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Kia Forte vs Mazda CX-5 - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (201 HP vs 227 HP), trunk space and price (20,000 $ vs 28,800 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Kia Forte or Mazda CX-5?

Kia Forte vs Mazda CX-5: Key differences

Kia Forte

  • substantially cheaper
  • slightly more efficient

Mazda CX-5

  • slightly more power

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

CX-5

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Kia Forte is substantially cheaper – starting at 20,000 $ , while the Mazda CX-5 costs 28,800 $ . That’s a price difference of around 8,780 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Kia Forte performs slightly better – achieving 30 mpg, compared to 26 mpg for the Mazda CX-5. That’s a difference of about 4 mpg.

CX-5

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mazda CX-5 offers slightly more power – delivering 227 HP compared to 201 HP. That’s roughly 26 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mazda CX-5 delivers markedly more torque with 310 lb-ft compared to 195 lb-ft. That’s about 115 lb-ft more.

CX-5

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Kia Forte holds a slight edge in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $20,000
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Kia Forte

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manual
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 147 - 201 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

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General
View detailed analysis

Kia Forte

The Kia Forte stands out in the compact sedan segment with its stylish design and a surprisingly upscale interior for its class. It offers a smooth driving experience, combining efficiency with a comfortable ride, making it a great option for daily commutes or longer journeys. Inside, passengers are treated to a thoughtfully designed cabin with user-friendly technology and ample space.

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Reviews Kia Forte

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Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is the crossover for drivers who still like to drive, with a cabin that feels a class above and steering that actually talks back. It’s not the biggest or flashiest in the segment, but it nails the everyday sweet spot with smart tech, tidy looks, and just enough zoom-zoom to make the school run feel like a sneaky detour.

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Reviews Mazda CX-5

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Mazda CX-5

Costs and Consumption
Price
20,000 - 25,400 $
Price
28,800 - 40,800 $
FuelEconomy City
22 - 30 mpg
FuelEconomy City
22 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
31 - 41 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
27 - 30 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
14 gal
Fuel tank capacity
15.3 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
i-ACTIV AWD Sport Utility
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
-
Curb weight
3,679 - 3,871 lbs
Trunk Volume
15.3 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
182.7 in.
Length
180.1 in.
Width
70.9 in.
Width
72.6 in.
Height
56 in.
Height
66 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic, Manual
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
147 - 201 HP
Power HP
187 - 227 HP
Torque
132 - 195 lb-ft
Torque
185 - 310 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
1.6 - 2 L
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,024
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Kia
Brand
Mazda
What is the starting MSRP for the Kia Forte?

Base pricing begins at 20,000 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.