In this week’s article we’ll be taking a dive into two competitive vehicles in the compact SUV market, the Honda HR-V and the Mazda CX-3. We’ll touch lightly on what makes them unique, and how they compare, to help you in making an informed decision during your next purchase!
Honda HR-V
With both vehicles offering the benefits of an SUV while offering a smaller footprint, the HR-V isn’t to be counted out in terms of space for its passengers. With a second row seat that folds down to offer a whopping cargo area of 58.8 cubic feet, the HR-V brings practical space for those looking to carry more whether it be a couple on a road trip or a jaunt to a supply store.
One point where both the HR-V and CX-3 fall behind is the standard 4 cylinder engine available with both vehicles. It’s noted that the power offered by the engine is subpar, even when equipped with the optional AWD drivetrain. However the efficiency of the engine can’t be denied, with the HR-V pulling slightly ahead of the Mazda CX-3 granting an average of 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
For 2020, every trim level excluding the base level LX comes equipped with a 7” infotainment system including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering a full suite of your favorite apps integrated directly into your vehicle’s dashboard. This, along with the HR-V being noted as a top safety pick for 2020, brings a higher level of practicality to the SUV when compared to it’s counterpart.
Mazda CX3
The Mazda CX3, while falling behind in terms of practicality with its limited cargo space when compared to both the HR-V and even Mazda’s own Mazda3 hatchback, makes up for this with its striking design. With its sporty exterior and interior with a distinct luxury feel, this compact SUV is an eye catcher.
Offering a standard 4 cylinder engine just as the Honda HR-V, it does output a sluggish performance, however offering a competitive mpg of 27 in the city and 32 on the highway.
Compared to the variety of trim levels offered by Honda for the HR-V, beginning in 2020 the CX-3 comes offered only in the standard Sport. This leads to a competitive set of standard features when compared to the base level LX HR-V, with blind spot monitoring, heads up display, land departure warning and more all offered in the 2020 CX3.
Overall
Both the Mazda CX3 and Honda HR-V are competitive entries into the subcompact SUV market. With the HR-V undoubtedly superior in terms of practicality, especially for families with larger children or those just looking for that much needed extra cargo space for ease of use. While the CX3 offers a more luxurious appeal with its superior overall styling, and peace of mind with its suite of standard features due to its being boiled down to one solid trim level beginning in 2021. The choice between the two comes down to what you want the most in your next car, do you look more to the practical side, or is that luxury feeling more your style?
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The article above is a collection of information gathered from multiple sources on the 2020 Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3. The informative above is based as an introduction to features for each vehicle and is not meant to be the sole resource when making a purchasing decision. Consumers should pursue a variety of sources both online and safely in person when purchasing a new vehicle. North End Motors Inc. is not to be held liable should the above information be used in any way other than for what it is intended to be, a short introduction to each vehicle.
