KIA K2500 vs Mazda Mazda3
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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KIA K2500
2.5TD Tipper
Diesel
5-Speed Manual
Current
ZAR 460,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 70 kW
🔧 225 Nm
⛽ 9.5 km/l
VS
Mazda Mazda3
2.0 Astina Edition Auto FWD
Petrol
6-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 629,700
ex-showroom
⚡ 121 kW
🔧 213 Nm
⛽ 15.9 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
KIA K2500 vs Mazda Mazda3: the short answer
Mazda3 holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over K2500.
K2500 starts ZAR 73,305 cheaper
K2500 from ZAR 424,995 · Mazda3 from ZAR 498,300
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | K250070 kW @ 3600 rpm | Mazda3121 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | K2500225 Nm @ 1500 rpm | Mazda3213 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | K25002498 cc | Mazda31998 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | K25009.5 km/l | Mazda315.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | K2500195 mm | Mazda3140 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
Mazda Mazda3
2.0 Astina Edition Auto FWD
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
K2500
Strengths
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:
Published Practicality
Specification evidence leader
Mazda3
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
K2500
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Mazda3
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2000 | 2019 |
| Generation | Long-running commercial truck; second generation with D4BH engine | Seventh-generation BP-series Mazda3 hatchback |
| Facelift History | Updated periodically; current specification ongoing production | The seventh-generation South African hatchback launched in 2019 and the current range has since been consolidated to Dynamic and Astina editions. |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2019 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Van | Hatchback |
| Color Note | White (standard fleet specification) | - |
| Dealer Stock Note | Top grade in the South Africa lineup | - |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | Active |
| Segment | Van | C-segment hatchback |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1980 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5160 mm | 4460 mm |
| Width | 1900 mm | 1795 mm |
| Height | 2120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2890 mm | 2725 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 195 mm | 140 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 145 mm | - |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 l | 51 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 3000 l | 295 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1980 kg | 1350 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3500 kg | 1870 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 1000 kg | 520 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 1400 kg | 1000 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 1 rows | - |
| Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 12.5 m | 5.3 m |
| Front Headroom | 1010 mm | - |
| Rear Headroom | Not Applicable | - |
| Front Legroom | 1040 mm | 1075 mm |
| Rear Legroom | Not Applicable | 891 mm |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1530 mm | - |
| Rear Track Width | 1580 mm | - |
| Front Suspension | Independent Double Wishbone | Macpherson strut |
| Rear Suspension | Rigid Axle Leaf Spring | Torsion beam axle |
| Chassis Type | Body-on-Frame | - |
| Power Steering | Yes | - |
| Steering Column | Adjustable | - |
| Front Spring Type | Coil Spring | - |
| Rear Spring Type | Leaf Spring | - |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | Yes | - |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | No | - |
| Shock Absorber Type | Telescopic | - |
| Chassis Material | Body-on-Frame | - |
| Front Suspension Type | Independent Double Wishbone | Macpherson strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | - |
| Rear Axle Type | Rigid Axle Leaf Spring | - |
| Rear Suspension Type | Rigid Axle Leaf Spring | Torsion beam axle |
| Shock Absorbers | Telescopic | - |
| Suspension | Independent Double Wishbone | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | 2200 mm | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | 1600 mm | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | No | Dual-zone climate control |
| Power Windows | No | Front |
| Keyless Entry | No | Smart |
| Push Button Start | No | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | No | Standard |
| Sunroof | No | Standard |
| Electric Tailgate | No | Not Available |
| Automatic Headlamps | No | - |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | No | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | No | - |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | Not Applicable | 687 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | No | - |
| Electric Mirror Folding | No | - |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | No | - |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | No | - |
| 12V Accessory Socket | Yes | - |
| Speed Limiter | Yes | - |
| AC Type | No | Dual-zone climate control |
| Adaptive Dampers | No | - |
| Aero Kit | No | - |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | No | - |
| Boot Opener | Manual | - |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | No | - |
| Chrome Grille | No | - |
| Climate Zones | 1 | - |
| Door Ajar Warning | Yes | - |
| Drag Coefficient | 0.46 | - |
| Driver Display | Analogue Cluster | - |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | No | - |
| Engine Check Warning | Yes | - |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | No | - |
| Engine Start Stop | No | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop Button | No | Standard |
| Engine Warranty | 5 Years / 150,000 km | - |
| Front Armrest | No | - |
| Front Power Outlet | No | - |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 10.5 | - |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Manual | - |
| Glovebox Cooling | No | - |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Yes | - |
| Headlamp Washer | No | - |
| Headrest Adjustable | Yes | - |
| Heads Up Display | No | - |
| Hill Start Assist | No | - |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | Yes | - |
| Intercooler | Yes | - |
| Multi Function Steering | No | - |
| Panoramic Roof | No | Standard |
| Performance Data Logger | No | - |
| Power Mirrors | No | - |
| Push Button Start | No | Standard |
| Rear Defogger | No | - |
| Rear Reading Lamps | No | - |
| Rear Seat Split | No | - |
| Rear Wing | No | - |
| Remote Engine Start | No | - |
| Rev Matching | No | - |
| Ride Mode Selection | No | - |
| Roof Antenna | Yes | - |
| Seat Type | Vinyl Seats | - |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Yes | - |
| Service Reminder | Yes | - |
| Side Steps | No | - |
| Skid Plates | No | - |
| Spare Wheel | Full-Size Spare | Temporary spare T125/70 D16 |
| Speed Alert System | No | - |
| Stabilizer Bar | Yes | - |
| Steering Mounted Controls | No | - |
| Steering Response | Normal | - |
| Tachometer | Yes | - |
| Tail Lamps | No | - |
| Telescopic Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Tilt Steering | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Trip Computer | Yes | - |
| Tyre Repair Kit | No | - |
| Vanity Mirror | No | - |
| Voice Command | No | - |
| Voice Command Support | No | - |
| Air Conditioning | No | Dual-zone climate control |
| Automatic High Beam | No | - |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | - |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | - |
| Bottle Holders | 2 | - |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | - |
| Centre Console | No | - |
| Common Rail Injection | Direct Injection Turbodiesel | - |
| Diff Lock | No | - |
| Difflock | No | - |
| Digital Speedometer | No | - |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | No | - |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Front Wiper | No | - |
| Front Wipers Type | No | - |
| Glove Box | Yes | - |
| Heated Mirrors | No | - |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | - |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | No | - |
| Lift Gate | No | - |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Length Mm | 2200 mm | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Width Mm | 1600 mm | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | No | - |
| Mirror | Manual | - |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | - |
| Passive Entry Start | No | - |
| Power Socket 12v | Yes | - |
| Powered Tailgate | No | - |
| Reading Lights Rear | No | - |
| Rear Air Conditioning | No | - |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | - |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | No | - |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | No | - |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | - |
| Remote Central Locking | Yes | - |
| Remote Side Mirror | No | - |
| Remote Start | No | - |
| Rim Size | 195R15C | 18x7J |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | No | - |
| Side Impact Bars | Yes | - |
| Sonar | No | - |
| Sound System | 2 | 12 |
| Source Model Column | k2500 | - |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | - |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | - |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | Yes | - |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | No | - |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Sub Frame | Body-on-Frame | - |
| Surround View Monitor | No | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | - |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | - |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | - |
| TPMS | No | - |
| Trim Level | top | - |
| Unlocking | No | Smart |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | No | - |
| Variant Role | Commercial utility derivative | - |
| Vdc | No | - |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | - |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | - |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | No | - |
| Walk Away Lock | No | - |
| Wireless Charger | No | Standard |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-litre Turbocharged Diesel | 2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | J2T | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 2498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 8 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection Turbodiesel | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Bore | 91 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Stroke | 96 mm | 91.2 mm |
| Maximum Power | 70 kW @ 3600 rpm | 121 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 225 Nm @ 1500 rpm | 213 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | RWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h | 210 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | Not Officially Disclosed | 9.5 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | No | Sport |
| Launch Control | No | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 35.4 kW/tonne | 89.6 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 113.6 Nm/tonne | 157.8 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Front Transverse | - |
| Gearbox | 5-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Auto |
| Drivetrain Layout | RWD | Front-engine, front-wheel drive |
| LSD Available | No | - |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | No | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Standard |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.30 | 3.850 |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | 15.2:1 | - |
| Number of Gears | 5 | 6 |
| Transmission Type | Manual Transmission | Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Single Dry Disc | - |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Yes | - |
| Gear Shift Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | No | Standard |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | - |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | - |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | 5-Speed Manual | Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | RWD | 4x2 |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | - |
| Transmission Speeds | 5 | 6 |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 9.5 km/l | 15.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 8.0 km/l | 12.8 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 11.1 km/l | 18.7 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 l | 51 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 3 | Euro stage IV |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | No | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | No | Standard |
| Low Fuel Warning | Yes | - |
| Real-world Mileage | 9.5 km/l | 15.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 75 | 51 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 0 | 7 |
| ABS | No | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | No | Standard |
| Traction Control | No | - |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Not Available |
| Child Safety Lock | No | - |
| ISOFIX Mounts | No | Standard |
| Brake Assist | No | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | No | - |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Standard |
| Alarm System | No | - |
| Central Locking | Yes | - |
| Side Impact Beams | Yes | - |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Yes | Front & Rear |
| Speed Alert System | Yes | - |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | No | - |
| Front Parking Sensors | No | Not Available |
| Whiplash Protection | No | - |
| Lane Change Warning | No | - |
| AEB | No | Not Available |
| BA | No | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Yes | - |
| Curtain Airbags | No | Standard |
| Driver Airbag | No | Standard |
| EBD | No | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Standard |
| Fatigue Detection | No | - |
| Hill Hold | No | Not Available |
| Passenger Airbag | No | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | No | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Standard |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Yes | Front & Rear |
| Side Airbags | No | Standard |
| Stability Control | No | Standard |
| TCS | No | - |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | - |
| Knee Airbag | No | Standard |
| ABS EBD | No | Standard |
| Anti Theft Alarm | No | - |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 0 | - |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 0 | - |
| ESC With Traction Control | No | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | No | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | No | Not Available |
| Lane Keep Assist | No | Not Available |
| Lane Departure Warning | No | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | No | Standard |
| Parking Sensors | No | Rear |
| Rear View Camera | No | Standard |
| 360 Degree Camera | No | Not Available |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | No | Not Available |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | No | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | No | Not Available |
| Auto Highbeam | No | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | No | - |
| Auto Wipers | No | Standard |
| Eco Mode | No | - |
| EV Mode | No | - |
| Rear Parking Sensors | No | Not Available |
| Reverse Camera | No | Standard |
| Sport Mode | No | - |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | No | Not Available |
| Park Assist | No | - |
| Around View Monitor | No | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | Standard |
| Emergency Braking | No | - |
| Forward Collision Warning | No | - |
| Front Camera | No | - |
| Parking Distance Sensors | No | - |
| Parking Sensor | No | - |
| Automatic High Beam | No | - |
| Pre-Collision System | No | - |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | No | - |
| Rear View Camera | No | - |
| Reverse Camera Type | No | - |
| Reversing Camera | No | - |
| Surround View Camera | No | Not Available |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Vinyl | Black Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | 2-Way Manual | - |
| Heated Seats | No | Not Available |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Not Available |
| Steering Type | Yes | - |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | - |
| Ambient Lighting | No | Not Available |
| Folding Rear Seats | No | - |
| Front Armrest | No | - |
| Rear Armrest | No | - |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1405 mm | 1414 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1350 mm | 1356 mm |
| Cup Holders | 2 | - |
| Rear AC Vents | No | - |
| Rear USB Ports | No | - |
| Steering Wheel Material | Urethane | Standard |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Analogue | - |
| Interior Colour Options | Grey | - |
| Driver Lumbar Support | No | - |
| Door Map Pockets | Yes | - |
| 60 40 Split Seat | No | (60:40) |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | 2-Way Manual | - |
| Adjustable Front Seat | 2-Way Manual | - |
| Cooled Seats | No | - |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 2-Way Manual | 10-Way Power Adjustable (Driver) |
| Fabric Seats | No | - |
| Front Headrest | Adjustable | - |
| Leather Seats | No | - |
| Memory Seats | No | - |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 2-Way Manual | 10-Way Power Adjustable (Driver) |
| Rear Headrest | No | - |
| Armrest Front | No | - |
| Armrest Rear | No | - |
| Driver Seat | 2-Way Manual | - |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Commercial cab, driver and passenger seating, basic instrumentation, air conditioning (Aircon variant), manual controls | - |
| Interior Trim Colour | Grey | - |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Vinyl | - |
| Interior Colours | Grey | - |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | No | - |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | No | - |
| Seat Belt Warning | Yes | - |
| Seat Fold Type | No | - |
| Seat Trim | Vinyl | Black Leather |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 0-inch Touchscreen | Standard |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Wireless |
| Android Auto | No | Standard |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | No | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 2 | 12 |
| Navigation System | No | - |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | No | Not Available |
| USB Ports | 0 | 2 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | No | Wireless |
| Wireless Android Auto | No | Standard |
| FM Radio | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | No | - |
| Voice Recognition | No | - |
| AUX Input | No | - |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 0 | 10-Inch |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No | - |
| Audio Controls On Steering | No | - |
| Infotainment Display | 0 | - |
| Rear Usb | No | - |
| Premium Audio | No | - |
| Audio | Yes | - |
| Audio Speakers | 2 | 12 |
| Audio System | Yes | - |
| Display Audio | 0-inch Touchscreen | - |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 0 | - |
| Head Up Display | No | - |
| Infotainment Screen | 0 | 10-Inch |
| Multi Information Display | Analogue | - |
| Connected Services | No | - |
| Voice Control | No | - |
| Smartphone Connectivity | No | - |
| Radio | Yes | - |
| Touchscreen | 0 | 10-Inch |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | No | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Yes | Standard |
| Fog Lamps | No | - |
| Roof Rails | No | - |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Steel | Black Metallic |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | No | - |
| Body Cladding | No | - |
| Rear Spoiler | No | - |
| Exterior Colour Options | White | Mazda South Africa offers model-specific solid, metallic and premium paint finishes subject to current edition availability. |
| Roof Type | Cab | - |
| Wing Mirror Type | Manual | - |
| Rear Wiper | No | - |
| Door Handle Finish | Metal | - |
| Body Type | Tipper Truck | - |
| DRL | Yes | Standard |
| Fog Lights | No | - |
| Front Fog Lights | No | - |
| Led Headlights | No | Standard |
| Led Taillights | No | - |
| Rear Fog Lights | No | - |
| Front Overhang | 870 mm | - |
| Rear Overhang | 1400 mm | - |
| Auto Headlights | No | - |
| Automatic Headlamps | No | - |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | Standard |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Cab | - |
| Exterior Colour Options | 1 | - |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Metal | - |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | No | - |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | No | - |
| Front Fog Lamps | No | - |
| Headlamp Levelling | No | - |
| Headlamps | No | Standard |
| Headlight Type | No | Standard |
| Headlights | No | Standard |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | - |
| Panoramic Sunroof | No | Standard |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | - |
| Rear Spoiler | No | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 25 deg | - |
| Departure Angle | 17 deg | - |
| Wading Depth | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Sport |
| Locking Differential | No | Not Applicable |
| Underbody Protection | No | - |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 15 deg | - |
| Recovery Hooks | Yes | - |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | 19 deg | - |
| Approach Angle Deg | 25 deg | - |
| Breakover Angle | 15 deg | - |
| Departure Angle Deg | 17 deg | - |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | - |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Ground Clearance Max | 195 mm | 140 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 195 mm | 140 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | - |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | - |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | - |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | - |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 195R15C | 215/45 R18 |
| Wheel Type | Steel | Black Metallic |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated Disc | Ventilated disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Solid disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Full-Size Spare | Temporary spare T125/70 D16 |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | 300 mm | - |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | 276 mm | - |
| Parking Brake Type | Manual | - |
| Tyre Load Index | 116 | - |
| Tyre Speed Rating | L | - |
| Wheel Rim Size | 195R15C | 18x7J |
| Brake Type Front | Ventilated Disc | - |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | - |
| Spare Tyre | Full-Size Spare | Temporary spare T125/70 D16 |
| Tyre Type | Radial | - |
| Front Tyre Width | 195 mm | - |
| Rear Tyre Width | 195 mm | - |
| Wheel Diameter | 195R15C | 18x7J |
| Auto Brake Hold | Manual | - |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | No | - |
| Brakes | Ventilated Disc | - |
| Cornering Brake Control | No | - |
| Electric Park Brake | Manual | - |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | No | - |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | - |
| Handbrake Type | Manual | Electronic |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | No | - |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Urethane | - |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Full-Size Spare | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | No | - |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | No | - |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | No | - |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Urethane | - |
| Tyre Pressure Display | No | - |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | No | - |
| Wheel Material | Steel | Black Metallic |
| Wheel Size Type | 195R15C | - |
| Wheels | Steel | Black Metallic |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 7500 | - |
| Approx Service Cost | R2,000 per service | - |
| Battery Warranty | 5 Years / 150,000 km | - |
| Maintenance Plan | 1 Year / 15,000 km | - |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 8.0 l | - |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 7500 | - |
| First Service At | 7500 | - |
| Service Plan Duration | 1 Year / 15,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Service Plan Distance | 1 Year / 15,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | Yes | - |
| Alternator | Yes | - |
| Service Plan | 1 Year / 15,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Service Intervals | 7500 | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 Years / 150,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 Years / 150,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | - |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 3 Years | - |
| Basic Warranty | 5 Years / 150,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | - |
| Warranty | 5 Years / 150,000 km | 5 Years/Unlimited km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 275 g/km | 146 g/km |
| Start Stop System | No | - |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Available | - |
| Noise Level | 78 dB | - |
| Variable Valve Timing | No | - |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | B7 Diesel | - |
| Particulate Filter | DPF | - |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 3 | - |
| Idle CO2 Output | 289 | - |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | No | - |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 275 | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 6.8 l/100km | - |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 8.8 l/100km | - |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 10.0 l/100km | - |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 11.7 l/100km | - |
| Spec | K2500 | Mazda3 |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Top | flagship equipment and comfort derivative |
| Price Zar | 460995 ZAR | 629700 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | flagship equipment and comfort derivative |
| Starting Price | 460995 | 629700 |
| Starting Price Zar | 460995 | 629700 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This K2500 and Mazda3 comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: K2500 41 vs Mazda3 50.
Efficiency index: K2500 40 vs Mazda3 61.
Safety-equipment index: K2500 0 vs Mazda3 96.
Practicality index: K2500 71 vs Mazda3 50.
Ownership-cover index: K2500 49 vs Mazda3 not separately scored.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
K2500 and Mazda3 image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
KIA K2500
View 8 more K2500 images
Mazda Mazda3
View 8 more Mazda3 images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Mazda3 leads by 24 points
Mazda3 holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over K2500.
Evidence leader
64
/100
Lead
24
points
Data
77%
source coverage
64
#1
Evidence leader
Mazda3
77% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 96
Check
Performance 50
Performance
50
Efficiency
61
Safety
96
Practicality
50
Leads by 24 points
40
#2
K2500
84% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Practicality 71
Check
Safety 0
Performance
41
Efficiency
40
Safety
0
Practicality
71
Ownership
49
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Mazda3 +9
Efficiency
Mazda3 +21
Safety
Mazda3 +96
Practicality
K2500 +21
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Mazda3
Performance
50/100
Efficiency
61/100
Safety
96/100
Practicality
50/100
K2500
Performance
41/100
Efficiency
40/100
Safety
0/100
Practicality
71/100
Ownership
49/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
Mazda Mazda3
leads the specification evidence index with 64 pts
vs 40 pts for K2500
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Mazda3 leads. However, K2500 may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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K2500 vs Mazda3 questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.