Nissan versa vs mazda 3: a side-by-side comparison that will make your choice crystal clear
What To Know
- The Versa gets an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway with the CVT, while the Mazda 3 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the 2.
- The Mazda 3, on the other hand, provides a more upscale and engaging driving experience, along with a comprehensive suite of safety features.
- The Nissan Versa gets better gas mileage than the Mazda 3, with an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway compared to the Mazda 3’s 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The Nissan Versa and Mazda 3 are two popular compact cars that offer a blend of affordability, practicality, and style. However, each vehicle has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Nissan Versa and Mazda 3 to help you make an informed decision about which car is right for you.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Versa boasts a conservative and functional exterior design with clean lines and a spacious cabin. Its grille is integrated into the bumper, giving it a simple yet modern look. The Mazda 3, on the other hand, exudes a more sporty and aggressive stance. Its sleek profile, sharp angles, and signature “KODO” design language create a visually striking impression.
Interior Space and Features
The Nissan Versa offers a surprisingly spacious interior for its size, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. It features a simple and user-friendly dashboard layout with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Mazda 3’s interior is also spacious, but its design is more upscale and refined. It comes standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, a Bose premium audio system, and a host of advanced safety features.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Nissan Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It offers a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Mazda 3 is available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of fuel economy, the Nissan Versa is slightly more efficient than the Mazda 3. The Versa gets an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway with the CVT, while the Mazda 3 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the 2.0-liter engine.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Nissan Versa provides a comfortable and stable ride, with a suspension system that absorbs bumps and road imperfections effectively. Its handling is adequate, but it’s not particularly sporty or engaging. The Mazda 3, on the other hand, offers a more dynamic driving experience. Its suspension is firmer, providing better cornering ability and a more precise feel behind the wheel.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Versa and Mazda 3 come standard with a range of advanced safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Mazda 3 offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Price and Value
The Nissan Versa has a starting price of $15,680, while the Mazda 3 has a starting price of $21,500. For the price, the Nissan Versa offers a spacious and practical vehicle with decent fuel economy. The Mazda 3, while more expensive, provides a more refined and sporty driving experience, along with a longer list of standard features.
Final Verdict
The Nissan Versa and Mazda 3 are both solid choices in the compact car segment. The Versa offers a spacious and affordable option for those who prioritize practicality and fuel efficiency. The Mazda 3, on the other hand, provides a more upscale and engaging driving experience, along with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which car has a more powerful engine?
The Mazda 3 has a more powerful engine, with the 2.5-liter option producing 186 horsepower compared to the Versa’s 122 horsepower.
2. Which car gets better gas mileage?
The Nissan Versa gets better gas mileage than the Mazda 3, with an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway compared to the Mazda 3’s 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
3. Which car has a more spacious interior?
The Nissan Versa has a more spacious interior than the Mazda 3, with more headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.
4. Which car has more advanced safety features?
The Mazda 3 has more advanced safety features than the Nissan Versa, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
5. Which car is cheaper to buy?
The Nissan Versa is cheaper to buy than the Mazda 3, with a starting price of $15,680 compared to the Mazda 3’s starting price of $21,500.