What To Know
- In terms of handling, the Honda CR-V provides a balanced and composed ride, while the Mazda CX-3 is more agile and responsive.
- In terms of value, the CR-V offers a more spacious interior, a more powerful engine, and a better fuel economy.
- The Honda CR-V has a slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
When it comes to choosing a compact crossover, two popular options are the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-3. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, style, and performance, but they cater to different sets of buyers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-3 to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Honda CR-V boasts a rugged and muscular exterior, with a bold grille and a wide stance. Its sleek lines and sharp angles give it a modern and sporty appearance. In contrast, the Mazda CX-3 has a more elegant and refined design, characterized by its flowing curves and tapered roofline. It exudes a premium feel and has a compact and agile look.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Honda CR-V offers a spacious and versatile interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Its rear seats can be folded down to create a large and flat cargo area. The Mazda CX-3 has a smaller interior, but it still provides ample space for front-seat occupants. Its rear seats are not as spacious, but they can be folded down to accommodate larger items. In terms of comfort, both vehicles offer supportive seats and a quiet ride.
Performance and Handling
The Honda CR-V is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Mazda CX-3 is equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that generates 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. It offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. In terms of handling, the Honda CR-V provides a balanced and composed ride, while the Mazda CX-3 is more agile and responsive.
Fuel Economy
The Honda CR-V’s fuel economy ratings are slightly better than those of the Mazda CX-3. The CR-V achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The CX-3 gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
Technology and Features
Both the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-3 offer a range of advanced technology and convenience features. The CR-V comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. The CX-3 has a slightly smaller 6.5-inch touchscreen, but it also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Both vehicles also offer a variety of optional features, such as navigation, a premium audio system, and adaptive cruise control.
Safety
Both the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-3 have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The CR-V earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick++” designation from the IIHS. The CX-3 also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick” designation from the IIHS.
Price and Value
The Honda CR-V has a starting price of $26,400, while the Mazda CX-3 starts at $21,900. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, so the final price will vary depending on the specific configuration. In terms of value, the CR-V offers a more spacious interior, a more powerful engine, and a better fuel economy. However, the CX-3 has a more stylish design, a more agile handling, and a lower starting price.
Which One is Right for You?
The Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-3 are both excellent compact crossovers, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The CR-V is a better choice for buyers who prioritize space, performance, and fuel economy. The CX-3 is a better choice for buyers who want a stylish, agile, and affordable crossover.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Honda CR-V has a more powerful engine, with 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Honda CR-V has a slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Honda CR-V has a more spacious interior, with more room for passengers and cargo.
Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-3 have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The Mazda CX-3 has a lower starting price, at $21,900.