VS

Audi A3 Sportback vs Mazda CX-5 comparison

Compare performance (400 HP vs 141 HP), boot space and price (27,000 £ vs 30,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Audi A3 Sportback or Mazda CX-5?

Audi A3 Sportback vs Mazda CX-5: Key differences

Audi A3 Sportback

4.1 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • slightly cheaper
  • clearly more power
  • substantially more efficient
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • clearly lighter
details

Mazda CX-5

4.7 (11 Reviews)
rate
  • slightly more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

A3 Sportback

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Audi A3 Sportback is slightly cheaper – starting at 27,000 £ , while the Mazda CX-5 costs 30,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 2,991 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Audi A3 Sportback uses 1.1 L/100km and is substantially more efficient than the Mazda CX-5 with 7 L/100km. The difference is about 5.9 L/100km.

CX-5

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi A3 Sportback offers clearly more power – delivering 400 HP compared to 141 HP. That’s roughly 259 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi A3 Sportback is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.8 s, while the Mazda CX-5 takes 10.5 s. That’s about 6.7 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Audi A3 Sportback delivers significantly more torque with 500 Nm compared to 238 Nm. That’s about 262 Nm more.

A3 Sportback

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Audi A3 Sportback is clearly lighter – 1,345 kg compared to 1,629 kg. The difference is around 284 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mazda CX-5 offers slightly more boot space – 466 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 86 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mazda CX-5 carries somewhat more – 601 kg compared to 485 kg. That’s a difference of about 116 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Audi A3 Sportback is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £27,000
A3 Sportback

Audi A3 Sportback

  • Engine Type Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 116 - 400 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 1.1 - 9.3 L/100km
  • Electric Range 134 - 141 km
details

Frequently compared as well

Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-60
VS
Comparing the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-60 helps you decide between a practical, well-rounded compact SUV and a more spacious, premium model that offers stronger engines and available plug-in hybrid technology. The CX-5 is ideal for buyers prioritizing value, comfort and lower running costs, while …
Mazda CX-5
Volvo XC40
VS
The Mazda CX-5 and Volvo XC40 are two leading compact SUVs that blend style, comfort and day-to-day practicality for buyers who want a premium feel without stepping up to a large luxury brand. The CX-5 leans toward engaging driving dynamics and an upscale, tactile cabin, while the XC40 prioritizes …
Audi A3 Sportback
Mazda CX-5

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Audi A3 Sportback

The Audi A3 Sportback wraps premium materials and crisp German design into a practical hatchback package that makes daily driving feel smart rather than showy. It’s nimble in the city, composed on longer trips, and carries just enough swagger to satisfy buyers who want quality without shouting about it.

details
A202267_overfull
A202258_overfull
A202235_overfull
A202271_overfull
A201906_overfull
A202227_overfull

Reviews Audi A3 Sportback

4.1 (2 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 blends sporty handling with a refined, premium interior, making everyday driving feel engaging and comfortable. It pairs stylish design and thoughtful cabin materials with user-friendly tech to deliver a well-rounded compact SUV that suits drivers who want more driver involvement without sacrificing practicality.

details
2022_mazda_cx-5_homura_hr_act_21 (1)
2022_mazda_cx-5_homura_hr_act_28
2022_mazda_cx-5_homura_hr_int_1

Reviews Mazda CX-5

4.7 (11 Reviews)
rate
Ghighi
26 Jul 2026, 15:53:31

Mazda is much better designed. Audis are pretty ugly overall, especially the "Q" series.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Marc Adriaans
4 Jun 2026, 13:04:31

I've been driving Mazdas for about ten years now without problems and with a lot of enjoyment. The last 3.5 years in a CX‑5. A really nice, smooth car that can tow quite a bit too, although I wouldn't recommend doing that with the FWD because it lacks grip on the front axle — so if you fit a towbar always choose the AWD. The only downside I can think of, after long consideration, is... nothing 🤔

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Bengt
25 Jan 2026, 14:05:09

I've owned several Volvos, but I drive a Mazda now and would never switch back.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Frequently compared as well

Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-6e
VS
The trusted Mazda CX-5 takes on the new, electrified Mazda CX-6e in a straight-up duel of everyday usability, driving feel and running costs. We drive them back-to-back to see which one gives you the sharper handling, smarter packaging and better value for your money — and which is just prettier on …
Ford Kuga
Mazda CX-5
VS
The Ford Kuga is the sensible all‑rounder — roomy, loaded with hybrid options and family-friendly tech — while the Mazda CX‑5 plays the premium card with richer materials and more engaging steering. Choose the Kuga for practicality and efficiency, the CX‑5 if you want style, refinement and a …
Audi A3 Sportback
VW T-Roc
VS
The Audi A3 Sportback and the VW T‑Roc share many Volkswagen Group underpinnings but target different buyers: the A3 Sportback focuses on refined driving dynamics and premium cabin quality, while the VW T‑Roc offers a taller, more practical crossover package at a more value-driven price. This …
Kia Sportage
Mazda CX-5
VS
In the competitive compact SUV market, the Kia Sportage and Mazda CX-5 stand out with their distinct design philosophies and driving dynamics. While the Sportage offers a spacious interior and an array of advanced tech features, the CX-5 is celebrated for its engaging handling and upscale cabin …
Audi A3 Sportback
CUPRA Raval
VS
Audi A3 Sportback and CUPRA Raval go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the Audi A3 Sportback or …
Mazda CX-5
Skoda Karoq
VS
The Mazda CX-5 courts you with a near-luxury cabin and engaging handling that turns everyday drives into something livelier, while the Skoda Karoq sticks to a sensible script — clever storage, roomy rear seats and sharp value for families. Choose the CX-5 if you want style, poise and a more premium …
Jaguar F-Pace
Mazda CX-5
VS
Comparing the Jaguar F‑Pace and the Mazda CX‑5 pits a sporty, luxury-oriented midsize SUV against a sharply styled, value-focused compact crossover — a matchup of premium feel and driving dynamics versus everyday practicality and efficiency. Choose the F‑Pace if you prioritize performance, brand …
Mazda CX-5
SEAT Ateca
VS
Mazda CX-5 and SEAT Ateca go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the Mazda CX-5 or the SEAT Ateca …
Audi A3 Sportback
Mazda CX-5

Costs and Consumption
Price
27,000 - 92,900 £
Price
30,000 - 39,500 £
Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 9.3 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
7 - 7.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
134 - 141 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
25 - 211 g/km
co2
157 - 169 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,345 - 1,685 kg
Curb weight
1,629 - 1,671 kg
Trunk capacity
280 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
466 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,816 - 1,851 mm
Width
1,860 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
410 - 485 kg
Payload
566 - 601 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 400 HP
Power HP
141 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 10.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.5 - 10.9 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
220 - 500 Nm
Torque
238 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 294 kW
Power kW
104 kW
Engine capacity
1,498 - 2,480 cm3
Engine capacity
2,488 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
F
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mazda
What drive types are available for the Audi A3 Sportback?

The Audi A3 Sportback is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.