The Forte splits into two extremes: one owner hit 750,000 miles on a 2018 model with obsessive oil changes every 10-15k, while others watched their engines grenade under 100k following the manual's 5,000-mile intervals. The 2.0L and 2.4L Theta II engines carry documented rod bearing and oil dilution issues covered by class-action lawsuits, Kia replaces engines under warranty, but you're betting on whether yours lasts 30k or 700k. Ignition coils on 2016+ models arc to the block instead of firing, causing misfires until you swap in upgraded parts. Pre-2022 models face theft risk and insurance headaches despite 2022+ having immobilizers. Buy it if you're the type who keeps service records in a binder and changes oil early; skip it if you treat maintenance as optional.
The Mazda3 is what happens when a compact car decides it's too good for its price bracket, and the interior actually backs it up. The 2.5L engine is bulletproof (owners routinely see 200k+ miles), but the 2019 redesign swapped the old multilink rear suspension for a cost-cutting torsion beam that blunts the handling sharpness earlier models were loved for. If you want a refined daily driver that feels expensive and runs forever, this works; if you want the sporty Mazda everyone raves about, hunt down a 2014, 2018 instead.