• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Got it narrowed down to two...

Status
Not open for further replies.
zsdersw

zsdersw

Lifer
... potential replacements for my TL. I want something a bit better on gas and that, more importantly, doesn't require premium fuel.

In no particular order:

1. 2011 Mazda3 s Grand Touring 5dr with Technology package
2. 2011 Kia Optima SX w/ Premium package

I really like the looks.. inside and out.. of both, like all the features you get in both, and they're both about the same price-wise, with the Kia being slightly more expensive.

The Optima can be had in their gorgeous "Corsa Blue", but no interior color choice other than black... and the Mazda3 can be had with the "Dune" tan interior, but no good electric blue exterior color option.

The Mazda3 handles excellently, but the Optima has more power (and not bad handling.. especially with different tires).

Which of those two would you choose?
 
vi edit said:
New Focus? Better milage than the Mazda, newer platform, and better tech options.
Click to expand...

I considered it, but after having HID headlights in my TL for the last 5 years, I've decided I won't have a car that doesn't have them. I'm also not sold on the dual-clutch transmission.
 
I certainly understand the HID comment, but have you tried any of the newer projector lens halogens? They are exceptionally bright, and white. I had HID's in an older Mazda3 I used to own. I really didn't miss them in my Mazda5 or current Sienna. Both have projectors with excellent cutoff and very clear, crisp white light.

And I can understand the concerns of the DSG too...but I wonder how long that's been use for in Europe (if at all?).
 
Yeah, regular halogens through a projector lens would probably be OK.. but the Focus doesn't offer projectors of any kind 🙂

.. the longevity of HID is a nice thing, too.
 
Edmunds has a long term Optima SX in their stable. Read through their blogs for some "real world" use and comments.
 
zsdersw said:
Yeah, regular halogens through a projector lens would probably be OK.. but the Focus doesn't offer projectors of any kind 🙂

.. the longevity of HID is a nice thing, too.
Click to expand...

Ah damn. Ok. I didn't think that many new cars out today...especially upscale ones as the Focus is intended to be would be doing reflectors any more.
 
I love the Mazda3 (I used to have an '07). That being said a fully spec'd Mazda3 is still an econobox regardless of how nice the amenities are. It doesn't rise above its roots unless you are looking at the MazdaSpeed3 and entering the hot hatch market segment.

The Optima by all accounts is a world beater in its market segment. Equally on par with Accord/Camry/Fusion. If you take the badges off the new Optima, most people would think it was a luxury make from Europe or Japan. In my mind the only downside is the unknowns with regards to long term reliability and durability.

If you only plan on keeping it 3-5 years, then I would get the Kia hands down. If you plan to keep it 5-10 years, you will have to decide if you want to take a chance on the brand.
 
is the Optima mid-size where the mazda3 is a notch below in terms of size?
I'd take the Optima: larger, more horsies, much tech packed in.
 
Last edited:
Status
Not open for further replies.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top