2022 Mazda 6 vs. 2022 Kia Forte 5

If the 2022 Mazda 6 and 2022 Kia Forte 5 are on your purchase list, you're not alone. These two models are among today's most popular mid-size sedans, and they offer many great features at competitive prices. The question is: which one should you buy? While it depends on your priorities, we're going to explore some key areas that can help you make an informed decision, so you can be sure you get exactly what it is you want out of your next vehicle purchase.

Design & Style

• Exterior Design

The 2022 Mazda 6 has a more aggressive design than the 2022 Kia Forte 5, which is downright boring. The Mazda 6 features a prominent grille incorporating chrome accents and unique headlights with LED daytime running lights and turn signals. The Kia Forte 5 doesn't offer any of these features, instead opting for bland, round headlights and a less striking grille with no chrome accents or other adornments.

The Mazda 6 also has an athletic appearance thanks to its wide fender flares, sculpted hood lines, and flared wheel arches that give it an athletic look from all angles. The car's rear end features unique taillights and large dual exhaust tips that further distinguish it from the Kia Forte 5 (which looks like every other compact sedan).

• Interior Design

The Mazda 6's interior is a bit more modern than its rivals. The dashboard also houses a larger infotainment screen, making it easier to use while driving. The center console is nicely designed with buttons that are easy to press and ergonomically placed air vents. The instrument panel has a clean look and includes a large dial for the tachometer that sits in front of four other gauges displaying information like fuel economy, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and battery voltage.

In contrast, the Forte 5's interior design looks dated because it features two large analog dials (for speedometer and tachometer) located on either side of an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display embedded in its center stack-a design choice that was popular ten years ago but hasn't aged well since then.

Technology & Safety

When it comes to technology, you're going to have a lot of options with both of these vehicles. The 2022 Mazda 6 has an 8.8-inch touchscreen interface, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto compatibility, wireless phone charging, a heated steering wheel, and other great tech features. You can also get an optional safety package that adds adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning with lane keep assist and blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Kia Forte 5 offers similar features, such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and wireless phone charging capabilities - though the latter requires expensive packages for either vehicle model. The big difference between the two cars is that the Forte 5 does not offer adaptive cruise control, or lane departure warning/lane keep assist features in any trim level.

Performance

When it comes to the engine performance specs, you have the option of choosing between two different engines for each car. The Mazda 6 has a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, if you choose Kia's Forte 5 then your ride will be backed by a 1.6L turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine that puts out 173 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque.

The Bottom Line

The Mazda 6 is the better car in this comparison. It's more fun to drive and offers a more spacious interior for family use. The only major downside is the price, but if you can afford it, we recommend going with the Mazda over the Kia Forte 5.

Ready to Schedule a 2022 Mazda 6 Test Drive Today?

Do you want to discover more about this Mazda car model can do on the road? Come and visit us at Riley Mazda today! Our dedicated team of customer service representatives will assist you in meeting all your car purchasing, financing, and servicing needs. Call us today and book an appointment for your 2022 Mazda 6 test drive now!