@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Mazda Motor Corporation
VS

Ford Focus vs Mazda 3 Hatchback – Which model is better for everyday use?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Ford Focus or Mazda 3 Hatchback fits your lifestyle better.

Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

A Hatchback Duel: Ford Focus vs. Mazda 3 Hatchback

In the world of hatchbacks, the competition is fierce, and every new model brings a fresh wave of innovation and performance. Two stalwarts of this segment, the Ford Focus and the Mazda 3, continue to captivate with their latest iterations. Both bring unique strengths to the table—and choosing between them can be a challenge. Let's delve into their technical specifications, innovations, and performance to help you make an informed decision.

3 Hatchback @ Mazda Motor Corporation

Performance and Power

When it comes to engine options and performance, the Ford Focus offers a diverse lineup. Its power output ranges from 115 HP to a sizzling 280 HP, depending on the configuration you choose. The Ford Focus also serves up a choice between petrol, diesel, and mild hybrid engine types, providing a wide scope for various preferences and needs.

Contrast this with the Mazda 3 Hatchback, which focuses on simplicity with a petrol MHEV engine delivering between 140 HP and 186 HP. Equipped with a manual or automatic transmission, the Mazda 3 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 8 seconds for certain versions, hinting at its sprightly on-road demeanor.

Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Efficiency and Sustainability

Efficiency is another key aspect where these hatchbacks stake their claims. The Ford Focus offers an impressive fuel consumption as low as 4.9 L/100km for the diesel variants, while its petrol engines start from 5.2 L/100km. With CO2 emissions ranging between 117 g/km and 183 g/km, it slots into efficiency classes D and G.

The Mazda 3's focus on efficiency is evident with an averaged fuel consumption varying from 5.6 L/100km to 6.5 L/100km, and CO2 emissions stretching from 126 g/km to 146 g/km, fitting into categories D and E. The slightly larger engine capacity of the Mazda may contribute to these figures, however, it still shows a commitment to responsible fuel use and emissions.

3 Hatchback @ Mazda Motor Corporation

Technological Innovations

Both models come equipped with modern technological enhancements befitting their class. The Ford Focus delivers a range of transmission options including a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic, allowing drivers to choose their preferred driving style. The compact dimensions yet substantial trunk capacity of 392 liters ensure practicality doesn’t take a back seat.

Meanwhile, the Mazda 3 Hatchback impresses with an optional all-wheel-drive system, allowing for enhanced grip and control in various driving conditions. Advanced safety features and an ergonomic interior design make the Mazda not just a driving pleasure but also a comfortable companion.

Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Design and Dimensions

Design is subjective, yet when it comes to dimensions, the Mazda 3 is slightly longer, measuring 4460 mm in length. In comparison, the Ford Focus measures around 4392 mm, depending on the model year. Both vehicles share the same number of doors and a similar seating capacity, promising comfort for up to five passengers.

The Mazda 3's curb weight varies from 1419 kg to 1549 kg, while the Ford Focus is slightly lighter, tipping the scales between 1330 kg and 1529 kg. This variance can have implications on handling and fuel economy, factors any discerning driver will consider.

3 Hatchback @ Mazda Motor Corporation

Verdict: The Choice is Yours

Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Focus and Mazda 3 Hatchback boils down to what you value most—be it performance, efficiency, innovation, or pure aesthetics. The Ford Focus offers a spectrum of engine choices and efficiency, appealing to a broad audience. In contrast, the Mazda 3 stands out with its advanced AWD option and refined design philosophy.

Both cars are remarkable specimens of modern hatchback engineering, each with distinct qualities to offer. Whether you're drawn to the reliability and customization of the Ford Focus or the elegance and efficiency of the Mazda 3, either choice assures a rewarding driving experience.

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

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Mazda 3 Hatchback has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 24500 £, while the Ford Focus costs 27500 £. That’s a price difference of around 2966 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Ford Focus manages with 4.90 L and is therefore a bit more efficient than the Mazda 3 Hatchback with 5.60 L. The difference is about 0.70 L per 100 km.

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 Ford Focus has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 280 HP compared to 186 HP. That’s roughly 94 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Focus is convincingly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the Mazda 3 Hatchback takes 8 s. That’s about 2.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Ford Focus performs somewhat better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Mazda 3 Hatchback tops out at 216 km/h. The difference is around 34 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Ford Focus pulls convincingly stronger with 420 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 180 Nm difference.

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 curb weight, Ford Focus is slight lighter – 1330 kg compared to 1419 kg. The difference is around 89 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Ford Focus offers somewhat more room – 392 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 41 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Ford Focus performs evident better – up to 1354 L, which is about 328 L more than the Mazda 3 Hatchback.

When it comes to payload, Ford Focus a bit takes the win – 560 kg compared to 485 kg. That’s a difference of about 75 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Ford Focus proves to be wins the duel decisively and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Ford Focus is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £27,500
Focus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Focus

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 115 - 280 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.9 - 8 L
details

Ford Focus

The Ford Focus remains a clever all‑rounder that balances sharp handling with everyday comfort, making it a strong choice whether your commute is city streets or country lanes. Its practical cabin and sensible running costs mean you’ll spend more time enjoying the drive and less time worrying about ownership, with a playful streak underfoot that keeps things interesting.

details
2021_FORD_FOCUS_ST-LINE_01-LOW @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
2021_FORD_FOCUS_ST-LINE_02-LOW @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
2021_FORD_FOCUS_ACTIVE_INTERIOR_04-LOW @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Mazda 3 Hatchback

The Mazda 3 Hatchback presents a sleek and modern design, capturing attention with its streamlined curves and dynamic stance. Inside, the interior showcases high-quality materials and an intuitive layout, providing comfort and ease for both driver and passengers. On the road, this hatchback impresses with its agile handling and responsive performance, making it a practical yet stylish choice for urban and suburban driving.

details
2022_mazda3_spain_act_23_highres @ Mazda Motor Corporation
2022_mazda3_spain_act_15_highres @ Mazda Motor Corporation
2022_mazda3_spain_still_14_highres @ Mazda Motor Corporation
2022_mazda3_spain_int_01_highres @ Mazda Motor Corporation
2022_mazda3_pq_spain_int_05_highres @ Mazda Motor Corporation

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3 Hatchback @ Mazda Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption
Price
27500 - 42700 £
Price
24500 - 35500 £
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 8 L
Consumption L/100km
5.6 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
117 - 183 g/km
co2
126 - 146 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
52 L
Fuel tank capacity
48 - 51 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1330 - 1529 kg
Curb weight
1419 - 1549 kg
Trunk capacity
392 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4382 - 4397 mm
Length
4460 mm
Width
1825 - 1844 mm
Width
1795 mm
Height
1438 - 1482 mm
Height
1435 mm
Max trunk capacity
1354 L
Max trunk capacity
1022 - 1026 L
Payload
495 - 560 kg
Payload
470 - 485 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
115 - 280 HP
Power HP
140 - 186 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 11.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8 - 9.8 s
Max Speed
186 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
199 - 216 km/h
Torque
170 - 420 Nm
Torque
238 - 240 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 206 kW
Power kW
103 - 137 kW
Engine capacity
999 - 2261 cm3
Engine capacity
1998 - 2488 cm3

General
Model Year
2022 - 2024
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Ford
Brand
Mazda

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What drive types are available for the Ford Focus?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.