2023 Mazda3 Hatchback vs. 2023 Subaru Impreza Hatchback
The Mazda 3 Hatchback is popular, but so is the 2023 Subaru Impreza Hatchback. Both are considered some of the best in class and offer drivers basically everything that’s needed in a hatchback. However, they aren’t the same vehicle, and there are some notable differences we can see. Here is a look at the 2023 Mazda3 hatchback vs. 2023 Subaru Impreza hatchback.
Off-Road Capabilities: Comparing Mazda3 and Subaru Impreza
One of the things that makes the two vehicles great is that both of them are great for off-roading. Think about it, anyone who wants to buy an Impreza already knows that it’s great in the mud and off the pavement. The same can be said for the Mazda, though all-wheel drive is extra. However, it’s standard for the Impreza. One thing that Mazda wins is that it has more ground clearance, 5.5 inches versus 5.1 inches for the Impreza.
Interior Space and Comfort
If you have a Subaru, you probably bought it for the roominess. This is true of most Subaru models, and it’s certainly true of the 2023 Subaru Impreza Hatchback. While both vehicles seat five passengers, the Subaru Impreza has more room for passengers and their cargo. While the difference isn’t huge, if you plan to camp or fill your car to the brim with passengers and their stuff, the Subaru is going to win out, every time.
Engine Performance: Power Output in Mazda3 and Subaru Impreza
One way in which the Mazda3 wins is in power. With its 6-speed automatic transmission, it pumps out 191 horsepower from its 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. Mazda also offers a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. For its part, the Impreza offers 152 horsepower, which isn’t bad, but Mazda would certainly win on the tracks.
Safety Ratings and Features
Hopefully, no matter which car you buy, you never have to worry about safety or accidents. However, if you do, both the Impreza and the Mazda3 will protect you and your occupants. The Subaru Impreza is a Top Safety Pick Plus, while the Mazda3 is a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. With that being said, Subaru wins, slightly in this department. It offers EyeSight® Driver Assist technology, which can brake automatically and monitor traffic, as well as correct your steering if you drift into the other lanes. EyeSight® isn’t standard on the Impreza, but it’s worth considering.
Reliability and Longevity
When buying a car, you probably hope to keep it for a long time and keep it out of the mechanic’s shop. Both the Mazda3 and the Subaru Impreza have high marks for reliability and last a long time. Both need relatively little maintenance and should last well over 100,000 miles with only basic maintenance required. Not only that, both cars hold their resale value well, and if you buy one now, it will still be worth a lot even five or ten years down the road.
Subaru Impreza Hatchback vs. Mazda3 Hatchback Price Comparison
One area which the Subaru wins, hands-down, is the starting price. An Impreza without all the bells and whistles, but still a great car, can be had for under $20,000 dollars and is a bit cheaper than the Mazda3. Of course, when you add accessories and move up to nicer trims, the price difference isn’t that great. At the very least, it’s something to ponder if you are looking to get your feet wet with either car and don’t have a lot to spend.
Shared Features and Amenities
There are some things that make both vehicles very similar, which makes sense since they are in the same class and attract the same buyers. Both vehicles seat five, and both come with decent infotainment systems. Both the Impreza and Mazda3 have audio connectivity, Bluetooth, air conditions and keyless entry. Both cars also have similar turning radiuses, so you can get in and out of tight spaces with ease, and they both offer 3-year warranties, covering the first 36,000 miles. Of course, both car companies are known for being reliable, so either one probably won’t leave you stranded. Both car companies offer more extensive warranties that cover for the long-haul.
Driving Experience and Handling
Another thing that makes both cars similar is how fun and easy they are to drive. As mentioned, Mazda has AWD as an extra, while Subaru includes it. With that being said, if you invest in the AWD for the Mazda, you are going to love it. Combined with similar sizes and clearance, and both are going to be great the second you take it off the pavement, which you should. Given that they are both similar sizes, either one will do you well picking up the kids from school, going on a road trip or just driving to work. The Mada3 is more fun to drive as it has more horsepower.
Brand Appeal and Aftermarket Support
Overall, with the excitement factor, Subaru wins. Think about it. Subaru is well-known among circles of people who love camping, modding their cars, off-roading and doing more than most people ever dream of doing with their vehicles. This is in stark contrast to Mazda. While Mazda makes nice vehicles that last a long time and are practical, it’s harder to get excited about a Mazda like you would with a Subaru. There is a lot more fanfare surrounding the Subaru name, and this means there are a lot of aftermarket parts that you can find. This would include mods to the engine, exhaust and more.
Choosing Between Mazda3 Hatchback vs. Subaru Impreza Hatchback
If you want to buy the Mazda3 or the Subaru Impreza, you really can’t go wrong. Both are practical, fun to drive, reliable and well-known. Both are going to give you a lot of years of reliable driving, and both will hold their resale value well. However, there are some stark differences, and It’s really going to depend on your individual wants and needs. If you want to check out the 2023 Mazda3 Hatchback, you should head on down to Seacoast Mazda. Here, you can see what Mazda can do for you. With a quick test drive and a once-over, and you are sure to fall in love. Whether you get the base mode or invest a little more, if you buy a Mazda vehicle, it will be a beloved treasure for the long-haul.