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This is the new Nissan Qashqai Vs Mazda CX-3 comparison for 2023. This week we compare the Qashqai, one of the newest but not quite small anymore SUV against on of the oldest but genuinely small SUV on sale at the moment. So is the new Qashqai a better buy in comparison to the CX-3?
Nissan Qashqai Vs Mazda CX-3 exterior comparison: The Qashqai is good looking SUV but it’s not a stand out. It is best described as a contemporary design that is ultimately conservative as to appeal to as many people as possible. In comparison the CX-3 did a similar thing nearly 10 years ago and it turned out even better as it really doesn’t show its age and it looks unique.
Nissan Qashqai Vs Mazda CX-3 interior comparison: The new Qashqai interior is a nice place to be in looks and feels about right for the price. It is a generic design so shouldn’t offend anyone. There is plenty of space in the Qashqai although nothing fancy about the design. The CX-3 interior is quite different from the Qashqai – it is an older design and because few manufacturers followed the Mazda design elements so it remains looking reasonably contemporary. The hard plastics used in the CX-3 look like soft ones and all the touch points are soft which makes it look and feel more upmarket. The CX-3 interior is noticeably smaller but shouldn’t be a problem unless you are exceptionally large or tall.
Nissan Qashqai Vs Mazda CX-3 engine and technology comparison: There is nothing standout in the Qashqai small capacity turbo engine but there enough power there to keep it going at an acceptable pace despite the weight increase. The CX-3 has a larger 2 litre that is just as economical in the real world but equipped with a regular gearbox and make it the better drive. The standard stereo system sounds pretty good and better than the Qashqai but both cars have Bose branded systems on higher end models.
The conclusion and winner of the Nissan Qashqai Vs Mazda CX-3 comparison is the CX-3. Ignoring the size difference the Mazda CX-3 costs less to buy, it is a nicer drive in the corners and impressively secure in the straight line. Some complain that it is noisy and rides hard but the reality is that no small SUV has more engaging driving dynamics when corners start for the driver and few are so predictable over bumps and feel the system actually working yet not harsh – nice balance overall for a sporty drive. It is not particularly noisy. Finally it is also clear to us that only the drivers seat has the most road feel while the passengers are largely isolated.
Nissan Qashqai | Mazda CX-3 |
Engines | |
4 Cylinder Petrol (95 Octane) DOHC EFI VVT Turbo 1.3 Litre (1332cc) Claimed 110Kw @ 5500RPM Claimed 250Nm @ 1600RPM |
IL4 Cylinder Petrol DOHC EFI 2.0 Litre (1998cc) Claimed 109Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 192Nm @ 2800RPM |
IL4 cylinder Diesel 1.5 Litre (1499cc) Turbo-charged – DI – CR Claimed 77kW @ 4000RPM Claimed 270Nm @ 1600RPM |
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Weight | |
Kerb weight FROM 1452 Kg Towing capacity up to 1500kg |
From Approx Kerb weight 1200 Kg Towing capacity up to 1200kg |
Fuel capacity & consumption | |
Up to 55 litres IL4 1.3 Petrol Turbo 6.1 litres per 100km |
Up to 44 litres 2.0 litre Petrol: 6.7 litres per 100km 1.5 Litre Diesel: 5.1 litres per 100km |
Other specifications | |
5 speed manual or 6 speed CVT Auto Overall height/width 1625/1835 Overall length/Wheelbase 4425/2665 4WD system: FWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 |
6 speed Auto or 6 speed manual 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 |
Capability | |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 193mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 170mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Performance | |
Pricing | |
2023 $33,890 – 47,390 AUD 2020$27,990 – 38,490 AUD 2018 $26,490 – 36,990 AUD 2017 $26,490 – 39,990 AUD 2016 $25,990 – 39,990 AUD |
2023 $25,510 – 39,800 AUD 2022 $25,390 – 37,190 AUD 2020 $24,650 – 38,450 AUD 2019 $21,790 – 37,290 AUD 2017 $20,500 – 37,490 AUD |
*Specs change due to model grade and configuration. 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! |