MG MG ZS 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 MG MG ZS starts from $22,990 before on-road costs, while the Mazda CX-3 opens at $27,800. That makes the MG MG ZS the more affordable entry point by $4,810.
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 $25,289 and $30,580 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mazda CX-3 by roughly $1,000 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the MG MG ZS and Mazda CX-3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the MG MG ZS and 99% for the Mazda CX-3.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG MG ZS 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 7 in the MG MG ZS and 6 in the Mazda CX-3.
Feature Showdown
The MG MG ZS 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 MG MG ZS 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 MG MG ZS uses a Petrol producing 81kW and 140Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.9 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 81kW. In the real-world sprint, the MG MG ZS is 1.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG MG ZS measures 4,430mm long on a 2,610mm wheelbase, 155mm longer than the Mazda CX-3 at 4,275mm (2,570mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG MG ZS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 359L in the MG MG ZS and 350L in the Mazda CX-3, giving the MG MG ZS a 9L advantage.
For towing, the MG MG ZS 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 11.0m
Based on 11.0m 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 $1,910/year for the MG MG ZS and $1,710/year for the Mazda CX-3. That is a $200 annual difference in favour of the Mazda CX-3.
Estimated annual total: $1,910 (MG MG ZS) vs $1,710 (Mazda CX-3). The Mazda CX-3 saves you roughly $200 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG MG ZS) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-3). The MG MG ZS has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG MG ZS if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-3 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG MG ZS takes 5 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mazda CX-3 will save you roughly $200 a year in fuel. The MG MG ZS 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.
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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