2019 Mazda CX-3 vs 2019 Honda HR-V

In the competitive segment of compact crossovers, it can be tough to pick the right vehicle for your lifestyle. Here, we look at two popular options in this segment: the 2019 Mazda CX-3 and the 2019 Honda HR-V.

Performance and Efficiency

While both the 2019 Mazda CX-3 and the Honda HR-V offer peppy performance and available all-wheel drive, the CX-3 comes out on top when it comes to power and efficiency. Both models offer a single engine option. For the CX-3, this is a SKYACTIV®-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It puts out 148 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. The HR-V has a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that is also paired to a six-speed automatic, but only gets 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the front-wheel-drive CX-3 comes out on top with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.* The HR-V also gets 34 mpg on the highway when equipped with front-wheel drive, but its city mileage drops to 28 mpg.

Style

The CX-3 beautifully expresses Mazda’s KODO Soul of Motion design philosophy. The crossover’s sculpted lines and svelte silhouette give it a dynamic stance that sets it apart from the rest of the segment. The HR-V, on the other hand, has a cookie-cutter appearance without any attention-grabbing aspects.

Inside, the 2019 CX-3 balances style and practicality, incorporating clean lines, harmonious colors, and a user-friendly instrument panel into its driver-centered cockpit. While the HR-V is practical, it doesn’t feel as slick and streamlined as the CX-3’s interior design.

Technology

The CX-3’s standard 7-inch color touchscreen is larger than the HR-V’s standard 5-inch. The CX-3 also provides more media through the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, complete with voice commands and internet radio integration, featuring Aha™, Pandora®, and Stitcher™. The HR-V only offers this type of connectivity on higher trim levels.

Regarding safety technology, the CX-3 comes standard with a rearview camera, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Smart City Brake Support. While the HR-V comes standard with a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, it lacks the CX-3’s high-tech safety tools.

Come experience the Soul of Motion in the 2019 CX-3 by taking a test drive at Bert Ogden Mission Mazda.

*Up to an EPA-estimated 29 city/34 highway MPG for 2019 Mazda CX-3 FWD models. AWD models, 27 city/32 highway MPG. Actual results will vary.