MG MG3 vs Mazda Mazda2
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchbacks 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 MG3 starts from $20,990 before on-road costs, while the Mazda Mazda2 opens at $22,990. That makes the MG MG3 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
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 $23,089 and $25,289 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mazda Mazda2 by roughly $3,135 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the MG MG3 and Mazda Mazda2 hold a 4-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 74% for the MG MG3 and 98% for the Mazda Mazda2.
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 1 in the Mazda Mazda2.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the MG MG3 and 6 in the Mazda Mazda2.
Feature Showdown
The MG MG3 features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the Mazda Mazda2 gets a 7-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG MG3 stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Mazda Mazda2. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MG MG3 uses a Petrol producing 81kW and 142Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.8 seconds.
The Mazda Mazda2 responds with a Petrol making 81kW and 142Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. In the real-world sprint, the Mazda Mazda2 is 0.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG MG3 measures 4,113mm long on a 2,570mm wheelbase, 28mm longer than the Mazda Mazda2 at 4,085mm (2,570mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 293L in the MG MG3 and 270L in the Mazda Mazda2, giving the MG MG3 a 23L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.2m to 10.4m
Based on 10.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.4m 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 MG MG3 and $1,083/year for the Mazda Mazda2. That is a $627 annual difference in favour of the Mazda Mazda2.
Estimated annual total: $1,710 (MG MG3) vs $1,083 (Mazda Mazda2). The Mazda Mazda2 saves you roughly $627 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG MG3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda Mazda2). The MG MG3 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG MG3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda Mazda2 if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG MG3 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Mazda Mazda2 will save you roughly $627 a year in fuel. 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.
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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