Choose - Mazda 6 v Kia Optima v Honda Accord

We are looking at getting a new car this month. These three companies are offering $0 down leases for similar prices on their base versions.

It will carry one toddler car seat plus three adults. Must be Automatic Trans. (Compromise)

So here are the contenders please vote and provide details of your reasons?

• Mazda 6 Sport $269/mo
• Kia Optima $249/mo
• Honda Accord CVT LX $270/mo

Thanks for your responses.

I think the Accord is the winner objectively. It has the most interior/luggage volume, the best crash test ratings, and the lowest insurance rates.

I'd normally say Accord, but I recently was in an Optima with leather and it was a fine automobile. I'd say you need to take a hard look at it.

Optima. For a lease, not much matters in terms of reliability and such, and I think the Optima wins on subjective things.

Optima, hands down the better car. I actually preferred the auto in it over the manual.

For a Lease, go with what to like best or pick the optima and save a few bucks. It really is a wash if you are leasing.

sanman wrote: pick the optima

The Optima might be more expensive to insure.

I almost bought a 6, so that's my vote. It drives great even with the auto. Looks good and the interior is a pleasant place to spend time.

sanman wrote: For a Lear, go with what to like best or pick the optima and save a few bucks. It really is a wash if you are leasing.

This. If you're leasing, you won't need to worry about reliability, long term ownership costs, etc... All three have prices very similar. It really comes down to which car suits your tastes best. Personally, I think all three are good choices, I'd be happy with any of them. If I had to chose, I'd take a hard look at the Mazda 6.

The 6 is the sportiest, the Optima will have the most gizmos. Screw the Honda.

I'd go with the 6, as if all else is basically equal, Mazda does a better job than all others at catering to the enthusiast and grassroots racing markets, and I like to support that attitude.

I'd consider the Accord. My friend just went to one with the 4cyl/CVT and loves it. His previous rides were an STI and a MS3.

The '2013 and up Accord has gotten rave reviews from C&D. They just wrapped up a long-term test with the 4cyl/6spd manual one, and loved it: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-honda-accord-sport-24-long-term-update-review

Mazda 6 w/o a doubt

I would be interested in the Mazda and the Kia and would pass on the Accord. I would have to drive each to really make up my mind on which to recommend though.

For no good reason I just searched Autotrader for 2010 and newer Accords with manual transmissions (manual because I would want that option). Holy cow, they seem like a steal! Three years lease payment at $250/mo is $9k. Why not own this one for $12 or $13k? http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?zip=53122&endYear=2015&photosOnlyActual=true&modelCode1=ACCORD&showcaseOwnerId=2542284&startYear=2010&makeCode1=HONDA&transmissionCode=MAN&transmissionCodes=MAN&searchRadius=100&pricesOnly=true&mmt=%5BHONDA%5BACCORD%5B%5D%5D%5B%5D%5D&listingId=378939065&Log=0

Thanks for the feedback.

I am hoping to go test driving all three by Saturday and will see what my personal impressions are.

DaveEstey wrote: I almost bought a 6, so that's my vote. It drives great even with the auto. Looks good and the interior is a pleasant place to spend time.

Dave - I have read conflicting reports on the 6 being noisy or not. Did you notice a lot of road/wind noise?

Sonic wrote: I'd go with the 6, as if all else is basically equal, Mazda does a better job than all others at catering to the enthusiast and grassroots racing markets, and I like to support that attitude.

Yes I 100% agree and I also want to buy from a specific dealer in the local area if we go with the Mazda. They open their dealership service department one night a month for the local mazda club to come in and work on their own cars on the lifts! And even ask some awesome techs to stay late to help us. Really, what more could you ask for from a dealer!

But I have to consider the other drivers' opinions so we will see.

Maybe look at the new Legacy, close in $ to accord or camry plus not as plentiful. SWIMBO's turning in an '11 and picking up a '15 for less than $300 tax in w/first payment due. Her '11, Sue Brute, has been a great car for the money with oodles of grip & loads of room. CVT works great with flappy paddles & 6 steps, even if you guys think it's guhay.

Current issue of another monthly mag with a one word name starting in A and ending in E reviewed the 2015 and Randy Pobst said it was like a big WRX to drive. They also pointed out that Toyota makes almost as many camrys as subie makes subies so it's not as common to see. Also, Toyota is the ginger company, they have no soul. Honda used to have soul but replaced it with Mac Struts.

etifosi wrote: Honda used to have soul but replaced it with Mac Struts.

Quoted for truth and awesomeness

Also, Mazda6 if only because it's the purtiest, and that's important for the ladies.

I am currently on vacation and rented a Mazda 6 from Avis. I am not a Mazda fan by any means, but this car is great.

• AC will freeze you (Florida Keys) and its over 100 here

• Rear sear legroom is amazing

• auto trans is one of the best I have driven.

• its very quiet

• mileage is excellent on the 4 cyl

I'd go test drive one if I was you.

MCarp22 wrote: I think the Accord is the winner objectively. It has the most interior/luggage volume, the best crash test ratings, and the lowest insurance rates.

I have heard that about the interior room, which having the one toddler car seat in there can be a plus.

I forgot to get insurance quotes on the three of them. I will have to do that.

etifosi wrote: Maybe look at the new Legacy,

The Subaru Legacy got the quick "That's ugly" response upon first viewing so despite it's accolades it is far down the list.

Advan046 wrote: Thanks for the feedback. I am hoping to go test driving all three by Saturday and will see what my personal impressions are.

Bingo. Go with your gut; there's not a loser on the list.

But the 6 is the prettiest, in my opinion.

I think the 6 looks wierd.