2016 Mazda6 vs. 2016 Kia Optima
2016 Mazda6
2016 Kia Optima
After years of success as an attractive alternative to other midsize sedans thanks to its engaging performance and stylish design, the 2016 Mazda6 is taking it to the next level with more high-end features and an upgraded cabin with more premium materials throughout. All of this makes it really tough competition, but the 2016 Kia Optima is here to try. A little bit of research goes a long way, though, and the 2016 Mazda6 remains the superior model in many important areas.
Price
Drivers who want to get the most for their money will see that the 2016 Mazda6 starts off right with a lower starting price.
- 2016 Mazda6: MSRP from $21,495
- 2016 Kia Optima: MSRP from $21,840
Fuel Economy
If you’re looking to save money at the gas tank, as well, then the 2016 Mazda6 is your best bet. Thanks in no small part to the sophisticated SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY that comes on the Mazda6, this model achieves EPA estimates of 37 mpg highway and 25 mpg city. Standard fuel economy on the 2016 Kia Optima, however, comes in at an EPA-estimated 35 mpg highway and 24 mpg city, respectable numbers in their own right but failing to live up to those of the Mazda6.
Performance
The 2016 Mazda6 is proof that buyers don’t have to choose between performance and fuel economy. The 2.5L inline-four that’s housed under its hood makes a balanced 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque, and it comes fitted to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The Mazda6 has also received high praise for its personality, as it delivers acute steering and a sporty suspension.
The standard engine on the 2016 Optima, though, is a smaller 2.4L four-cylinder engine that generates 185 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. While those numbers might come close to the Mazda6 in overall power, the Optima fails to deliver the engaging experience that can be expected from the Mazda6.
Features
Both of these models feature modern interior designs and feature packages, with standard fare like Bluetooth, steering-wheel-mounted controls, available advanced driver assist technology features, and available high-end features like leather upholstery and heated seats. However, there are a number of features that come standard on the 2016 Mazda6’s base trim but not on the 2016 Kia Optima base LX trim, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and daytime running lights. Also, the 2016 Mazda6 I Sport offers an available navigation system and telematics, neither of which is available on the Optima LX.
Get a Closer Look at the 2016 Mazda6 at Cox Mazda!
Are you ready to take your driving experience to the next level? Then it’s time to take a test drive of the 2016 Mazda6 at Cox Mazda, your Bradenton Mazda dealer at 3101 Cortez Rd. W. in Bradenton, FL. You can contact us with any questions and then stop by and chat during our regular hours, seven days a week.