Mazda CX-3 vs GAC Emzoom
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 Mazda CX-3 starts from $27,800 before on-road costs, while the GAC Emzoom opens at $25,590. 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 $30,580 and $28,149 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mazda CX-3 and GAC Emzoom 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 Mazda CX-3 and 6 in the GAC Emzoom.
Feature Showdown
The Mazda CX-3 features a 8-inch touchscreen, while the GAC Emzoom gets a 14.6-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GAC Emzoom counters with wireless charging, panoramic roof, power tailgate and ambient lighting that the Mazda CX-3 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-3 uses a Petrol producing 110kW and 195Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.9 seconds.
The GAC Emzoom responds with a Petrol Turbo making 125kW and 270Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.8 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 Mazda CX-3 measures 4,275mm long on a 2,570mm wheelbase, 135mm shorter than the GAC Emzoom at 4,410mm (2,650mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Emzoom generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 350L in the Mazda CX-3 and 341L in the GAC Emzoom, 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 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m 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 $1,710/year for the Mazda CX-3 and $1,881/year for the GAC Emzoom. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Mazda CX-3.
Estimated annual total: $1,710 (Mazda CX-3) vs $1,881 (GAC Emzoom). 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: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-3) vs 7 years / 150,000km (GAC Emzoom). The GAC Emzoom has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
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.
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.
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
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
