2026 Kia K5 LXS vs 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S
17.5″ longer vs $1,940 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 191 vs 186 hp, 30 vs 29 MPG.
The K5 LXS leads on 17.5″ longer. The 3 2.5 S leads on $1,940 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Kia K5 LXS | 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,490 | $25,550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 37 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.8 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,230 lbs | 3,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 107.3" |
| Length | 193.1" | 175.6" |
| Width | 73.2" | 70.7" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia K5 LXS and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S starts at $25,550, $1,940 less than the 2026 Kia K5 LXS at $27,490. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $34/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia K5 LXS?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,940 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Kia K5 LXS or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS rates 30 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia K5 LXS or 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS produces 191 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S at 186 hp. The 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Kia K5 LXS bigger than the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S?
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS is 17.5″ longer at 193.1″ vs 175.6″. The 2026 Kia K5 LXS has a 4.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia K5 comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Mazda 3 offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia K5 trims, Mazda trims, Mazda 3 trims
- 2026 Kia K5 LXS Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
K5 vs 3: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS and 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-1,940 gap is about $34/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 5 hp difference (191 vs 186) is marginal in daily driving. Both use FWD.
Running Costs: K5 vs 3
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Kia K5 LXS is 17.5″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Kia K5 LXS when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. Choose the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S when you want to keep $1,940 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 S covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Kia or Mazda or any dealership.