The Mazda CX-3 is a subcompact SUV and the smallest SUV that Mazda has to offer. It’s also fuel-efficient, easy on the eyes, and offers plenty of features. But does that mean it’s the right fit for you? Not necessarily. Because as much as the Mazda CX-3 has to offer, there are plenty of alternatives worth considering too.

The Kia Soul boasts a more powerful engine and better warranty coverage 

The Mazda CX-3 isn’t the most powerful vehicle out there. It comes equipped with a 146-hp four-cylinder engine that Consumer Reports says provides sufficient enough power but is by no means quick. If you do want a quick ride, Car and Driver recommends forgoing the CX-3 and choosing a Kia Soul equipped with the available 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine instead. 

But the Kia Soul has more to offer than a powerful turbocharged engine. Unlike the Mazda CX-3, the Kia Soul comes standard with a pretty stellar warranty. While the Mazda CX-3 is standard with a 3-year/36,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, the Kia Soul is standard with a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty, and a 5-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty.  

The Hyundai Venue is a cheaper alternative to the Mazda CX-3

The Kia Soul isn’t the only alternative to the Mazda CX-3 that should be on your radar. If you’re shopping with a strict budget in mind, you’re going to want to consider the Hyundai Venue as an alternative to the Mazda CX-3. While a base model CX-3 will run you at least $22,560, an entry-level Hyundai Venue will only have you spending $18,750.

The Hyundai Venue offers better ownership perks than the Mazda CX-3 too. Standard with all Venue models is a complimentary maintenance plan that lasts for three years or 36,000-miles. This maintenance plan covers everything from oil changes to tire rotations. Unfortunately for the Mazda CX-3, it not offered with ownership perks like complimentary maintenance. 

Choose the Subaru Crosstrek for a rugged alternative to the Mazda CX-3

If you’re in the market for a vehicle that comes equipped with all-wheel drive, you’re going to want to check out the Subaru Crosstrek. Unlike the Mazda CX-3, this year’s new Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive. It’s also available with X-MODE with Hill Descent Control and boasts a full 8.7-inches of ground clearance.

The Subaru Crosstrek also offers up significantly more passenger space than the Mazda CX-3 does. It offers noticeably more head, shoulder, and legroom, which all passengers will be sure to appreciate. It offers a wealth of cargo room in comparison to the Mazda CX-3 too. While the CX-3 offers up 42.7 cubic-feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, the Crosstrek offers a whopping 55.3 cubic-feet of cargo space.

These aren’t the only alternatives to this year’s Mazda CX-3 either

When it comes to shopping for a subcompact SUV, there are plenty of options out there. So if the Mazda CX-3 isn’t the right fit for you? Well, you’ve got several other alternatives to choose from. And these? Well, they’re just a few of them.