Compare repair costs, reliability, and owner reviews
Mazda 3
$433
Average Annual
Repair Cost
Honda Civic
$368
Average Annual
Repair Cost
Overall Reliability Rating
4
Excellent
The Mazda 3 Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $433 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low while frequency of those issues is average, so major issues are uncommon for the 3.
4
1
2
Excellent
The Honda Civic Reliability Rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $368 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity and frequency of repairs are both much lower than other vehicles, so the Civic is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
“I've had the car for nearly 3 years and haven't had any issues with it. I've just done normal maintenance and it's been very reliable. It's fun to drive and I get 35mpg on the highway.”
“I've had the car for nearly 3 years and haven't had any issues with it. I've just done normal...”
The Honda Civic ranks highest in fuel economy and ranks lowest in value.
67% of reviewers would recommend this car.
“The Honda is excellent!
The only problem is the exhaust, I have had it repaired FULLY three years ago and its falling apart again.
other than that, the car always runs and never has any problems....”
“The Honda is excellent!
The only problem is the exhaust, I have had it repaired FULLY three...”
The Mazda 3 and the Honda Civic are both compact sedans. The Mazda 3 is available as a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback. The Honda Civic is available as a four-door sedan, a two-door coupe and a five-door hatchback. Both of these cars come with front-wheel drive.
These two vehicles come with similar engine choices. The Mazda 3 has a standard engine with 155 horsepower, as well as a 184-horsepower option. The Honda Civic has a standard engine with 158 horsepower, with options up to 180 horsepower. Not much difference here.
The Mazda 3 really shines in the fun-to-drive department, with an extremely pleasing combination of ride, handling and responsiveness. It feels like a four-door sports car, and fits snugly around the occupants. It looks great, too.
The Honda Civic is much more spacious inside, and is better suited as a multipurpose family vehicle. It also offers one of the last remaining two-door coupes in its segment.
For driving pleasure and overall style, the Mazda 3 is the clear winner here. But if you value interior space and practicality, or you’d like a two-door, the Honda Civic will give you more of what you’re looking for.