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Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Mazda Mazda3 Sedan - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (281 HP vs 227 HP), trunk space and price (28,800 $ vs 24,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Hyundai Santa Cruz or Mazda Mazda3 Sedan?

Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Mazda Mazda3 Sedan: Key differences

Hyundai Santa Cruz

  • a bit more power
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Mazda Mazda3 Sedan

  • visibly cheaper
  • moderately more efficient
  • noticeably lighter
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Santa Cruz

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Mazda Mazda3 Sedan is visibly cheaper – starting at 24,000 $ , while the Hyundai Santa Cruz costs 28,800 $ . That’s a price difference of around 4,800 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda Mazda3 Sedan performs moderately better – achieving 27 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Hyundai Santa Cruz. That’s a difference of about 5 mpg.

Mazda3 Sedan

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a bit more power – delivering 281 HP compared to 227 HP. That’s roughly 54 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers marginally more torque with 311 lb-ft compared to 310 lb-ft. That’s about 1 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda Mazda3 Sedan is noticeably lighter – 3,124 lbs compared to 3,779 lbs. The difference is around 655 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mazda Mazda3 Sedan holds a narrow overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $24,000
Mazda3 Sedan

Mazda Mazda3 Sedan

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel, Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 191 - 227 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

General
View detailed analysis

Hyundai Santa Cruz

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a city-friendly pickup with SUV manners, serving up a smooth ride and a surprisingly upscale cabin while still handling weekend projects without the drama. It doesn’t try to out-macho the big rigs; instead it wins with smart packaging, easy parking, and just enough adventure vibe to make every grocery run feel like a mini road trip.

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Reviews Hyundai Santa Cruz

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Mazda Mazda3 Sedan

The Mazda3 Sedan exudes elegance and sophistication, setting a benchmark in its class with stylish design and refined engineering. Its interior seamlessly combines comfort and advanced technology, providing a serene driving experience that captivates both drivers and passengers alike. With agile handling and a spirited personality, the Mazda3 Sedan is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about reaching the destination.

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Reviews Mazda Mazda3 Sedan

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Hyundai Santa Cruz
Mazda Mazda3 Sedan

Costs and Consumption
Price
28,800 - 42,800 $
Price
24,000 - 35,800 $
FuelEconomy City
18 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy City
23 - 27 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 30 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 - 37 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
17.7 gal
Fuel tank capacity
12.7 - 13.2 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Pickup
Body Type
i-ACTIV AWD Sedan, Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,779 - 4,295 lbs
Curb weight
3,124 - 3,395 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
13.2 cu. ft.
Length
195.9 in.
Length
183.5 in.
Width
75 in.
Width
70.7 in.
Height
66 in.
Height
56 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel, Front Wheel
Power HP
191 - 281 HP
Power HP
191 - 227 HP
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Torque
186 - 310 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Mazda
What is the price of the Hyundai Santa Cruz?

Starting from 28,800 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.