The Kia XCeed has a higher ride height, a range of cheap-to-run engines and lots of kit as standard. There are more comfortable SUVs with better rear space, though.
Pros Eye-catching looks Good range of engines Well equipped as standard
Cons Bumpy in town So-so digital dials Limited back-seat space
On the styling front, Kia has done a fairly good job.Despite what the cladding may suggest, the XCeed is still front-wheel drive only. it’s a Ceed hatch that has been raised by 44mm to create an almost-crossover. We say almost, because Kia already sells the Sportage as a crossover and the Sorento as a full-size SUV.
Pros Better looking than a Merc GLA and comparatively much cheaper
Cons Do you really need a coupé-ified crossover hatchback on stilts?
If the design, ergonomics and credible dynamics of the most recent Ceed demonstrate that Kia should now be considered alongside any other European maker of mass-market hatchbacks, then the Xceed is the derivative perfectly tailored to the current tastes of European buyers.
Pros More satisfying to drive than the class average, with good steering Attractive appearance gives the Xceed a good measure of personality
Cons Low-speed ride exhibits hard edges, despite the raised ride height Expensive compared with some rival cars
The 2019 Mazda 3 keeps the zoom, but all-wheel-drive practicality and a vastly upgraded interior make it much more than that.
Pros Handsome sedan profile Improved ride comfort Quiet, well-trimmed cabin Promising interface All-wheel-drive option
Cons Cabin’s space efficiency Worrisome outward visibility (hatchback) Manual transmission’s been sidelined
The 2019 Mazda Mazda3 ranked #1 in Compact Cars. Currently the Mazda Mazda3 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Engaging handling and comfortable ride Refined engine and transmission Elegant interior quality Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Mediocre back-seat space
The Mazda 3 is fully redesigned for 2019.Part of the fourth Mazda 3 generation introduced for 2019.
Pros Premium interior materials in the upper trim levels provide a classy vibe The seats are supremely comfortable and supportive Spirited handling Excellent audio quality from both available sound systems
Cons Not much legroom in the back seat New Skyactiv-X engine won't be available at launch
