2024 Mazda Mazda3 vs. 2023 Subaru WRX Review

Picture of the 2024 Mazda Mazda3

2024 Mazda
Mazda3

MSRP*: $24,170 to $35,450
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Picture of the 2023 Subaru WRX

2023 Subaru
WRX

MSRP*: $30,605 to $43,395
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MPG - City 23 - 27 MPG 19 MPG
MPG - Hwy 32 - 37 MPG 25 - 26 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 191-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 227-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 271-hp, 2.4-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic Continuously Variable, Manual
Drivetrain All Wheel Drive, Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive
Horsepower 191 - 227 hp 271 hp
Exterior Length 183.5 in 183.8 in
Exterior Width 70.7 in 71.9 in
Leg Room Front 42.3 in
Rear 35.1 in
Front 43.1 in
Rear 36.5 in
Head Room Front 37.6 - 38.0 in
Rear 36.7 - 37.3 in
Front 38.8 - 39.8 in
Rear 36.7 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Passengers in the back seat will feel a little more squished in the Mazda Mazda3 than in the Subaru WRX, due to the Mazda Mazda3's smaller rear head- and legroom. The Subaru WRX will be a favorite with taller drivers due to its greater front head- and legroom than the Mazda Mazda3.

Convenience
You'll be making about the same number of stops at the gas station with the Mazda Mazda3 as you will with the Subaru WRX, as they get the same number of miles per tank of gas.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Mazda Mazda3 is clearly a better financial choice over the Subaru WRX.

Dimensions
The Mazda Mazda3 is a little narrower than the Subaru WRX, so you'll have an easier time getting in and out of the car in a tight parking spot. When looking at overall length, the Mazda Mazda3 takes up about the same amount of space in your garage as the Subaru WRX.

Handling
The Mazda Mazda3 has a smaller turning radius than the Subaru WRX, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Mazda Mazda3 is significantly less powerful than the Subaru WRX. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
The Mazda Mazda3 has much less torque than the Subaru WRX, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Mazda Mazda3 and the Subaru WRX.