In Malaysia's SUV market, many buyers compare Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Santa Fe when choosing a car. These two cars are quite close in price and positioning. Today, we will make a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time on research.
The Mazda CX-3 OTR price in Malaysia is RM 126,159 - 139,159. There are 2 versions in total, including 2023 2.0L High (RM 139,159), 2023 2.0L Plus (RM 126,159), etc.
The Hyundai Santa Fe OTR price in Malaysia is RM 225,000 - 270,000. There are 3 versions in total, including 2025 2.5T DCT 4WD Calligraphy 6 Seats (RM 270,000), 2025 HEV 1.6T AT 2WD Prestige 7 Seats (RM 245,000), 2025 HEV 1.6T AT 2WD Prime 7 Seats (RM 225,000), etc.
In terms of price, the Mazda CX-3 starting price is indeed RM 98,841 cheaper than the Hyundai Santa Fe. If your budget is limited, Mazda's entry-level version is already sufficient for daily needs. However, be aware that the savings of a few thousand might mean trade-offs in features, depending on your specific requirements.

The Mazda CX-3 is equipped with 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption 8.0 L/100km.
In terms of power, the Hyundai Santa Fe's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more hp than the Mazda CX-3's 1.5L Turbo. However, for daily city driving, the power of both cars is sufficient, you won't feel a lack of power.

The Mazda CX-3 body length is 4500 mm, trunk 450 L.
The Hyundai Santa Fe body length is 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.
In terms of space, the Mazda CX-3 body is 100 mm longer than the Hyundai Santa Fe. The interior passenger space will be slightly more spacious, especially rear legroom. If you often carry family members or need to store a stroller, the larger body is indeed more practical.

Both the Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Santa Fe are mainstream choices in the Malaysia market, suitable for family use and daily commuting. If you value brand reputation and resale price more, you can prioritize the one with better reputation; if you care more about cost-performance and features, then choose the one with richer configuration. Ultimately, it is recommended to test drive both, personal experience is the most important.

In general, both Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Santa Fe are very good car models in the Malaysia market. Which one to choose depends mainly on your personal needs and budget. It is recommended to do your research, compare quotes from several dealerships, and then go for a test drive to make the final decision. Buying a car is a major event, spending time doing research will never be wrong.