Which 2017 Mazda Hatchback is Right For You?

At Mazda dealerships across the country, potential customers are comparing two Mazda hatchback vehicles for possible purchase: the 2017 Mazda3 and the 2017 Mazda CX-3. Here at Keffer Mazda we have a large selection of both hatchback styles. So which one is right for you and your family? Our sales representatives feel that both of these popular hatchbacks offer impressive fuel economy ratings and generous interior space. But what are the key differences between the two, and which would be a better fit for your needs?

Mazda3 five-door

For our Huntersville, NC drivers who are seeking an entertaining, stylish, versatile, and fun vehicle to drive to work or do errands, the 2017 Mazda 3 hatchback might be your vehicle. This five-door model has certainly built up a reputation since it was introduced to the world market in the fall of 2003. For 2017, this model has been updated with a refreshed interior and new technology with intuitive controls. Its exterior now features subtly refreshed front and rear bumpers, while its interior features a new steering wheel, dashboard design, larger door storage pockets, and electronic parking brake. Mazda engineers added these improvements to elevate a driver’s handling and ride comfort. LED headlights are newly available on higher-trim models. Another perk this year is the optional heated steering wheel, along with upholstery upgrades that include nicer fabric for the standard cloth interior, new espresso-colored accents for the optional black leather interior, and parchment-colored leather replacing the previous almond shade.

The 2017 Mazda3 hatchback comes in four trim levels: Sport, Touring, Touring 2.5, and Grand Touring. The Sport and Touring trims both come equipped with a 2.0 SKYACTIV-G engine that produces 155 horsepower and 150 pounds-feet of torque. Drivers looking for more power will want to take a look at the Touring and Touring 2.5 and Grand Touring trims, which come standard with a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine that generates 184 horsepower and 185 pounds-feet of torque. All trims come standard with the Mazda Connect Infotainment System, a seven-inch touchscreen display, Push Button Start and seating for up to five. Drivers will also appreciate the addition of Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system for improved steering response. Two new colors are available on the 2017 model: Machine Gray Metallic joins the palette, while Eternal Blue Mica replaces the previous Blue Reflex Mica.

If size is of prime importance to you and your family, the Mazda3 should be evaluated closely. In comparison, the Mazda CX-3 is small on a wheelbase of 101 inches and an overall length of 168 inches, making it seven inches shorter than the Mazda3. You and your family might feel more compressed in the Mazda CX-3, especially if you are bringing sports equipment or extra cargo.

For those who require the latest in safety equipment, the 2017 Mazda 3 is built with many features. In fact the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety just awarded the 2017 Mazda3 with its IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus when equipped with the available Smart City Brake Support and Adaptive Front-lighting System. Its i-Activsense Safety Package provides a more capable forward collision warning and mitigation system, a lane departure warning and intervention system, along with automatic high-beam headlight control. A whole host of safety features, including antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, a rearview camera, front side airbags and side curtain airbags are paired with low-speed forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

2017 Mazda CX-3

Or should you choose the new 2017 Mazda CX-3? It is Mazda’s entry into the fast growing, highly competitive, and ever-popular compact crossover segment. Mazda engineers designed this new SUV crossover from the Mazda2 architecture.

Upon first inspection, prospective drivers use the word “beautiful” to describe the CX-3. It stands out among its competition with a range of eye-popping color shades and aggressive character lines to give it a sense of sophistication and fun.

Plus, if you choose the top-of-the-line trim, you’ll be impressed with its interior quality and design. You’ll be treated to a combination of leather, alcantara, and textured plastics that make the cabin feel very upscale. Add an optional sunroof and tan leather to really distinguish your Mazda CX-3.

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 comes in three trim levels: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. All trims come standard with a 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine that makes 146 horsepower and 146 pounds-feet of torque. All trims offer standard features, such as Push Button Start, the Mazda Connect Infotainment System, a seven-inch color touchscreen display, advanced front airbags, a rearview camera, and cruise control with steering wheel mounted controls.

For those who put an emphasis on safety, the 2017 Mazda CX-3 offers advanced safety features like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, the Lane Departure Warning System, and Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring to keep drivers and passengers as safe as possible.

Its compact size allows you to drive through the narrow streets of a city. For North Carolina drivers, the CX-3 offers an automatic transmission on all three trim levels, which is paired to 146 horsepower. After taking a test drive, you’ll enjoy the vehicle’s engaging and sporty chassis dynamics. Drivers appreciate its tight steering and surprisingly dynamic suspension tuning. Your passengers will approve of its smooth, comfortable ride.

Our Huntersville, NC drivers who are interested in seeing the differences between these two hatchbacks up close and in person are encouraged to visit our Mazda dealership and schedule an obligation-free test-drive online. We’re pleased to announce that Kelley Blue Book has just awarded Mazda its 2017 Brand Image Award for “Best Car Styling Brand.”

Have questions about which of these two vehicles might be a better fit for you? Our knowledgeable team at Keffer Mazda is awaiting your call and we’re looking forward to helping you compare these two popular models and give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.