Whenever you suppose “compact automotive,” a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla may first come to thoughts, however fashions from Kia and Mazda are additionally price contemplating. The 2026 Kia K4 and 2026 Mazda3 carry enjoyable driving dynamics and affordability to the compact section.
Let’s examine them.
2026 Kia K4
A plethora of options at an inexpensive worth 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 alternative that comes with 5 trim choices.
Kia K4 Highlights
Inexpensive pricing: Beginning at about $23,500, the price of a Kia K4 is difficult to beat. Even the top-tier GT-Line Turbo begins underneath $30,000. The Mazda3 begins about $2,500 greater 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 fundamental guarantee, and roadside help. The Mazda3 is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile fundamental guarantee and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain guarantee.
Roomy inside: Though a compact automotive, adults gained’t really feel cramped driving 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.
Test this week’s Truthful Buy Value or see the K4 fashions on the market close to you.
2026 Mazda3
The Mazda3 is out there in six trim ranges, together with one turbocharged choice. 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 alternative of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and automated or handbook transmission, relying on the trim stage. AWD gives improved grip on pavement and enhanced traction on slippery roads, making the Mazda3 an acceptable alternative for a variety of climates. The Kia K4 fashions come customary with FWD solely.
Driving model: 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 total. The GT-Line Turbo K4 delivers 190 hp.
Mazda Harmonic Acoustics: Mazda’s 8-speaker audio system now comes customary, with an optionally available Bose 12-speaker system accessible for premium trims. Mazda’s in-house audio resolution permits for a seamless mix between car design and audio efficiency.
Test this week’s Truthful Buy Value 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 provide turbo engine choices. There’s no scarcity of tech and security options on both automotive. Shared customary gear contains Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping help, automated excessive beams, and driver consideration monitoring.
Pricing
New 2026 Kia K4 Costs
|
Retail Value
|
Truthful Buy Value (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
$23,385
|
$22,600
|
|||
|
$24,485
|
$23,700
|
|||
|
$25,585
|
$24,700
|
|||
|
$26,585
|
$25,700
|
|||
|
$29,485
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$28,500
|
New 2026 MAZDA MAZDA3 Costs
|
Retail Value
|
Truthful Buy Value (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
$25,785
|
$24,600
|
|||
|
$26,675
|
$25,100
|
|||
|
$28,325
|
$27,100
|
|||
|
$31,445
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$30,000
|
|||
|
$32,685
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$31,500
|
|||
|
$37,975
|
$36,300
|
The Kelley Blue Ebook Truthful Buy Value for any particular person used car can differ vastly in accordance with mileage, situation, location, and different elements.
The costs right here replicate what patrons are at present paying for New 2026 Kia K4 automobiles and New 2026 MAZDA MAZDA3 automobiles in typical situation when buying from a dealership.
These costs are up to date weekly. The producer’s instructed retail worth (MSRP) quoted contains the vacation spot price, however doesn’t embody tax, license, doc charges, and choices.
Specs
| 2026 Kia K4 | 2026 MAZDA MAZDA3 | |
| In style 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 | Automated, IVT | automated, 6-speed skyactiv-drive w/handbook & sport modes |
| Gasoline 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 Total Security | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 107.1 inches | 107.3 inches |
| Total Size | 185.4 inches | 183.5 inches |
| Width | 72.8 inches | 70.7 inches |
| Peak | 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 automobiles proven.
Conclusion
Should you’re on a good price range or want additional room within the inside for carpooling or transporting older youngsters, the Kia K4 is a superb deal for a compact automotive.
For extra versatile choices and a extra thrilling driving expertise, the pricier Mazda3 might be effectively price it.
