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Mazda MAZDA3 vs. Scion tC Review

How the Mazda MAZDA3 stacks up against the Scion tC - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2010 Mazda MAZDA3
Price Range: $14,690 - $22,000
2010 Scion tC
Price: $17,000
Mazda MAZDA3 vs. Scion tC Review

Utility
The Scion tC is a better choice than the MAZDA3 with respect to hauling capacity, especially if you often need to carry a lot of suitcases or big pets. The MAZDA3 and the Scion tC can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Dimensions
The tC is a bit more ponderous than the Mazda MAZDA3. The Scion tC and the Mazda MAZDA3 compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs about the same to get the Scion tC to the dealership as the Mazda MAZDA3. The Mazda MAZDA3 won't save you much money at the pump compared to the Scion. The Scion tC isn't much less expensive than the Mazda MAZDA3 in terms of MSRP.

Handling
The Scion tC and the Mazda MAZDA3 have approximately similar tires. With their comparable turning circles, the MAZDA3 and the Scion tC very likely handle roughly the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda MAZDA3 and the tC have similar-sized engines, with a slight advantage to the tC. Torque is roughly equivalent to acceleration, and in this respect, the Scion tC isn't much more powerful than the Mazda MAZDA3.

Comfort
Taller drivers will markedly enjoy the extra head room in the MAZDA3's front cabin compared to the Scion tC. The Mazda MAZDA3 offers more head- and leg-room to your passengers than the Scion tC does.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Scion isn't quite as generous as the Mazda's.

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