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This is the new Suzuki Vitara Vs Mazda CX-3 Comparison. It’s been awhile since we even sat in a Suzuki car yet alone their latest SUV but that changed when we got a chance to drive the Suzuki Vitara hence a new series of comparisons. The Mazda CX-3 is one of favourite small SUVs since our last series of comparisons hence fitting to start off our new series against the Suzuki Vitara.
The Suzuki Vitara has been repositioned from the original as an genuine 4WD to a city friendly SUV with 2WD or AWD options. The design is similar to the Grand Vitara but relatively lower to the ground and different in concept, that a city based SUV more a smaller Subaru XV but costs less. Suzuki targets niche categories and grows them so the Vitara seemingly appeals to anyone who wants a reliable and and different looking small SUV by being conventional… We think Suzuki could well be the new ‘Volvo’ of car brands – yes in the making. Strangely the longer you look at the Vitara the better it gets especially in RT-S trim.
Mazda CX-3 Vs Suzuki Vitara exterior comparison: Complete opposites in terms of exterior design. The CX-3 looks great no question but some find it a little boring since many new SUVs look similar – however we think the CX-3 has enough individuality for 2016. The Suzuki Vitara is a clever design with elements of the original Vitara in the bonnet lines and front profile however the rear end is conventional with over sized tail lights. In the pictures over the internet the Vitara looks ungainly but in real life it standouts for some unknown reason. The 2016 update which includes the turbo petrol and diesel engines looks even better with the more aggressive front end. We can only assume that there will be a higher riding version in future.
Mazda CX-3 Vs Suzuki Vitara interior comparison: Once again contrasting approaches to design and materials between the to car. The CX-3 is clearly designed for a more upmarket appearance and feel and arguably the best this segment, that said you do need to purchase and additional pack for the full experience. The CX-3 in contrast to the Suzuki which is essentially designed around a traditional T-box and finished in hard plastics but it’s not too bad considering its price. (We don’t mind hard plastics as it wears really well and if its done correctly looks good too) Once again we can only assume that the plastics can easily be covered with a softer finish in future versions as there are already coloured panels you can already option. There is the unusual addition of an analogue clock in middle of the air vents which is a mic touch. The instruments and very good and in some ways better presented than the CX-3. The function dial in the centre console of the Vitara surprised us along with the full functioning steering wheel controls. Regardless the CX-3 is the nicer place to be but the Vitara design still still nice but best described as appealing to a different set of buyers?
Mazda CX-3 Vs Suzuki Vitara engine and technology comparison: The CX-3 has the latest and most advanced non-turbo engines in the world no doubt. They are powerful and fuel efficient at the same time and they deliver power in a predictable and enjoyable fashion. The safety features in the top range CX-3 is only matched by the Honda HR-V while the Vitara simply cannot match regardless of model grade. Suzuki engines have always been the most conservative part of any Suzuki car or 4WD meaning they are conservative is design and power output. However they have the rare distinction of being really reliable and easy to maintain. The latest revision to the Vitara is the addition of a turbo 1.4 which does not produce amazing amounts of power but enough to be interesting. The safety tech available in both SUVs are good too but the Mazda has plenty more. Thankfully both have regular gearbox which will make them great to drive!
Mazda CX-3 Vs Suzuki Vitara drive on the road: Suzuki Vitara drive was a surprise package. We expected Corolla like drive experience but this felt solid but sharper steering and engine tuning could be compared to the Mazda3. The Vitara is also one of the cheapest small SUV with Apple and Android app connectivity. The drive is reasonably quiet and rides like a sedan rather than SUV we can best sum it up as nice all round. That said it’s not the smoothest SUV in terms of ride quality. The new turbo engine tested impressed due to the mid range power bias which none of the others have.
The conclusion is difficult since it is clear that the Suzuki Vitara is conventional almost retro design and as a daily driver around town and to look different by being normal – very old school Volvo. It is the interior and safety features that let the side down although the engine lift it again so its a difficult choice. The Mazda CX-3 has current design and looks good in real life and on paper but there are packaging issues like the rear doors and small interior space for the size. The the interior looks great with quality higher than many more expensive SUVs and with the option styling pack is well worth optioning for luxury car interior. Pricing for both is really good too for both SUVs with the mid-range CX-3 Maxx and Vitara S priced at around $30,000 on the road although the top range CX-3 and Vitara are overpriced… If you want style and substance at a price than the CX-3 else the Vitara for something different. That said there is very little in the sub $40,000 SUV class regardless with as many features as the top range CX-3 or with the same level of build quality.
| Mazda CX-3 | Suzuki Vitara |
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| Engines | |
| SKYACTIV-G IL4 Cylinder Petrol DOHC EFI 2.0 Litre (1998cc) Claimed 109Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 192Nm @ 2800PM |
4 Cylinder petrol (K14C) 1.4 Litre (1373cc) 95 Octane DOHC VVT EFI Claimed 103Kw @ 5500 RPM Claimed 220Nm @ 1500 RPM |
| SKYACTIV-D IL4 cylinder Diesel 1.5 Litre (1499cc) Turbo-charged – DI – CR Claimed 77kW @ 4000rpm Claimed 270Nm @ 1600rpm |
IL4 cylinder Diesel 1.6 Litre (1596cc) Turbo-charged – DI – CR Claimed 88kW @ 3750rpm Claimed 320Nm @ 1750rpm |
| 4 Cylinder petrol (M16A) 1.6 Litre (1586cc) 91 Octane DOHC VVT EFI Claimed 86Kw @ 6000 RPM Claimed 156Nm @ 4400 RPM |
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| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1332Kg Towing capacity up to 1200Kg |
From Approx Kerb weight 1075 Kg Towing capacity up to 1200kg |
| 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 47 litres IL4 1.6 Petrol 5.8 litres per 100km IL4 1.4 Petrol turbo 5.9 litres per 100km IL4 1.6 Diesel 4.9 litres per 100km |
| Other specifications | |
| 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 |
5 or 6 speed Auto 5 speed Manual Overall height/width 1610/1775 Overall length/wheelbase 4175/2500 4WD system: None AWD or 2WD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: |
| 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! |
2016 $21,990 – 35,990 AUD |