Ford Focus vs Mazda 3

Both the Ford Focus and Mazda 3 are great options for city driver cars. The question though is which is better for you, Ford Focus vs Mazda 3? Let’s look at these two cars and find out which one is a better buy for you. 

First off, here are The Pros and Cons of a Ford Focus

The Ford Focus has been a favorite amongst families and city drivers for decades. It has been a great alternative to popular SUVs. The car is most often been at a great price while providing a comfortable driving experience. 

Ford Focus Cons

Limited Trunk Space

The Ford Focus has a square-shaped trunk that makes for a decent area to get the necessary shopping done. However, the space is lacking. The trunk offers around 391 liters of space which is lower than some of the competitors in the same range. If you road trip frequently, this might be a deal breaker for you.

Problems

Ford vehicles are fairly reliable and are known to be good cars for daily drivers. That said, some of the Ford Focus models have had a few issues that include an issue with the brake pedal, an oil separator in the engine, and the rear doors opening when the window was lowered. Though for the most part, it should not give you any problems.

Ford Focus Pros

Back Seat Comfort

The back seating area offers slightly larger space compared to other cars in the same range. Only the tallest passengers may find it uncomfortable. For the most part, though, you and your passengers will have good seating and legroom. 

Handling

What the Focus lacks in trunk space, it makes up for in handling. This car is great for drivers which makes daily traveling much easier to manage. Especially if you need to drive to multiple places such as shopping, dropping kids at school, and going to work. 

Safety and Security

Another significant aspect of this car is that it rates highly when it comes to safety and security features. The base model comes with front and rear parking sensors, lane-keeping assist and a pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist protection.

Next Up, The Pros and Cons of the Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is available as a sedan or as a hatchback and offers a sense of a slightly higher-end daily driver over some of its competitors. It is a comfortable vehicle that is overall a great choice for driving in the city and taking medium-length road trips.

https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/mazda-3

https://www.carwow.co.uk/mazda/3#gref 

Mazda 3 Cons

Limited Backseat Space

The Mazda 3 has a sloping roof that cuts the head space for passengers. The legroom is also lacking. This will likely make it difficult for taller passengers and limit the backseat to two passengers instead of the five it is intended for. 

Low Rear Visibility

Due to the wide rear pillars, the Mazda 3 has low rear visibility. Which can make it a little bit harder to spot cars in other lanes or see what is behind you while driving. Reversing is not as much of an issue since there is a reverse camera.

Mazda 3 Pros

Great Infotainment System

For this range of vehicles, the infotainment system in the Mazda 3 is pretty decent. The 8.8-inch non-touch screen is controlled by a rotary knob and offers all kinds of connectivity. Such as 2 USB ports and voice command functionality. As well as an eight-speaker stereo.

Upscale Interior

The Mazda 3 stands out in comparison to other cars in the same range. The interior is comfortable and has an upscale feel about it. It looks great in the front and rear. Making it wonderful for a daily driver. 

Good Handling

For long-distance driving, the Mazda 3 is a great choice. The handling is somewhere between clean and sporty. It offers comfortable steering around corners as well. The transition from corner to straight is also very smooth, another reason this car is a great choice for road trips. 

Engines

The Ford Focus comes with a 1.0-liter petrol engine with either 125hp or 155hp. The high-performance ST model gets a 280hp 2.3-liter petrol engine. The Mazda 3 has the option of two engines, 2.0-liter 122hp SkyActiv-G petrol, or the SkyActiv-X 2.0-liter with 186hp. Older models also had the option of the 1.8-liter diesel engine if you are looking at buying a used Mazda 3.

Fuel Economy

It depends on which car you select. Each edition/version is different. You can expect to use up to 55 mpg for the Ford Focus. The Mazda 3 will offer between 27 and 32 mpg. 

What Does a Ford Focus Cost?

The Ford Focus will set you back around $35,590.

What Does a Mazda 3 Cost?

The Mazda 3 starts at around $33,395.

‍