Mazda CX-3 vs Hyundai Santa Fe, Real Data Reveals the Differences

In Malaysia's SUV market, many buyers compare Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Santa Fe when choosing a car. These two models are quite close in price and positioning. Today, we will make a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time on research.

Price and Versions

Mazda CX-3 OTR price in Malaysia is RM 126,159 - 139,159, with a total of 2 versions, including 2023 2.0L High (RM 139,159), 2023 2.0L Plus (RM 126,159), etc.

Hyundai Santa Fe OTR price in Malaysia is RM 225,000 - 270,000, with a total of 3 versions, 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.

From a pricing perspective, the starting price of Mazda CX-3 is indeed RM 98,841 cheaper than Hyundai Santa Fe. If your budget is limited, Mazda's entry-level version can already meet daily needs. However, be aware that saving a few thousand might involve compromises in features, depending on your specific needs.

Performance and Fuel Consumption

Mazda CX-3 is equipped with 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.

Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption 8.0 L/100km.

In terms of performance, Hyundai Santa Fe's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more horsepower than Mazda CX-3's 1.5L Turbo. However, for daily city driving, both cars have enough power and won't feel underpowered.

Safety Features

Mazda CX-3 safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include i-Activsense.

Hyundai Santa Fe safety rating is TBD, active safety systems include Basic.

In terms of safety features, both cars have received good ratings. However, there are some differences in function between Mazda CX-3's i-Activsense and Hyundai Santa Fe's Basic. If you value active safety, you can compare the feature lists of both closely.

Maintenance and Service

Mazda CX-3 warranty 5 years/150,000km, maintenance interval every 10,000km or 6 months.

Hyundai Santa Fe warranty 5 years/300,000km, maintenance interval every 10,000km or 6 months.

Conclusion

Overall, Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Santa Fe are both very good models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose depends mainly on your personal needs and budget. We recommend doing your research, comparing quotes from multiple dealerships, and test driving before making a final decision. Buying a car is a major decision, spending time on research will never be wrong.