What To Know
- The world of subcompact SUVs is teeming with contenders, but two standout models that have captured the attention of car enthusiasts are the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-3.
- The Kicks returns an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the CX-3 achieves 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-3 offer similar warranties, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The world of subcompact SUVs is teeming with contenders, but two standout models that have captured the attention of car enthusiasts are the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-3. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, style, and affordability, making them popular choices for urban dwellers and adventure-seekers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of each car, pitting them against each other in a battle for subcompact SUV supremacy.
Exterior Design: Bold vs. Refined
The Nissan Kicks exudes a bold and youthful aesthetic, featuring sharp lines and a distinctive front grille. Its two-tone color options and floating roof design give it a sporty and urban vibe. In contrast, the Mazda CX-3 boasts a more refined and sophisticated exterior. Its sleek silhouette, flowing curves, and elegant grille convey a sense of understated luxury.
Interior Comfort: Spacious vs. Premium
Inside, the Nissan Kicks offers a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing a pleasant ride experience. The Mazda CX-3, on the other hand, offers a more premium interior with high-quality materials and a well-designed dashboard. Its seats are more sculpted and offer better lateral support.
Technology and Features: Cutting-Edge vs. Intuitive
The Nissan Kicks comes equipped with an intuitive infotainment system featuring a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Mazda CX-3 boasts a more cutting-edge infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium sound system. It also offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition.
Performance and Handling: Agile vs. Nimble
Under the hood, the Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient acceleration. The Mazda CX-3 is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that offers responsive and precise shifting. While the Kicks is more fuel-efficient, the CX-3 offers a more engaging and sporty driving experience.
Fuel Economy: Efficient vs. Balanced
In terms of fuel economy, the Nissan Kicks has the edge over the Mazda CX-3. The Kicks returns an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the CX-3 achieves 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. This difference is due to the Kicks’ smaller engine and CVT transmission.
Safety: Top-Notch Protection
Both the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-3 have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They both come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.
Final Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-3 boils down to personal preference. The Kicks is a more affordable and fuel-efficient option with a spacious cabin and bold exterior. The CX-3, on the other hand, offers a more premium interior, cutting-edge technology, and engaging driving dynamics.
If you prioritize affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, the Nissan Kicks is an excellent choice. However, if you value a refined interior, advanced technology, and sporty handling, the Mazda CX-3 is the way to go.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which car has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Nissan Kicks offers 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Mazda CX-3 offers 20.1 cubic feet.
Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?
A: The Mazda CX-3 has a more powerful engine with 148 horsepower, compared to the Nissan Kicks‘ 122 horsepower.
Q: Which car has a better warranty?
A: Both the Nissan Kicks and the Mazda CX-3 offer similar warranties, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.