Mazda CX-3 vs Kia Niro

What's the difference?

VS
Mazda CX-3
Mazda CX-3

2026 price

Kia Niro
Kia Niro

$32,990 - $63,990

2023 price

Summary

2026 Mazda CX-3
2023 Kia Niro
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Inline 4, 2.0L

Not Applicable, 0.0L
Fuel Type
-

Electric
Fuel Efficiency
6.3L/100km (combined)

0.0L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Lack of efficiency
  • Interior tech outdated
  • Could be cheaper?

  • Rougher ride
  • Doughy acceleration from a full stop
  • Expensive compared to rivals
2026 Mazda CX-3 Summary

Mazda has updated one of its most popular, but rather old models. 

Yes, the Mazda CX-3 is still around after more than a decade since its reveal, and it remains almost at the tippy-top of Mazda’s local sales charts.

With the brand having shifted 8221 CX-3s in the first half of 2025, it seems the light updates and modest price rise haven’t scared away any potential customers.

We’ve grabbed a CX-3 Evolve, the second-up of four available variants, to see if the popular light SUV still stacks up, or if you’re better off taking your money elsewhere.

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2023 Kia Niro Summary

Kia has released the newly updated Niro, which is the smaller and less sporty sibling to Kia’s popular, EV6. As far as EVs go, it has a decent driving range and specs that should entice first-time electric vehicle owners to dip their toes into the EV pool.

However, the updated model does come with a price hike… which might not excite a budget-conscious buyer, especially with such affordable competitors like the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric also available.

I’ve been hanging in it for a week with my family of three to see how it handles!

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Mazda CX-3 2023 Kia Niro

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