Which is the ‘3’ for you?
Whether you’re single, a couple or starting a family, both Mazda3 and Mazda CX-3 are a great choice of car. In fact, we have a lot of people coming into Brighton Mazda and asking us which of our ‘threes’ they should buy. There are a few key points of difference to consider between the two;
Size
When it comes to size, the Mazda3 is longer and wider than the CX-3 SUV. Mazda3 hatch measures up at 4470mm long and 1795mm wide, but naturally is lower than the CX-3 at 1450mm high. The CX-3 measures 4275mm in length, 1550mm in height and 1765mm in width.
In terms of boot space, the CX-3 holds 264 litres while the Mazda3 hatch is 308 litres with the rear seats still in place. In terms of cargo, Mazda3 offers more for the growing family or the couple who likes to travel (with or without dogs!). However, the CX-3 is an SUV and therefore offers the advantage of a higher ride height – which is great for strapping children in. This means CX-3 also affords a better view of Melbourne’s roads - especially when you’re stuck behind tall traffic.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Mazda3 has a touch more grunt than the CX-3 when comparing the entry level models. Both vehicles have a 2.0L SKYACTIV engine, but while CX-3 reaches a maximum power of 109kW @ 6,000rp and maximum torque of 192Nm @ 2,800rpm, Mazda3 manages power at 114kW @ 6,000 rpm and torque 200Nm @ 4,000 rpm.
The Mazda3 also offers slightly better fuel efficiency at 5.8 l/100km, compared to CX-3 which consumes 6.1 l/100km1 (auto, combined). In reality though the cars are pretty much evenly matched in this area.
That being said, the CX-3 is an SUV that comes in FWD or AWD options, which means light off-roading is possible. The CX-3 also has options in Diesel, unlike Mazda3 which is currently only available in 2.0L or 2.5L petrol. New G-Vectoring Control is standard on both models, finely controlling engine torque based on your steering and acceleration, meaning a smoother drive.
Safety
Mazda doesn’t compromise on safety, offering a 5 Star ANCAP Safety rating on both Mazda3 and CX-3. The new 2018 Mazda3 Neo Sport now comes with reversing camera as standard, a great new safety addition previously offered only on Maxx specs and upward. CX-3 Neo comes with reversing sensors, but reverse camera is available in the Maxx model.
Both Mazda3 and CX-3 are fairly evenly matched when it comes to safety. Both offer automatic safety breaks in Smart City Brake Support. As you step up to Maxx/Maxx Sport models in both CX-3 and Mazda3, impressive Blind Spot Monitoring is offered.
Style
In terms of style, it often comes down to personal preference. Both vehicles are designed with KODO ‘Soul of Motion’ and look incredibly stylish on the road. Mazda3 has hatch or sedan body options while CX-3 is of course a compact SUV design. Both offer 8 different colour options, however Mazda3 is available in the latest colour, Mazda’s ‘Soul Red Crystal Metallic’ whilst CX-3 has the traditional ‘Soul Red Metallic’ option.
Price
Both Mazda3 and CX-3 are competitively priced right now for EOFY, with drive away prices between both models only $1000 apart. The entry level Mazda3 Neo Sport comes in at $21,490 drive away for the manual model. The entry level CX-3 Neo FWD is now newly priced at $22,490 drive away, also for the manual model. Mazda3 Maxx Sport starts from $23,490 drive away while CX-3 Maxx FWD is now from $24,990 drive away.
The decider
For space, suburban performance and price – Mazda3
For height, off-road AWD and diesel options – Mazda CX-3
