Mazda MAZDA3 vs. Volvo V50 Review

Utility
The Volvo's bigger trunk will accommodate more sizeable things than the Mazda MAZDA3. Neither the Mazda MAZDA3 nor the Volvo V50 has a marked advantage regarding seating capacity.

Performance
With respect to horsepower, the Volvo V50 packs quite a wallop and will knock the MAZDA3 down a few rungs. However, note that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Dimensions
The Volvo V50 is markedly more ponderous than the Mazda MAZDA3. The Mazda MAZDA3's tank is roughly the same size as the Volvo V50's, though the Volvo V50's is a bit bigger. The Mazda MAZDA3 and the Volvo V50 compete for the same parking spaces.

Convenience
You'll doubtless take the Mazda MAZDA3 for a fill-up approximately as often as the V50.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The Mazda MAZDA3 is significantly cheaper to get to the dealership than the Volvo. The Volvo V50 won't tax your gasoline budget quite a bit more than the Mazda MAZDA3 will. Regarding fuel economy, the Mazda is a bit better than the Volvo V50, but not by much. The Volvo V50 is tremendously costlier than the Mazda MAZDA3 as far as MSRP. The Mazda MAZDA3 is tremendously less expensive than the Volvo V50 regarding purchase price.

Handling
With their comparable turning circles, the Mazda MAZDA3 and the Volvo doubtless handle roughly the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda MAZDA3 and the Volvo V50 have similar-sized engines, with a slight advantage to the Volvo V50. Torque is roughly equivalent to acceleration, and in this respect, the Volvo V50 is tremendously more powerful than the Mazda MAZDA3. The MAZDA3 could learn a lesson or two from the Volvo V50 when it comes to pickup.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Mazda MAZDA3 offers a bit more head room than the Volvo V50, there frankly isn't much of a difference. The ampler interior dimensions of the Mazda MAZDA3 make it substantially roomier for your passengers than the Volvo V50.

Overview
The V50 and the Mazda MAZDA3 have the same basic warranty.

Other
The Mazda MAZDA3 emits fewer smog-forming pollutants per 15,000 miles than the Volvo.