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What Cars Are As Good As Mazda Mazda3? 20 Similar Rides Worth Checking Out

If you're in the market for a new car, you've likely heard of the Mazda Mazda3. This popular compact car has earned a reputation for its sleek design, agile handling, and impressive fuel efficiency. But what if you're looking for something similar, but with a slightly different twist? Fear not, because we've got you covered. In this post, we'll be exploring 20 cars that are just as good as the Mazda Mazda3. From sporty hatchbacks to family-friendly sedans, we'll be covering a range of options that are sure to suit your needs. So buckle up and get ready to discover your next dream ride.

But first, let's dig a little deeper into what makes the Mazda Mazda3 such a standout car. With its sharp lines and bold grille, this car certainly catches the eye. But it's not just about looks - the Mazda3 is also known for its nimble handling and responsive steering. And with impressive fuel economy ratings, it's a practical choice for anyone looking to save money at the pump. So why look for something else? Well, as great as the Mazda3 is, it's always good to have options. Maybe you're looking for something with a bit more cargo space, or a car that's a little more affordable. Whatever your priorities may be, we're confident that you'll find something on this list that fits the bill.

How Mazda Mazda3 Stacks Up Against the Competitors

Competitors Last Release Fuel Economy
Mazda Mazda3 2022 28 city / 36 highway
Acura ILX 2022 24 city / 34 highway
Acura Integra 2001
Audi A3 2023 28 city / 38 highway
Chevrolet Cobalt 2010 25 city / 37 highway
Chevrolet Cruze 2019 31 city / 48 highway
Chevrolet Cruze Limited 2016 28 city / 42 highway
Dodge Caliber 2012 24 city / 32 highway
Dodge Dart 2016 28 city / 41 highway
Ford Focus 2018 30 city / 40 highway
Honda Civic 2022 33 city / 42 highway
Honda Fit 2020 31 city / 36 highway
Honda Insight 2022 55 city / 49 highway
Hyundai Accent 2022 33 city / 41 highway
Hyundai Elantra 2023 33 city / 42 highway
Hyundai Veloster 2021 28 city / 34 highway
Hyundai Veloster N 2022 22 city / 28 highway
Kia Forte 2022 31 city / 41 highway
Kia Forte Koup 2016 25 city / 34 highway
MINI Convertible 2022 27 city / 37 highway
MINI Hardtop 2022 27 city / 37 highway

Acura ILX

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 24 city / 34 highway

The Acura ILX is a sleek and stylish sedan that certainly catches the eye. With a comfortable and spacious interior, it's a great choice for longer journeys.

However, while the ILX offers decent performance, it could be more exciting to drive. Overall, it's a solid option in its class.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 180 lb.ft
Engine options 2.4L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 34.00 in
Front headroom 38.00 in
Rear headroom 50.00 in
Rear hip room 52.00 in
0-60 times 6.6 sec
Learn more about Acura ILX MPG

Acura Integra

Latest Release: 2001

The Acura Integra stands out from competitors with its sleek design and reliable performance.

In my opinion, it's a great car for those who want a balance of style and practicality.

Learn more about Acura Integra MPG

Audi A3

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 28 city / 38 highway

The Audi A3's key decision-making factors include its fuel economy and handling, which are both impressive and contribute to the car's overall performance.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 221 lb.ft
Engine options 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 41.20 in
Rear legroom 35.20 in
Front headroom 37.00 in
How Big is the Gas Tank in Audi A3?

Chevrolet Cobalt

Latest Release: 2010
MSRP: $14,390
MPG: 25 city / 37 highway

The Chevrolet Cobalt has a top speed of 120 mph and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds. This is comparable to other compact cars in its class.

Horsepower / Torque 260 hp / 260 lb.ft
Front legroom 41.80 in, 42.00 in
Rear legroom 32.20 in, 33.70 in
Front headroom 38.50 in, 38.70 in
Rear headroom 49.50 in, 49.60 in
Rear hip room 46.10 in, 46.40 in
Luggage volume 13.90 cu.ft.
0-60 times 5.5 - 7.6 sec
How Big is the Gas Tank in Chevrolet Cobalt?

Chevrolet Cruze

Latest Release: 2019
MPG: 31 city / 48 highway

The Chevrolet Cruze is a reliable and spacious sedan with good fuel economy.

However, it lacks in overall performance and features compared to its competitors.

Horsepower / Torque 153 hp / 240 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4, 1.6L I-4
Front legroom 0.00 in, 42.00 in
Rear legroom 0.00 in, 36.10 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 52.00 in
0-60 times 8.1 sec
Compare Chevrolet Cruze engine options

Chevrolet Cruze Limited

Latest Release: 2016
MSRP: $16,089
MPG: 28 city / 42 highway

The Chevrolet Cruze Limited is a reliable and affordable option in the compact car market, with competitive fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride.

However, it may not have the same level of technology features or interior luxury as some of its competitors.

Horsepower / Torque 138 hp / 148 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4, 1.8L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 35.40 in
Front headroom 39.30 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 52.40 in
Luggage volume 15.40 cu.ft.
0-60 times 9.5 - 10.3 sec

Dodge Caliber

Latest Release: 2012
MSRP: $16,944
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway

The strong side of the Dodge Caliber is its spacious interior and versatile cargo area.

However, its weak side is its lackluster performance and unimpressive fuel economy.

Horsepower / Torque 158 hp / 141 lb.ft
Front legroom 41.80 in
Rear legroom 35.70 in
Front headroom 39.80 in
Rear headroom 52.20 in
Rear hip room 49.60 in
Luggage volume 18.50 cu.ft.
0-60 times 8.2 - 8.4 sec
See the detailed dimensions of Dodge Caliber

Dodge Dart

Latest Release: 2016
MSRP: $16,654
MPG: 28 city / 41 highway

The Dodge Dart offers a smooth and comfortable ride with impressive handling and fuel efficiency.

Its sleek design and advanced technology make it a top choice for those seeking a stylish and practical sedan.

Horsepower / Torque 184 hp / 184 lb.ft
Engine options 1.4L I-4, 2.0L I-4, 2.4L I-4
Front legroom 42.20 in
Rear legroom 35.20 in
Front headroom 37.40 in, 38.60 in
Rear headroom 54.80 in
Rear hip room 52.60 in
Luggage volume 13.10 cu.ft.
0-60 times 8.1 - 8.8 sec
Which Dodge Dart year is the fastest?

Ford Focus

Latest Release: 2018
MPG: 30 city / 40 highway

The Ford Focus is a sleek and efficient car that boasts impressive fuel economy and a comfortable interior. It is the perfect choice for both city and highway driving.

With its modern design and advanced features, the Ford Focus is a popular choice among drivers who want a reliable and stylish vehicle. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip, the Focus is sure to impress.

Overall, the Ford Focus is a great car for anyone who values performance, comfort, and style. With its impressive fuel efficiency and advanced technology, it's easy to see why this car is such a popular choice among drivers today.

Horsepower / Torque 160 hp / 146 lb.ft
Engine options 1.0L I-3, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 41.90 in
Rear legroom 33.20 in
Front headroom 38.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 53.00 in
0-60 times 7.5 - 8.3 sec
Learn more about Ford Focus MPG

Honda Civic

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 33 city / 42 highway

The Honda Civic is a car that defies expectations - it's not just reliable and efficient, it's also surprisingly fun to drive.

It's a true jack-of-all-trades, and a worthy contender in the fiercely competitive compact car market.

Horsepower / Torque 180 hp / 177 lb.ft
Engine options 1.5L I-4, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 37.40 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 39.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 49.00 in
0-60 times 7.4 - 7.9 sec
Learn more about Honda Civic MPG

Honda Fit

Latest Release: 2020
MPG: 31 city / 36 highway

The Honda Fit is a reliable and efficient subcompact car with great fuel economy and a spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for city driving and commuting.

Its responsive handling and advanced safety features also make it a safe and fun car to drive.

Horsepower / Torque 130 hp / 114 lb.ft
Engine options 1.5L I-4
Front legroom 41.40 in
Rear legroom 39.30 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 40.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 45.00 in
0-60 times 8.6 sec
How Big is the Gas Tank in Honda Fit?

Honda Insight

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 55 city / 49 highway

The Honda Insight is a game-changing hybrid with a sleek design and impressive fuel economy, making it stand out from other hybrids in its class.

Its advanced technology and comfortable interior make it a top choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Horsepower / Torque 152 hp / 197 lb.ft
Engine options 1.5L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 37.40 in
Front headroom 38.00 in, 39.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 47.00 in
0-60 times 7.3 sec
Compare Honda Insight engine options

Hyundai Accent

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 33 city / 41 highway

The Hyundai Accent is a budget-friendly compact car that offers impressive fuel efficiency and a spacious interior.

However, its handling and acceleration may not be as sporty as some competitors.

Horsepower / Torque 120 hp / 113 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4
Front legroom 42.10 in
Rear legroom 33.50 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 52.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
0-60 times 8.5 sec
See the detailed dimensions of Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Elantra

Latest Release: 2023
MPG: 33 city / 42 highway

The sleek and stylish Hyundai Elantra packs a punch with its 147 horsepower engine and impressive fuel efficiency.

This makes it a top contender in the compact car market.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 195 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.30 in
Rear legroom 38.00 in
Front headroom 39.00 in, 41.00 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
How Big is the Gas Tank in Hyundai Elantra?

Hyundai Veloster

Latest Release: 2021
MPG: 28 city / 34 highway

The sporty little number from Hyundai is a real head-turner with its unique three-door design and sleek lines.

It's a blast to drive, with impressive fuel economy and nimble handling that makes it perfect for zipping around town.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 195 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.60 in
Rear legroom 34.10 in
Front headroom 37.00 in, 38.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 47.00 in
0-60 times 6.2 sec
Which Hyundai Veloster year is the fastest?

Hyundai Veloster N

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 22 city / 28 highway

The Hyundai Veloster N is a hot hatch that packs a punch with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and sharp handling.

However, the interior could use some upgrades to match its sporty exterior.

Horsepower / Torque 275 hp / 260 lb.ft
Engine options 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.60 in
Rear legroom 34.10 in
Front headroom 38.00 in
Rear headroom 54.00 in
Rear hip room 47.00 in
0-60 times 4.8 sec
Learn more about Hyundai Veloster N MPG

Kia Forte

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 31 city / 41 highway

Now let me tell you something, folks. This Kia Forte, it's a real looker.

But when it comes to performance and handling, it falls short compared to some of its competitors.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 195 lb.ft
Engine options 1.6L I-4, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 42.20 in
Rear legroom 35.70 in
Front headroom 39.00 in
Rear headroom 53.00 in
Rear hip room 51.00 in
0-60 times 6.7 - 8.2 sec
Compare Kia Forte engine options

Kia Forte Koup

Latest Release: 2016
MPG: 25 city / 34 highway

The Kia Forte Koup is a sleek and sporty car that delivers impressive performance and fuel efficiency.

It is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the thrill of driving without sacrificing practicality.

Horsepower / Torque 201 hp / 195 lb.ft
0-60 times 7.0 sec
¼ mile time 15.2 sec
¼ mile speed 94 sec
Curb weight 2820 - 2925 lbs

MINI Convertible

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 27 city / 37 highway

The MINI Convertible is a fun and lively car that is perfect for cruising around town with the top down.

It's compact size and nimble handling make it a blast to drive.

Horsepower / Torque 228 hp / 235 lb.ft
0-60 times 6.3 - 8.2 sec
Curb weight 2892 - 3144 lbs

MINI Hardtop

Latest Release: 2022
MPG: 27 city / 37 highway

The MINI Hardtop is a fun and quirky car that offers great handling and a unique style.

However, its small size can make it feel cramped and there is limited cargo space.

Horsepower / Torque 228 hp / 235 lb.ft
Engine options 1.5L I-3, 2.0L I-4
Front legroom 41.40 in
Rear legroom 30.80 in, 32.30 in
Front headroom 40.00 in
0-60 times 5.9 - 7.7 sec
Nick Marchenko, PhD

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

Full profile → LinkedIn →

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