Mazda CX-3 or Hyundai Santa Fe? Comprehensive Malaysia Car Review Analysis

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.

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.

In terms of price, Mazda CX-3's starting price 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. But note, the few thousand dollars cheaper, there might be trade-offs in features, it depends on your specific needs.

Power 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 power, Hyundai Santa Fe's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more hp than Mazda CX-3's 1.5L Turbo. However, for daily city driving, the power of both cars is sufficient, you won't feel lacking power.

Space and Comfort

Mazda CX-3 body length 4500 mm, trunk 450 L.

Hyundai Santa Fe body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

In terms of space, Mazda CX-3's body is 100 mm longer than Hyundai Santa Fe, the interior seating space will be slightly more spacious, especially rear legroom. If you frequently carry family or need to put a stroller, a larger body is indeed more practical.

Features and Technology

Mazda CX-3 uses FWD drive type.

Hyundai Santa Fe uses FWD drive type.

Both cars use the same drive type, both are FWD, daily driving experience will not have much difference.

Maintenance and Service

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

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

Conclusion

In general, both Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Santa Fe are very good models in the Malaysia market. Which one to choose depends on your personal needs and budget. We recommend doing your research, comparing quotes from several car dealers, and test driving before making a final decision. Buying a car is a big matter, spending time doing research is never wrong.