I have a '14 Crosstrek. Like most buyers, I really didn't factor in 0-60 times in my buying decision. It's not the main reason why people buy vehicles like this. They're looking for efficiency, reliability, and in this case of the Impreza variants--AWD, which comes in handy where I live.
I remember when Roman HATTED the Mazda 3. So glad he came around. Nathan don't feel bad Subaru made a great choice with the Impreza. I love them both but I think Mazda will be my first foreign car... Keep up and great work and Happy Holidays...
You don't floor a CVT, you hold it at peak torque output. I did a quick Google search and it said around 8 Seconds. My 2016 Outlander Sport with a 2.0 and 148 horsepower gets 0 to 60 in around 8 seconds with a CVT and it weighs 3200 lb. Torque Peak output on my 4B 11 engine is 4250 RPMs
did you guys try 0-60 on the impreza in sport mode w the paddle shifters? I feel like maybe the manual mode will allows the first two simulated gears to allow it to be in the optimal power zone initially
Not surprising the Mazda is quicker. It does have a few extra ponies and about 100lbs lighter than the Subaru. The CVT doesn't help matters either. But still, I'd prefer the Subaru overall.
Of course not, the Impreza is 200 lbs heaiver, has AWD Drag, .31 cD vs .25 cD, the Mazda has 7 more hp and 5 more tq not to mention the high compression engine with the upgraded exhaust. I am a Subaru fan myself but now the 2014 Mazda3 is the best compact sedan ever! I may consider the 2015 Legacy but right now I am impressed by the Mazda3! Do you prefer this Impreza over the Mazda3 tested in the video?
Marty McFly Yes, the Impreza hands down. It's more stylish and I can't get over the cyclops instrument panel in the Mazda (0.44). But that's just my opinion.
swinglow33 I too do not like the Mazda's instrument cluster but Mazdas are engaging to drive and show their RX7 and Miata heritage. I would take the Subie if I lived in the snow belt in a heart beat though
Slow yes, but I love my 14 Forester (2.5, cvt). For a cuv getting real-world 28-30mpg combined economy is great. Fuel prices moved me from decades of Jeep GC ownership to Subaru. Also, just have to learn how to drive with the Subaru cvt...ease on moderately (not immediately to the floor) for better torque response.
my 2014 mazda3 i-touring has a manual, it also has everything but leather and a sunroof... i picked the 2.0 with a manual because it was faster than the 2.5 automatic. the leather only comes on the s-touring which has the 2.5 but only comes in automatic here. i just hit 7000 miles on my car and i love it more and more with every mile we go! not that the scooby-doobaru is a bad ride, but the new 3 truly is the best drivers car in its class, heck its a decent drivers car period.
judging these cars for their 0-60 time is like judging a carrera GT for its cargo space. if you want a sports car, then buy a proper one. these are small cars that do brilliantly what they're intended to do. which is not drag racing, by the way.
+Jeremy ...because the vast majority of people don't need that much? These cars aren't meant to be fast. The fact they're doing 0-60 tests on economy cars is stupid in itself.
I have the exact same Subaru as in your viedo, I could not believe the 0-60 time you got. I know my car is no hot rod, but your time was way off of mine. I got 10.25 O-60. You have to wait until Subie's get about 15k on the motor. They really perform better then.
Both these cars will serve their respective owners well. The Subaru boxer 4 has a unique sound among 4 cylinders, and I personally think it's a better sound. You should try the 0-60 run starting at PT then move to WOT (instead of brake torquing), you should get a better launch. For best acceleration, I think the CVT works best if you put it in manual mode and let it shift itself. Hey, that might make for another interesting comparo vid.
Nathan, I have a fun test you can do. Take the Mazda3 with good winter tires (non studded) and then take the Impreza with good all season tires and do a 0 to 60 mash up in snow.
Why test a CVT? I think they should have tested a 6 speed auto as well for the Impreza. The car might be slow due to the AWD system and low power but it'd be great for snowy roads.
...Because the Impreza doesn't have a 6-speed auto. 6-speed manual (5-speed for America I believe) or Lineartronic CVT for the Sube. The Lineartronic also has a manual mode with 6 shift points or "virtual gears". It's actually quite a nice transmission, it's just mated to an FB20 that's....not quite that powerful.
***** Hey Dog, I don't know where you live, but you obviously don't know anything about driving in the snow. I am from a great white north, and I can tell you that an AWD with snow tire will run cycle around a FR with all-season tire no matter how much talent the FR driver have. If you want to back up your words, come to Calgary or Edmonton and I'll race you.
Thanh Truong Whoa, Canadian tough guy here. I live in Northern Sierra Nevada. I picked up a few things.over the years. What about a AWD with a summer tire vs a FF or FR with snow? You come down here. I promise I can find us a more "interesting" race spot. roadwarrior.blogs.pressdemocrat.com/files/2011/05/echo21.jpg
Yes, Nathan, a CVT will help gas mileage. But when a car drones like that and shifts so poorly that its acceleration suffers, who wants it? Sorry, Subie and Nissan owners, but your car companies are on the wrong path.
mark willian...```overall driving experience and character the Mazda wins every time`` its not right word for mazda...infact skyactive is just a marketing name only if you go study about the skyactive nothing to shock men....the technology is already in subaru engine on EJ20 20years ago...for your info also skyactive not saving the fuel much...like they tell us...impreza 2.0i have award with 7liter for 100km in AWD permanently 0km to maximum speed...im fans of evo but i stil enjoy subaru bcoz its have alot of character and have very2 excellent reliability.
MUHAMMAD FARIDULLAH Yeah like I'm gonna believe you. If this skyactive was used by Subaru why didn't they hype it up? Why don't they sue Mazda for stolen tech? Subaru uses the awful CVT transmission to save fuel why didn't they just use the skyactive tech if it is theirs?. I like Subaru but I think the Mazda has more character although the WRX is a beast, but Im talking regular, everyday drivers
MUHAMMAD FARIDULLAH boy, many cars need premium fuels just to run at their optimal performance, while the Mazda is always faster compared to other engine with similarly sized engine with the cheapest fuel cause of high compression ratio and the way the exhaust flow is like 4-2-1
i like how most reviewers talk about how slow it is....its not a sports car, if you want speed go for a manual or better yet the wrx, we go for the impreza for mpg and awd. it gets almost the same mileage as most fwd cars but for those of us who need to it can do off road and snow like no other. id much rather get 35mpg and not have to replace tires every year or so then get to work 5 minutes faster
The WRX is a 2.0 Turbo Subie, so is the 2.0 XT Forester, you can also get a 3.6 Legacy/Outback or even a 2.5 Turbo STi, what's to hate about your options with Subaru here?
Barobran92 2.5 Mazda 3 is not worth it, 140 lb weight penalty, over 3,500 price difference and a 2 mpg loss, as well as only a 1 second quicker 0 to 60 time. The 2.0 skyactiv is the better engine here.
Well, of course the Subaristas don't care about no steenkin' 0-60 times. Out there at Lake Wobegon and on Michigan's UP, they have to contend with snow and ice 10 months a year. (Well, nearly so.) Have to wonder, though, if this particular Subaru isn't a bridge too far in terms of a competitive all round sedan for folks who don't spend their evenings enjoying the Northern Lights. If you're looking for a truly capable winter vehicle Subaru offers some much more capable models. I realize this 2L/4DR/Auto/fuel efficient sedan segment is just too large to ignore but this particular Impreza doesn't do justice to the Subaru badge.
Lake Wobegon! my first Michigan winter driving was also my first time driving; dad handed me the keys to his 2WD GMC sierra 1500 that had balding rear tires and made a comment about if i could survive the winter then he would let me drive the car (a 1988 mazda626) after a close up of the neighbors yard, a ditch, my buddies chevy and a nice pirouette through a red light the summer came... point being that i am still here and EVERY car is better in the snow than that old truck...likewise there is always a better car for the snow than (insert name) unless you drive a snowcat, in which case me and my 2014 mazda would like to invite you to a drag race... hopefully the STI/WRX guys stay home with their "snails".
Thanks for a great, real world review of acceleration at higher elevation. Most of western US is at 3000 to 4000 feet above sea, on average, while most of eastern US is at 1000 feet on average. The Subaru Impreza would be good car for the East coast driver, any coastal area driver, but not so for the rest of the country. Most Subaru diehards live in mountainous areas, Rockies, Sierras, Cascades, Green Mountains, Appalachian Mtns., ....the Impreza is not for them. It is for flatlanders mainly.
Sorry I will take my Subaru all wheel drive after this Northeast Winter 2014 not as fast but got me up all those snow covered hills I passed the stuck Mazda 3! :)
Wow! I am impressed. A lighter car was faster than a heavier car. I think they should have tried the wintery conditions then tallied up the points. I love my Impreza.
For everyday life and longevity I'd take the Subie any day over the Mazda. Also got to mention, did you see that tiny little tachometer on the Mazda?! Still hate the Mazda3 center screen as it looks like a complete after thought.
CVTs can zap the the driving enjoyment out of Any car! They just feel like they're not responding! So slow! Especially on an incline! Kudos to Mazda for doing a well engineered 6speed-automatic! I've been driving Mazda3s since '04, (had a 2004 & have a 2010 now… both hatchbacks) they are always reliable and crazy-fun to drive! I think I'll always be driving Mazda...
Would've thought the Mazda could get to 60 faster!! My 2008 2.3 i4 was rated at 0-60 in 7.2 I can't say for sure, but it feels a teeny bit faster than that too! Tested the new 14 2.5 and it still felt a little bit more sluggish than my car. Guess thats the price to pay for fuel economy!
Your link at the top states Impreza CrossTrek. It might be based on an Impreza, but it is not one. Here it is a XV Crosstrek and outside the USA it is simply Crosstrek. No Impreza, no uppercase T.
I have the 5 speed of the impreza and im so glad. my dad has a cvt forester and i hate it. but my dad is 65 years old and doesnt care about performance or anything where as i like to go faster. BUT even in the cvt version i would still pick the subaru over the mazda simply because awd.
Had 3 choices when I chose my next car,all 2016 models,Impreza 2.0i 5dr Sport,Mazda3 2.0 5dr and the wild card was Acura iLX,reason I put the Acura on my list once you start loading up the other 2 with options,the price rockets,the base Acura iLX as good options already plus 201BHP and good mpg,luxury etc etc,when I test drove the Mazda,first one broke down,second one was ok but I thought was not much vroom vroom,if you look at the 2.5ltr engine then price jumps big time,test drove the Acura iLX,all round nice nice car BUT mite have higher running costs in future plus I live in New England so those ultra low profile tyres mite be a issue,next was Subaru Impreza 20i Sport 5dr,build quality was nearly as good as the Acura but less pep in engine,good mpg and will cope well with winter driving.Felt the quality of the Mazda was a weakness but did like its European style media controls,bit like the i controler on BMW`s,all 3 cars have there pros and cons,felt the Mazda to be the lower quality car of the 3,the subaru was much higher in quality with the Acura just beating it in this area. So which did I pick,winner was Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport 5dr,its not going to wind any drag races but in the real world,for me was clear winner.
The 3 I'm looking at are all hatchbacks - Mazda 3 2.0, Impreza Sport Premium, Elantra GT. I've driven the Mazda 3 and GT, hate both of them. Visibility for the 3 is terrible, and too cramped up front. GT is just too small, and their Golden Boy panoramic sunroof spontaneously explodes for no reason. I haven't driven the Impreza yet, will this weekend. My biggest worry is the lousy infotainment system I've read about. I'll probably go aftermarket to get Android Auto and add the Subaru Kicker plug and go speakers upgrade.
Mazda3 sedan can be easliy be mistaken for a Mazda6 sedan, because the front and back are similar. But Subaru should update the Impreza for 2015 with more technology in the interior and exterior and EyeSight technology. The Lineartronic CVT is one of the best CVTs, which uses a chain, not a steel belt, for better reliability.
12.8 ain't fast but 148hp is decent power in any car as long as it isn't a midsize sedan or an suv. the average mazda3 in europe comes with a 105hp 1.6 diesel engine. don't mention the torque because it's got only 177 lb ft. you don't hear us complaining, anything below 35 mpg avg is unacceptable pretty much.
Fun to watch - but since when do hidden exhaust mean economy? The Mazda3 Hatch and Mazda6 have exposed exhaust, but have the same 2.5 Skyactiv engine - same HP and everything - kind of a stupid thing to say. On that logic the Corolla S is not an economy car with that chrome exhaust tip and huge 1.8l engine!
Hey Roman and Nathan: Get your opinions accorded or else you'd sound like this: Nathan @ 1:30 148hp 145 ft.lbs ( :S Ittt'sss not powerful) Roman @ 1:47 155hp 150 ft.lbs ( :) that is actualy PRETTY PEPPY!) That's actually the same specs with 2 extreme opinions...
The torque curve is more linear in the in the low mid RPM range for the mazda 3 as well + more responsive trans & overall lighter. Peppy & responsive is not only about max HP & max Torque, but rather how much net power is transferred to the tarmac at the moment you press on the gas pedal.
I can tell you one thing about the imprezza. Purchased one for my son over two years ago and has only been in the shop for oil changes and tire rotation. He has just over 50,000 miles on it now . reliability has been excellent . Also I think the new Mazda 3 is ugly inside and out .
Lovegames+ German ,French and other European cars are great driving cars but cost too much here to repair . Also , in most USA metropolitan areas , the traffic is so bad , its impossible to drive for fun . Driving where I live is horrible .
The mazda 3 has been the most reliable car my family's has ever owned! And about the looks you must be over 60+ because the subaru looks like a granny's car no offense and the interior is boring. The new mazda is for younger kids like me car companies don't care much about the old era anymore.
The CVT is not for car enthusiasts. It's for people who want fuel economy. Maybe in the future someone will combine the pulley system with a dual clutch. That's going to take some engineering.
I like the Mazda3, but I honestly don't feel particularly threatened by it with my Saturn SC2. It's a 38mpg car that's easily competitive with these cars for speed, and I paid $1,350. Burns oil like a two stroke and feels a bit buzzy on the freeway, but I pity the fool that thinks his stock CRX is faster.
Hey Nathan, check fuelly and see that the 3 is getting an average of 31~32 MPG whereas the Impreza only tad below 28 MPG. I would not be surprised if the dash meter is lying to you. Also the Impreza might consume oil, check out the owner's forum.
A 0-60 test is dumb for these car. They are economy cars... The only comparison for these cars that makes any sense is a bang for your buck best value test... Subaru wins. AWD standard. IIHS 5 star top safety pick. Optional hatchback and comparable mpg numbers with awd mind you.
The mpg with awd is really impressive, but I do really feel like they could have sacrificed a few for no cvt, but I guess there’s the manual, although as tested they were both 25k I’m pretty sure the Impreza usually retails higher. Also the Mazda was also a top safety pick for that year as well. When t comes to my moms legacy, I gotta hand it to Subaru they can make a car that doesn’t feel completely out of touch, it’s a comfortable driving experience without feeling disconnected from the road which I feel like a lot of newer cars miss. Also around town 0-30 is fine, but god damn if you need to get to 50 or 60 in a hurry, that’s where it lacks
I'd be interested to see how the manual's line up against each other because my 2014 Hatch 5spd Impreza is definitely peppier off the line than the CVT model. And I'm getting 32 mpg actual combined still without even trying.
You have to hand it to Mazda. They are really starting to hit their stride with these new models. I think they are going to see some real growth in sales in the next few years. You can't slam the Subaru either. Yeah, it is slow but it accomplishes its mission. 34 real-world mpg in a AWD 5 door is nothing to sneeze at. Especially at 6,000 feet. People who are at lower elevations and flog it less than Nathan could do noticeably better.
I am not convinced Nathan drove the impreza properly. I haven't driven an impreza but I've had 2 Altima's all CVTs, one 2.5 and the other 3.5. When you drive a cvt, at times, it would seem that you already floored it but really not. You really have to step hard on it at the end of the soft travel and it would activate the kickdown switch which would immediately bring the rpm to the redline and stay there and the acceleration is just achieve by the varying CVT ratio. The way he drove it sounded like he was just waiting for the rpm to get to the redline. I am not saying that it would make the impreza faster than the mazda 3 but the gap should not be that big even if the impreza is an awd car. In my experience, CVTs are really quicker than std automatics.
Comparing a Subaru Impreza with a Mazda 3 on acceleretion means you know very little about cars. Compare those two on snow and then what? Mazda 3 would be a lesser car? No, they are simply two very different cars with different qualities.
You sure that the paddle shifters won't effect acceleration? (I tested it on a XV Crosstrek, and I thought the paddle shifters did enhance acceleration).
I got the new mazda 3 gt just a few months ago I can tell you its fantastic. The only downside the infotainment system wich isnt really good, but an update is already available and i hope it will fix it. Mazda is more fun to drive and has a more luxurious interior. With the Impreza though you get AWD
I love how Mazda build there cars , I had a 2010 mazda 3 sport GT you guys should do a review on the 2010 mazda 3 GT , but I just bought a 2014 Mazda 3 GS sedan soul red in coler .
Marty McFly the mazda3 is the easy choice, in my opinion, because it can deliver the same mpg, while producing decent everyday driving performance. the interior and exterior styling are a bit bland, but they show good quality. the only other car in this segment i would consider is the dodge dart sxt, because it looks decent and has 184hp. however, i question the quality of a chrysler entry level. i like to have fun when i'm driving, so other higher quality cars like the corolla and civic are out of the equation, because they lack performance. the chevy cruze and ford focus are ugly, minus their interiors! the subaru is simply too slow!
I love the mazda 3 but it's just looks like they did not take their time with exterior just looks like the mazda6 which I think they should have thought of something else but still good car alittle pricey for a hatchback
I don't like the Subaru's front windows with the split design. A flush solid piece window is better and is quieter. Theses windows with the spit design tend to create a unnecessary wind noise especially as they age.. Over all the Mazda is the winner for me. It is better to look at better materials in the interior, and better performance.
#1 over a mile above sea level #2 The worst way to launch a CVT is to brake Torque it The way to launch a cvt the Fastest way and actually make the car feel peppy as hell is to feed the gas a little slower than normal. My Impreza CVT does 0-60 in a really good 7.9. These guys can’t drive...
Hey Nathan, can you guys try to do 3 runs each and then both of you switch cars and do it again and give us the average of all 6 times for each vehicle? Also, to make it more fair for the Subaru put 1/8 a tank of premium fuel in it after driving it with Premium for 3 full tanks. Then take the Mazda3 for all the runs with 87 and run a totally full tank of gas just to help balance the weight better. This should give more accurate times if you both were to drive each vehicle. Thanks Guys, this is one of your best comparison videos thus far!
I'm curious what the Mazda 3 and Subie Impreza w/ manual transmissions would pull from 0-60, I'm sure the Mazda would be quicker, but I wonder how much quicker the Impreza would be.
i can tell you the 3 with a manual and 2.0 is quicker than the 2.5 with an auto... its also quicker than a jetta tdi with bolt on mods... not that i race people or anything
An AWD car with a cvt compared to a car with the same size engine with a 6 speed and 2wd. Why did they even waste their time, shit, why did I waste mine?
what so weird is that the Mazda 3 is the best selling car in Australia since 2009 or so and in America that not usually the small car they would go for instead Honda civics where as in Australia we don't even put the Honda civic in our small car tests!
Honda and Mazda are both total shit cars. I'm sorry the Mazda sells so well there and don't worry about putting the Honda in the small car tests because they are crap.
FYI the 2014 Mazda3 is now the safest compact sedan on the market tied with the 2014 Honda Civic which are the only 2 compact sedans to earn a top safety pick PLUS! This Mazda is a perfect car, 41 mpg and 0 to 60 in 8 seconds the focus can't even come close to that yet alone anything else. The Civic is a dog that weighs 20 lbs more than the Mazda3 and gets 2 mpg less. If you are over 5'9 have fun fitting in the Civic there is no head room at all!
It's no longer the best selling car in Australia. Pretty sure the new Corolla overtook the Mazda 3 sales figures. But still I wouldn't buy a Corolla either.
I've never understood the appeal of the Mazda 3, from a cost perspective. For the same money, I could jump into a moderately equipped Mazda 6/Accord/Civic Si or Lightly Equipped GTI/GLI, just as a few examples. Maybe I don't value factory upgraded sound and leather seating enough to justify the expense, as it does seem to make a luxury/efficiency value proposition. (vs I prefer seating position/visibility, ergonomics, performance)
Mazda 3 is built better, more fuel efficent and has a nicer interior with more head and leg room. The Mazda 3 is going to sell better than the Mazda 6 The mazda 6 is heavier and only has the 2.5 liter engine option. You can get the 2.5 liter engine in a Mazda 3 which is over 250 lbs lighter which makes a difference.
***** Well, to shed light on that for you, there are a ton of "features" that are actually expensive filler or actually in some cases detract from the car. So all of the aftermarket/cosmetic mods that you get for a step up in trim are just fluff to some people. I'd say the only thing missing, per se, from a comparably priced GTI is nav. As for the midsize thing, do you not consider GTI and Civic SI as class similar competitors? Otherwise, it's just a value/marketing thing. American like big cars, small cars priced similar to larger cars may have trouble with internal competition. This has changed some with the fuel conscious image thing.
You would have to own one to understand, the shifter and handling of the Mazda is superior....and even the quality of materials is better than the Civic, reliability is worlds ahead of VW.
The Mazda is faster but the Subaru is a better car. Period. Mazda vehicles are junk and good luck if you ever go to have warranty work done in the 3/36 timeframe. They will tell you that it's an adjustment and/or break-in item and not eligible for warranty repair unless you brought it in before 1,200 miles. I have had 2 Mazda vehicles and never again. Buyer beware! But, great vid guys!! Love you!!
Let's call a pig a pig. These cars are strictly for the individual who is all about getting from point A to B... NOT for the individual who actually hopes to take any pleasure in driving!
You guys should try out the Manual transmission instead of the shitty CVT!!!!!!!!!!!! You'll do it under 10 seconds easily with Manual transmission, God damn.
Mazda 3 is the beautiful car
Make more videos like this! That's what I like about this channel comparing cars from 0-60!!! Keep it up bro's.
I have a '14 Crosstrek. Like most buyers, I really didn't factor in 0-60 times in my buying decision. It's not the main reason why people buy vehicles like this. They're looking for efficiency, reliability, and in this case of the Impreza variants--AWD, which comes in handy where I live.
I have a 2013 impreza hatchback just like that. I feel that when I use manual mode and use the paddle shifters it goes A LOT quicker
Ill take the suby anyway simply because of the AWD. Who cares if its slower, these cars are base model econo cars... this race is null and void.
William Grand right! Who the hell tests 2 econoboxes? Bring in the WRX/STI..Mazdaspeed3 etc.
I'D take the Impreza for up here in Minnesnowda (AWD).
Plus it looks slightly better IMO
I remember when Roman HATTED the Mazda 3. So glad he came around. Nathan don't feel bad Subaru made a great choice with the Impreza. I love them both but I think Mazda will be my first foreign car... Keep up and great work and Happy Holidays...
You don't floor a CVT, you hold it at peak torque output. I did a quick Google search and it said around 8 Seconds. My 2016 Outlander Sport with a 2.0 and 148 horsepower gets 0 to 60 in around 8 seconds with a CVT and it weighs 3200 lb.
Torque Peak output on my 4B 11 engine is 4250 RPMs
did you guys try 0-60 on the impreza in sport mode w the paddle shifters? I feel like maybe the manual mode will allows the first two simulated gears to allow it to be in the optimal power zone initially
Not surprising the Mazda is quicker. It does have a few extra ponies and about 100lbs lighter than the Subaru. The CVT doesn't help matters either. But still, I'd prefer the Subaru overall.
Of course not, the Impreza is 200 lbs heaiver, has AWD Drag, .31 cD vs .25 cD, the Mazda has 7 more hp and 5 more tq not to mention the high compression engine with the upgraded exhaust. I am a Subaru fan myself but now the 2014 Mazda3 is the best compact sedan ever! I may consider the 2015 Legacy but right now I am impressed by the Mazda3! Do you prefer this Impreza over the Mazda3 tested in the video?
Marty McFly Yes, the Impreza hands down. It's more stylish and I can't get over the cyclops instrument panel in the Mazda (0.44). But that's just my opinion.
swinglow33 I too do not like the Mazda's instrument cluster but Mazdas are engaging to drive and show their RX7 and Miata heritage. I would take the Subie if I lived in the snow belt in a heart beat though
Mazda is tacky, Subaru is clean. Both good cars, but I like to grip the ground, so I would always choose subaru.
AllTerrain Guy My Mazda 3 is extremely grippy, grippier than my mom's Porsche
Slow yes, but I love my 14 Forester (2.5, cvt). For a cuv getting real-world 28-30mpg combined economy is great. Fuel prices moved me from decades of Jeep GC ownership to Subaru. Also, just have to learn how to drive with the Subaru cvt...ease on moderately (not immediately to the floor) for better torque response.
my 2014 mazda3 i-touring has a manual, it also has everything but leather and a sunroof... i picked the 2.0 with a manual because it was faster than the 2.5 automatic. the leather only comes on the s-touring which has the 2.5 but only comes in automatic here. i just hit 7000 miles on my car and i love it more and more with every mile we go! not that the scooby-doobaru is a bad ride, but the new 3 truly is the best drivers car in its class, heck its a decent drivers car period.
judging these cars for their 0-60 time is like judging a carrera GT for its cargo space.
if you want a sports car, then buy a proper one. these are small cars that do brilliantly what they're intended to do. which is not drag racing, by the way.
I recently had to make this very decision. I loved the Mazda3, but the Subaru's AWD won me over in the end...
which subaro wrx?
no exhaust to be seen at the mazda?? my mazda 3 got 2 exhaust pipes, one every side, standard!! and 0-60 in 8.2sec, standard!! nice review!!
It annoys me that my old 1.9T '03 volvo is quicker than these cars. Why can't all cars have like a minimum of 170hp
+Jeremy ...because the vast majority of people don't need that much? These cars aren't meant to be fast. The fact they're doing 0-60 tests on economy cars is stupid in itself.
I have the exact same Subaru as in your viedo, I could not believe the 0-60 time you got. I know my car is no hot rod, but your time was way off of mine. I got 10.25 O-60. You have to wait until Subie's get about 15k on the motor. They really perform better then.
+jeffrey kweller That's true. And their time of 10.4 for the Mazda is also way more than it takes. Should be around 8-9 seconds.
Both these cars will serve their respective owners well. The Subaru boxer 4 has a unique sound among 4 cylinders, and I personally think it's a better sound. You should try the 0-60 run starting at PT then move to WOT (instead of brake torquing), you should get a better launch. For best acceleration, I think the CVT works best if you put it in manual mode and let it shift itself. Hey, that might make for another interesting comparo vid.
14:1 Compression ratio FTW!
13:1 not 14
Marty McFly Oops, 14:1 in most countries and 13:1 in the US. Still very high even at 13:1.
Nathan, I have a fun test you can do. Take the Mazda3 with good winter tires (non studded) and then take the Impreza with good all season tires and do a 0 to 60 mash up in snow.
Why test a CVT? I think they should have tested a 6 speed auto as well for the Impreza. The car might be slow due to the AWD system and low power but it'd be great for snowy roads.
...Because the Impreza doesn't have a 6-speed auto. 6-speed manual (5-speed for America I believe) or Lineartronic CVT for the Sube. The Lineartronic also has a manual mode with 6 shift points or "virtual gears". It's actually quite a nice transmission, it's just mated to an FB20 that's....not quite that powerful.
because 99% of people will buy a CVT
Snow driving is ALL talent. AWD will help, but will not make a good snow driver.
***** Hey Dog, I don't know where you live, but you obviously don't know anything about driving in the snow. I am from a great white north, and I can tell you that an AWD with snow tire will run cycle around a FR with all-season tire no matter how much talent the FR driver have. If you want to back up your words, come to Calgary or Edmonton and I'll race you.
Thanh Truong Whoa, Canadian tough guy here. I live in Northern Sierra Nevada. I picked up a few things.over the years. What about a AWD with a summer tire vs a FF or FR with snow?
You come down here. I promise I can find us a more "interesting" race spot.
roadwarrior.blogs.pressdemocrat.com/files/2011/05/echo21.jpg
Wow! The Mazda 3 owns! Even the Mazda 2, 5 speed does 0-60 in 9 seconds! :) Fun Lil Mazda 2! Plus 38+mpg in mixed driving!
Yes, Nathan, a CVT will help gas mileage. But when a car drones like that and shifts so poorly that its acceleration suffers, who wants it? Sorry, Subie and Nissan owners, but your car companies are on the wrong path.
DaveR I
Mark you I'm no fan of the mazdas dashboard but overall driving experience and character the Mazda wins every time
mark willian...```overall driving experience and character the Mazda wins every time`` its not right word for mazda...infact skyactive is just a marketing name only if you go study about the skyactive nothing to shock men....the technology is already in subaru engine on EJ20 20years ago...for your info also skyactive not saving the fuel much...like they tell us...impreza 2.0i have award with 7liter for 100km in AWD permanently 0km to maximum speed...im fans of evo but i stil enjoy subaru bcoz its have alot of character and have very2 excellent reliability.
MUHAMMAD FARIDULLAH Yeah like I'm gonna believe you. If this skyactive was used by Subaru why didn't they hype it up? Why don't they sue Mazda for stolen tech? Subaru uses the awful CVT transmission to save fuel why didn't they just use the skyactive tech if it is theirs?. I like Subaru but I think the Mazda has more character although the WRX is a beast, but Im talking regular, everyday drivers
MUHAMMAD FARIDULLAH boy, many cars need premium fuels just to run at their optimal performance, while the Mazda is always faster compared to other engine with similarly sized engine with the cheapest fuel cause of high compression ratio and the way the exhaust flow is like 4-2-1
i like how most reviewers talk about how slow it is....its not a sports car, if you want speed go for a manual or better yet the wrx, we go for the impreza for mpg and awd. it gets almost the same mileage as most fwd cars but for those of us who need to it can do off road and snow like no other. id much rather get 35mpg and not have to replace tires every year or so then get to work 5 minutes faster
I hate these 2.0 non turbo subies. Bring back the 2.5!
Barobran92 Thats because i love you
The WRX is a 2.0 Turbo Subie, so is the 2.0 XT Forester, you can also get a 3.6 Legacy/Outback or even a 2.5 Turbo STi, what's to hate about your options with Subaru here?
Barobran92
2.5 Mazda 3 is not worth it, 140 lb weight penalty, over 3,500 price difference and a 2 mpg loss, as well as only a 1 second quicker 0 to 60 time. The 2.0 skyactiv is the better engine here.
Marty McFly Only one second quicker to 0-60?
That's a HUGE difference.
sleeksilver
So is 3500 bucks, not worth it in my opinion. If only it had a 2.0 Turbo with a 0 to 60 of 5.4 seconds then it would be worth it.
Well, of course the Subaristas don't care about no steenkin' 0-60 times. Out there at Lake Wobegon and on Michigan's UP, they have to contend with snow and ice 10 months a year. (Well, nearly so.)
Have to wonder, though, if this particular Subaru isn't a bridge too far in terms of a competitive all round sedan for folks who don't spend their evenings enjoying the Northern Lights. If you're looking for a truly capable winter vehicle Subaru offers some much more capable models. I realize this 2L/4DR/Auto/fuel efficient sedan segment is just too large to ignore but this particular Impreza doesn't do justice to the Subaru badge.
it's true. my 97 outback sport loves the snow and handles just about any depth with nothing more than a set of all seasons.
Unless those "Subaristas" are WRX/STi junkies.
Lake Wobegon!
my first Michigan winter driving was also my first time driving; dad handed me the keys to his 2WD GMC sierra 1500 that had balding rear tires and made a comment about if i could survive the winter then he would let me drive the car (a 1988 mazda626) after a close up of the neighbors yard, a ditch, my buddies chevy and a nice pirouette through a red light the summer came... point being that i am still here and EVERY car is better in the snow than that old truck...likewise there is always a better car for the snow than (insert name) unless you drive a snowcat, in which case me and my 2014 mazda would like to invite you to a drag race... hopefully the STI/WRX guys stay home with their "snails".
Huh? Nothing of what your saying is making any sense.
Mazda3 looks very handsome.
Thanks for a great, real world review of acceleration at higher elevation. Most of western US is at 3000 to 4000 feet above sea, on average, while most of eastern US is at 1000 feet on average. The Subaru Impreza would be good car for the East coast driver, any coastal area driver, but not so for the rest of the country. Most Subaru diehards live in mountainous areas, Rockies, Sierras, Cascades, Green Mountains, Appalachian Mtns., ....the Impreza is not for them. It is for flatlanders mainly.
Sorry I will take my Subaru all wheel drive after this Northeast Winter 2014 not as fast but got me up all those snow covered hills I passed the stuck Mazda 3! :)
Wow! I am impressed. A lighter car was faster than a heavier car. I think they should have tried the wintery conditions then tallied up the points. I love my Impreza.
doggyd0c Or do you mean "Imprezzed"? LOL.
For everyday life and longevity I'd take the Subie any day over the Mazda. Also got to mention, did you see that tiny little tachometer on the Mazda?! Still hate the Mazda3 center screen as it looks like a complete after thought.
for a real review, go to Car and Driver. Mazda 3 #1, Subaru Impreza #14.
+Ashley Coe Sorry but their channel is complete fraud. Go to KBB.
That's the very basic 3. But anything can thrash a terrible CVT. Skyactiv transmission is brilliant though.
So the Mazda3 will get to the next red light a fraction of a second faster than the Subaru Impreza? Oh okay.
And if you bought the 2.5L Mazda3, and didn't race it so high above sea level you'd see 0-60 in 7.5 seconds... which is more than acceptable.
CVTs can zap the the driving enjoyment out of Any car! They just feel like they're not responding! So slow! Especially on an incline!
Kudos to Mazda for doing a well engineered 6speed-automatic!
I've been driving Mazda3s since '04, (had a 2004 & have a 2010 now… both hatchbacks) they are always reliable and crazy-fun to drive! I think I'll always be driving Mazda...
By moving the stick to manual shift and using the paddle shifters the Impreza will do 0 to 60 in 9 seconds.
The Subaru Impreza is not the XV. It is just the hatchback one. So the review link up above is for a XV not the lower to the ground hatchback.
Mazda3 2.0L is my next car. Can't wait to get rid of my 03 corolla. Was wondering if I should go for the 2.5L but this one looks good enough.
Would've thought the Mazda could get to 60 faster!! My 2008 2.3 i4 was rated at 0-60 in 7.2 I can't say for sure, but it feels a teeny bit faster than that too! Tested the new 14 2.5 and it still felt a little bit more sluggish than my car. Guess thats the price to pay for fuel economy!
Your link at the top states Impreza CrossTrek. It might be based on an Impreza, but it is not one. Here it is a XV Crosstrek and outside the USA it is simply Crosstrek. No Impreza, no uppercase T.
I have the 5 speed of the impreza and im so glad. my dad has a cvt forester and i hate it. but my dad is 65 years old and doesnt care about performance or anything where as i like to go faster. BUT even in the cvt version i would still pick the subaru over the mazda simply because awd.
Had 3 choices when I chose my next car,all 2016 models,Impreza 2.0i 5dr Sport,Mazda3 2.0 5dr and the wild card was Acura iLX,reason I put the Acura on my list once you start loading up the other 2 with options,the price rockets,the base Acura iLX as good options already plus 201BHP and good mpg,luxury etc etc,when I test drove the Mazda,first one broke down,second one was ok but I thought was not much vroom vroom,if you look at the 2.5ltr engine then price jumps big time,test drove the Acura iLX,all round nice nice car BUT mite have higher running costs in future plus I live in New England so those ultra low profile tyres mite be a issue,next was Subaru Impreza 20i Sport 5dr,build quality was nearly as good as the Acura but less pep in engine,good mpg and will cope well with winter driving.Felt the quality of the Mazda was a weakness but did like its European style media controls,bit like the i controler on BMW`s,all 3 cars have there pros and cons,felt the Mazda to be the lower quality car of the 3,the subaru was much higher in quality with the Acura just beating it in this area.
So which did I pick,winner was Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport 5dr,its not going to wind any drag races but in the real world,for me was clear winner.
The 3 I'm looking at are all hatchbacks - Mazda 3 2.0, Impreza Sport Premium, Elantra GT. I've driven the Mazda 3 and GT, hate both of them. Visibility for the 3 is terrible, and too cramped up front. GT is just too small, and their Golden Boy panoramic sunroof spontaneously explodes for no reason. I haven't driven the Impreza yet, will this weekend. My biggest worry is the lousy infotainment system I've read about. I'll probably go aftermarket to get Android Auto and add the Subaru Kicker plug and go speakers upgrade.
Mazda3 sedan can be easliy be mistaken for a Mazda6 sedan, because the front and back are similar. But Subaru should update the Impreza for 2015 with more technology in the interior and exterior and EyeSight technology. The Lineartronic CVT is one of the best CVTs, which uses a chain, not a steel belt, for better reliability.
So you want the Subaru to be heavier and even slower? I believe the Mazda3 uses a timing chain as well.
Can you do a comparo between Mazda 3 and Hyundai elantra! I think the elantra is more spacious and powerful but the Mazda looks a lot better.
12.8 ain't fast but 148hp is decent power in any car as long as it isn't a midsize sedan or an suv. the average mazda3 in europe comes with a 105hp 1.6 diesel engine. don't mention the torque because it's got only 177 lb ft. you don't hear us complaining, anything below 35 mpg avg is unacceptable pretty much.
I luv subies but CVT sucks...
Fun to watch - but since when do hidden exhaust mean economy? The Mazda3 Hatch and Mazda6 have exposed exhaust, but have the same 2.5 Skyactiv engine - same HP and everything - kind of a stupid thing to say. On that logic the Corolla S is not an economy car with that chrome exhaust tip and huge 1.8l engine!
Hey Roman and Nathan: Get your opinions accorded or else you'd sound like this:
Nathan @ 1:30 148hp 145 ft.lbs ( :S Ittt'sss not powerful)
Roman @ 1:47 155hp 150 ft.lbs ( :) that is actualy PRETTY PEPPY!)
That's actually the same specs with 2 extreme opinions...
sounds like it comes to the trans and ratios
the 0 to 60 shows it to be the case =)
200 lbs more and AWD is what holds down the Subaru.
Ok I understand!
The torque curve is more linear in the in the low mid RPM range for the mazda 3 as well + more responsive trans & overall lighter. Peppy & responsive is not only about max HP & max Torque, but rather how much net power is transferred to the tarmac at the moment you press on the gas pedal.
I can tell you one thing about the imprezza. Purchased one for my son over two years ago and has only been in the shop for oil changes and tire rotation. He has just over 50,000 miles on it now . reliability has been excellent .
Also I think the new Mazda 3 is ugly inside and out .
Lovegames+ German ,French and other European cars are great driving cars but cost too much here to repair . Also , in most USA metropolitan areas , the traffic is so bad , its impossible to drive for fun . Driving where I live is horrible .
The mazda 3 has been the most reliable car my family's has ever owned! And about the looks you must be over 60+ because the subaru looks like a granny's car no offense and the interior is boring. The new mazda is for younger kids like me car companies don't care much about the old era anymore.
The CVT is not for car enthusiasts. It's for people who want fuel economy. Maybe in the future someone will combine the pulley system with a dual clutch. That's going to take some engineering.
Acceleration is the only place the Mazda3 comes out on top. Good luck getting it anywhere in the snow.
I like the Mazda3, but I honestly don't feel particularly threatened by it with my Saturn SC2. It's a 38mpg car that's easily competitive with these cars for speed, and I paid $1,350. Burns oil like a two stroke and feels a bit buzzy on the freeway, but I pity the fool that thinks his stock CRX is faster.
Hey Nathan, check fuelly and see that the 3 is getting an average of 31~32 MPG whereas the Impreza only tad below 28 MPG. I would not be surprised if the dash meter is lying to you.
Also the Impreza might consume oil, check out the owner's forum.
A 0-60 test is dumb for these car. They are economy cars... The only comparison for these cars that makes any sense is a bang for your buck best value test... Subaru wins. AWD standard. IIHS 5 star top safety pick. Optional hatchback and comparable mpg numbers with awd mind you.
+Daniel George Thank you! Someone gets it!
The mpg with awd is really impressive, but I do really feel like they could have sacrificed a few for no cvt, but I guess there’s the manual, although as tested they were both 25k I’m pretty sure the Impreza usually retails higher. Also the Mazda was also a top safety pick for that year as well.
When t comes to my moms legacy, I gotta hand it to Subaru they can make a car that doesn’t feel completely out of touch, it’s a comfortable driving experience without feeling disconnected from the road which I feel like a lot of newer cars miss. Also around town 0-30 is fine, but god damn if you need to get to 50 or 60 in a hurry, that’s where it lacks
Alright, the Subaru didn't win the 0-60 test, but I bought that car because it's a blast to drive in the snow! I love my Subaru.
repeat this test in the snow!
MrNick98 Yep, Mazda would be stuck in the snow.
I'd be interested to see how the manual's line up against each other because my 2014 Hatch 5spd Impreza is definitely peppier off the line than the CVT model. And I'm getting 32 mpg actual combined still without even trying.
You have to hand it to Mazda. They are really starting to hit their stride with these new models. I think they are going to see some real growth in sales in the next few years. You can't slam the Subaru either. Yeah, it is slow but it accomplishes its mission. 34 real-world mpg in a AWD 5 door is nothing to sneeze at. Especially at 6,000 feet. People who are at lower elevations and flog it less than Nathan could do noticeably better.
I love Mazdas, but, man, an auto really makes for a bad car.
CVTs are still infinitely worse though.
man that subie has one ugly plain interior.
Both cars have better driving dynamics than other cars in their class!
maybe the corolla but certainly not the focus.
Agreed
I am not convinced Nathan drove the impreza properly. I haven't driven an impreza but I've had 2 Altima's all CVTs, one 2.5 and the other 3.5. When you drive a cvt, at times, it would seem that you already floored it but really not. You really have to step hard on it at the end of the soft travel and it would activate the kickdown switch which would immediately bring the rpm to the redline and stay there and the acceleration is just achieve by the varying CVT ratio. The way he drove it sounded like he was just waiting for the rpm to get to the redline. I am not saying that it would make the impreza faster than the mazda 3 but the gap should not be that big even if the impreza is an awd car. In my experience, CVTs are really quicker than std automatics.
Comparing a Subaru Impreza with a Mazda 3 on acceleretion means you know very little about cars. Compare those two on snow and then what? Mazda 3 would be a lesser car? No, they are simply two very different cars with different qualities.
Let's put both on Colorado's Mountain to see who makes it up first. Subaru is a fast car for the engine!
You sure that the paddle shifters won't effect acceleration? (I tested it on a XV Crosstrek, and I thought the paddle shifters did enhance acceleration).
subie cvt is really good on mpg as observed on my xv. tfl can you guys do a mashup between mazda3 and ford focus as well. thanx.
I can't choose. I like both.
mazda is apparently VERY good
I got the new mazda 3 gt just a few months ago I can tell you its fantastic. The only downside the infotainment system wich isnt really good, but an update is already available and i hope it will fix it. Mazda is more fun to drive and has a more luxurious interior. With the Impreza though you get AWD
Jonathan Levesque did you get your infotainment update? they did mine in about 20min at the dealer, everything is better now.
yeah I got the update and its much better now :) fantastic car. Probably getting a speed 3 (hopefuly it will be out by then) after my lease
You can only have one! Unless you have hit the Powerball jackpot!
I love how Mazda build there cars , I had a 2010 mazda 3 sport GT you guys should do a review on the 2010 mazda 3 GT , but I just bought a 2014 Mazda 3 GS sedan soul red in coler .
The only good thing about the Impreza is AWD, the rest of it is lackluster.
The Mazda 3 is the best vehicle in the segment, hands down.
2014 MAzdas 3 interior looks much nicer than the 2012. The 2012 Mazda 3 has such a tacky interior.
great job guys! somehow you made a slow, boring car seem acceptable!
Which one, the Impreza?
Marty McFly
the mazda3 is the easy choice, in my opinion, because it can deliver the same mpg, while producing decent everyday driving performance. the interior and exterior styling are a bit bland, but they show good quality. the only other car in this segment i would consider is the dodge dart sxt, because it looks decent and has 184hp. however, i question the quality of a chrysler entry level. i like to have fun when i'm driving, so other higher quality cars like the corolla and civic are out of the equation, because they lack performance. the chevy cruze and ford focus are ugly, minus their interiors! the subaru is simply too slow!
Same here, I almost was excited to see the Mazda run a 10.16.
I love the mazda 3 but it's just looks like they did not take their time with exterior just looks like the mazda6 which I think they should have thought of something else but still good car alittle pricey for a hatchback
***** that will true but im talking about mazda not vw or bmw :)
I don't like the Subaru's front windows with the split design. A flush solid piece window is better and is quieter. Theses windows with the spit design tend to create a unnecessary wind noise especially as they age.. Over all the Mazda is the winner for me. It is better to look at better materials in the interior, and better performance.
If you could have Mazda3 2.2 Diesel with the Subaru AWD = Perfect
OMG! 12.81 seconds?! That's slower than my old 1985 Pontiac Fiero with 92 horsepower an 3 speed auto transmission!
Not at that altitude
Next time drive the 2.5l Impreza III with manual gearbox ! ;)
+AkseliK That's like saying next time try the Mazda 2.5 L S on the 3 with a manual.
Even the auto 2.5L (s) is 0-60 in 7.5. I have the 2010 Mazda3s (2.5L) and I don't consider it slow at all. A hoot to drive.
#1 over a mile above sea level
#2 The worst way to launch a CVT is to brake Torque it
The way to launch a cvt the Fastest way and actually make the car feel peppy as hell is to feed the gas a little slower than normal. My Impreza CVT does 0-60 in a really good 7.9. These guys can’t drive...
How's the subaru drive with a manual? I've been to the dealer and have over 25 imperzas not one in manual only the pos CVT
I'll take the Impreza up here in Maine. Mine is a tank in the snow.
why didn't u guys use the gears (shift the auto-boxes) vs. letting the car do it by itself??
Hey Nathan, can you guys try to do 3 runs each and then both of you switch cars and do it again and give us the average of all 6 times for each vehicle? Also, to make it more fair for the Subaru put 1/8 a tank of premium fuel in it after driving it with Premium for 3 full tanks. Then take the Mazda3 for all the runs with 87 and run a totally full tank of gas just to help balance the weight better. This should give more accurate times if you both were to drive each vehicle. Thanks Guys, this is one of your best comparison videos thus far!
I'm curious what the Mazda 3 and Subie Impreza w/ manual transmissions would pull from 0-60, I'm sure the Mazda would be quicker, but I wonder how much quicker the Impreza would be.
i can tell you the 3 with a manual and 2.0 is quicker than the 2.5 with an auto... its also quicker than a jetta tdi with bolt on mods... not that i race people or anything
An AWD car with a cvt compared to a car with the same size engine with a 6 speed and 2wd.
Why did they even waste their time, shit, why did I waste mine?
Hey Nathan maybe you should take Roman's sippy cup out of the rear cupholder first to save some weight, just sayin!
Wow, does the Mazda engine sound generic. I own a 5MT '13 Impreza, I'll take awd even if it's slower over front (crap) wheel drive any day.
skimaniac05 the 2.5 liter sounds very nice compared with the 2.0 and it's even faster for sure!
Mazda is the better car subarus are great cars however the cvt holds it back I wish Companies like Honda and Toyota and Subaru would ditch the CVT
what so weird is that the Mazda 3 is the best selling car in Australia since 2009 or so and in America that not usually the small car they would go for instead Honda civics where as in Australia we don't even put the Honda civic in our small car tests!
Honda and Mazda are both total shit cars. I'm sorry the Mazda sells so well there and don't worry about putting the Honda in the small car tests because they are crap.
FYI the 2014 Mazda3 is now the safest compact sedan on the market tied with the 2014 Honda Civic which are the only 2 compact sedans to earn a top safety pick PLUS! This Mazda is a perfect car, 41 mpg and 0 to 60 in 8 seconds the focus can't even come close to that yet alone anything else. The Civic is a dog that weighs 20 lbs more than the Mazda3 and gets 2 mpg less. If you are over 5'9 have fun fitting in the Civic there is no head room at all!
It's no longer the best selling car in Australia. Pretty sure the new Corolla overtook the Mazda 3 sales figures. But still I wouldn't buy a Corolla either.
Do the same test in snow... Oh boy... Let's compare apples and oranges!
I've never understood the appeal of the Mazda 3, from a cost perspective. For the same money, I could jump into a moderately equipped Mazda 6/Accord/Civic Si or Lightly Equipped GTI/GLI, just as a few examples. Maybe I don't value factory upgraded sound and leather seating enough to justify the expense, as it does seem to make a luxury/efficiency value proposition. (vs I prefer seating position/visibility, ergonomics, performance)
Mazda 3 is built better, more fuel efficent and has a nicer interior with more head and leg room. The Mazda 3 is going to sell better than the Mazda 6 The mazda 6 is heavier and only has the 2.5 liter engine option. You can get the 2.5 liter engine in a Mazda 3 which is over 250 lbs lighter which makes a difference.
Accord is boring and generic..no thanks. Mazda adds excitement!
***** Well, to shed light on that for you, there are a ton of "features" that are actually expensive filler or actually in some cases detract from the car. So all of the aftermarket/cosmetic mods that you get for a step up in trim are just fluff to some people. I'd say the only thing missing, per se, from a comparably priced GTI is nav.
As for the midsize thing, do you not consider GTI and Civic SI as class similar competitors? Otherwise, it's just a value/marketing thing. American like big cars, small cars priced similar to larger cars may have trouble with internal competition. This has changed some with the fuel conscious image thing.
You would have to own one to understand, the shifter and handling of the Mazda is superior....and even the quality of materials is better than the Civic, reliability is worlds ahead of VW.
The regular 3 is not really comparable to the Si of GTI, the Mazda speed 3 is a better match for them.
The Mazda is faster but the Subaru is a better car. Period. Mazda vehicles are junk and good luck if you ever go to have warranty work done in the 3/36 timeframe. They will tell you that it's an adjustment and/or break-in item and not eligible for warranty repair unless you brought it in before 1,200 miles. I have had 2 Mazda vehicles and never again. Buyer beware! But, great vid guys!! Love you!!
I've had four Mazda vehicles, and couldn't DISAGREE with you any more.
Try a different dealership.
it will be fun if you compare same model , different year cars
How the hell you managed to get 0-60 12.8? I do like 9.5 on drive, like 8.5 with brake boosting...
Let's call a pig a pig. These cars are strictly for the individual who is all about getting from point A to B... NOT for the individual who actually hopes to take any pleasure in driving!
I feel attacked! lol I have a '14 Subaru Impreza, but mines a 5 speed so it does a little better with higher RPMs allowed.
also depends on AWD vs FWD...honestly if that FWD cannot beat subie's mpg then it needs to get out of here....
I hate CVTs. I want a Bumper sticker for my Civic that says, "Please go around, is a CVT".
I couldn't imagine driving anything with less than 150hp at a mile above sea level. Yikes.
Subaru Died in 2008, performance and most definitely looks.
10.4? Stock my 2000 Mazda 323 1.6L did 9.5 secs.. And I'm in Australia, very hot and humid, small engines hate it
You're also not a mile high. Heat and humidity can't compare with high altitude.
Jeff Morse
yup, my impreza 2.0 2014 also does it under the video's time but way below 1600m height.
Still, impressive for a 1.6L.
MPH not KPH I watched your video of a Celica doing 0-100kph and it took 11 seconds.
You guys should try out the Manual transmission instead of the shitty CVT!!!!!!!!!!!!
You'll do it under 10 seconds easily with Manual transmission, God damn.