Mazda Mazda2 vs MG MG3
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchs 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.
Mazda Mazda2
From $20,495
Hatch
Petrol
1.5 litre in-line 4 cylinder 16-valve DOHC S-VT
76kW
6.4 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
250L
MG MG3
From $20,990
Hatch
Petrol
Petrol
81kW
6 L/100km
4★ ANCAP
293L
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Price Breakdown
The Mazda Mazda2 starts from $20,495 before on-road costs, while the MG MG3 opens at $20,990. That makes the Mazda Mazda2 the more affordable entry point by $495.
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 $22,545 and $23,089 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
The Mazda Mazda2 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the MG MG3.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG MG3 packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Mazda Mazda2.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. Airbag count is 6 in the Mazda Mazda2 and 6 in the MG MG3.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The MG MG3 counters with Apple CarPlay and power tailgate that the Mazda Mazda2 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda Mazda2 uses a 1.5 litre in-line 4 cylinder 16-valve DOHC S-VT producing 76kW and 135Nm of torque, sent through a 5-speed manual to a FWD layout.
The MG MG3 responds with a Petrol making 81kW and 142Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.8 seconds.
The MG MG3 has the clear power advantage at 81kW vs 76kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda Mazda2 measures 3,900mm long on a 2,490mm wheelbase, 213mm shorter than the MG MG3 at 4,113mm (2,570mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG MG3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 250L in the Mazda Mazda2 and 293L in the MG MG3, giving the MG MG3 a 43L advantage.
For towing, the Mazda Mazda2 leads with a 700kg braked capacity vs 500kg. That 200kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
9.8m to 10.2m
Based on 9.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,824/year for the Mazda Mazda2 and $1,710/year for the MG MG3. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the MG MG3.
Estimated annual total: $1,824 (Mazda Mazda2) vs $1,710 (MG MG3). The MG MG3 saves you roughly $114 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years (Mazda Mazda2) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG MG3). The MG MG3 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda Mazda2 if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG MG3 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG MG3 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories. The MG MG3 will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the MG MG3 has a clear edge. The MG MG3 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mazda Mazda2 and MG MG3?
The Mazda Mazda2 is the cheapest at $20,495 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG MG3 by $495.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MG MG3 uses the least fuel at 6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
The Mazda Mazda2 has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which has the most boot space?
The MG MG3 has the largest boot at 293L.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG MG3 has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG MG3 makes the most power at 81kW.
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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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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