GAC Emzoom vs Mazda CX-3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The GAC Emzoom starts from $25,590 before on-road costs, while the Mazda CX-3 opens at $27,800. That makes the GAC Emzoom the more affordable entry point by $2,210.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $28,149 and $30,580 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the GAC Emzoom and Mazda CX-3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GAC Emzoom packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the Mazda CX-3.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the GAC Emzoom and 6 in the Mazda CX-3.
Feature Showdown
The GAC Emzoom features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Mazda CX-3 gets a 8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GAC Emzoom stands out with wireless charging, panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Mazda CX-3. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GAC Emzoom uses a Petrol Turbo producing 125kW and 270Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds.
The Mazda CX-3 responds with a Petrol making 110kW and 195Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.9 seconds.
The GAC Emzoom has the clear power advantage at 125kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the GAC Emzoom is 3.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GAC Emzoom measures 4,410mm long on a 2,650mm wheelbase, 135mm longer than the Mazda CX-3 at 4,275mm (2,570mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Emzoom generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 341L in the GAC Emzoom and 350L in the Mazda CX-3, giving the Mazda CX-3 a 9L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,881/year for the GAC Emzoom and $1,710/year for the Mazda CX-3. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Mazda CX-3.
Estimated annual total: $1,881 (GAC Emzoom) vs $1,710 (Mazda CX-3). The Mazda CX-3 saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 150,000km (GAC Emzoom) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-3). The GAC Emzoom has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GAC Emzoom if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-3 if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GAC Emzoom takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mazda CX-3 will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. The GAC Emzoom adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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