Skip advert
Advertisement
Car group tests

Mazda 3 vs rivals

Mazda’s new 3 is already proven as a top family hatch. Now, the entry car meets great-value rivals from Hyundai and Chevy in a budget battle

The new Mazda 3 has banished the memory of its rather bland predecessor. Range-topping versions of the latest Japanese hatch combine style, practicality and sharp driving to impressive effect, and the model ran the Volkswagen Golf close in the compact family class at Auto Express’s New Car Awards 2009.

But what about lesser versions of the Mazda? With prices starting at £13,500 for the 1.6-litre S, it undercuts established rivals – and falls into the clutches of value-for-money alternatives.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Mazda 3

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"68428","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]]

Newest of these is the Chevy Cruze saloon. What it lacks in hatch versatility it makes up for with a long list of kit, sharp looks and a capable chassis shared with Vauxhall’s new Astra.

We tested the 1.8 LT version in Issue 1,070, and now we try the 1.6-litre LS. At £12,595, it’s the cheapest car here, plus the best equipped. But can it match our final contender as an ownership proposition?

Hyundai’s i30 has a five-year warranty. It’s shocked European rivals by mixing the Koreans’ traditional value with desirability and dynamic talent. And at £12,600, it undercuts the Mazda by £900. Which of our trio is our champion?

Verdict

What this test proves is that you no longer have to settle for second best when buying on a budget. For the price of a mid-spec supermini, our contenders serve up family car versatility. But which of the three takes victory?

The Chevy makes a strong case for itself. It’s well equipped, looks striking and has a composed chassis. Plus, even though it’s available only as a four-door, it’s practical, too. But the engine is off the pace here, and poor residuals leave it trailing.

That means the Mazda and Hyundai fight it out for top honours. The i30 is a huge leap forward, and is easily a match for established rivals. It’s solidly built, good to drive and has a huge spec list, so it appeals on many levels. Add the company’s famous five-year warranty, and the car is extremely tempting.

However, it can’t quite match the Mazda in this test. Even after a short drive in the 3, the quality of its engineering shines through. What’s more, the Japanese hatch is practical, beautifully built and delivers class-leading residuals, which offsets the higher price.
If your budget stretches that far, the Mazda is worth every penny.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Mazda 3

Mazda 3

RRP £22,065Avg. savings £2,429 off RRP*Used from £8,290
Mazda Cx-30

Mazda Cx-30

RRP £23,265Avg. savings £2,501 off RRP*Used from £12,400
Seat Leon

Seat Leon

RRP £24,125Avg. savings £5,279 off RRP*Used from £10,395
Mazda Cx-5

Mazda Cx-5

RRP £26,940Avg. savings £2,118 off RRP*Used from £9,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025
New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal
Volkswagen ID.3 Pure Match - front

New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal

The value-focused Volkswagen ID.3 Match performs well and is easy to live with
Road tests
28 Apr 2025