Mazda CX-3 vs. Mazda Mazda3 Sedan

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Mazda CX-3 and Mazda Mazda3 Sedan contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Mazda CX-3 and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan.

When comparing the Mazda CX-3's and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan's specifications and ratings, the Mazda CX-3 has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency and resale value. The Mazda Mazda3 Sedan has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the Mazda CX-3's and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan's specifications and ratings, the Mazda CX-3 is a better car than the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan.

Pricing: A used 2021 Mazda CX-3 ranges from $14,987 to $22,008 while a used 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Sedan is priced between $16,623 to $26,592.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Mazda CX-3 loses 38.1 percent of its value and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan loses 39.4 percent of its value. This means the Mazda CX-3 retains 1.3 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Mazda CX-3’s base engine makes 148 horsepower, and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan base engine makes 186 horsepower. The CX-3 is rated to deliver an average of 31 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 432 miles. The Mazda3 Sedan is rated to deliver an average of 29 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 449 miles.This gives the Mazda CX-3 the advantage in fuel efficiency and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan the advantage in maximum range. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Mazda Mazda3 Sedan has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room, front leg room, rear shoulder room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The Mazda CX-3, a crossover/subcompact SUV, has the advantage in the area of front head room. The Mazda CX-3 and Mazda Mazda3 Sedan are comparable in regards to rear head room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, both the Mazda CX-3 and the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan have the same average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars.