Mazda CX-3 vs Mazda MAZDA3

2026 Mazda MAZDA3
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Mazda CX-3
2019 Mazda CX-3
$20,390MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Mazda CX-3
$20,390MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

2004-Present

Years produced

2016-2022

MSRP

$24,550

MSRP

$20,390

Listings

9643

Listings

491

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Pros

  • Available all-wheel drive

  • Stylish design

  • Fun to drive

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

  • Cramped back seat

  • Outdated technology

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Stylish design

  • Premium interior materials

Cons

  • Cramped back seat

  • Not much cargo space

Reviews Summary

Compact sedans are some of the most affordable vehicles today, which often leads to cheaper interiors, disappointing performance, and uninspired styling. The 2026 Mazda 3 bucks that trend with a cabin that could easily be mistaken for entry-level luxury fare, a spirited driving experience, and head-turning style. The current-generation Mazda 3 debuted as a 2019 model, but despite its age few updates are expected for 2026.

Verdict: The Mazda 3 proves that small cars don’t have to be boring.

Reviews Summary

Tiny and impractical, comfortably seating just two people, in need of more power, yet plenty of fun to drive, the 2019 Mazda CX-3 is the Miata of SUVs. It competes against other inexpensive entry-level crossovers ranging from the Buick Encore to the Toyota C-HR, swapping outright utility for stylish good looks and rousing dynamics. You don’t buy a Mazda CX-3 for off-roading capability or spending sprees at the local IKEA. You buy it because it looks terrific and is a joy to pilot, putting a smile on your face whether you’re commuting, running errands, or heading out for a drive just because.
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.5L 186 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 148 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

186 hp @ 6000 rpm

Horsepower

148 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG City

27

MPG City

29

MPG Highway

36

MPG Highway

34
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Mazda CX-3
2019 Mazda CX-3
$20,390MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Mazda MAZDA3
$24,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Mazda CX-3
$20,390MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
2004-Present
2016-2022
MSRP
$24,550
$20,390
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.5

4.8

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Available all-wheel drive

  • Stylish design

  • Fun to drive

Cons

  • Underwhelming base engine

  • Cramped back seat

  • Outdated technology

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Stylish design

  • Premium interior materials

Cons

  • Cramped back seat

  • Not much cargo space

Summary

Compact sedans are some of the most affordable vehicles today, which often leads to cheaper interiors, disappointing performance, and uninspired styling. The 2026 Mazda 3 bucks that trend with a cabin that could easily be mistaken for entry-level luxury fare, a spirited driving experience, and head-turning style. The current-generation Mazda 3 debuted as a 2019 model, but despite its age few updates are expected for 2026.

Verdict: The Mazda 3 proves that small cars don’t have to be boring.

Tiny and impractical, comfortably seating just two people, in need of more power, yet plenty of fun to drive, the 2019 Mazda CX-3 is the Miata of SUVs. It competes against other inexpensive entry-level crossovers ranging from the Buick Encore to the Toyota C-HR, swapping outright utility for stylish good looks and rousing dynamics. You don’t buy a Mazda CX-3 for off-roading capability or spending sprees at the local IKEA. You buy it because it looks terrific and is a joy to pilot, putting a smile on your face whether you’re commuting, running errands, or heading out for a drive just because.
Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.5L 186 hp I4
2.0L 148 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
186 hp @ 6000 rpm
148 hp @ 6000 rpm
MPG City
27
29
MPG Highway
36
34
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