Mazda CX-3 vs. Honda HR-V: Comparison

Car shoppers intrigued by small-but-smart packaging, economical engines, and a low price of entry will have two new options: Mazda CX-3 and The Honda HR-V.

Called compact SUVs by their makers, in reality, these vehicles are more like tall hatchbacks. They are stretched slightly from subcompact car donor platforms, with slightly more ground clearance and higher ride heights. Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 will both be available with all-wheel drive, and they will be priced around $20,000.

The Mazda CX-3 is the lead vehicle for the next-generation Mazda2 platform, but should have a wider track, several more inches of wheelbase (101.2 inches) and as much as a foot more overall length (168.3 inches). The HR-V borrows from the Honda Fit platform, and will carry a 102.1-inch wheelbase and 169.1-inch overall length. Neither one has second-row seats that will make you many friends. The Honda’s second row has slightly better knee and foot room than the Mazda CX-3. However, the Honda’s cramped headroom will cause anyone taller than 5-foot-10 to slouch in their seat. Both the Honda and Mazda CX-3 have fold-flat rear seats, even though the Mazda seats are “almost” fold flat, as the second-row seats carry a slight inclined angle when folded.

The Mazda CX-3 looks swoopy and fast, with a surprisingly long hood line for such a small vehicle. It has clear design lineage to the impressive Mazda CX-5. The Honda is more upright, with its creased sheet metal giving it a robotic expression.

The North American Mazda CX-3 will only be offered with a 155-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. On paper, the HR-V engine falls short, since it’s just a 138-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder. It does provide a choice of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual, available in front-drive form only.

Inside, the Mazda CX-3 doesn’t feel like an entry-level crossover. The plastics and fabrics are of a high grade and rewarding to the touch. The styling of the gauges, knobs, and buttons are a distinguishing blend of high-tech and Steampunk. The Honda plastics are a bit more, well, plastic-like. The gauge cluster styling is futuristic in appearance.

Mazda executives claim that the Mazda CX-3 will be the most dynamically exciting vehicle in the segment, and we’re sure that you’ll think the Mazda CX-3 will be dynamic and exciting too. Come see for yourself at Beach Mazda! We’ll be awaiting your arrival!

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