2017 Honda HR-V vs 2017 Mazda CX-3

These two subcompact SUVS with 5 seats and 2 rows are going to be attractive to the same buyer group because of the various similarities seen between them. However, when comparing the 2017 Honda HR-V with the 2017 Mazda CX-3 reveals different things of interest for the smart buyer. Here is what you should be aware of as you make your choice between the SUVs.

Price

2017 Honda HR-V will undercut the 2017 Mazda CX-3 by around $600 when looking at the base model. It might not seem like much but it is still a lower price. The problem is that the Mazda CX-3 comes with better equipment. This includes standard rearview camera, USB, voice commands, Bluetooth and an infotainment system. An infotainment system will only be available in the HR-V at higher trims.

Safety

Both of these SUVs received NHTSA 5 star safety scores. However, both to have some flaws so we can say that there is a tie between them in regards to safety. The Mazda CX-3 has a door that can collapse in a highly dangerous way for the driver and the HR-V does not have that much driver-assistance technology to help you avoid some accidents.

Interior

The overall interior is better with the 2017 Mazda CX-3. There is simply no way to come up with a different conclusion. CX-3 was praised by most test drivers because of the high quality that is found at the current price tag. Honda has a cabin that offers comfort and silence but engine noise is still heard at a high level when you accelerate.

CX-3 will have quite a lot of free space in the front but when you have adults that you want to take with you on a longer trip in the back, they will not feel that great. HR-V can be seen as a better option in the event you are looking for space. However, Mazda CX-3 offers some finer touches.

When looking at the infotainment system, the simple fact that it is included as standard for the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is a huge advantage. Many reviewers did prefer the Honda HR-V interface in terms of style but the interface does stand out as a little frustrating and unpredictable. CX-3 easily defines all that the infotainment system controls.

Cargo Space And Fuel Efficiency

This is one part of the comparison where the 2017 Honda HR-V clearly wins. Hondas in general are well-known for versatility and size in cargo areas. Combine this with the fact that fuel efficiency is similar in both cases and we do have access to something interesting to talk about in the sense that the Honda HR-V can be better for those that are mainly interested in long trips and vacationing.

Performance

Mazda is known for making vehicles that handle well and that are fun to drive. You can see these characteristics in the 2017 Mazda CX-3. Acceleration is really good and the SUV will cut corners really well. The Honda SUV basically prioritized being quiet over being agile and fast. CX-3 is more sporty and HR-V is offering more utility.

Verdict

Based on all that was written above, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 is definitely the one that you want to consider. The differences are not many though and you will want to think about both in the event you go for the higher trims. At the base level the difference is higher but in the larger trims the decision can be tougher to make.