2020 Mazda3 vs 2020 Honda Civic

March 16 2020,

2020 Mazda3 vs 2020 Honda Civic

There are many reasons why the Mazda3 beat out the competition to win Canada's prestigious AJAC’s Best Small Car award at the 2020 Montreal International Auto Show. Great style, utility, technology and more headline this exciting hatchback. However, it is important to illustrate how the Mazda3 compares to the competition, and we do that here with the Honda Civic.

The Mazda3's exterior includes a slightly longer length (+21) than the Civic, and it rests higher. It is fitted with the latest in style and equipment, differentiating it from the “cookie-cutter” Civic look. Moreover, the base model DX Civic starts at $20,000, whereas the bas GX model of the Mazda3 is much lower, with a starting price of $18,000.

The Mazda3 offers more engine options and performance than the Honda Civic

The Mazda3 line features two engines that open the power competition with the Honda Civic.  The entry Skyactiv-G 2.0L four-cylinder engine combines with a six-speed manual transmission (automatic optional) and generates 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The Civic's lowest powered engine can only deliver 138 lb-ft of torque with similar horsepower.

The Mazda3 also offers the Skyactiv 2.5L four-cylinder engine that generates 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. It is standard on the GT and GS trims. The Honda Civic's other engine, a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 174 horsepower on the LX trim, claims to reach 180 horsepower on the Sport and Sport Touring trims. However, the catch is you have to use premium unleaded gasoline. The Mazda3's Skyactiv 2.5L delivers more horsepower without having to upgrade fuel octane.

Cylinder deactivation technology is standard on the GT and available on the GS. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode, Drive Selection switch and paddle shifters is also standard on the GT.

More technology in the 2020 Mazda3

As said before, the base GX model of the Mazda3 is cheaper than the Civic DX sedan. But is also packs more tech. For example, the GX packs an 8.8"-wide colour display with Mazda Connect as standard equipment. The LX only has a 5-inch display. Plus, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard on the GX and not on the Civic DX.

The Mazda3 has many more features that just need to be experienced. You can shop for your car online with us. Our representatives are waiting for your call or e-mail and can answer all your questions.


Other Articles That May Interest You

2026 Mazda CX-30 Trim Guide: GX Through GT Kuro Turbo for Burnaby Buyers

March 31 2026

2026 Mazda CX-30 Trim Guide: GX Through GT Kuro Turbo for Burnaby Buyers

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 lineup spans six trims, and the differences between them go well beyond badge names. Each step up brings specific changes to the powertrain, display, connectivity, interior materials, and safety technology — and each of those changes has practical implications for how the vehicle fits into daily life in Burnaby and across Metro Vancouver. Every CX-30 shares the same...
What the Skyactiv-Z Hybrid Powertrain Means for the Future of the Mazda CX-5

March 24 2026

What the Skyactiv-Z Hybrid Powertrain Means for the Future of the Mazda CX-5

Mazda confirmed in March 2025 that a new engine called Skyactiv-Z will debut in the CX-5 in 2027, paired with Mazda's own in-house hybrid system. For British Columbia drivers who are considering the all-new 2026 CX-5 — or those who have been following Mazda's electrification plans — this announcement adds a new dimension to the CX-5's future. The 2026 model arrives with the proven 2.5 L...
Logo Access 360