Honda HR-V vs Mazda CX-3: which one is the best value for money?

By Farzana Chaumoo

The compact crossover is currently one of the biggest growing segments in the industry. The likes of the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 are relatively new entrants and compete against rivals such as the Nissan Juke and Opel Mokka.

 

2019 Honda HR-V

Starting Price: R362,000.00

Pros: Comfortable ride, spacious interior, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, good fuel economy, good ground clearance

Cons: Feels underpowered, noisy, entry-level lacks standard safety features

Consensus: In the subcompact SUV category, the HR-V appears to be a workhorse here. It’s also said to have a very spacious interior

 

2019 Mazda CX-3

Starting Price: R302,400.00

Pros: Striking looks, impressive styling, quiet and efficient engine, athletic handling, fun to drive, big boot space especially with seats down, luxurious interior features 

Cons: Tight rear space, not great off-road, no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Consensus: The 2019 Mazda CX-3 blends great handling with luxury touches and wraps it in an affordable package.

 

Breakdown

The Honda HR-V has been labelled as a good subcompact SUV due to the space it offers, its practicality and its interior. For 2019, it received an update on styling and a volume knob as the sliding volume control was an annoying feature for many while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been added.

Standard active safety includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), and Automatic brake hold.

The HR-V is said to feel sluggish and a little underpowered by its 1.8-litre engine that’s been paired to a CVT transmission. However, the ride is smooth and comfortable. Its interior has received a lot of praise for the space available in such a small SUV. It also has Honda’s Magic Seat that flips up to catering for transporting taller items in the second row.

In terms of the Mazda CX-3, the second row feels a bit cramped. For 2019, the CX-3 was updated and received a new electronic parking brake that was said to free up more space, the front seats were remade to be more comfortable, and its engines received a bit of a tweak to improve efficiency and make it a little quieter.

On the road, the CX-3 is said to be engaging and fun to drive. The interior feels unexpectedly upscale, compared to its rivals, which shows through the push-to-start button and the available leather seating. 

 

Verdict

Despite the great styling and athletic handling of the Mazda CX-3, it’s the Honda HR-V that offers better practicality. Its interior space makes hauling people or items very convenient despite its engine being laggy. However, you’re also getting a great deal with the Mazda CX-3 and for a lot cheaper and depending on your needs, and if you’re budget sensitive, the Mazda CX-3 will make a great option.