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Honda Civic vs Mazda 3 Hatchback comparison

Compare performance (184 HP vs 186 HP), boot space and price (32,500 £ vs 24,500 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Honda Civic or Mazda 3 Hatchback?

Honda Civic vs Mazda 3 Hatchback: Key differences

Honda Civic

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • slightly more efficient
  • marginally quicker 0–100 km/h
details

Mazda 3 Hatchback

  • clearly cheaper
  • very slightly more power
  • only slightly lighter
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

Civic

The Compact Hatchback Showdown: Honda Civic vs Mazda 3 Hatchback

Compact hatchbacks have long been a favorite among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike for their ability to combine practicality with a thrilling driving experience. Two of the heavyweight contenders in this category are the Honda Civic and the Mazda 3 Hatchback. Both models boast a legacy of reliability and innovation, making the decision between the two a tough choice for potential buyers. Let's delve into the technical aspects and innovations of each to see which one might be the best fit for you.

3 Hatchback

Performance and Efficiency: A Close Call

Under the hood, both vehicles offer compelling engine choices. The Honda Civic comes with options ranging from a 184 HP full hybrid engine to a more spirited 329 HP petrol engine. In contrast, the Mazda 3 Hatchback features a petrol MHEV powertrain, providing options between 186 and 140 HP. Interestingly, both vehicles utilize a front-wheel-drive system, with the Mazda offering an additional all-wheel-drive option for those seeking enhanced grip.

Fuel efficiency is where these hatchbacks truly distinguish themselves. The Honda Civic leads with a remarkable consumption of 4.7 L/100km with its hybrid option, whereas the Mazda 3’s petrol engines consume between 5.6 and 6.5 L/100km. This makes the Civic a better choice for those prioritizing economy at the pump.

Civic

Dimensions & Comfort: The Space Dilemma

Dimensions play a significant role when determining the practicality of a hatchback. The Honda Civic measures 4551-4594 mm in length, making it slightly longer than the Mazda 3, which stands at 4460 mm. This extra length translates into a larger trunk capacity for the Civic, offering up to 410 liters compared to the Mazda’s 351 liters. With both vehicles accommodating five passengers comfortably, the Civic once again takes the upper hand in terms of practicality.

However, the Mazda 3 fights back with lower curb weight options ranging from 1419 to 1549 kg, potentially offering a more agile and responsive driving experience. Its higher ground clearance and slightly elevated height also lend themselves to superior on-road visibility.

3 Hatchback

Innovative Technologies: An Eye on the Future

Modern features and tech offerings are vital in today's automotive landscape. The 2022-2023 Honda Civic models integrate the latest in hybrid technology, aligning with the automotive industry's shift towards greener options. On the other hand, the Mazda 3 features a mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) system, showcasing Mazda's commitment to eco-friendly advancements.

Both models are equipped with advanced safety and infotainment features, making them competitive within the connected car segment. Your choice will likely fall to personal preferences for on-board tech interfaces and brand loyalty.

Civic

Conclusion: Choosing Your Champion

Ultimately, both the Honda Civic and Mazda 3 Hatchback are outstanding choices for anyone seeking a blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. The Civic edges out with its superior fuel economy and cargo space, especially for hybrid fans. Conversely, the Mazda 3 appeals with its sporty dynamics and slight focus on driving enthusiasm.

The decision ultimately comes down to what you value most in your driving experience. Whether it’s the efficient operation of the Civic or the spirited engagement of the Mazda 3, both vehicles represent the finest of their respective brands' engineering prowess. Test-driving each will be your final determinant in this exciting matchup.

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

Civic

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.

Mazda 3 Hatchback is clearly cheaper – starting at 24,500 £ , while the Honda Civic costs 32,500 £ . That’s a price difference of around 7,937 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Honda Civic uses 4.7 L/100km and is slightly more efficient than the Mazda 3 Hatchback with 5.6 L/100km. The difference is about 0.9 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 very slightly more power – delivering 186 HP compared to 184 HP. That’s roughly 2 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Honda Civic is marginally quicker – completing the sprint in 7.8 s, while the Mazda 3 Hatchback takes 8 s. That’s about 0.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Honda Civic delivers noticeably more torque with 315 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 75 Nm more.

Civic

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, Mazda 3 Hatchback is only slightly lighter – 1,419 kg compared to 1,517 kg. The difference is around 98 kg.

When it comes to payload, the Mazda 3 Hatchback carries a bit more – 485 kg compared to 397 kg. That’s a difference of about 88 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mazda 3 Hatchback is barely 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
Honda Civic
Mazda 3 Hatchback

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic mixes practical daily usability with a surprisingly engaging driving character, wrapping clever interior design and dependable engineering in a tidy, modern package. It’s a smart buy for drivers who want sensible reliability, a bit of fun behind the wheel, and a shape that never looks like it’s trying too hard.

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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.

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Honda Civic
Mazda 3 Hatchback

Costs and Consumption

Price
32,500 - 35,500 £
Price
24,500 - 35,500 £
Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 5 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
108 - 114 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
1,517 - 1,533 kg
Curb weight
1,419 - 1,549 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,890 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
348 - 397 kg
Payload
470 - 485 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
184 HP
Power HP
140 - 186 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.8 - 8.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8 - 9.8 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
315 Nm
Torque
238 - 240 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
135 kW
Power kW
103 - 137 kW
Engine capacity
1,993 cm3
Engine capacity
1,998 - 2,488 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Honda
Brand
Mazda
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.