I swapped to a Mazda 3 last year after having 5 Honda Civics in a row, just wanted a change, and it was a good move. Mine is the 2.0 GT Sport Tech Skyactive X and its hard to beat for sheer driving pleasure, either commuting or long road trips. The interior looks, feels and behaves like a much higher end car. Well pleased! 🙂
Thanks for reporting your experience. I’m driving a Civic Sport at the moment, the second one, and I’m very pleased with the car. Unfortunately, Honda in their great wisdom has decided to not import it here in Europe anymore and only offers full hybrid models. I love cars and I won’t be driving one of these electro things anytime soon. So I’m now looking at the Mazda 3 and it looks like it won’t be a step backward as you confirm. This is great news for me.
@@michlep258 I have a 2.5L auto and it accelerates like all get out. Super linear too, so you feel it just where you push it. Couldn’t be more happy. Watching this though I’d love to test drive that Honda and see how that feels.
Excellent comparison. Glad you mention sound levels as I always thought Honda’s in general have more issues with road noise. These are two different but very nice cars. Hard to go wrong with either and we should always be glad we have choices.
Just bought the 2024 2.5L, 6-speed manual in soul red crystal metallic with all-black interior. Its the first car I've truly loved. The fit and finish is simply impeccable and the exterior design (especially the rear) is a work of art.
I have a mazda 3 sedan 2022 with 2.0 L no turbo 165hp with 6.8-7 litre per 100 Km(outside the city). very very good car and for me 165 hp it's more than enough.
great review. Here in Australia, the mazda3 is still sold with the 6MT in all the trim levels. I'm happy i bought my mid-trim level 2.5L sedan with the 6speed earlier this yr. Since only 5% of the new mazda3 sales are manual here, it wont be long until they remove it completely
Thanks for this comparison. I've looking between the 2 new models that honda and mazda are taking out so I've been debating a bit on which one to get. I've seen various comments on both vehicles and a lot of positive things on each end. In the end, is going to be hard to choose which to get on the 2023 models, but taking this reference still helps.
Yeah get the mazda its way better looking. The honda looks ok but no where near plus mazda is way faster. I just slapped the shit out the stranger for even looking at the honda
We are now in the market and trying to choose between a 3 and a civic. very difficult to drive cars back to back given availability but we seem to love them both when driving them. We are torn. Hard to beat the civic’s space, touch screen, fuel economy. Hard to beat the 3’s beauty and color choices. We want the most quiet and best driving since it will be a road trip car so that sounds like the 3? Ugggg. Decisions, decisions. But the Civic’s sound insulation definitely seemed improved. Again, great channel and videos.
Yea it's a tough choice. A couple of years ago, it would have been easier. I would've recommended the Mazda 3. But the new Civic is an excellent car. I think in your case, seeing as you want a good driving experience, the Mazda 3 might be best for you. But you are going to be making a bit of a sacrifice in terms of space. Let me know what you decide.
@@MGReviewsBlog we ended up wit the 3. Couldn’t go wrong with either. Just liked the more quiet cabin and six speed automatic more than the Honda CVT. Handling was excellent for both. What ultimately tipped it was price. The Honda with the 1.5 turbo but more sporty looks requires the sport touring trim which outpriced the Carbon Edition 3 we bought by nearly 4K US dollars. Ouch. If space and fuel economy were critical and driving was important I would go for the civic in sport trim with the manual. It has the non turbo engine but is a great value and fun to drive and would have undercut the Mazda by 2k. After a week with the 3 we are thrilled with it. Thanks for the great review on these two. They are both great cars.
I know I'm a year late, how did you adapt to the knob for the 3. I personally prefer it cause touch screens on cars are super dangerous cause they really distract you when driving and that knob sits at the perfect spot when resting your arm and that the screen can then be higher putting it more in line with the road. Would you still want a touchscreen now?
@@jakecoyne3919. Hi. Not meaning to self promote but our channel has a full set of videos about owning the 3, including thoughts and tutorials on the touch screen if you are interested. But to answer, yes. Really like the scroll wheel in the 3. No regrets. I am not sure they are truly safer. I think it also requires self discipline to make sure you are still paying attention. It can be distracting too. But for the most part, based on the screen placement it’s easier to keep your eyes on the road.
I had the same sentiment you had in this video. I decided to go with the civic hatchback touring over the mazda 3 gt because I was able to see more of the road (felt claustrophobic in the mazda), larger trunk space with seats up, wireless apple CarPlay with a touchscreen (rather than using the mazda knob), and wireless charger (which can be turned off).
Timely video for me. I'm considering picking up a new daily driver next Spring, and my top two choices are these two cars in the video. I had a 2020 MX-5 as a fun weekend car for a couple of years, and currently have a 2021 Honda Ridgeline that I drive daily, so I've had a good experience with both brands. That said, I've been leaning more towards the Mazda 3 hatch with the manual, and this video just reinforced that view. It's just my wife and I, so rear seat leg room is a moot point, and I'm only commuting 13 miles a day round trip so I don't necessarily need all the extra amenities. However, having something that's fun to drive is a top priority, and hearing the Mazda takes the lead there really makes me happy. Along with that, I personally like the looks of the Mazda, both inside and out, more than the Honda. And to top it off, to hear that the Mazda 3 doesn't have the auto start/stop "feature" is just a positive in my opinion. I hate having that, and make sure to turn it off each time I drive the Ridgeline (defaults back to "on" every time the truck is started).
@@billseiler4952 really nice as a daily. It's comfortable and drives well. I only get about mid 17s for gas mileage, but I don't drive the highway so it's mostly around town.
I live in the Northern US (Michigan) and got a Mazda3 in a lower trim but with AWD two years ago. With a sticker of only around $26k it has exceeded my expectations for comfort, performance and the number of positive comments I get about the styling. I would have loved a manual trans, but that would have cost me more for premium trim and I would have lost the AWD. Manuals are also as rare as hens’ teeth in the US. Personally, I really like the non touch screen setup in the Mazda. It’s intuitive and has hard buttons for jumping between functions quickly and by feel. I also like the normally aspirated engine. Sure, Honda is REI owned for their build quail it’s and the fuel economy could be a bit better than the 2.5L, but I am still not convinced that any turbo will be as reliable as an NA 4. Also… for those not getting a manual, I am not fan of CVTs.
Thank you 😊 I'd say they're pretty similar at lower rpms but once you start revving the engines, rev hang is more noticeable in the Honda than the Mazda.
Thank you! Unfortunately, manufacturers like to put mid to top spec trim levels in their fleets. It's rare that they would put a base model. They want to show off all of the features a vehicle has. But if I can get my hands on one, I will :)
ordered my boost blue hatchback touring. being a mechanic and working currently at a Honda and previously at a Mazda. I would never ever jump back into a Mazda long term. when it comes to longevity and repairs I notice the difference. I don't feel like im paying more cause I know Honda never blames its customers. as brand they take care of them. I've never experienced that with other brands. Its hard for others to see this view but if you maintain your Honda. Honda has your back.
@@asog88 Working on the bench I can tell you mazda never replaced anything for a customer outside of warrenty. Honda does it all the time. 2years out of warrenty. will cover that. I worked at mazda and i'm at a honda. Tell me im wrong when i've right in the middle of it. hense "honda has your back"
@@ErnieOntario I have not run into a civic yet that has oil dilution. I've seen one close. but customer was going 14k between oil changes in northern Canada. which is abuse in my opinion. 6months or 8k what ever comes first. Time is just as important as mileage.
Excellent review, as always. I would love to see a comparison between the Civic e:HEV and Mazda 3. It would be interesting to see how they compare when it comes to performance.
Really hard to choose a “better” vehicle it seems like. They’re both so similar it probably boils down to does a buyer want more passenger space or a more driver focused vehicle. More practical buyers who haul people will lean towards the Honda. People who commute and want more of the driving experience will probably lean towards Mazda. I think I’m writing this, I know what choice I should make! Thanks for the review!
Last year I also had dilemma whether to go for M3 hatch or Civic (previous gen only available in sedan) both cars are nice. I opted the 3 for many reasons, one is because of its sleek and sexy Soul red crystal color, another one is that Civic is quite a popular car, i want to be unique so i want to have a car that you don't often see in the road but looks good. And most of all here in our country Mazda cars come with 5 years free PMS. :)
@@MGReviewsBlog PMS is periodic/preventive maintenance schedule which is a service usually done by casa to your car once every 6 months or 10,000kms whichever comes first. so for the next five years i wont to pay anything to maintain my car except fuel and car wash
These are my top two choices for a future car except in automatic trans. What would you choose for a first car and trim level? Edit: Great vid - thumbs up.
Thank you! As much as I think the Civic is overall a better car, I'd choose the Mazda3 if it were my own money. The Civic just costs too much. I think that the Mazda 3 GS (Preferred trim in USA) would be enough for most people's needs, especially as a first car.
It's actually a 2020 model year and I disclosed that in the video description. And yes, it does still get the red interior but only with certain exterior colours.
I have a 23 Sport Touring Civic on order. If the deal goes south my next stop is the Mazda dealer for a 3 Hatch or CX-30. My question is since the turbo civic is the same HP as the non-turbo Mazda, do they feel about the same in performance? Just wondering if I should go right for the Turbo Mazda.
Although the Civic's engine reaches peak torque more quickly and at lower rpms than the Mazda 3, it's still the 3 that drives better. If performance is what you're after, the 3 is the way to go. As for the turbo 3, if you have the budget for it, that car is brilliant. More power and performance than one could ever need from a compact car.
@@MGReviewsBlog thanks! I definitely will go for the turbo if the civic falls through. I’m trading my 2017 Ridgeline since I just got my wife a Tundra to tow he horse trailer and don’t need two trucks. Although I’m pretty sure I’ll regret trading the Ridgeline. Best vehicle I ever owned.
Imo you cant xompare the two. The mazda is on another level. Just driving experience alone. I hoenstly hate the new style of it though the civic looks better but the mazda drives better for me
It's not that bad actually. I had a tough time distinguishing this new rear torsion beam suspension setup to the previous generation's multi-link setup. Mazda did a great job of tuning the car to work with it.
@@MGReviewsBlog probably noticable only at high speeds and uneven road surfaces. No way can any rear torsion beam be better than multilink setup from other current Mazda models. It was definitely a cost containment strategy and can't be for improved handling. Maybe better than the ones in Toyota Corollas or Honda City in Asia but can't be as good as Mazda multilink. You are right though that in ordinary driving, it won't be felt. Over potholes it likely will though. That's the disadvantage of the beam, can't isolate road conditions as easily.
Doesn't the Honda turbo motor require Premium Grade gas? Premium is $.40 to a $1.00 more per gallon in Georgia and Tennessee. Also I like the naturally aspirated motor better for long term ownership like my 17 years of use with my current 2006 Mazda3 sedan with a manual. If the Mazda is a better driver's car, that is what I am looking for and the Mazda has enough room for my needs. I would buy a Miata but it does not have enough space for me and my needs.
Honda designed the 1.5 turbo to work with regular gasoline. They knew that if it required premium fuel, they would not be able to sell as many due to the higher fuel price. The Civic Si and Type-R are premium grade.
i like mazda 3 light and shape - honda new front look its not good and sporty feel - but rear look is awesome and aggressive sporty look hope Honda do Something with this new grill look
Maybe Honda thinks their seats are comfortable enough? But not everyone has the same body or seating preference. I can't answer their reasoning behind it.
If you look at the bottom of the video description, it says the song title and artist. I usually change up the intro songs but I get all of them from the RUclips audio library in the youtube studio.
Both are excellent cars. But when I see a Mazda, I think of Picasso, Mona Lisa, Stradivarious. When I see a honda, I think of washing machine, vacuum cleaner, hair dryer.
Had a few Hondas and I’m over the brand. They don’t wear well, they need fully synthetic oil and go thru tires quickly, the MPG is never as good in the real world, the power is pretty weak. I think the Mazda is a MUCH better car, it’s beautiful and nicer inside and feels like an entirely different class. Also I’ve had better luck with Mazdas, they require little maintenance and go forever. It’s crazy that the Honda is so much more expensive - the Mazda is thousands less and a much better vehicle imo. Anyway, nice review! I wanted to see this direct comparison and new to the channel,
@@EtMeBuddy the Mazda 3 turbo is an awesome car. But if you really don't need the extra power, the non-turbo 2.5 engine has enough power. Plus, it's still fun to drive and awd is available with it. Not just the turbo engine.
@HAZOXX the whole point of cars is to have a good machine to drive that you like, lol but keep trying to flip an economy car like that’s some smart investment
I hear you but….the 2022 is waaayyy better!! The way Mazda can give you a cheaper car it’s because they cut a lot on engine and transmission technology! They have that 2.5 and 6 speed auto for too long! Not to say the rear suspension is beam!!! the honda hatch is a much more practical car!
Thank you! Car and Driver tested them both with the civic taking 7.3 seconds and the mazda 3 at 7 seconds. But the mazda3 that they tested was an automatic.
Honda loses out imo, no Civic or Accord has awd which where I live is a necessity in the cold winter months. Plus we also get heavy rain in summer and spring so getting a more secure road grip is a godsend. Honda needs to adapt to the times and just offer it on at least 1-2 trim options and I bet they'd get many more sales then they already do. Mazda offers it on higher trims ofc and between awd, good safety features and enough tech for me I did buy a Mazda 3.(I like the dial/no touchscreen on the Mazda too)
No Accord or Civic has ever been available with AWD. Usually most people who want a vehicle with AWD in the same price range just move up a class to a crossover. So yes, the Mazda 3 is unique in having an AWD on offer.
@@MGReviewsBlog I mean Nissan, Toyota and Kia have AWD sedans but if you spec them out to be similar all end up being more in price which to me is crazy that Mazda ends up being the cheapest choice
I have this Civic with the CVT. Love it. Compared to the Mazda, the Honda has better fuel economy, more space (especially for back seat passengers) and the better safety tech. Here's one point our excellent reviewer missed: the Honda Civic Hatchback is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. That's a big deal.
Yep, good points on the fuel economy & interior space. But the Mazda3 is available with the same amount of safety technology (although the lane centering system is better in the Civic) and it too earned a top safety pick+ from the IIHS for the 2022 model year. (Actually I believe all of their cars & SUVs, apart from the MX-5 & MX-30 EV, all earned Top Safety Pick+ Awards)
@@MGReviewsBlog Thanks, I didn't know the Mazda had the same IIHS rating. Lastly, I much preferred the Honda styling, but that of course is totally subjective.
@@MGReviewsBlog my son’s CX-5 leaves him stranded by the side of the road regularly. Two weeks in the shop last time. My other son’s floor rusted out of his Mazda 3 after barely 8 years. Had to scrap it. No Mazda for me, thanks.
I wouldn't trust that 1.5T engine farther than I could throw it. That's too small of an engine for a turbo, it's inevitably going to have issues, particularly as it ages. Also auto start/stop is a massive negative in my opinion.
I mad with the Mazda i can not get a red or blue fwd and manual mazda 3 premium... i rather have the better mpg of a civic sport touring fwd and more cargo space.
If the Mazda was a little bigger and had better tech, it would be a no brainer. I would still go Mazda because I think the civic is ugly and despise CVTs. Have to give Honda props for getting closer to Mazda in interior quality.
Here in Mexico, I haven't seen any new Honda Civic more than once every 3 months. So, i believe is selling like crazy with those stupid hikes on Prices.
Although Honda has saturated the waves with the fact that we can get the 1.5T with the manual transmission, the reality is that it won’t build them. My dealer refuses to take my order saying that Honda won’t build me a Sport Touring with manual transmission. Not any time soon, anyway. They cite the ongoing shortages, blah blah blah. Which is fine, but then, why does Honda make such a stink about the manual transmission if it not going to actually build them...?!?
Booo, that sucks. Now I'm wondering the same thing you are. Why put a manual Civic Hatch in the media press fleet and get all the attention from various outlets when they won't build it? Or at least have built-slot allocated to it once the "shortages" get back under control.
WTF Canada has all trim manual. SO THEY MADE THEM! 😒 I'm pretty sure someone knows it here? How much of a hurdle an extra cost is to bring cars over to the US from Canada?
In the US, the 6-speed is available on the Sport & Sport Touring trims for 2024. Here in Canada, it looks like they have it only on the Sport Touring trim now, the most expensive trim.
I have loved mazdas forever but... what does mazda offer in terms of bolt on H.P.? I will tell you, nothing, nada dayum thing son. Also, it's not even very expensive to throw on one component at a time. Grab a cold air intake one month,... then turbo pipe inlet on another month. Then upgrade your intercooler and charge pipes. Save a couple months and throw on a catless downpipe and at this point you'll really need a tune. Oh yea, you've dusted the fastest and great mazda by your first two upgrades. And if any of you mazda fan boys do drop a whole arm, a whole leg and your first born on upgrading your mazda,.... worst case scenario, we spend 5g's and drop in the big turbo and case closed. ..... (clunk, boom, click) *that was the sound of the mic hitting the floor.
I think it depends on the country. Here in Canada, the Mazda 3 sells very well. I think it's only behind the Corolla and the Civic in terms of sales figures.
and how many average users drive manual? and using some random percentage if 2.5 L engine is enough for "most users" too funny! random youtuber on my recommended list blah
Learn to drive sissy. I found this review extremely helpful. Plebs like you can find reviews and models in auto everywhere in person. Us manual users need to search extensively. Selfish and small minded people speak so much.
Mazda 3 with a turbo would make the Honda eat dust ...no problem ...not to use the turbo is silly , this is not accurate ....Honda used a turbo , but not the Mazda .....amateur channel.
@patrickgagnon9662 you clearly missed the point of the video. The cars are equally matched as they are. If I decided to include the turbo version of the Mazda 3, then it would have a very unfair advantage in terms of performance compared to this standard Civic. But then the Civic Type-R would be an unfair advantage against the Mazda 3 turbo. The moral of the story is that one car having a turbo and the other not having it is not an unfair match in this specific case.
@@MGReviewsBlog A turbo in the Mazda is NOT unfair , if the Turbo in the Honda is there , so should the Mazda have one , full stop!..The Civic R costs how many more thousands than the Mazda , of course it can beat the Mazda , Mazda has a different purpose that Civic R...But doing a review with one car with a turbo and one without ....not fair , not my kind of reviewer, and doubles down on a crap review ...see -ya
@@patrickgagnon9662 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️ it's like talking to a wall.... So what you're saying is that to you, a difference of 250 hp & 320 lb-ft (Mazda 3 turbo) vs 180 hp & 177 lb-ft (Civic hatch) is more fair to you than the said Civic Hatch power vs 186 hp & 186 lb-ft of the naturally aspirated Mazda 3 that I used here? Not to mention that the Mazda 3 turbo is AWD only & not available with a manual transmission. While both of the cars here are FWD & 6-spd manuals. Yea, you can f right off. You're seriously missing the point of the video.
Sigh why are you comparing the two manuals. Most people buying the Mazda are going to get the turbo which is auto. Not to mention like less than 10% of cars on the road are manual so not very helpful.
![FNAF vs TF2 - Episode 2 [SFM]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/z5b3V2-VLb0/mqdefault.jpg)
I swapped to a Mazda 3 last year after having 5 Honda Civics in a row, just wanted a change, and it was a good move. Mine is the 2.0 GT Sport Tech Skyactive X and its hard to beat for sheer driving pleasure, either commuting or long road trips. The interior looks, feels and behaves like a much higher end car. Well pleased! 🙂
It is a great car, they both are honestly. In the end it comes down to personal preference. Thanks for watching!
how are you finding it’s performance? like accelerating
Thanks for reporting your experience. I’m driving a Civic Sport at the moment, the second one, and I’m very pleased with the car. Unfortunately, Honda in their great wisdom has decided to not import it here in Europe anymore and only offers full hybrid models. I love cars and I won’t be driving one of these electro things anytime soon. So I’m now looking at the Mazda 3 and it looks like it won’t be a step backward as you confirm. This is great news for me.
@@michlep258 I have a 2.5L auto and it accelerates like all get out. Super linear too, so you feel it just where you push it. Couldn’t be more happy. Watching this though I’d love to test drive that Honda and see how that feels.
I work at Mazda dealership, the technology used is SkyActivG, SkyActiv X is still in research
I just absolutely love the red interior on Mazdas. My 2019 Mazda3 Hatchback has the grey exterior with red interior 🔥🔥
Yea the red leather is really well done in the Mazda 3. Not over the top and it feels premium.
Excellent comparison. Glad you mention sound levels as I always thought Honda’s in general have more issues with road noise. These are two different but very nice cars. Hard to go wrong with either and we should always be glad we have choices.
Mazda 3 for me, because of design in and out. It looks well thought through, and is designed the way I like more.
Just bought the 2024 2.5L, 6-speed manual in soul red crystal metallic with all-black interior. Its the first car I've truly loved. The fit and finish is simply impeccable and the exterior design (especially the rear) is a work of art.
I also have manual, but in Europe they sell 2.0L engines. Still very nice car
I have a mazda 3 sedan 2022 with 2.0 L no turbo 165hp with 6.8-7 litre per 100 Km(outside the city). very very good car and for me 165 hp it's more than enough.
great review. Here in Australia, the mazda3 is still sold with the 6MT in all the trim levels. I'm happy i bought my mid-trim level 2.5L sedan with the 6speed earlier this yr. Since only 5% of the new mazda3 sales are manual here, it wont be long until they remove it completely
Unfortunately I agree. Not many people drive manuals any more. Even fewer here in North America
Just found your channel. Great review. Really enjoy you describing the difference between the driving/steering feel/ feedback/ experience.
Thanks! Glad you enjoy watching my videos!
The Mazda is more fun to drive, cheaper, quieter, has a nicer interior, but the civic fits slightly more stuff. Hard choice
@hl6993 yeah the mazda is much better
@hl6993 😂😂😂 this guy wtf
"The Mazda is still the driver's car." Nuff said.
Indeed it is. Thanks for watching!
I purchased a 24 Civic Sport Touring Hatchback 6MT, & am very happy with it. My local Honda dealer in California is great. Mazda 3 is a great car too!
Thanks for this comparison. I've looking between the 2 new models that honda and mazda are taking out so I've been debating a bit on which one to get. I've seen various comments on both vehicles and a lot of positive things on each end. In the end, is going to be hard to choose which to get on the 2023 models, but taking this reference still helps.
Yeah get the mazda its way better looking. The honda looks ok but no where near plus mazda is way faster. I just slapped the shit out the stranger for even looking at the honda
We are now in the market and trying to choose between a 3 and a civic. very difficult to drive cars back to back given availability but we seem to love them both when driving them. We are torn. Hard to beat the civic’s space, touch screen, fuel economy. Hard to beat the 3’s beauty and color choices. We want the most quiet and best driving since it will be a road trip car so that sounds like the 3? Ugggg. Decisions, decisions. But the Civic’s sound insulation definitely seemed improved. Again, great channel and videos.
Yea it's a tough choice. A couple of years ago, it would have been easier. I would've recommended the Mazda 3. But the new Civic is an excellent car. I think in your case, seeing as you want a good driving experience, the Mazda 3 might be best for you. But you are going to be making a bit of a sacrifice in terms of space. Let me know what you decide.
@@MGReviewsBlog we ended up wit the 3. Couldn’t go wrong with either. Just liked the more quiet cabin and six speed automatic more than the Honda CVT. Handling was excellent for both. What ultimately tipped it was price. The Honda with the 1.5 turbo but more sporty looks requires the sport touring trim which outpriced the Carbon Edition 3 we bought by nearly 4K US dollars. Ouch. If space and fuel economy were critical and driving was important I would go for the civic in sport trim with the manual. It has the non turbo engine but is a great value and fun to drive and would have undercut the Mazda by 2k. After a week with the 3 we are thrilled with it. Thanks for the great review on these two. They are both great cars.
@@BeyondTheTestDrive congratulations on your purchase!
I know I'm a year late, how did you adapt to the knob for the 3. I personally prefer it cause touch screens on cars are super dangerous cause they really distract you when driving and that knob sits at the perfect spot when resting your arm and that the screen can then be higher putting it more in line with the road. Would you still want a touchscreen now?
@@jakecoyne3919. Hi. Not meaning to self promote but our channel has a full set of videos about owning the 3, including thoughts and tutorials on the touch screen if you are interested. But to answer, yes. Really like the scroll wheel in the 3. No regrets. I am not sure they are truly safer. I think it also requires self discipline to make sure you are still paying attention. It can be distracting too. But for the most part, based on the screen placement it’s easier to keep your eyes on the road.
I had the same sentiment you had in this video. I decided to go with the civic hatchback touring over the mazda 3 gt because I was able to see more of the road (felt claustrophobic in the mazda), larger trunk space with seats up, wireless apple CarPlay with a touchscreen (rather than using the mazda knob), and wireless charger (which can be turned off).
Timely video for me. I'm considering picking up a new daily driver next Spring, and my top two choices are these two cars in the video. I had a 2020 MX-5 as a fun weekend car for a couple of years, and currently have a 2021 Honda Ridgeline that I drive daily, so I've had a good experience with both brands. That said, I've been leaning more towards the Mazda 3 hatch with the manual, and this video just reinforced that view. It's just my wife and I, so rear seat leg room is a moot point, and I'm only commuting 13 miles a day round trip so I don't necessarily need all the extra amenities. However, having something that's fun to drive is a top priority, and hearing the Mazda takes the lead there really makes me happy. Along with that, I personally like the looks of the Mazda, both inside and out, more than the Honda. And to top it off, to hear that the Mazda 3 doesn't have the auto start/stop "feature" is just a positive in my opinion. I hate having that, and make sure to turn it off each time I drive the Ridgeline (defaults back to "on" every time the truck is started).
Definitely sounds like the Mazda 3 is the better car for you and your wife :)
How did you like the Ridgeline as a daily?
@@billseiler4952 really nice as a daily. It's comfortable and drives well. I only get about mid 17s for gas mileage, but I don't drive the highway so it's mostly around town.
I live in the Northern US (Michigan) and got a Mazda3 in a lower trim but with AWD two years ago. With a sticker of only around $26k it has exceeded my expectations for comfort, performance and the number of positive comments I get about the styling.
I would have loved a manual trans, but that would have cost me more for premium trim and I would have lost the AWD. Manuals are also as rare as hens’ teeth in the US.
Personally, I really like the non touch screen setup in the Mazda. It’s intuitive and has hard buttons for jumping between functions quickly and by feel. I also like the normally aspirated engine. Sure, Honda is REI owned for their build quail it’s and the fuel economy could be a bit better than the 2.5L, but I am still not convinced that any turbo will be as reliable as an NA 4. Also… for those not getting a manual, I am not fan of CVTs.
Just bought the 6-speed manual here in TX and I can attest to its quality and aesthetic. This is a keeper!
Great review. Which car has less rev hang?
Thank you 😊
I'd say they're pretty similar at lower rpms but once you start revving the engines, rev hang is more noticeable in the Honda than the Mazda.
@@MGReviewsBlog Thanks
Great review. Hope you can also review the civic hatch manual 2.0
Thank you!
Unfortunately, manufacturers like to put mid to top spec trim levels in their fleets. It's rare that they would put a base model. They want to show off all of the features a vehicle has. But if I can get my hands on one, I will :)
ordered my boost blue hatchback touring. being a mechanic and working currently at a Honda and previously at a Mazda. I would never ever jump back into a Mazda long term. when it comes to longevity and repairs I notice the difference. I don't feel like im paying more cause I know Honda never blames its customers. as brand they take care of them. I've never experienced that with other brands. Its hard for others to see this view but if you maintain your Honda. Honda has your back.
Thanks for the feedback about the maintenance.
What does it matter if a manufacturer has your back if it’s engine keeps leaking oil?
Also, what world? Mazda has some of the best costumer service
@@asog88 Working on the bench I can tell you mazda never replaced anything for a customer outside of warrenty. Honda does it all the time. 2years out of warrenty. will cover that. I worked at mazda and i'm at a honda. Tell me im wrong when i've right in the middle of it. hense "honda has your back"
@@Lancemechanics Is there oil dilution problem with Civic 1.5L turbo?
@@ErnieOntario I have not run into a civic yet that has oil dilution. I've seen one close. but customer was going 14k between oil changes in northern Canada. which is abuse in my opinion. 6months or 8k what ever comes first. Time is just as important as mileage.
Excellent review, as always. I would love to see a comparison between the Civic e:HEV and Mazda 3. It would be interesting to see how they compare when it comes to performance.
Thanks! Unfortunately we don't get the Civic hybrid here in Canada... yet. But once we do, I'll try to make that comparison happen.
Really hard to choose a “better” vehicle it seems like. They’re both so similar it probably boils down to does a buyer want more passenger space or a more driver focused vehicle. More practical buyers who haul people will lean towards the Honda. People who commute and want more of the driving experience will probably lean towards Mazda. I think I’m writing this, I know what choice I should make! Thanks for the review!
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Sound system and fuel econ along with honda sensing makes the civic worth it imo, plus it looks a lot sportier
Last year I also had dilemma whether to go for M3 hatch or Civic (previous gen only available in sedan) both cars are nice. I opted the 3 for many reasons, one is because of its sleek and sexy Soul red crystal color, another one is that Civic is quite a popular car, i want to be unique so i want to have a car that you don't often see in the road but looks good. And most of all here in our country Mazda cars come with 5 years free PMS. :)
Free PMS? what is that? Which country are you in?
@@MGReviewsBlog PMS is periodic/preventive maintenance schedule which is a service usually done by casa to your car once every 6 months or 10,000kms whichever comes first. so for the next five years i wont to pay anything to maintain my car except fuel and car wash
@@charlesa1234 ohh, pre-paid maintenance packages. That's what they're usually called here.
@@MGReviewsBlog yes before it was 3 years now they made it 5 years so total of 10 free maintenance packages
That civic looks way more comfy and feel less trapped inside
Yep, it is quite a bit larger inside than the Mazda 3.
These are my top two choices for a future car except in automatic trans.
What would you choose for a first car and trim level?
Edit: Great vid - thumbs up.
Thank you! As much as I think the Civic is overall a better car, I'd choose the Mazda3 if it were my own money. The Civic just costs too much. I think that the Mazda 3 GS (Preferred trim in USA) would be enough for most people's needs, especially as a first car.
That's a 2021 Mazda 3, not a 2022. The taillights in the 2022 models are different and in Canada the 2022 Mazda 3 doesn't get a red leather dash.
It's actually a 2020 model year and I disclosed that in the video description. And yes, it does still get the red interior but only with certain exterior colours.
I have a 23 Sport Touring Civic on order. If the deal goes south my next stop is the Mazda dealer for a 3 Hatch or CX-30. My question is since the turbo civic is the same HP as the non-turbo Mazda, do they feel about the same in performance? Just wondering if I should go right for the Turbo Mazda.
Although the Civic's engine reaches peak torque more quickly and at lower rpms than the Mazda 3, it's still the 3 that drives better. If performance is what you're after, the 3 is the way to go. As for the turbo 3, if you have the budget for it, that car is brilliant. More power and performance than one could ever need from a compact car.
@@MGReviewsBlog thanks! I definitely will go for the turbo if the civic falls through. I’m trading my 2017 Ridgeline since I just got my wife a Tundra to tow he horse trailer and don’t need two trucks. Although I’m pretty sure I’ll regret trading the Ridgeline. Best vehicle I ever owned.
Imo you cant xompare the two. The mazda is on another level. Just driving experience alone. I hoenstly hate the new style of it though the civic looks better but the mazda drives better for me
With the Honda, I'd only be interested in the 2.0 L manually aspirated engine with manual transmission.
Thanks for comparing both vehicles with manual transmissions.
Thanks for watching!
The rear torsion beam suspension on the Mazda probably doesn't help with uneven road surfaces at high speed.
It's not that bad actually. I had a tough time distinguishing this new rear torsion beam suspension setup to the previous generation's multi-link setup. Mazda did a great job of tuning the car to work with it.
@@MGReviewsBlog probably noticable only at high speeds and uneven road surfaces. No way can any rear torsion beam be better than multilink setup from other current Mazda models. It was definitely a cost containment strategy and can't be for improved handling.
Maybe better than the ones in Toyota Corollas or Honda City in Asia but can't be as good as Mazda multilink.
You are right though that in ordinary driving, it won't be felt. Over potholes it likely will though. That's the disadvantage of the beam, can't isolate road conditions as easily.
@@flashsushi1843 Oh no, I'm not saying it was done for performance or comfort. It was done for cost savings.
Doesn't the Honda turbo motor require Premium Grade gas? Premium is $.40 to a $1.00 more per gallon in Georgia and Tennessee. Also I like the naturally aspirated motor better for long term ownership like my 17 years of use with my current 2006 Mazda3 sedan with a manual. If the Mazda is a better driver's car, that is what I am looking for and the Mazda has enough room for my needs. I would buy a Miata but it does not have enough space for me and my needs.
Honda designed the 1.5 turbo to work with regular gasoline. They knew that if it required premium fuel, they would not be able to sell as many due to the higher fuel price. The Civic Si and Type-R are premium grade.
nah. If you did any hondata or ktune work you would need 91
i like mazda 3 light and shape - honda new front look its not good and sporty feel - but rear look is awesome and aggressive sporty look hope Honda do Something with this new grill look
I think the only time Honda will change the grille will be the mid-cycle update for the Civic. but that won't happen for another 3 or so years.
@@MGReviewsBlog is possible to find third party grille and changed?
@@BehzadRad Maybe? The Civic has had a large amount of support from the aftermarket tuners so I would be surprised if this one didn't.
Great content thanks for doing the work 👍
Thank you for watching!
I wanna get the Civic hatch but why isn't there a lumbar support? My car from 2004 has it.
Maybe Honda thinks their seats are comfortable enough? But not everyone has the same body or seating preference. I can't answer their reasoning behind it.
Mazda is the budget luxury brand
Hey. What’s the introduction song? You usually post it
If you look at the bottom of the video description, it says the song title and artist. I usually change up the intro songs but I get all of them from the RUclips audio library in the youtube studio.
Both are excellent cars. But when I see a Mazda, I think of Picasso, Mona Lisa, Stradivarious. When I see a honda, I think of washing machine, vacuum cleaner, hair dryer.
Hahahaha, that's one way of putting it.
Have you driven a 2023 Mazda3 hatchback with the manual?
Unfortunately I have not :(
Had a few Hondas and I’m over the brand. They don’t wear well, they need fully synthetic oil and go thru tires quickly, the MPG is never as good in the real world, the power is pretty weak. I think the Mazda is a MUCH better car, it’s beautiful and nicer inside and feels like an entirely different class. Also I’ve had better luck with Mazdas, they require little maintenance and go forever. It’s crazy that the Honda is so much more expensive - the Mazda is thousands less and a much better vehicle imo. Anyway, nice review! I wanted to see this direct comparison and new to the channel,
Oh, sorry to hear about your misfortunes with Honda. What kind of Mazda do you have now?
Glad you enjoyed the video!
@@MGReviewsBlog i'm actually looking at buying a mazda 3 hatch, just deciding between the turbo or the standard model here in the usa
@@EtMeBuddy the Mazda 3 turbo is an awesome car. But if you really don't need the extra power, the non-turbo 2.5 engine has enough power. Plus, it's still fun to drive and awd is available with it. Not just the turbo engine.
@HAZOXX the whole point of cars is to have a good machine to drive that you like, lol but keep trying to flip an economy car like that’s some smart investment
I hear you but….the 2022 is waaayyy better!! The way Mazda can give you a cheaper car it’s because they cut a lot on engine and transmission technology! They have that 2.5 and 6 speed auto for too long! Not to say the rear suspension is beam!!! the honda hatch is a much more practical car!
But is the Honda worth $6000 more??? No thanks. 3 please. Or new GTI. 🇨🇦
Yea that's the big problem with the new Civic hatch. It's just too expensive!
Whitch car is faster to 60 ? Great video!
Mazda. Faster to the quarter mile too. After that it seems like the civic would overpass. I assume because it’s lighter and equal horsepower
Thank you! Car and Driver tested them both with the civic taking 7.3 seconds and the mazda 3 at 7 seconds. But the mazda3 that they tested was an automatic.
Honda loses out imo, no Civic or Accord has awd which where I live is a necessity in the cold winter months. Plus we also get heavy rain in summer and spring so getting a more secure road grip is a godsend. Honda needs to adapt to the times and just offer it on at least 1-2 trim options and I bet they'd get many more sales then they already do. Mazda offers it on higher trims ofc and between awd, good safety features and enough tech for me I did buy a Mazda 3.(I like the dial/no touchscreen on the Mazda too)
No Accord or Civic has ever been available with AWD. Usually most people who want a vehicle with AWD in the same price range just move up a class to a crossover. So yes, the Mazda 3 is unique in having an AWD on offer.
@@MGReviewsBlog I mean Nissan, Toyota and Kia have AWD sedans but if you spec them out to be similar all end up being more in price which to me is crazy that Mazda ends up being the cheapest choice
I have this Civic with the CVT. Love it. Compared to the Mazda, the Honda has better fuel economy, more space (especially for back seat passengers) and the better safety tech. Here's one point our excellent reviewer missed: the Honda Civic Hatchback is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. That's a big deal.
Yep, good points on the fuel economy & interior space. But the Mazda3 is available with the same amount of safety technology (although the lane centering system is better in the Civic) and it too earned a top safety pick+ from the IIHS for the 2022 model year. (Actually I believe all of their cars & SUVs, apart from the MX-5 & MX-30 EV, all earned Top Safety Pick+ Awards)
@@MGReviewsBlog Thanks, I didn't know the Mazda had the same IIHS rating. Lastly, I much preferred the Honda styling, but that of course is totally subjective.
@@MGReviewsBlog my son’s CX-5 leaves him stranded by the side of the road regularly. Two weeks in the shop last time. My other son’s floor rusted out of his Mazda 3 after barely 8 years. Had to scrap it. No Mazda for me, thanks.
Mazda sacrifices fuel efficiency for AWD. Something to consider in your comparison. The Honda being roomier is nice though.
@@j.echevarria8630 this particular Mazda 3 was not the AWD version. But it is an option for those that need it.
I wouldn't trust that 1.5T engine farther than I could throw it. That's too small of an engine for a turbo, it's inevitably going to have issues, particularly as it ages.
Also auto start/stop is a massive negative in my opinion.
I love mazda!
I mad with the Mazda i can not get a red or blue fwd and manual mazda 3 premium... i rather have the better mpg of a civic sport touring fwd and more cargo space.
My my decisions decisions 🤔…. I’ll just take both
Haha, an expensive proposition.
if your choice civic or M3.?..sir
I personally prefer driving dynamics so if it were my money, it would be the Mazda 3.
yes the Honda civic hatchback is the best compact vehicle around ✅
If the Mazda was a little bigger and had better tech, it would be a no brainer. I would still go Mazda because I think the civic is ugly and despise CVTs. Have to give Honda props for getting closer to Mazda in interior quality.
Here in Mexico, I haven't seen any new Honda Civic more than once every 3 months. So, i believe is selling like crazy with those stupid hikes on Prices.
#savethemanuals 👍
Although Honda has saturated the waves with the fact that we can get the 1.5T with the manual transmission, the reality is that it won’t build them.
My dealer refuses to take my order saying that Honda won’t build me a Sport Touring with manual transmission. Not any time soon, anyway. They cite the ongoing shortages, blah blah blah. Which is fine, but then, why does Honda make such a stink about the manual transmission if it not going to actually build them...?!?
Booo, that sucks. Now I'm wondering the same thing you are. Why put a manual Civic Hatch in the media press fleet and get all the attention from various outlets when they won't build it? Or at least have built-slot allocated to it once the "shortages" get back under control.
@@MGReviewsBlog ...or fess up that it will be a “late availability.”
It’s even worse here in Europe, Honda will be offering full hybrid models only. Bye bye Honda for me, hello Mazda 3.
mazda seems nicer
Mazda all day long
WTF Canada has all trim manual. SO THEY MADE THEM! 😒
I'm pretty sure someone knows it here? How much of a hurdle an extra cost is to bring cars over to the US from Canada?
In the US, the 6-speed is available on the Sport & Sport Touring trims for 2024. Here in Canada, it looks like they have it only on the Sport Touring trim now, the most expensive trim.
I have loved mazdas forever but... what does mazda offer in terms of bolt on H.P.? I will tell you, nothing, nada dayum thing son. Also, it's not even very expensive to throw on one component at a time. Grab a cold air intake one month,... then turbo pipe inlet on another month. Then upgrade your intercooler and charge pipes. Save a couple months and throw on a catless downpipe and at this point you'll really need a tune. Oh yea, you've dusted the fastest and great mazda by your first two upgrades. And if any of you mazda fan boys do drop a whole arm, a whole leg and your first born on upgrading your mazda,.... worst case scenario, we spend 5g's and drop in the big turbo and case closed. ..... (clunk, boom, click) *that was the sound of the mic hitting the floor.
MAZDA ALL THE WAY!!!
I'm sorry but Mazda is still best. Better than Honda.
Don't knock it until you try it.
@@MGReviewsBlog Honda is boring and drives like an appliance.
Nope
@@eucmike maybe early 2000 Hondas not the newer gens
Pretty sure the 3 only has around 295L of trunk space
Mazda Canada's & Mazda USA's websites both say 569 L of space (20.1 cu-ft) for the 3 Sport (hatchback). 374 L (13.2 cu-ft) for the sedan.
@@MGReviewsBlog Strange that the sedan has less volume than the hatch.
this civic looks like an fastback or coupe isntead of a hatchback...........
I agree, it doesn't have the traditional hatchback design of the 3 or VW Golf for example
Mazda needs to dump the torsion beam rear suspension. The car just skitters over rough pavement
Mazda is good but why it sell so slow i scare to here someday the end of the mazda product becuase if slow selling
I think it depends on the country. Here in Canada, the Mazda 3 sells very well. I think it's only behind the Corolla and the Civic in terms of sales figures.
@@MGReviewsBlog ok glad to hear that
The Mazda drives better. The Civic is bigger. Pick your poison.
Yup, that's the gist of the video haha
shoutout BC haha
Honda loves that plastic shit on tye exterior. Can't stand that on the exterior looks cheap like a fisher price car my 5 year old nephew plays with.
It's not just Honda unfortunately. Mazda did it worse with the CX-30.
Honda Civic = Ugly . CVT . Start/stop . No manual option.🙄
Mazda = Awesome Aggressive styling. Way better interior. Very capable performance.
No manual option in the Civic? What was I driving then?
Yes . Sorry , it does.
But it's still ugly .
Mazda is not the prettiest, previous version was nicer. I squeezed in the cramped seat. Lots of room in the HOnda.
Yep, Honda definitely has the edge on space.
"not the prettiest"??? major cap, the mazda is legit beautiful, the honda looks like a honda
Honda is boring!
Mazda not as refined but better overall
Why do you think that the Mazda is not as refined?
and how many average users drive manual? and using some random percentage if 2.5 L engine is enough for "most users" too funny! random youtuber on my recommended list blah
Some people still enjoy the pleasure of driving a car with a manual transmission. Some commenter on my videos blah
Learn to drive sissy. I found this review extremely helpful. Plebs like you can find reviews and models in auto everywhere in person. Us manual users need to search extensively. Selfish and small minded people speak so much.
Mazda 3 with a turbo would make the Honda eat dust ...no problem ...not to use the turbo is silly , this is not accurate ....Honda used a turbo , but not the Mazda .....amateur channel.
And the Civic type-r would decimate the Mazda 3 turbo. What's your point?
@@MGReviewsBlog MY point , you use turbo for the Honda but not for Mazda ...get it ....not fair , but I see you don't care,,,too arrogant .
@patrickgagnon9662 you clearly missed the point of the video. The cars are equally matched as they are. If I decided to include the turbo version of the Mazda 3, then it would have a very unfair advantage in terms of performance compared to this standard Civic. But then the Civic Type-R would be an unfair advantage against the Mazda 3 turbo.
The moral of the story is that one car having a turbo and the other not having it is not an unfair match in this specific case.
@@MGReviewsBlog A turbo in the Mazda is NOT unfair , if the Turbo in the Honda is there , so should the Mazda have one , full stop!..The Civic R costs how many more thousands than the Mazda , of course it can beat the Mazda , Mazda has a different purpose that Civic R...But doing a review with one car with a turbo and one without ....not fair , not my kind of reviewer, and doubles down on a crap review ...see -ya
@@patrickgagnon9662 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️ it's like talking to a wall....
So what you're saying is that to you, a difference of 250 hp & 320 lb-ft (Mazda 3 turbo) vs 180 hp & 177 lb-ft (Civic hatch) is more fair to you than the said Civic Hatch power vs 186 hp & 186 lb-ft of the naturally aspirated Mazda 3 that I used here? Not to mention that the Mazda 3 turbo is AWD only & not available with a manual transmission. While both of the cars here are FWD & 6-spd manuals.
Yea, you can f right off. You're seriously missing the point of the video.
Sigh why are you comparing the two manuals. Most people buying the Mazda are going to get the turbo which is auto. Not to mention like less than 10% of cars on the road are manual so not very helpful.
Because I felt like it
The Mazda is butt ugly
You're butt ugly.