The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is undeniably the driver’s choice of the current subcompact crossover set, but there are great alternatives to be found if your priorities lie elsewhere, too.
The Honda HR-V, for example, leverages the Fit hatchback’s underpinnings to great effect, though it lacks the peppy, sporty feel of the CX-3.
The Buick Encore and Chevy Trax—both essentially the same under the skin—are also noticeably less sporty, but do offer great value, and, in the case of the Buick, a bit more premium feel.
The Jeep Renegade packs the promise of real off-road ability, something the CX-3 doesn’t aspire to, but its funky, rugged looks won’t suit everyone.
For those wanting the Renegade’s strengths in a more European package, there’s the Fiat 500X—though again, some may find its curves and bulges ungainly.
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 2016 Mazda CX-3Browse Used Listings |  2016 Buick EncoreBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Chevrolet TraxBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Honda HR-VBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Jeep RenegadeBrowse Used Listings |  2016 FIAT 500XBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
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The 2016 Mazda CX-3 is stylish, well-equipped, and one of the most fun-to-drive vehicles in its segment. |
The 2016 Buick Encore masks its economy-car roots well, but tepid performance keeps its from earning a premium label. |
With its useful hatchback shape and thrifty fuel economy, the 2016 Chevrolet Trax is a smart package for city dwellers who value practicality over power or style. |
The 2016 Honda HR-V smartly trades a little of the Fit's fuel economy for exuberant styling, more headroom, and optional all-wheel drive. |
The 2016 Jeep Renegade has something to please both off-roaders and commuters, but its performance can seem dull compared to its engaging styling. |
The smartly styled 2016 Fiat 500X is no off-roader, but it might be the most useful vehicle from the brand yet. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $19,960 | $24,065 | $20,300 | $19,215 | $17,995 | $20,000 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 27 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 23 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 24 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 25 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Regular Unleaded I-4 | Turbocharged I4 | Turbocharged Gas 4-Cyl | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Small Sport Utility Vehicles 2WD | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Special Purpose | Small Sport Utility Vehicles 2WD | Small Sport Utility Vehicles 2WD | Small Station Wagon |
| Style Name | |||||
| FWD 4-Door Sport | FWD 4-Door | FWD 4-Door LS w/1LS | 2WD 4-Door Manual LX | FWD 4-Door Sport | FWD 4-Door Pop |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| Sport Utility | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility | Sport Utility | Sport Utility |
| Transmission | |||||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
| 2016 Mazda CX-3 vs. 2016 Buick Encore | 2016 Mazda CX-3 vs. 2016 Chevrolet Trax | 2016 Mazda CX-3 vs. 2016 Honda HR-V | 2016 Mazda CX-3 vs. 2016 Jeep Renegade | 2016 Mazda CX-3 vs. 2016 FIAT 500X | |
