Comparison - Mazda CX-3 2016 - vs - Toyota RAV4 SUV 2015

Suv one: 

General

Other Names:

Also called:

Mazda CX-3 Maxx

Also called:

Vanguard

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Model: 
Average Price: 
27,114
Updated: 
01 Dec 2016
25,699
Updated: 
16 Nov 2016
Car Type: 
SUV
SUV
Drive Type: 
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Year: 
2016
2015
Total Seating: 
5
5
Transmission: 
6-speed Shiftable Automatic
6-speed Automatic
Bluetooth: 
yes
yes
Heated seats: 
yes
no
Navigation: 
yes
no
Doors: 
5
Fuel Tank Capacity: 
12.70gals
15.90gals
Exterior Colors: 
Color: 
Ceramic Metallic
#F1F1F3
Crystal White Pearl Mica
#E6E6E8
Deep Crystal Blue Mica
#242F4F
Dynamic Blue Mica
#0688C6
Jet Black Mica
#000000
Meteor Gray Mica
#4A5575
Soul Red Metallic
#78191F
Titanium Flash Mica
#75755A
Color: 
Barcelona Red Metallic
#630C17
Black
#000000
Blue Crush Metallic
#050347
Classic Silver Metallic
#838383
Hot Lava
#821600
Magnetic Gray Metallic
#141318
Pyrite Mica
#5F5B5A
Super White
#D7D7D7

Expert Reviews

Expert reviews: 

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is stylish, well-equipped, and one of the most fun-to-drive vehicles in its segment

U.S. car buyers have never before bought as many SUVs and crossover utility vehicles as they're taking home today. Now a growing segment of even smaller entries is offering new options, including the Mazda CX-3. It's the smallest crossover sold by the sporty Japanese brand, slotting neatly below the CX-5 compact SUV.

Through an alternate lens, you can view the new CX-3 as the capacious hatchback that the Mazda 3 doesn't offer. While we love Mazda's compact cars, they're hardly capable of holding four adults. The CX-3 remedies that problem, and adds optional all-wheel drive to boot. Given continuing cheap gas prices and the rising fuel efficiency of SUVs of all sizes, we suspect the CX-3 will do very well. Its sales may be closer to those of the Fiat 500X or the Mini Countryman than Honda's high-volume HR-V, but it's reasonably priced and much more capable for the usual tasks of hauling people and a whole lot of stuff. And it's fun to drive—which can't be said of the Honda or the Chevy.

Pros
Elegant, stylish exterior
Modern, attractive interior
Ample features, great optional extras
Predictive all-wheel drive system
Impressive performance and handling for the segment

Cons
No manual transmission option
Rear seat is very compact
Styling may not age well
Monochrome gauges look cheap

By: 
thecarconnection.com

Stylish, nimble and well-equipped, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 is a standout among subcompact crossover SUVs.

Although Mazda is one of the smallest automakers, it keeps cranking out excellent vehicles that stand toe-to-toe with the big boys. A case in point is the all-new 2016 Mazda CX-3. A subcompact crossover SUV, the head-turning CX-3 combines the maneuverability of a small hatchback with the extra height of a crossover. It also features available all-wheel drive, Mazda's trademark sporty handling and a stylish, well-equipped cabin with a standard touchscreen interface. All told, it's one of the nicest and most fun-to-drive vehicles in its class.

Another welcome CX-3 trait is its thrifty fuel economy. With front-wheel drive, you'll see an impressive 31 mpg in combined city/highway driving, according to the EPA, while the all-wheel-drive version still registers 29 mpg highway. That's about as good as it gets in this segment. Unlike many fuel misers, the CX-3 can also get out of its own way, providing respectable acceleration that takes some of the stress out of highway merging and passing.

Another rival worth trying is the venerable Nissan Juke, which is the quickest of the bunch in a straight line but has comparatively little interior space. They're all worthy candidates, but the 2016 Mazda CX-3 keeps them honest with its strong performance across the board.

Pros
Excellent fuel economy
Sporty handling
Quiet at speed
Attractive, high-quality interior with appealing features.

Cons
Snug rear seat
Humble cargo capacity

By: 
edmunds.com

In our ranking of subcompact SUVs, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 is one of the top-rated models. Its handling is more athletic than most, and the CX-3's fuel-economy is at the top of the class. Its cabin is replete with quality materials, and there are lots of standard features. However, the rear seats are a bit cramped, and the CX-3's cargo hold is one of the smallest in the class.

However, a fully loaded CX-3 is still competitively priced in the class, and it's less expensive than several rivals. When you factor in the CX-3's long features list and quality cabin, it's one of the best values among subcompact SUVs.

"An all-new model in the subcompact crossover segment, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 combines a well-built interior, class-best driving dynamics and a small footprint into a curvy body. Excellent fuel mileage, available all-wheel drive and numerous standard and optional features make it one of the top picks in this expanding category." -- Edmunds

"The subcompact-crossover segment is erupting like an overdue volcano-witness the new Chevy Trax, Fiat 500X, and Honda HR-V joining other wee hatchbacks on stilts, such as the Buick Encore, Jeep Renegade, Kia Soul, Mini Countryman, and Nissan Juke. Now, having spent several hours behind the wheel of Mazda's new CX-3, we think it just may be the most compelling of the bunch." -- Car and Driver

"After a few hours behind the wheel, we were quite impressed with the 2016 Mazda CX-3. It's yet another attractive, fun-to-drive, sophisticated car from Mazda. But then we realized something: Mazda already sells a great small hatchback. It's called the Mazda3. As we thought more about the new CX-3, we struggled to see any tangible benefits of stepping up to this crossover, other than the availability of all-wheel drive." -- Automobile Magazine

Pros
Exciting driving dynamics
Outstanding fuel economy
Lots of standard features

Cons
Small cargo capacity
Cramped back seats

By: 
cars.usnews.com

our Soul Red Mazda CX-3 Maxx compact SUV has become a firm favourite, serving purposefully as our office runabout during the week and doubling up nicely as a weekend warrior. We’ve trekked far and wide in the little soft-roader, racking up plenty of trouble-free clicks.

But while weekend getaways to the Hunter Valley and the south coast of NSW are fine and dandy, the CX-3 hasn’t spent a weekend serving as, let’s be honest, what it was designed to do: an inner-city assault vehicle. That’s why we decided to put it to the test in what can only be considered the Mission from Hell – an IKEA run.

research means grabbing a tape measure, folding down the CX-3’s comfy and quite spacious rear seats, and measuring the available space. With the front passenger seat extended to its most forward position, the little Mazda came in it at a touch under 180cm of available length

To be fair, that’s not the fault of the CX-3. Instead, blame for its shortcoming lies entirely on my over-ambitious shoulders in, somewhat wishfully, thinking I could squeeze a two-metre long bed into a compact SUV.

Pros
Comfortable city crawler
Nimble when needed
Reasonable load capacity
Very easy to park in confined inner-city streets
Thrifty on fuel

Cons
Engine a bit whiny in stop/start traffic
Auto gearbox not always on the money

By: 
caradvice.com.au

With their up-for-anything personality, easy-to-park size and sensible appetite for fuel, compact crossovers are some of the most popular vehicles on the road. Versatility is their greatest asset, as you can easily fill them with car seats, groceries, sports equipment or the latest spoils from an antiquing trip and be on your merry way. Among these practical SUVs, the Toyota RAV4 has long been a favorite of savvy shoppers of all ages and tastes.
....
All things considered, the 2015 Toyota RAV4 is not overwhelmingly strong in any one area, but it shines as a solid, well-rounded entry in a very competitive segment. As such, the RAV4 should easily meet the needs of most shoppers.

pros
Roomy interior for people and cargo
Strikes a good balance between ride comfort and sure-footed handling.

cons
No engine upgrade option
Usefulness of available Entune smartphone features is diminished by cumbersome setup process

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is a practical crossover with confident handling. Just know that driving enjoyment is not its strong point
...
The RAV4 has smoothed away all the former SUV cues; now it's pleasant enough if a little inexpensive inside.
...
Mediocre four-cylinder power undercuts the RAV4's solid steering and ride
...
Interior space is fine, but the RAV4's rear seat is flat, and there's an ample supply of rubbery trim in base versions
...
The RAV4's crash scores are now merely par, in a class with some high standards.
...
The RAV4 makes the most sense in value-laden XLE and LE trim levels
...

Pros
Clean styling
Responsive six-speed automatic
Standard rear view camera and Bluetooth
AWD that works well on the road

cons
No higher-output engine option
No third-row seat
Back seat feels flat
Mismatched trims in Limited

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The 2017 RAV4 faces stiff competition in the compact SUV class. It trails several rivals in terms of style and performance, but it has impressive safety features in all trims and one of the most spacious cabins in its class
It boasts a generous list of standard features, including more safety features than most in the class
The RAV4 is a reliable family hauler that comes with a generous list of features, with a particular focus on safety to keep your mind at ease when carting your family around
you may find rival SUVs at lower prices with nicer interiors, but they may not have the long list of standard features or near top-of-the-class cargo space that the RAV4 does.

Pros

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 ups the ante in the fiercely competitive compact SUV class by including advanced safety features for every trim level. Once you factor in the RAV4 reputation for reliability this car link crossover is definitely worth your consideration...Edmund

"Despite the sea of competitors swimming in the compact-SUV pool, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 remains the gold medal champ. The RAV4 succeeds on so many levels because it doesn't try to be too many things. so even well-equipped models remain within reach of the average buyer." -- Kelley Blue Book

Cons
There's certainly nothing wrong with the RAV4 as a responsible family vehicle, but there's nothing so right about it that it's an object of desire." -- Consumer Guide (2015)

By: 
usnews.com

Fuel

Fuel Type: 
Regular Unleaded
Regular Unleaded
Fuel Economy City USA: 
29.00mpg
24.00mpg
Fuel Economy HWY: 
35.00mpg
31.00mpg
Engine type: 
Petrol/Gas
Petrol/Gas

Engine and Performance

Valves: 
16
16
Cylinders: 
4
Inline
4
Inline
Engine Size/Displacement: 
2.00L
2.50L
Torque: 
146ft-lbs
at 2 800rpm
172ft-lbs
at 4 100rpm
Horsepower: 
146hp
at 6 000rpm
176hp
at 6 000rpm
Cam Type: 
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Turning Circle: 
34.80Feet
34.80Feet

Convenience

Cruise Control: 
yes
yes
Door Pockets: 
yes
yes
Cupholders: 
yes
yes
Overhead console: 
yes
no
Seatback Storage: 
yes
yes
Power Steering: 
yes
yes
Parking sensors: 
no
no
Steering Wheel Tilt: 
yes
yes
Telescopic steering wheel: 
yes
yes
Rear View Camera: 
yes
yes
Front view Camera: 
no
no
Side view Camera: 
no
no
On steering wheel: 
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel

Exterior Dimensions

Length: 
168.30in
179.90in
Width: 
69.60in
72.60in
Height: 
60.90in
65.40in
Ground Clearance: 
6.20in
6.30in
Front Track: 
61.80in
Rear Track: 
61.80in
Wheel Base: 
101.20in
104.70in

Interior Dimensions

Front Head Room: 
37.60
39.80
Rear Head Room: 
37.20
38.90
Front Leg Room: 
41.70in
42.60in
Rear leg room: 
35.00in
37.20in
Front Hip Room: 
52.30in
54.30in
Front Shoulder Room: 
53.50in
57.30in
Rear Hip Room: 
49.00in
48.90in
Rear Shoulder room: 
50.40in
55.40in

Weights and capacites

Cargo Capacity: 
42.30cu.ft
73.40cu.ft
Maximum Towing Capacity un-break: 
1500lbs
Cargo Capacity with Seats in Place: 
10.10cu.ft
38.40cu.ft
Angle of Approach: 
29.00degrees
Angle of Departure: 
22.00degrees
Curb Weight: 
2809.00lbs
3435.00lbs

Instruments

External Temperature Display: 
yes
yes
Clock: 
yes
yes
Trip computer: 
yes
yes
Techometer: 
yes
yes
Compass: 
yes
no

Power Features

Power windows: 
yes
yes
Remote Keyless doors: 
yes
yes
More Power Features: 
1 one-touch power windows

Seats

Rear Seat Collapsible: 
yes
yes
Front Seats Features: 
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable driver seat
Leather/suede
Height adjustable driver seat
Bucket front seats
Cloth
Rear Seats Features: 
Split-folding rear seatback
Rear ventilation ducts
Reclining rear seats
Folding center armrest
Split-folding rear seatback

Suspension

Front Suspension: 
Front independent suspension
Front stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension: 
rear stabilizer bar
Suspension Info: 
Stabilizer bar stabilizer bar
Four-wheel independent suspension

Comfort

Interior air Filtration: 
yes
yes
Climate Control: 
yes
no
More Comfort Features: 
Leather steering wheel
Dual vanity mirrors
Turn signal in mirrors
Air conditioning
Dual vanity mirrors

Entertainment

DVD player: 
no
no
AM/FM Radio: 
yes
yes
Satellite radio: 
yes
no
Video monitor: 
no
no
More Entertainment: 
Bose premium brand stereo system
7 total speakers
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
4 Months of provided satellite radio service
Speed sensitive volume control
Bose premium brand speakers
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control

Exterior Features

Sunroof: 
yes
no
Rear defogger: 
yes
yes
More in Glass and Roof: 
Variable intermittent wipers
Rear window wiper
Intermittent rear wiper
Privacy glass
Intermittent wipers
Alloy Wheels: 
yes
yes
Wheel size: 
18 x 7
17 x 6.5
Wheels more: 
Full wheel covers
Temporary spare tire
Inside mounted spare tire
All season tires
Wheel Dimensions: 
Width: 
215.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
50
Width: 
225.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
65
Diameter: 
R17

Safety Features

ABS: 
yes
yes
Front head airbags: 
yes
yes
Rear head airbags: 
yes
yes
Dual front side-mounted airbags: 
yes
yes
Emergency braking assist: 
yes
yes
Traction control: 
yes
yes
Child seat anchors: 
yes
yes
Front brakes: 
Front ventilated disc brakes
Ventilated front disc brakes
Stability control: 
yes
yes
Rear brakes: 
solid rear disc brakes
solid rear disc brakes
Rear door child safety locks: 
yes
yes
Daytime running lights: 
yes
yes
Engine immobilizer: 
yes
yes
Front fog lights: 
yes
yes
Dusk sensing headlamps: 
no
yes
Auto delay off headlamps: 
yes
yes
Front headrests: 
yes
yes
Rear headrests: 
yes
yes
Tire pressure monitoring: 
yes
yes
More Safety Features: 
Rear Parking Sensors
Self-leveling headlights
Post-collision safety system
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
LED headlamp
Rear center 3-point belt
Adaptive headlights
Turn signal mirrors
Rear height adjustable headrests
First Aid Kit
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Rear center 3-point belt

Options

Packages: 
Cargo Management
RAV4 Chrome Package
Protection Package
Preferred Accessory Package
Exterior Options: 
Body SIde Molding
4 Piece Front & Rear Splashguards
Doorsill Protector
Door Edge Guards
Roof Rack Cross Bars and Side Rail
Paint Protection Film
Body Side Molding
Rear Bumper Protector
Clear Paint Protection - Door Package
Mudguards
Roof Rack Cross Bars
Alloy Wheel Locks
Clear Paint Protection - Hood Package
Doorsill Protector
Interior Options: 
10" Overhead DVD System
Cargo Net
Cargo Net Tray
Carpet Mats w/Lipped Trunk Mat
Connectivity Package (4 Piece)
Four Season Floor Mat Package
Carpet Floor Mats and Cargo Mat
Electrochromic Mirror
Interior Light Kit
Homelink
SofTech Seating

Colors

Interior Colors: 
Color: 
Black
#141A1D
Color: 
Ash, cloth
#6B6A67
Black, cloth
#151515