Mazda CX-3 Vs Honda HR-V Comparison

2015_cx3_1
Mazda CX-3
VS

2015_hrv_1
Honda HR-V

This is the new Mazda CX-3 Vs Honda HR-V comparison. These are two of the newest small SUVs in the class for 2015. We regard both highly (already) and considering that both manufacturers where the leading global manufacturers 20 years ago making cars that virtually matched the traditional Europeans and exceeded the American brands. Of course history goes that Mazda stuffed up financially and Honda self destructed being saved by its motorcycle division and then the American market for nice but average cars in the Accord and CR-V. Both are climbing back on the competitive ladder so here’s a comparison of the latest ‘clean sheet’ efforts.

Mazda CX-3 Vs Honda HR-V exterior: Both are styled according to their brand’s current design language. We prefer the Mazda CX-3 as it looks more up to date. The HR-V’s design looks a like it was designed a few years earlier but still looks smart. We do like both overall. The CX-3 is based on the Mazda2 while the HR-V is based on the Honda Jazz.

Mazda CX-3 Vs Nissan Qashqai interior: First of all the Honda’s interior design looks pretty good but instead of following the trend of it’s layered and very impressive dash designs in other models the HR-V uses a completely different design, something as could easily be from Toyota for example. It is a conservative design but it does look and feel good for the class. The CX-3 uses the same design as the latest Mazda 2 and even the forthcoming MX-5. Trimmed differently in each model Mazda’s interior design is essentially looks good and works well it also saves a lot of cash when designing a new car. The top range CX-3 is really nice place to be in but at a high cost. In the end we prefer the CX-3’s interior as it has less noticeable cheaper parts and access to optional trim packs that lift it beyond the competition. That said the HR-V has magic seats which make it the most practical smallish SUV available.

Mazda CX-3 Vs Honda HR-V engine and technology: The Maxda CX-3 has arguably the best engine/transmission and tech package in the small SUV class but it is a carry over form the CX-5. The Honda HR-V has essentially carry over engine and CVT transmission hence this is a commuter focused. Safety and convenience packs rate a mention and the HR-V has more. Thankfully both have the same engines regardless of which model grade you pick which is fantastic (apart from the diesel option in the CX3). 

The conclusion is relatively easy. The Honda is an everyday commuter which its amazing practical interior vs the CX-3 sporty presentation and features.  The HR-V was arguably one of the best new smallish SUV definitely more practical but does not feel as good as the CX-3 and that’s even before we drive it. Since the CX-3 has virtually all the ‘wants’ and ‘desirable’ features ticked it is probably the better choice. The knock out punch though is the price, entry level CX-3 is under $20K admittedly the top range CX-3 is just as good as other SUV costing much more. However in the main affordable models in the CX-3 range makes the HR-V look overpriced. We pick the CX-3 if shopping against the HR-V this time. It’s tough when these are definitely two of the best small SUVs.

Mazda CX-3 Honda HR-V
2015_cx3_2 2015_hrv_2
Engines
SKYACTIV-G
IL4 Cylinder Petrol
DOHC EFI
2.0 Litre (1998cc)
Claimed 109Kw @ 6000RPM
Claimed 192Nm @ 2800PM
4 Cylinder petrol (R18F)
1.8 Litre (1799cc) 91 Octane
DOHC VVT EFI
Claimed 105Kw @ 6500 RPM
Claimed 172Nm @ 4300 RPM
SKYACTIV-D
IL4 cylinder Diesel
1.5 Litre (1499cc)
Turbo-charged – DI – CR
Claimed 77kW @ 4000rpm
Claimed 270Nm @ 1600rpm
Weight
Kerb weight FROM 1332Kg
Towing capacity up to 1200Kg
From Approx Kerb weight 1366 Kg
Towing capacity up to 800kg
Fuel capacity & consumption
44 litres
2.0 litre Petrol: 6.7 litres per 100km
1.5 Litre Diesel: 5.1 litres per 100km
Up to 50 litres
IL4 1.8 Petrol 6.9 litres per 100km
Other specifications
6 speed Auto
Overall height/width 1550/1765
Overall length/wheelbase 4275/2570
Drive system: On demand AWD or 2WD
Tyre size: 215-50-18 215-60-16
NCAP safety rating 5/5
CVT Auto
Overall height/width 1605/1772
Overall length/wheelbase 4294/2610
4WD system: None
ANCAP Safety: 5/5
Tyre size: 215-55-17
Capability
Angle of: (degrees)
Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx
Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm
Water Fording depth xxmm Max
Angle of: (degrees)
Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx
Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm
Water Fording depth xxmm Max
Performance
Pricing
2015$19,990 – 37,990 AUD
*Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change!
2015 $24,990 – 32,990 AUD