GWM Haval Jolion 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 GWM Haval Jolion starts from $23,990 before on-road costs, while the Mazda CX-3 opens at $27,800. That makes the GWM Haval Jolion the more affordable entry point by $3,810.
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 $26,389 and $30,580 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Haval Jolion and Mazda CX-3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the GWM Haval Jolion and 99% for the Mazda CX-3.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Haval Jolion packs more ADAS features with 6 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 GWM Haval Jolion and 6 in the Mazda CX-3.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Haval Jolion features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the Mazda CX-3 gets a 8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Haval Jolion stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Mazda CX-3. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Haval Jolion uses a Petrol producing 105kW and 210Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.5 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 Mazda CX-3 has the clear power advantage at 110kW vs 105kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Haval Jolion is 1.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Haval Jolion measures 4,472mm long on a 2,700mm wheelbase, 197mm longer than the Mazda CX-3 at 4,275mm (2,570mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Haval Jolion generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 400L in the GWM Haval Jolion and 350L in the Mazda CX-3, giving the GWM Haval Jolion a 50L advantage.
For towing, the GWM Haval Jolion leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 12.0m
Based on 12.0m 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 $1,682/year for the GWM Haval Jolion and $1,710/year for the Mazda CX-3. That is a $28 annual difference in favour of the GWM Haval Jolion.
Estimated annual total: $1,682 (GWM Haval Jolion) vs $1,710 (Mazda CX-3). The GWM Haval Jolion saves you roughly $28 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Haval Jolion) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-3). The GWM Haval Jolion has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Haval Jolion if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-3 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval Jolion takes 6 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The GWM Haval Jolion will save you roughly $28 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the GWM Haval Jolion has a clear edge. The GWM Haval Jolion 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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