enjoyable drive that’s simple on the eyes and pockets.

Mazda3 Highlights

Powertrain: The Mazda3 lineup affords a selection of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and automated or guide transmission, relying on the trim degree. AWD supplies improved grip on pavement and enhanced traction on slippery roads, making the Mazda3 an appropriate selection for a variety of climates. The Kia K4 fashions come customary with FWD solely.

Driving fashion: Powered by a 186-horsepower 4-cylinder engine mixed with a 6-speed automated transmission, the Mazda3 affords spectacular response for each metropolis and freeway driving. Most K4 fashions have a 147-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, which is much less responsive and pokier general. The GT-Line Turbo K4 delivers 190 hp.

Mazda Harmonic Acoustics: Mazda’s 8-speaker audio system now comes customary, with an non-obligatory Bose 12-speaker system accessible for premium trims. Mazda’s in-house audio answer permits for a seamless mix between automobile design and audio efficiency.

Examine this week’s Truthful Buy Worth or see the Mazda3 fashions on the market close to you.

Similarities

Each compact sedans seat 5 and at the moment are accessible in hatchback variations. Each the K4 and Mazda3 supply turbo engine choices. There’s no scarcity of tech and security options on both automotive. Shared customary gear consists of Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping help, automated excessive beams, and driver consideration monitoring.

Pricing

New 2026 Kia K4 Costs

	Retail Worth	Truthful Buy Worth (92620)
LX	$23,385	$22,600
LXS	$24,485	$23,700
EX	$25,585	$24,700
GT-Line	$26,585	$25,700
GT-Line Turbo	$29,485	$28,500

New 2026 MAZDA MAZDA3 Costs

	Retail Worth	Truthful Buy Worth (92620)
2.5 S	$25,785	$24,600
2.5 S Choose Sport	$26,675	$25,100
2.5 S Most popular	$28,325	$27,100
2.5 S Carbon Version	$31,445	$30,000
2.5 S Premium	$32,685	$31,500
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus	$37,975	$36,300

The Kelley Blue E-book Truthful Buy Worth for any particular person used automobile can range significantly in line with mileage, situation, location, and different elements.
The costs right here replicate what consumers are at present paying for New 2026 Kia K4 autos and New 2026 MAZDA MAZDA3 autos in typical situation when buying from a dealership.
These costs are up to date weekly. The producer’s advised retail value (MSRP) quoted consists of the vacation spot payment, however doesn’t embrace tax, license, doc charges, and choices.

Specs

	2026 Kia K4	2026 MAZDA MAZDA3
Fashionable Powertrains
Engine	2.0-liter 4-cylinder	2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower	147 hp @ 6,200 rpm	186 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm	186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission	Computerized, IVT	automated, 6-speed skyactiv-drive w/guide & sport modes
Gas Economic system	N/A	27 metropolis/36 freeway/28 mixed mpg
Specs
Fundamental Guarantee	5 years/60,000 miles	3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain Guarantee	10 years/100,000 miles	5 years/60,000 miles
NHTSA General Security	5 stars	5 stars
Max Seating Capability	5	5
Wheelbase	107.1 inches	107.3 inches
General Size	185.4 inches	183.5 inches
Width	72.8 inches	70.7 inches
Top	55.9 inches	56.9 inches
Turning Diameter	35.2 ft	37.4 ft
Headroom, Entrance	39.0 inches	38.0 inches
Headroom, 2nd Row	37.3 inches	37.3 inches
Legroom, Entrance	42.3 inches	42.3 inches
Legroom, 2nd Row	38.0 inches	35.1 inches
Shoulder Room, Entrance	56.5 inches	55.7 inches
Shoulder Room, 2nd Row	54.7 inches	53.5 inches
Cargo capability	14.6 cubic ft	13.2 cubic ft

Specification desk displays the everyday configuration of autos proven.

Conclusion

In the event you’re on a good finances or want further room within the inside for carpooling or transporting older youngsters, the Kia K4 is a good deal for a compact automotive.

For extra versatile choices and a extra thrilling driving expertise, the pricier Mazda3 may very well be nicely value it.