Mazda MAZDA3 vs. Toyota Matrix Review

Performance
The Matrix is likely to feel a bit sluggish because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio. With respect to horsepower, the Mazda MAZDA3 packs quite a wallop and will knock the Toyota Matrix down a few rungs. On the flip side, remember that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With their similar turning radiuses, the Mazda MAZDA3 and the Toyota Matrix doubtless handle about the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda MAZDA3 has a bigger engine than the Toyota. Remember that smaller engines are often cheaper to fix, but a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder. The Toyota Matrix could learn a lesson or two from the Mazda regarding pickup.

Utility
The Toyota is likely a better choice than the Mazda MAZDA3 with respect to hauling capacity, especially if you frequently need to carry a lot of gear or sizeable pets. Neither the Mazda MAZDA3 nor the Toyota has a marked advantage as far as seating capacity.

Convenience
The Mazda MAZDA3's fuel tank will need to be replenished a little more often than the unit in the Toyota Matrix.

Comfort
Taller drivers will considerably enjoy the extra head room in the Toyota Matrix's front cabin compared to the Mazda. While the rear of the Toyota Matrix offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the Mazda, there honestly isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The Mazda is somewhat heavier than the Toyota Matrix. The Matrix's tank is approximately the same size as the Mazda MAZDA3's, though the Mazda MAZDA3's is slightly larger. The Toyota Matrix 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 roughly the same to get the Mazda MAZDA3 to the dealership as the Matrix. Regarding gas mileage, the Toyota Matrix is a bit better than the Mazda MAZDA3, but not by much. There isn't much of a difference in gas mileage here, but if you must know, the Toyota Matrix is a tad more economical than the Mazda MAZDA3. When it comes to MSRP, the Toyota Matrix doesn't cost much less than the MAZDA3. With respect to purchase price, the MAZDA3 costs roughly as much as the Toyota Matrix (though the Toyota Matrix is a little cheaper).

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Toyota Matrix isn't quite as generous as the Mazda MAZDA3's.