VS

Dacia Sandero vs Mazda 3 Hatchback comparison

Compare performance (122 HP vs 186 HP), boot space and price (11,000 £ vs 24,500 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Dacia Sandero or Mazda 3 Hatchback?

Dacia Sandero vs Mazda 3 Hatchback: Key differences

Dacia Sandero

3.1 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • considerably cheaper
  • barely more efficient
  • markedly lighter
  • marginally more trunk space
details

Mazda 3 Hatchback

  • noticeably more power
  • visibly quicker 0–100 km/h
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

Sandero

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Dacia Sandero is considerably cheaper – starting at 11,000 £ , while the Mazda 3 Hatchback costs 24,500 £ . That’s a price difference of around 13,586 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Dacia Sandero uses 5.3 L/100km and is barely more efficient than the Mazda 3 Hatchback with 5.6 L/100km. The difference is about 0.3 L/100km.

3 Hatchback

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Mazda 3 Hatchback offers noticeably more power – delivering 186 HP compared to 122 HP. That’s roughly 64 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mazda 3 Hatchback is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 8 s, while the Dacia Sandero takes 9.7 s. That’s about 1.7 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mazda 3 Hatchback delivers a bit more torque with 240 Nm compared to 200 Nm. That’s about 40 Nm more.

Sandero

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Dacia Sandero is markedly lighter – 1,100 kg compared to 1,419 kg. The difference is around 319 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Dacia Sandero offers marginally more boot space – 372 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 21 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mazda 3 Hatchback carries slightly more – 485 kg compared to 436 kg. That’s a difference of about 49 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mazda 3 Hatchback is narrowly ahead 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 £24,500
3 Hatchback

Mazda 3 Hatchback

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 140 - 186 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.6 - 6.5 L/100km
details

Frequently compared as well

Dacia Duster
Dacia Sandero
VS
The Dacia Duster and Dacia Sandero are budget-friendly staples from the same brand, but they serve very different needs: the Duster is a compact SUV with higher ground clearance and more interior space, while the Sandero is a practical, economical hatchback ideal for city driving. This comparison …
Dacia Sandero
Renault Captur
VS
Choosing between the Dacia Sandero and the Renault Captur comes down to whether you prioritise affordable, no-nonsense practicality or a more refined, crossover-style package with extra equipment. The Sandero delivers exceptional value and low running costs, while the Captur offers more comfort, …
Dacia Sandero
Mazda 3 Hatchback

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Dacia Sandero

The Sandero is a no-nonsense hatchback that prioritises practicality and low running costs, making it a smart choice for budget-minded buyers. It delivers a surprisingly roomy interior and straightforward, useful equipment so you get everyday usability without paying for unnecessary frills.

details
d220195p
d220191p
d220190p

Reviews Dacia Sandero

3.1 (5 Reviews)
rate
Thierry
14 Apr 2026, 21:55:26

New car — but problems: water ingress in a vehicle that's only two years old, mould forming, a defective front plate and a black stain.

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
Le
9 Mar 2026, 11:19:49

Hello — having tried the Sandero Stepway Extreme Auto 120.
The big downside is at the front, where large consoles on both the passenger and driver doors create a feeling that, as the kilometres go by, you have to drive with your knees squeezed together. On top of that, the small compartment between the two seats is more cumbersome than practical.
The rear seats are really spacious.

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

Mazda 3 Hatchback

The Mazda 3 hatchback blends elegant design with a surprisingly sporty drive, giving a cabin that feels more upscale than you’d expect for the segment. Practical enough for everyday life yet eager to entertain behind the wheel, it’s a smart, good-humored choice that makes even grocery runs feel like a mini escape.

details
2022_mazda3_spain_act_23_highres
2022_mazda3_spain_act_15_highres
2022_mazda3_spain_still_14_highres
2022_mazda3_spain_int_01_highres
2022_mazda3_pq_spain_int_05_highres

Reviews Mazda 3 Hatchback

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

Frequently compared as well

Dacia Sandero
Kia Stonic
VS
The Dacia Sandero and Kia Stonic target buyers who want compact practicality, but they take very different approaches — Sandero focuses on low cost and straightforward utility while the Stonic offers more style, features and refinement. This quick comparison highlights where each model shines so …
Dacia Sandero
Kia Picanto
VS
Comparing the Dacia Sandero and the Kia Picanto: both are budget-friendly small cars but they appeal to different priorities — the Sandero emphasizes space and low running costs, while the Picanto focuses on compact agility and city-friendly maneuverability. If you need roomy practicality and …
Dacia Sandero
Toyota Yaris Cross
VS
Choosing between the Dacia Sandero and the Toyota Yaris Cross is essentially a choice between a straightforward, extremely affordable small car and a more polished compact crossover with hybrid power and advanced safety tech. The Sandero is ideal if stretching your budget is key; the Yaris Cross …
Dacia Sandero
Fiat Grande Panda
VS
In the budget-friendly segment, the Dacia Sandero and Fiat Panda vie for attention with their distinct offerings. The Sandero stands out with its spacious interior and robust build, offering excellent value for those seeking practicality and comfort. Meanwhile, the Fiat Panda charms with its …
Dacia Sandero
Skoda Kamiq
VS
When comparing the Dacia Sandero to the Skoda Kamiq, both vehicles present compelling options in the compact segment, yet they serve different priorities for drivers. The Dacia Sandero shines with its remarkably affordable price and practical simplicity, making it a top choice for budget-conscious …
Dacia Sandero
Suzuki Swift
VS
The Dacia Sandero and Suzuki Swift are two sensible choices in the small-car segment that take different approaches: the Sandero emphasizes no‑frills value and space, while the Swift aims for sharper handling and a more polished feel. This comparison will focus on practicality, running costs, …
Dacia Sandero
VW Polo
VS
The Dacia Sandero and VW Polo are compact hatchbacks that both aim to be practical, economical choices for city and small-family use, but they represent different philosophies: Sandero focuses on low cost and space, while the Polo emphasises refinement and polish. If your priority is the best …
Dacia Sandero
Renault Mégane
VS
It’s the classic value-versus-style standoff: the Dacia Sandero arrives like a sensible bargain you can live with every day, while the Renault Mégane promises sharper looks and a dose of refinement — for a healthier cheque. We’ll drive, measure and compare practicality, economy and driving feel to …
Dacia Sandero
Mazda 3 Hatchback

Costs and Consumption
Price
11,000 - 16,300 £
Price
24,500 - 35,500 £
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 7.2 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.6 - 6.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
111 - 131 g/km
co2
126 - 146 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,100 - 1,297 kg
Curb weight
1,419 - 1,549 kg
Trunk capacity
372 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,853 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
385 - 436 kg
Payload
470 - 485 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, LPG
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
67 - 122 HP
Power HP
140 - 186 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.7 - 16.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8 - 9.8 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
95 - 200 Nm
Torque
238 - 240 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
49 - 90 kW
Power kW
103 - 137 kW
Engine capacity
999 - 1,199 cm3
Engine capacity
1,998 - 2,488 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Dacia
Brand
Mazda
What drivetrain options does the Dacia Sandero have?

The Dacia Sandero is offered with Front-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.