2024 Honda Civic vs Mazda3 - Best Car for $30,000?

[@TheStraightPipes]

Which one can you get a better deal on through tsp.truecar.com? Leave a comment with lowest prices

[@ThedeTECHtive]

Kia Niro Hybrid Review Please

[@IgoZoom1]

Still quite a few ‘23 Mazda3 Turbos out there with some nice incentives!

[@juancarlosgroman8628]

you can have just the LED RIM (DRL) ON on each light, just not automatically, but you can... GRAT VIDEO, as usual...keep'em comin

[@MarcusTurner-pb5bt]

Nice review keep up the good work fellas

[@anashiedler6926]

so sad that here in europe/austria the civic is only available as the hybrid version (and therefore an additionally added 10.000€ pricetag). So.....yeah, here the mazda is by far the better deal.

[@josephomole6404]

It's crazy that compact cars are now $30,000. The new car market is gone.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Ya

[@NOXStellans]

I Paid $19,500 for a Civic Coupe EX in 2006... Which is equal to $29,800 today-So, that's more a change in what a dollar cost than what a car costs.

[@oluwanifemiogundeko7132]

@@NOXStellansYh it’s just inflation

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

I remember when compact cars hit $15k. It happens.

[@_dmfd]

Gotta get that $$ up haha but nah fr you're right it does suck. I've owned 20+ cars in my life, I've bought an Mk7 GLi Autobahn & 2018 GT Sport new only. The Mk7 was $28k otd fully loaded & the GT Sport was $30k. This was back in 2018 & 2019. These days the Autobahn model GLi are like low to mid $30s, & the GT Sport was taken outta our market but similarly spec'd hatchbacks are about $35-$40k now. It's current market equivalent would be the Elantra N-Line which I believe is actually a lil cheaper MSRP tho, but the GT Sport was a way better vehicle with alot more features/ better build quality, just has the same powertrain. The 2024 Audi A4 Allroad Prestige with Black Optics pkg I ordered from factory was $61k total, that's MSRP, it's wild. My dad's 2016 Explorer Sport was $54k new, now they're like $50k for the ST, which they kinda went down in price too weirdly enough. But it's still crazy that an Audi wagon is $11k more expensive than a 400hp 3 row SUV lol. Hyundai & Kia used to be a huge bang for your buck brand(s) but now not at all really, unless you go for their sub/compacts at close to base spec. Their equivalent 3 Rows are right up there in the $50k's like the Explorer. My dad bought a 2006 Sonata V6 new back then & he paid like $28k it still had its original window sticker when I bought it in 2016 off of him. Equivalent Sonata today would be the N-Line & that's like $38k. My gf drives my old 2012 Malibu LTZ V6, which new was like $29k. You can't buy a fully loaded Malibu anymore but again an equivalent sedan with an upgraded engine today would be in the high $30k's. Same with my old 2009 Spectra5 SX which was a great hatchback btw, but it was only $15k which is wild imo esp for what you got for the money. Imo it just seems like inflation has really pushed things, I'm fortunate to be in a career where I can afford a $61k Audi wagon but yea idk how 70% or whatever of the US who make >$50k a year are gonna be able to buy new cars these days. Even CPO & used they're still expensive asf for basically regular traffic cars. If you want anything fun you're definitely paying big money.

[@harjan5364]

can you guys start adding timestamps for your videos? they're so good but sometimes im just looking for certain pieces of information

[@rjechols2059]

Watching the whole video helps everyone out. Your attention span that short?

[@Themitch343]

May not be TSP’s vibe to do sections

[@harjan5364]

@@rjechols2059 i work 12 hours a day 7 days a week

[@curttheboywonder]

@@rjechols2059damn I don’t think he meant to offend you so badly

[@TheStraightPipes]

Lemme know what kinda chapters you’d like

[@Games4Days912]

I have a 2023 Mazda 3 Turbo hatch with the aero package and it's amazing. The driving experience is butter smooth. Luxurious as hell. The bang for your buck on the premium turbo is just fantastic. Oh and the power is also zoom zoom.

[@christianbryant5617]

Well said. My opinion that I’ve been spreading in the comments is that these cars are not equals. They maybe similar in size, but Mazda markets to a different set of people. Mazda is more premium whereas Honda is more economically driven

[@champievlogs]

I can agree!! Mazda 3 awd premium owner here

[@zackmandarino1021]

@@christianbryant5617agreed i have a 2020 preferred awd and everyone who gets in the car is like this is borderline a luxury car. been one of my favorite cars i did go with NA motor instead of turbo though as turbo was just a tad bit to expensive for me even with a hefty down payment in the 5 figures didnt want to borrow more than 15k. its not the best handling car out there because of the torsion rear end but its still fun to drive in the twisties even then steering feels fantastic. not as good as my old focus st but i didnt expect it to be when i bought it i knew the st was built for more performance and handling while this was meant to be an affordable, quite, inbetween luxury vehicle. i also want to say once you get used to the rotary dial i dont think i could go back to touch screen interfaces.

[@christianbryant5617]

@@zackmandarino1021 heck yea. Love the seating position and even just the aroma in the car with the leathers, and glues, and plastics, makes for such a nice experience. As a BMW lover, rotary dials are superior haha💪🏽

[@mattmcgriff5952]

Just bought a 2023 NA Sedan Carbon Edition today. I came from a 330i lease and I agree the Mazda is on another level than the Honda. The Civic is nice and I’d say a Civic Touring Sedan gives you a lot compared to the 3 Carbon. My issue is the Civic didn’t even get a fair chance because of the local (Memphis area) dealers. Both want $5k over sticker with their bloat addendums. Have no interest in haggling to not pay their BS “gratuity”. Big difference in the level of these brands, at least in my area, is the Mazda dealer is closer to dealing with a luxury store, whereas the Honda stores treat you on the same level as the economy stores.

[@mxss115]

My GF owns a 2021 CX-30, premium AWD but no turbo. Basically the exact same as the Mazda 3, I completely agree with Yuri. The infotainment is great once you get used to it.

[@rebeltvr6046]

My gf owns a 2021 CX-30 premium awd with no turbo too. Are we dating the same girl?

[@donatello9482]

My gf owns a 2021 CX-30, premium AWD and get this…. No turbo too. 😧

[@chunkplunk]

my imaginary gf also owns the same car

[@jimjam4049]

YESSS I have literally been so mad because I couldn’t find a vid of the new civic vs the Mazda3. Those are the only two in the segment that I want, thank you guys for the vid!

[@PasleyAviationPhotography]

One has no turbo and no CVT.... while the other does. Even though I know Honda is pretty well known for reliability, I'd have to go zoom-zoom on this one.

[@androiduberalles]

I wish I could feel that way but after owning my 3 for a while, it's clear there was some oversight. The electronic coolant control valve is a common failure on the early ones and it's a $600+ repair you get stuck with. That certainly should've been a mandatory recall. Makes me wonder what else is lurking.

[@Suction_]

@@androiduberalles compared to the 1.5 with the oil dilution that they never really fixed and the increasing amount of them needing head gaskets. Rumor is that their cvt isn't too great either. I'll take a coolant control valve that I can change in my driveway if I had to vs a head gasket/transmission with honda's pompous ass dealers

[@chhoyla]

The Civic is suffering from a plethora of reliability and build quality issues. Leaking hatch, head gasket leaks, rattles, and now the sticky steering issue with an NHTSA investigation showing up to 13+ accidents so far with a year+ waitlist for parts. It’s affecting the Integra too.

[@androiduberalles]

​@@Suction_fair enough. I didn't know that about the Honda. Mazda dealers have been really bad for me too unfortunately 😢

[@attackb5349]

Honda is a shell of its old reliability image. Mid pack at best this day and age. Mazda all the way between these two. No contest.

[@Gregarproto]

Agree with Yuri on the rotary dial infotainment. In basically every implementation. Much rather have the rotary dial and the screen mounted up and further back. Closer to driving line of sight, don’t have to look down to operate the touch screen because the rotary dial is easy to find without looking, less likely to accidentally click the wrong thing when you go over a bump. And as a bonus you don’t get fingerprints on the screen.

[@chrisdaxer3984]

I've had a 22 si for about 2 years now. Honestly love the infotainment. The car has been a bit of a lemon but can not praise this new civic interior enough, the screen is very well placed and never distracts me on the road while looking very premium for the price. Many of these economy cars have thick bezzles around the screen and slow response feedback but this new civic interior does a great job with very thin bezzles and very little lag. My biggest complaint with the interior is keeping it clean, dust accumulates in that big dash vent very easily. Overall though, can't complain it feels premium while keeping everything very tactile and easy to use. Even though its a bit of a stuck on ipad looking screen it works great and really doesn't remind me of an afterthought ipad like the one in my friend's corolla.

[@kuruptzZz]

Yes, that's what BMW started with idrive, and countless cars have copied them for a reason

[@tequawrm]

I miss the dial and dont like both how forward the displat is and that its aimed at the center of the back seat and not toward the driver or even adjustable in any way.

[@PeachyKihn]

I bought the 2024 civic back a few months ago and it really is an amazing car. The lumbar is sorely missed, and the sensors for lane keep are touchy if your car is dirty or has foggy windows. Minus those two things I haven't had anything bad to say about it. Highly recommend!

[@tequawrm]

When i bought mine it had a ceramic coating and its been off and on raining last few days and not so much as a water spot. You might want to look into it.

[@headbandus]

Cvt transmission is a failure though.

[@driveintherain]

The "Nooooo Monicaaaa" part LOL, never gets old

[@TheStraightPipes]

I am a comedic genius -yuri

[@T03L3G]

I say that at least three times a week for shit that has nothing to do with cars lmao, doesn't hit the same as in hs but I won't ever let that scene die ja rule will never live that down 😂

[@OmarVelázquez-h2p]

😂

[@wmg378]

22 Mazda3 owner here, if you want to drive around with just the parking lights/halo eyes on you can turn off auto DRL in the settings in the infotainment and set the headlight switch to parking lights, in low light the low beams will still automatically turn on though

[@kradrumble]

In the US you can, but not in Canada. The setting is not there.

[@itsmaceYT]

I cross shopped the 2023 Mazda3 turbo hatch and Civic touring and ultimatley went for the Mazda due to AWD and no CVT - I don't think you could go wrong with either depending where you live! I also rarely have more than one passenger so the back seat is never used in my case. Civic's had a markup, Mazda didnt (I paid MSRP OTD)

[@SeanRosairo]

Coming from an old 2008 Mazda3, and testing a few cars out, the Civic felt more like the old "Zoom Zoom" era Mazda. The Mazda3 drives really well, but I like my corners and I felt the new Mazdas are going more GT/Cruiser. It's really nice, but it's not for me. They both have fantastic interiors, nice and old school in a refreshing way. Better than the VW system but I went for a gti, since driving dynamics is more important than interior to me, and I can't wait 2 years for the GR Corolla in Canada at the moment (my Mazda's engine and gearbox is perfect but the thing is rusting to bits :( after 300k)

[@ditiprel4]

$30,000 cars are the new $20,000 cars I guess.

[@watchxfiles]

Sad

[@teamtakeover7317]

Thank Biden.

[@MrSlashtf2]

And will be $40,000 thanks to Trump!!!

[@Hard_7_Iron]

Guys…I dont understand it, but True Car saved me another $6800 USD AFTER RAMS incentives (dealer and Manufacturer). I was amazed. 😮 You got yourself one great sponsor. Civic wins to me! If ya gotta go small Civic is the way.

[@aliali-ce3yf]

its crazy we live in a world where a civic costs $30k

[@howcanimiss]

It’s inflation, not crazy.

[@Dim000h2]

Where can you get them in 30k? Dealerships in Alberta adding 3-5k extra "mandatory accessories"

[@yourmanzach2307]

it is crazy considering you can get a nissan versa for 16k... why are charging DOUBLE? they are all economy cars.

[@WhatisaLee]

It’s crazy we live in a world where *insert small compact car* costs $30k.

[@yourmanzach2307]

@@Dim000h2 in the US they do that too. I've bought vehicles that had those accessories and i told them i dont want them and im not paying for them. they take it off and sell it to me. try doing that. mandatory is just a word in the dealership world. they will have trouble selling cars.

[@bonjournaste]

This gen Mazda has also been around for five years, which is even more impressive. Still competitive, and the advantage of a simple, sorted build. Great long term ownership material. Comparing the base models, Mazda 3 is an insane bargain, not lacking any necessities, same drive train, and they don't cheapen the exterior to make it too obvious.

[@OldLugnutz]

Honda owner here: : 2017 Accord Coupe v6, 2017 Civic Si. I prefer the Honda, but I can appreciate what the Mazda offers the consumer for a sedan. But about a 7 grand increase in retail in just 7 years! Nutz.

[@jason454ss]

Just put 2,000 miles on a 2023 Civic touring hatch, the seat needs lumbar and could use more adjustability. The rest of the civic was great to drive. Things were where they should be and very intuitive. My daily is a 20yr old suburban and my wife has a '13 Flex.

[@WalkerKirchman]

Funny timing, just bought a new civic hatchback sport touring less than 24hrs ago. My last car, a 2018 Ford Fusion Energi could barely make it more than a year without some major issue and when it shut down on the freeway and the warranty was up I decided I was sick of dealing with that car so was able to get it lemon lawed and bought back. All the problems I had with that car consumed so much time and caused a lot of undue stress, there are other cars that have more features than the civic but at the end of the day reliability was paramount for me and my family has had nothing but wonderful experiences with Hondas. Add that I got a smoking deal on my new civic, I’m happy!

[@gran-infomedio1618]

What deal did you get on your car? Can you summarize how was your purchase?

[@KatarinaP-u6r]

@@gran-infomedio1618 Unlikely because noone is getting smoking deals at Honda right now. Im a Massive Honda guy too I own 2 and have owned 3 others. I waslked out of my dealership two days ago thouroughly disgusted.

[@Ianmundo]

I had that 1.5 Turbo in a 10th-gen Civic, plenty of power but was REALLY bad in winter. It would not heat up, this meant unburned fuel would end up in the oil. Engine oil doesn’t lubricate so well when diluted with gas. If you have a longer drive it’s fine, but no good for journeys shorter than 20 minutes

[@Synnove15]

I do not have this problem in the current gen with the 1.5L. In -30c it took around 8-10 mins of driving for the coolant to get up to normal temperature

[@kimochi33]

Block heater and extreme cold climates, oil pan heater, choke the intake grills. Better for the engine this way. -30C is considered normal winter day up here 😂

[@Suction_]

plenty of issues with them. Easily the worst engine Honda makes currently.

[@WitchYuki22]

​@Suction_ shhh the honda fanboys might hear you 😂 They love to circle jerk hondas "reliability" even though it is no longer the 90s 😂😂

[@Suction_]

@@WitchYuki22 Toyota too. I've had my highlander back more times than my cx5, cx5 turbo and cx30 combined.

[@Sasquatchflow]

I’ll take a naturally aspirated 4 over a turbocharged 4 any day!

[@freedomovereverything1776]

Yep! Manufacturers are crazy right now. Can't believe toyota went with a turbo charged 4 cylinder with their new tacoma.

[@KatarinaP-u6r]

Yes but the civic 158hp is soooo painful.....

[@veselingramatikov]

We can say, you buy Mazda with your hearth and Honda with your brain for these two cars. I would go for the Mazda. It got more soul in the design in and out.

[@ant647448336]

I've got the Civic e:hev in Europe with the 2L engine. I average 4.1L/100km combined on a long run (260km return run to the nearest international airport). Over the 51700km I've done since mid October 2022, I've averaged 4.4L/100km.

[@wesleyt2896]

Wanted to buy one too, a month after release it wasn't delivered in Belgium anymore due to shortages of parts, still not open for orders 2 years later

[@ant647448336]

@@wesleyt2896 jeez. We're getting them quite often here and they sell very quickly.

[@wesleyt2896]

​@@ant647448336 where in Europe are you from?

[@synchrxny]

I have a 2019 Mazda3 hatch and yes, you can have just the ring lights on. You can turn off auto-DRLs on the light stalk. It's one of the first things I did in mine. The 3 is incredibly fun to drive, the styling is expensive and classy looking, and the interior looks and feels so upscale. And I'll go to my grave defending the rotary wheel control; it's a great design, sits right at resting hand position, and putting touch screens in cars is a TERRIBLE design choice. Just because it's popular doesn't mean it's good!! It was refreshing that Yuri thought it was better.

[@christianbryant5617]

Yea Mazda is definitely an upper and more polished vehicle than something like a Honda.. Mazda is more concerned with the luxury factors

[@Varekai0723]

In Canada, you cannot have just the ring lights on.

[@RatBürgerSk8]

Personally I'd go with the Mazda for the proven reliability of that engine and transmission combo. The 1.5T in the Civic just hasn't been as bulletproof as the Mazda NA I4 + 6AT. I'm someone who's totally fine with a well done torsion beam rear. It's a simple and durable suspension with pretty good ride quality, and honestly isn't a notable hindrance to me when I want to carve up some turns.

[@camilstoenescu]

That's a tough choice. I'd go for the Civic, though.

[@956FivePointOh]

Not long ago you could get a new Mustang GT with a 5.0 for under 30k, and cars like these went for under 20k, sad times indeed

[@jacobbendah6735]

to be fair, this is a fully loaded civic.

[@SelimxBradley]

to be extra fair, it's still a civic.@@jacobbendah6735

[@viktors9385]

​@@jacobbendah6735which is weird to compare against a non top Mazda 3, the top trim of which would have a 2.5l turbo with 250 HP.

[@Charles-d4e3b]

Going Joe

[@faeinthebay]

​@@viktors9385 That's basically a premium segment car. They wanted to compare cars at similar MSRP.

[@jbar_85]

I love mg 2018 Mazda 3 Grand Touring. 6 amazing years with her and I am still thrilled driving her each day! Luxurious, reliable, and very fun to drive!

[@Hexsense]

The Mazda 3 in your test (Premium NA AWD) is pretty much the slowest Mazda 3 you can buy in the current line up. It is heavier than lower trim because of all "Premium" gadgets. It lost power through AWD and didn't get the upgraded engine. I'd either go down or up the trim levels. Go down: Mazda 3 FWD. Same engine but without AWD makes it quicker. It's also a bit lighter than Premium trim. Plus, it remain quiet while Civic below Touring trim lost some sound insulation material. Go up: Mazda 3 Turbo AWD. The 2.5 Turbo almost double the torque figure of 2.5 NA engine. That engine mate better with AWD.

[@gurcharansingh3976]

Mazda 3 loses in interior space. That's the deal breaker for me. I'm over 6 ft and the 3 is just way too cramped

[@johnkonde1975]

@@gurcharansingh3976true but most people are shorter than you, Paaji

[@Nyquiiist]

You aren't wrong its the slowest of the Mazda because of the extra weight from AWD. However, its still PLENTY for your daily driving. This is the same engine that powers their heavier SUVs.

[@matthewfuller1129]

Two very equally matched competitors. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. I ping-ponged between these 2 for months, but eventually, the Civic won because (ironically, because in mid-December!) my local Mazda dealer wasn't willing to deal on a left-over 2023 Premium trim sedan.

[@jsh139]

"I'm sorrey...I'm sorry!" Haha, love the Canadian accent.

[@MrAstinmartin]

Mazda 3 sedan, has no cvt , I would take mazda

[@davidhughes1890]

In my area the better deal is with Mazda. When I looked at the Honda dealership, in little print, add a $3k package to all there new Honda models. With Mazda, I was able to do an OTD price online.

[@79BCL]

I am still amazed the Mazda 3 competes since it has no major updates since 2019.

[@doggedlydetermined7022]

After driving both, Civic was the clear choice. Reminds me a lot of an Audi A3 both inside and out, albeit not as nice of course.

[@tlpw2404]

These prices on these cars makes sense though ngl

[@ebmk96]

21 yrs with Honda. Bought the 2024 Mazda3 Premium Hatchback 6spd MT. 191 hp, 9 short of the Civic SI Not even comparable with the Civic Sport Touring Hatchback MT. Interior better, head up display, and the best shifting manual I've ever driven. Cheaper too.

[@hhamudi]

I have a Mazda 3, in the US. You can go in the settings and turn off DRL then flick the headlight stalk to the parking light option (above auto) and you can drive it with the circles only! I always roll like that. Only during the day tho, lights come on automatically in the dark no matter what

[@gavinmuselle5641]

You unfortunately cannot turn off DRL on the Mazda3 in Canada.

[@kuruptzZz]

In canada they are mandatory, so I think the option is disabled

[@fp5495]

The Civic is compact, but it's a big compact. It's literally the size of a BMW 330i, which, technically, is categorized as a compact car, but is seen as a mid-sized car. So, there's no magic packaging Honda is doing with the Civic; it's literally a bigger car than it used to be.

[@EpiCz_Izzy]

A 2004 EX Coupe MSRP was $17,350 per KBB. I wanna see the same energy from those complaining about the price of Z’s. Face it. It’s simply inflation and yes for a lot of people, salary has not kept up and that’s unfortunate.

[@kvetcha]

One thing I'll say for the Mazda - the fuel economy with the NA 2.5 is better than advertised. I've averaged almost 33mpg lifetime for the manual trim of the car and between 35-37mpg highway.

[@ethanrottenberger2967]

I know you guys have reviewed the Jetta GLI a few times but the Jetta SEL is just under the $30k price tag and I'm in love with it! Mine is a 22. Tons of great features, amazing gas mileage, and an 8spd auto (I'm not a CVT fan). I'd love to see you guys add it into your budget sedan comparisons!

[@mutahir2002]

For what it’s worth, I drove a Mazda 3 2019 AWD (so pretty much same car in the vid) and averaged 33-35mpg, and I wasn’t driving boring

[@TheRavetetsei15]

3:22 , you can go into the Mazda infotainment settings > lights , there’s an option to keep just the “halos” or “DRL” on during the day and it’ll automatically adjust itself to what you should need as it gets darker outside

[@Ipadsss]

I'm so happy both of these cars exist! That being said, I made my choice: a CX-30 Turbo! Coming up on my 1 year aniversary soon!

[@PhillyDee215]

That Mazda is nice but I would take the Honda all day long

[@christianbryant5617]

Honestly for reliability and costs, Honda would probably be better. But I think I’d rather the Mazda🤷‍♂️

[@rickygforce4217]

@@christianbryant5617 for these specific models, the Mazda3 would be more reliable with the torque converted auto and naturally aspirated engine. But you could probably make up for that with saving fuel costs since the Civic is more efficient. But whatever, they are both probably great long-term. Can’t go wrong.

[@christianbryant5617]

@@rickygforce4217 I think by “reliability” I really just mean maintenance costs, because Mazda can get hella expensive if you don’t maintain it the way they want you to.. I don’t mind maintenance tho so I’d go for it. Very nice and quality control is best

[@rickygforce4217]

@@christianbryant5617 true!

[@jus10xx]

@@rickygforce42171.5t arent the best in imo…coming from a friend in service dept at honda…those mazdas are bulletproof

[@RobustFilms1]

I am the proud ownder of a 2022 Civic Touring Sedan 1.5T and I would happily buy this car again; as a young driver my exposure to daily drivers is limited; but by far it is the EASIEST car I have ever driven. Akin to my old VW Golf and more smooth than my older GTI. The only gripe is that 6.9L/100km is not as advertised, I have averaged 7.5L/100km over the 30,000km I have put on the car, with summer and winter tires; using normal mode instead of econ. My only large gripe is that although I love the interior of my Civic; rattles/plasticy creaks are now very common, but I guess something to expect with this car for the price (31500 CAD in 2020, after fees and tax). I also have to say that my passengers love the car, it feels roomy, TONS of space in the back and decent runk space for hauling things. Love this car to the moon. I am wondering how reliability stacks up for this Inline 4 with turbo versus the Mazda; especially with the oil dilution problems honda has had in the past. Thanks for the review chaps, from a fellow GTA lad

[@KatarinaP-u6r]

Jesus 31500 in Canada? after tax ? DId you bribe the sales manager? Not that one can even find a Touring today as they move to the hybrid trims but if one can it is 41k BEFORE TAX and the cost of borrowing. I love my 16 Touring, I will just stick with her until these people start to budge.

[@RobustFilms1]

@@KatarinaP-u6r Reading my original comment, I realized it was 33000 after tax, not 31.500. This is mainly because I have a lease at 3.49% and will buy it out after the fact, so the final sale price will be 36000, however that is in 2022 dollars. If i was to go back again, I would consider a Corolla lower trim Hybrid car (knowing what I know now about my car needs), and I would be willing to wait. The Honda and Toyota pricing scheme is bonkers, with new Camrys touching ES300 prices and high trim Civics touching previous generation Accords. I will baby this Civic for many years to come...

[@faytantan164]

My daughter will turn 16 soon and I’m seeing which one of these is better for her. They are both beautiful.

[@OviWanKeno9i]

That's crazy that CAD $30K is a barebones economy car now. The inflation from 2012 for example is almost 40% in 2024. So what used to be 10K is more like 14K... That's nuts because income hasn't grown at the same speed.

[@basslinefreshdetailing]

Damn, Mazda really is becoming more like Acura/Volvo! Love to see their strategy paying off, 2023 and 2024 are amazing sales years for Mazda!

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

Our 2020 Mazda 3 AWD hatchback has been brilliant. Fantastic chassis and it absolutely crushes winter weather. The interior and infotainment layout are great. I wouldn't mind more power but that wasn't an option in 2020. We plan to have it for a very long time.

[@beamboy420]

Hey what kind of winter weather. Live in Alberta. Wondering if it does well in that harsh winters.

[@DeuceDeuceBravo]

@@beamboy420 Northeast USA. We live in a rural area that doesn't get plowed as often as it should. Not quite Alberta, but the Mazda handles deep snow and icy slush with ease (with decent snow tires, of course).

[@beamboy420]

@@DeuceDeuceBravo thank you

[@naveenthemachine]

Both are the best in class. The only truly competitive Japanese compact sedans

[@christianbryant5617]

Maybe so, but Mazda is honestly a lot nicer if you look at the dynamics and brand image/portfolio.. I like a more premium vehicle, that’s why I’d rather Mazda if I had to pick

[@naveenthemachine]

@@christianbryant5617 but the civics very close to premium

[@christianbryant5617]

@@naveenthemachine maybe so🤷‍♂️

[@siinxkj]

@@naveenthemachine this new generation on honda looks a ton more luxurious and premium in my eyes than anything any other jp automaker can put out, (exception is lexus and acura).

[@naveenthemachine]

@@siinxkj no Lexus can’t put anything out as nice as the civic. Except the lc500 any Lexus looks uglier than any Honda or Acura

[@oceanlover3530]

Mazda is definitely a better looking car as nothing else looks like it. The front end is beautiful!

[@ubacow7109]

If mazda made a performance version Cough Cough Speed 3*** It would be better than the civic imo. I think as a daily car the Mazda 3 is a far superior car. It feel and handles better than any other car in its class, and the interior is so nice. Mazda just refuses to make speed 3's anymore.

[@t.k.morris]

I chose to buy the 2023 Mazda3 Premium H/B with the manual transmission over the 2023 Civic Sport Touring with manual transmission. They were approximately the same price for me I was going to buy the Civic but the only one they had sold with the person that drove it first. I still got to take the test drive but when I returned the first guy had already offered to buy it and the dealer accepted his offer. The Mazda3 that I originally wanted was unavailable in my area, until the very next day! I went and drove it and definitely liked it better so I bought it that morning! My Mazda3 Premium H/B has the manual transmission, Bose stereo, HUD fantastic display, real leather seating surfaces, and a better feeling clutch and transmission in my opinion. I would rather have had the Mazda3 sedan but it was not available with the manual transmission. And I prefer naturally aspirated motors over the turbo assisted motors. My average mpg to date has been 33.9 mpg.

[@joeyschmoey9138]

Test drove the Civic Touring manual VS a Mazda3 manual. The Honda's around here jack up the prices with $1000 floor mats while I actually got a $2000 discount on the Mazda3. Felt like the Mazda was better in every way. AND while Honda has a good reputation I just trust a NA 2.5 over a 1.5 turbo. Now if you drive adult people in your backseat for long periods (does anyone?) the Civic may be better. But I have one child who obviously has zero issues with the space.

[@BassFace1776]

I love my hondas. But I would choose the non CVT everytime.

[@rhyzhenthioz]

I can easily get a backpain. Getting into Mazda 3 was the best thing. No more backpain.

[@SALSAKID49]

I'm in CA, Today, I traded in my 2021 Civic LX with 31,000 miles on it.... for a 2024 Civic Touring... Let's see how the Touring runs and holds up... Thank you for all of your reviews...

[@OmairArif]

1) the DRL & Projector thing I believe is a restriction from Mazda Canada. 2) Mazda keyfobs have a power saver mode that you might have accidentally put it in. IMO they should just get rid of it since everyone just enables it by accident.

[@ezeess7239]

nah it's a restriction in the US as well. The headlight assembly needs to abide transportation laws.

[@OmairArif]

@@ezeess7239 I just double checked, it's a Canada thing. In the US there is a setting in the infotainment system you can toggle, in Canadian models that setting is removed. Just having the DRLs on during the day doesn't foul any US DOT laws.

[@jetscreamer1]

Having an AT is why I went with the 3.

[@tigerhawk84]

I've had my 22 mazda 3 turbo for a couple years now and I live up a backroad that basically never gets plowed, even after a massive blizzard that drops 3+ feet. Like 100 feet away is a main street that gets plowed immediately, while we are left completely SOL, even days later. The AWD is just as capable as my old impreza was in the white stuff. Both with VC7s. Take that for what it's worth. I don't like the whole everyone needs an SUV thing going on for the past 10-15 years or so. You don't need 20 feet of ground clearance to get out of your parking spot and go to walmart, but AWD helps if you live on a crap road.

[@reyperez3424]

Them civic with 1.5T have been having engine issues since they came out either too soon or high miles I haven’t seen issues with them Mazda, idk if people don’t report issues or they are definitely reliable (2.5 N/A) Just my 2 cents for those who are looking for $30k car

[@THESOAMD]

The civic sport is a 2.0 non-turbo. Got it for 26,500, looks sick and is reliable

[@chaff5]

Ugh that ending about the hatches... The Mazda 3 hatchback looks SO DAMN GOOD but it's considerably smaller than the Civic Hatch, which doesn't look bad either but... damn it.

[@juelz4516]

Looks terrible to me.

[@TheSDB13]

I have a 2022 Mazda 3 premium hatch and love the thing, no problems that I didn't cause (if you have a dashcam and don't go anywhere for a couple days, unplug it or you'll have a dead battery)

[@bekisroilov2278]

Main reason I got my mazda3 turbo was bc of the black rims 😁. Absolutely love them

[@TheStraightPipes]

Barf

[@JJMegatron]

@@TheStraightPipesturbo gives you real leather seats faster cause and non cvt can’t be beat and in the snow awd is very helpful

[@blown9646]

We have the real leather in our 22' n/a premium awd, love it. Added Corksport rai & rsb, and with the winter wheel setup, can't really beat it. Versatune just released their n/a tune also.

[@wembley636]

I have a nearly 10 year old Mazda 3 Fastback, I did look at on Mazda's webpage to look at what I could get. When I went to my nearest dealership when I bought this car I told him what I wanted and he gave me a price, this still may be the case but when I went on the Mazda webpage and looked to "Configure" my car, I was annoyed that a lot of things I got when I bought my car are now the "Optional" Extra's that was originally what I got as standard in when I bought my car. Also I really do not see any real reason to upgrade. Since I have had my car the only costs I have is the usual MOT, Service, Tyres, Battery etc, Mechanically nothing has failed. Also I don't see any technical reason to by a new one. Just to add for my perspective in UK, Honda's seem to be a older persons purchase (just my & Jeremy Clarkson's Opinion), not sure what other people think about Mazda drivers. Just my opinion (if you feel I am wrong I am sorry, politely let me know your views)

[@Cal94]

3 sedan over civic sedan, for the automatic transmission... but civic hatch over 3 hatchback every damn day of the week. the mazda 3 hatchback's rear end is atrocious, looks and safety wise. blindspot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert are supports, not replacements for good visibility, and i hate how prevalent thick ass C pillars are getting.

[@bikeman123]

$35000 CAD is about £21k and for that we get a base spec Mazda3. The starting price of the Civic in the UK is now £34k or $60k CAD for the eHEV which is the only one we get. Its a consequence of the fact that no private buyers of new cars in the UK and only hybrids sell to business buyers.

[@beganny]

Civic has caught up to Mazda with the new designs finally - could argue either is better looking. Mazda easily wins with combo of NA + 6sp auto and AWD (and memory seats). Do love that new Civic interior design and materials.

[@mofayer]

Mazda would be an easy win if not for the suspension setup. It's stiffer and handles worse. So pick your poison, cvt or inferior suspension. 😅

[@jeffbrownme2]

​@@mofayerthe civic si is the winner. Stiffer suspension and 6 speed.

[@LtSaynt]

​@jeffbrownme2 it would win if it wasn't so awfully ugly. Mazda hatch beats Honda in looks inside and out. Not even close in that department.

[@chhoyla]

The Civic is suffering from a plethora of reliability and build quality issues. Leaking hatch, head gasket leaks, rattles, and now the sticky steering issue with an NHTSA investigation showing up to 13+ accidents so far with a year+ waitlist for parts. It’s affecting the Integra too.

[@chick3n564]

@@mofayerhave you driven one? It still feels great. It’s an economy car, not a sports car.

[@mscott7426]

Civic, as I'd need the space. However as I age, adjustable lumbar is becoming important so I'll have to consider that in the future. Appreciate the comments on the car seat room as well.

[@desertmodern7638]

I'd probably choose the Civic, but the Mazda3 is flat gorgeous.

[@63arizona1]

I tried both the Honda 2023 civic sport touring with the 1.5 turbo engine and the 2023 mazda 3, I thought the mazda3 was better of the 2 cars . I ended up buying the Mazda3.

[@JB50713]

Great comparison guys. I'd go Honda. Current Honda owner with high kms and zero issues. And screw Mazda for having to pay for remote start.

[@matthew2199]

Remote start is free. They've been saying "2 years" for a long time.

[@TheAgentAaron]

I remember my first car being a 1985 Honda Prelude when I turned 16 in 1996. From there my love for Honda grew which resulted in my 2nd car in 1998 when I graduated - I wanted the 98 Prelude though Ive always loved the digital dash of the 96 Prelude. I thought I was married to Honda until I met my 2000 Jetta. That was all just warming up. Today, I am all Mazda. I dont know what Honda sid but they did 'whatever' alright. These new Civics look like aardvarks to me. Aside from all thst has been mentioned previously, one sure characteristic about the Mazda 3 not mentioned is the sophistication. The Mazda 3 is a very sophisticated vehicle and screams classy! The curves are unique, early on I would question if someone had hit my cardooor but thankfully not. The Mazda 3 is just sexy as shit and the inside is unbelievably beautiful! No Honda or Nissan will ever compare or even come close.

[@edd3807]

Omggggggg. The right exhaust garnish on the Mazda has seen better days! Are you guys doing curb jumping off camera?

[@matthewarmstrong4966]

Mazda has real leather in the Canadian GT trims. The GS premium trim has leatherette

[@christianbryant5617]

I would take Mazda leatherette over Honda leather anyways haha

[@UndercoverVictini]

One thing to note about Mazda's AWD system, according to their documentation it disconnects the rear on turn in/steering, which is why I'd doesn't feel that much different compared to the civic

[@natjam0205]

That's completely false, where did you read that..

[@RatBürgerSk8]

If it actually does that it would make the AWD practically useless for the purpose of winter handling. Would like to see the actual Mazda quote regarding that.

[@Jttw2131]

Can't believe my mazda 3 hatchback mt premium is 10 years old. Still feels and drives like new. Just regular maintenance and trouble-free. I'll get another one if this dies (maybe between 300k and 500k miles or later).

[@kassandras9857]

I've only been a passenger in both, but the Civic is more comfortable and rides better. The Mazda is a bit cramped and the rear suspension set up causes bouncing on every bump and expansion joint.

[@revelare_xvii6269]

It’s crazy how the latest Civic is nearly as big as the previous gen Accord.

[@wompa70]

I like the look of the Mazda more. If I was looking for this kind of car I'd go for a hybrid Elantra, Sonata, or Camry. Probably the Camry.

[@walterbison]

Not the same class.

[@djsqaired6644]

My first car was a 2006ish used Honda Civic. My current vehicle is a 2018 used Mazda 3 hatchback. I loved my civic, being my first car back in highschool. But the Mazda is so much more fun to drive. :) zoom-zoom

[@boost331]

The red dot on the speedo means "go AT LEAST this fast"

[@jonlosito2004]

Wow... The fully loaded Ford Excursion Eddie Bauer was worth about the same amount of money 20 years ago, and that was a big full sized 3 row family SUV. And compact cars like these were worth under 20 grand back then. Crazy how much that has all changed!!

[@williamreinhard]

Compact cars adjusted for inflation are still pretty reasonable. $20k in 2000 is now about $36k. Higher end stuff like you mentioned, SUVs with luxury trims, anything performance focused and current prices are just stupid.

[@chrisdf9414]

The Mazda 3 gt turbo whit awd 2.5 its best

[@wakaflockaproject]

Wish they had the 2.5 in the uk

[@Rev8691]

2020 Mazda 3 hatch owner here, favorite car I’ve ever owned. Just wish I had the turbo model (didn’t exist at the time).

[@MrBobbyBrown2006]

Both overpriced. Both $10,000 more than they were just 4 years ago.

[@TheRealEdman]

Ah yes welcome to inflation 101 😢

[@alexanderalvarado9771]

Thanks joe biden!

[@NGMonocrom]

Hold it! You guys glossed over a big issue. Naturally aspirated engines don't have to work nearly as hard over turbo-charged ones. Mazda's engine is just going to last a lot longer than the Civic's turbo-charged one that somehow still can't outperform the Mazda's non- Turbo engine option. Also, CVT vs. traditional Automatic transmission? No contest. All the issues with CVTs that we all know about. You don't get those with a traditional Automatic. Plus, let's say years down the road, both of these break down, need to be fixed. The Mazda's Automatic, while expensive, is going to be roughly half the cost of what the Honda's CVT will be to repair! We're talking financial nightmare-inducing levels of "Give us all your money!" I mean, it's no contest. Plus, the Mazda looks better. Looks more upscale. Pair a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder with an Automatic transmission from a brand that is becoming known for reliability. You have a car that with proper routine maintenance, will easily last you over 100,000 miles.

[@josephsamara2480]

you forget the advanced feature at mazda the outside mirror tails down when you move back to where the wheels go

[@Abon502]

The Mazda design is 10x better than the Civic . In fact the hatch with the new design language won a world design award .

[@gmanbaz]

They both make good hatchbacks, but the civic wins the hatchback competition. The regular sedans, it’s a tie.

[@edgargarzaarizpe195]

I would get the mazda just to avoid the cvt in the civic

[@AndresSalazarAutos]

Did someone rear end that exhaust in the Mazda?

[@r3sp3ctall]

Brain says Civic, but heart wants the 3. As a second car I am ready to compromise the larger interior space in the Civic for Mazda’s nicer looking interior and exterior.

[@floridaoutdooradventures8981]

Honda has that Vanilla look. Mazda is much more refined and sophisticated with tons more charisma than the Civic! My vote goes to Mazda 3!

[@marantamil459]

All that Mazda 3 saloon needs is the darker accents seen in the Mazda 3 Hatch.

[@androiduberalles]

It feels like Mazda has continued to nerf the trims of the 3. You used to be able to add awd to any trim you wanted, the preferred NA used to have the Bose stereo. Now the only sedan that has the Bose system is the 36k top top trim. Awd is only available in odd circumstances.

[@williamreinhard]

I'm with you on the 360 camera, Yuri. After getting used to having one I hate driving cars without it now.

[@johnnyvolvox2932]

Mazda is underrated and makes great cars but their weakness is that they don't maximize space. All competitors always have more interior space

[@ricatiman]

The opening scene : two affordable 4 door sedans are driving along a misty roadway, side by side. This shows why the Honda easily outsells the Mazda product - the Honda is a great looking car, and the Mazda looks like something from the 90's... dated and bulbous and lame.