Mazda 3: Sedan or hatchback

When you say Mazda, you think of affordable cars with decent build quality, brilliant handling, value for money, and fuel efficient. Have you ever been in a conundrum like the one reader posted recently? He said that his father is considering to buy Mazda 3 as their new family commuter. But he isn’t sure if the hatchback or the sedan they should go for. We asked him a few questions and based on his response, selected the right vehicle for him. This is the sole reason behind this story.

Mazda has got two very capable machines and at very attractive prices. The confusion is bound to happen. Many years ago, Chevrolet had the Optra sedan and the hatchback. The same confusion used to prevail then as the prices and equipment levels were nearly the same. So, here is how we helped the reader choose the best option for him.

Concerned about looks?

The three-box styling compared with the two box design. The front end of the Mazda 3 looks the same whether it is for the sedan or the hatchback. So, there is no differentiating here. The window line seems a tad hemmed-in for the hatchback and if you are someone who likes to lounge in the back seat, then the sedan is for you. However, if you want to ignore that and look towards the rear, then you will notice that the sedan makes sense as the dimensions are more proportionate when you view it alongside the hatchback.

Interior

With respect to equipment and front seat space, there is no difference. However, move to the rear and you notice the slightly increased space. Especially for three abreast. The boot space surprisingly is bigger in the hatchback by a good margin and one can also fold the seats flat. This way, it liberates more luggage space.

Where will you be driving?

If you end up driving more in the city, then the hatchback surly makes sense. It is easier to park and the slight difference in length is something which will help while parking. One will also appreciate the fact that the vehicle may also be considered as a small one and hence a lower fee may be charged at mall parking or while getting it washed. However, if you have more of your drives on the highway or interstate, then the sedan is the better choice. It has better stability and will also be more fuel efficient due to its shape.

Safety

Be rest assured that Mazda has got your back with the 3 range. There are six airbags, Hill Start Assist, Dynamic Stability Control, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Anti Lock Braking, Emergency Stop Signal, Emergency Brake System, Traction Control, ISOFIX child seat mounts, seat belts with pre-tensioners for the front passengers, and 3-point seat belts with ELR. Customers can opt for radar-assisted tech that encompasses Lane Departure Warning, Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Also, both the vehicles get a full five stars for safety from GNCAP.

One can also opt for the Mazda 3 sedan in a lower spec trim that compromises by not offering the radar-based technology.

Final decision

We advised him the Mazda 3 hatchback primarily because his run will be in the city. Since he was a stickler for safety, the hatchback with all standard features enchanted him. At RM 107,000, the car was also value for money. However, for you, we would suggest weighing your priority and smartly dropping down to a smart decision.