Mazda CX-3 vs. Mazda CX-5: A Personal Journey Through Two Stellar SUVs

I’ve always had a soft spot for Mazda’s blend of style and sporty performance, so choosing between the Mazda CX-3 and CX-5 was both exciting and challenging. In this article, I share my hands-on experience with these SUVs, comparing their features, driving dynamics, and practicality to help you decide which one suits your needs.

Whether you’re weaving through city traffic or planning a family road trip, I’ll break down what makes each vehicle stand out and where they fall short, guiding you toward the right choice.

Comparison Table: Mazda CX-3 vs. Mazda CX-5

My Experience With the Mazda CX-3

The Mazda CX-3 felt like a trusty sidekick the moment I slid behind the wheel.

Its compact dimensions—168.3 inches long and 69.6 inches wide—made it a dream for navigating the narrow streets of my downtown neighborhood.

I drove the 2021 model, powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 148 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it offered smooth gear changes and enough zip for city driving.

I took it on a weekend escape to a nearby lake, winding through twisty backroads, and the CX-3’s sharp steering and nimble handling made every curve a joy. It felt more like a sporty hatchback than an SUV, which suited my love for dynamic driving.

Inside, the CX-3’s cabin surprised me with its upscale feel for a subcompact SUV. The 7.0-inch Mazda Connect infotainment screen, controlled by a rotary knob, was easy to use without pulling my focus from the road.

Standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the i-Activsense safety suite—complete with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automated emergency braking—felt like a bargain at $21,740. I particularly appreciated the blind-spot monitoring during rush-hour traffic, which saved me from a few close calls.

However, the rear seats were a tight squeeze. When I picked up two friends for dinner, they grumbled about the 35 inches of legroom, and I could see why taller passengers would feel cramped.

Cargo space was another constraint. The 17.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats forced me to get creative with packing for that lake trip—just a couple of duffel bags and a cooler filled it up fast. Folding the seats expanded it to 42.7 cubic feet, but that still lagged behind competitors like the Honda HR-V. On the highway, the CX-3’s 34 mpg fuel economy was a wallet-saver, especially with gas prices creeping up. But the engine got loud at higher speeds, and road noise seeped in, making long drives less serene than I’d hoped.

I tested the front-wheel-drive model, which was fine for city streets, but the optional all-wheel drive would’ve been handy for the occasional gravel road. The CX-3 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system scored only Acceptable, which slightly dented my confidence. For solo drivers or couples who stick to urban environments, the CX-3’s agility and efficiency make it a compelling choice.

I also took it to a local car wash, where its compact size made maneuvering through the tight bays a breeze. Parking in my apartment complex’s crowded garage was stress-free, unlike with larger SUVs I’ve driven. The CX-3’s Kodo design turned heads, with its sleek lines and bold grille giving it a premium look that belied its price. But the single Sport trim available in 2021 felt limiting—I longed for the leather seats and sunroof of higher trims from earlier years. Overall, the CX-3 was a fun, affordable companion for my daily grind, but its small size and modest power meant it wasn’t ideal for every scenario.

Pros Of the Mazda CX-3

• Affordable Starting Price: At $21,740, the CX-3 is a steal, packing standard safety tech like i-Activsense and smartphone integration that rivals pricier SUVs. It’s perfect for budget-conscious buyers like me who want value without sacrificing style.
• Nimble Handling: The CX-3’s tight turning radius and responsive steering made city driving a blast. I zipped through traffic and tackled winding roads with confidence, feeling like I was in a Mazda3 with a higher seat.
• Excellent Fuel Economy: Getting 29 mpg city and 34 mpg highway saved me cash on my daily commute and weekend trips. It’s among the most efficient in its class, which mattered with rising fuel costs.
• Premium Interior Design: The cabin’s soft-touch materials and clean layout felt upscale for a subcompact SUV. The rotary knob for infotainment was intuitive, letting me adjust settings without taking my eyes off the road.
• Top Safety Ratings: The IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award gave me peace of mind, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert proving invaluable in busy urban areas.
• Compact Size for Urban Life: At 168.3 inches long, the CX-3 slipped into tight parking spots and navigated narrow streets effortlessly. I parked in spaces that would’ve been impossible for larger SUVs.
• Stylish Exterior: The Kodo design’s sleek curves and bold grille made the CX-3 stand out. Friends commented on its sharp looks, which felt more premium than its price suggested.
• Low Maintenance Costs: Mazda’s reputation for reliability meant I worried less about repair bills. Routine maintenance like oil changes was affordable, keeping ownership costs down.
• Standard Tech Features: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto came standard, making it easy to sync my phone for navigation and music. The 7.0-inch screen was clear, even in bright sunlight.

The CX-3’s affordability and agility were its biggest draws for me. As someone who mostly drives alone or with one passenger, its compact size was perfect for city life. I could weave through traffic jams and park in tight spots without breaking a sweat. The fuel economy was a godsend, letting me stretch my budget further on long drives to visit family. The safety features, especially blind-spot monitoring, made navigating busy intersections feel less daunting. The interior’s quality surprised me—soft materials and a thoughtful layout made it feel like a more expensive vehicle. The CX-3’s sporty handling was the cherry on top, turning mundane commutes into something I looked forward to. If you’re a young professional or empty-nester who values efficiency and style, the CX-3 is tough to beat.

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Cons Of the Mazda CX-3

• Limited Rear Space: The rear seats’ 35 inches of legroom felt claustrophobic for adult passengers. When I drove friends to a concert, they complained about feeling squeezed after just 20 minutes.
• Small Cargo Area: With only 17.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, packing for a weekend trip was a challenge. Even with the seats folded, 42.7 cubic feet trailed rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek.
• Underpowered Engine: The 148-horsepower engine was fine for city streets but struggled on highways, especially when passing trucks or climbing hills with a full load.
• Noisy Cabin at Speed: Above 60 mph, engine buzz and road noise crept in, making long drives less comfortable. I found myself cranking the radio to drown it out.
• Limited Trim Options: The 2021 CX-3’s single Sport trim lacked the customization of earlier years. I missed options like heated seats or a sunroof, which competitors offered.
• Dated Infotainment: The 7.0-inch screen felt small compared to rivals’ larger displays, and the lack of touchscreen functionality was annoying when I wanted quick inputs while parked.
• Discontinued Model: Mazda stopped making the CX-3 after 2021, which worried me about future resale value and parts availability. It felt like a risky long-term investment.
• Lower Ground Clearance: At 6.1 inches, the CX-3 wasn’t ideal for rough roads. A gravel path to a campsite had me wincing at every bump, wishing for more clearance.
• Basic Ride Comfort: The suspension felt firm, which was great for handling but less forgiving on potholed city streets. My back felt it after long drives.

The CX-3’s limitations became clear when I pushed it beyond solo city driving. The cramped rear seats were a dealbreaker when I needed to ferry friends or family, and the small cargo area forced me to leave gear behind on trips. The engine’s lack of power was frustrating on highways, especially when I needed to overtake. Road noise made long drives tiring, and the single trim level left me wanting more options. The infotainment system, while functional, felt a step behind competitors with bigger, touch-enabled screens. The discontinuation of the CX-3 was a nagging concern—buying a discontinued model felt like a gamble for long-term ownership. For urban dwellers who don’t need much space, these flaws might be manageable, but they limited the CX-3’s versatility.

My Experience With the Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 felt like a big leap forward when I took it for a test drive.

I spent time with a 2025 model, first with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 horsepower, 186 pound-feet of torque) and later with the turbocharged version (up to 256 horsepower with premium fuel).

Its larger footprint—180.1 inches long and 72.6 inches wide—gave it a confident stance, and the 7.6-inch ground clearance handled a muddy trail to a campsite without issue.

On a family road trip, the CX-5’s 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space easily fit luggage, a cooler, and camping gear for four, while folding the seats opened up 59.6 cubic feet, making it a practical hauler.

The interior was a revelation, with a near-luxury feel that rivaled pricier brands. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen was vibrant, and the optional Bose audio system turned my playlist into a concert. The Mazda Connect system, controlled by a rotary knob, took a day to master but felt intuitive once I got the hang of it. Standard i-Activsense safety features—adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking—made highway driving relaxing, while the optional 360-degree camera on higher trims was a lifesaver in tight parking lots.

The CX-5’s handling was a standout; its precise steering and composed ride made a mountain pass feel like a racetrack. The turbo model’s 6.2-second 0-60 mph sprint was downright thrilling, though the base engine felt merely adequate.

Fuel economy was a mixed bag—25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for the base engine was decent, but the turbo’s 22/27 mpg stung at the pump. The starting price of $28,570 was noticeably higher than the CX-3, and top trims like the Signature pushed past $40,000, which gave me sticker shock. Still, the CX-5’s blend of space, power, and refinement made it a versatile choice for families or anyone craving a do-it-all SUV. Its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, combined with robust features, gave me confidence, though I wished for a more modern digital gauge cluster. I took it to a local farmer’s market, and the spacious cargo area handled crates of produce with room to spare, while the upscale interior made every drive feel special.

I also tested the CX-5 on a snowy day with its available all-wheel drive, which gripped the road confidently, unlike the front-wheel-drive CX-3 I’d driven in similar conditions. The higher ground clearance let me explore a forest trail without worrying about scraping the undercarriage. The variety of trims was a plus—I could choose a base model for value or splurge on the Signature for leather seats and wood trim. The CX-5 felt like a vehicle that could grow with me, whether I was hauling kids or heading out for a weekend adventure.

Pros Of the Mazda CX-5

• Spacious Interior: The 41 inches of rear legroom and 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space made family trips a breeze. I fit strollers, sports gear, and groceries without Tetris-level packing skills.
• Powerful Turbo Option: The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine’s 256 horsepower was a game-changer, making highway merges and mountain climbs feel effortless and fun.
• Luxurious Cabin: With available Nappa leather and soft-touch surfaces, the interior felt like a premium SUV. The Bose audio and 10.25-inch screen elevated every drive.
• Sporty Handling: The CX-5’s precise steering and smooth ride made it handle like a sedan. I enjoyed carving through backroads as much as cruising on highways.
• Advanced Safety Features: Standard i-Activsense tech, plus an optional 360-degree camera, kept me confident in traffic. The Top Safety Pick+ rating was icing on the cake.
• Versatile Trims: Eight trims, from the base 2.5 S to the luxurious Signature, gave me options to match my budget and taste, unlike the CX-3’s single trim.
• Higher Ground Clearance: The 7.6-inch clearance handled light off-road trails and snowy roads better than the CX-3, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Quiet Cabin: Sound insulation kept road noise at bay, even at highway speeds. Long drives felt serene, with only minimal engine hum during hard acceleration.
• Strong Resale Value: The CX-5’s ongoing production and popularity reassured me about its long-term value, unlike the discontinued CX-3.

The CX-5’s versatility was its biggest strength. The spacious interior and cargo area made it a practical choice for family outings or hauling gear for a camping trip. The turbo engine’s power was a thrill, turning mundane drives into something exciting. The cabin’s quality—especially in higher trims—felt like a step into luxury territory, and the safety features gave me peace of mind with kids in the back. The variety of trims let me dream of upgrading to a fully loaded model someday. The CX-5’s higher ground clearance and optional all-wheel drive opened up possibilities for light off-roading, and its refined ride made every journey comfortable. For anyone needing a do-everything SUV, the CX-5 delivered in spades.

Cons Of the Mazda CX-5

• Higher Price Point: Starting at $28,570, the CX-5 stretched my budget, especially with top trims nearing $40,000. It’s a big jump from the CX-3’s affordability.
• Lower Fuel Economy: The base engine’s 25/31 mpg was less efficient than the CX-3, and the turbo’s 22/27 mpg meant more frequent gas station stops.
• Base Engine Lacks Punch: The 187-horsepower base engine felt sluggish with a full load or on steep inclines, making me wish I’d sprung for the turbo.
• Complex Infotainment: The rotary knob for the 10.25-inch screen was tricky at first, and I missed touchscreen functionality for quick inputs when parked.
• Less Agile in Tight Spaces: The CX-5’s 180.1-inch length made parking in urban garages a bit of a chore compared to the nimble CX-3.
• Dated Instrument Cluster: The partial digital gauge cluster looked old-school compared to rivals’ fully digital displays, which was a letdown in higher trims.
• Cargo Space Not Class-Leading: The 30.8 cubic feet trailed competitors like the Honda CR-V, limiting its appeal for those needing maximum hauling capacity.
• Premium Fuel for Turbo: The turbo engine’s full 256 horsepower required premium fuel, adding to running costs. Regular gas dropped it to 227 horsepower.
• Firm Ride on Base Models: The base suspension felt stiffer than expected, making potholed roads less comfortable than in softer-riding competitors.

The CX-5’s higher price was a hurdle, especially when I considered how many features the CX-3 offered for less. The base engine’s lack of pep was noticeable on highways, and the turbo’s thirst for premium fuel added up fast. The infotainment system’s learning curve frustrated me initially, and the larger size made urban parking trickier. The cargo space, while generous, didn’t match some rivals, and the dated gauge cluster felt out of place in an otherwise modern cabin. These drawbacks didn’t ruin the CX-5’s appeal, but they made me weigh my priorities carefully, especially if budget or efficiency was a concern.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a Mazda CX-3 and CX-5?

The CX-3 is a subcompact SUV with a smaller footprint, better fuel economy (29/34 mpg), and a lower price ($21,740), but limited space and power (148 hp). The CX-5 is a compact SUV with more room, cargo capacity (30.8 cu.ft), and a turbo option (up to 256 hp), but it’s pricier ($28,570) and less efficient.

Why is Mazda discontinuing the CX-3?

Mazda discontinued the CX-3 after 2021 to focus on newer models like the CX-30, which offers similar size but more modern tech and space. The CX-3’s limited versatility and declining sales also contributed.

Which is better, the Mazda 3 or the CX-5?

The Mazda 3 is sportier, cheaper, and more fuel-efficient, ideal for solo drivers or urban use. The CX-5 offers more space, cargo, and SUV versatility, better for families or long trips. Your needs dictate the choice.

Why is the Mazda CX-5 so popular?

The CX-5’s popularity stems from its sporty handling, upscale interior, strong safety ratings, and versatile trims. It balances performance, comfort, and value, appealing to families and driving enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion: For the Mazda CX-3 or CX-5

Picking between the Mazda CX-3 and CX-5 boils down to your lifestyle. If you’re like me, darting through city streets and valuing fuel savings, the CX-3’s compact size, 34 mpg highway efficiency, and $21,740 price tag make it a fantastic pick. Its sporty handling and stylish design are perfect for solo drivers or couples. But if you need room for family, gear, or weekend adventures, the CX-5’s spacious cabin, turbocharged power, and premium features justify its $28,570 starting point. Both embody Mazda’s zoom-zoom spirit, so take them for a spin to find the one that feels like home for you.