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There is no shortage of crossover utility vehicles (CUV) available, but not all CUVs are created equal. Many force you to decide between fuel efficiency, safety, and versatility. Two of the more capable CUVs available is the 2018 Mazda CX-3 and the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. While both are popular options, when you compare them side-by-side, it’s easy to see why the Mazda is a better crossover.

Here are three reasons the 2018 Mazda CX-3 leaves the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek spinning in the dust:

Class-Leading Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important factor when shopping for a vehicle. If you’re able to get a vehicle that can perform while still being great on gas, that’s a beautiful thing. Often times you have to compromise, but the 2018 Mazda CX-3 crossover delivers an incredibly agile and fun driving experience while still being great on gas. Compared to the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, the Mazda CX-3 delivers much better fuel efficiency. While driving in the city, the CX-3 uses only 8.1L / 100 km compared while the Subaru Crosstrek 10.2L. On the highway, the 2018 Mazda CX-3 consumes a minuscule 6.9L / 100 km while the Crosstrek consumes 8.1L. If you’re doing a lot of driving, the Mazda CX-3 is going to save you money and limit your trips to the gas pump.

“If fuel efficiency is the name of your game, then the CX-3 will not disappoint. Its EPA estimates put it at the top of the segment whether equipped with front- or all-wheel drive.”

Car and Driver

First-Class Safety

Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, you can be confident each and every time you get into the 2018 Mazda CX-3 and that’s because it is one of the safest CUVs available in its class. The National Highway Safety Association (NHTSA) gave the 2018 CX-3 a 5-Star safety rating and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the CX-3 a Top Safety Pick+. Where the Mazda really pulls ahead of the Crosstrek is when you consider its advanced safety features. All CX-3 trim levels come with Smart City Brake which is an advanced safety system that can detect pedestrians and obstacles and, if need be, apply the brakes for you in order to avoid a collision. And the CX-3 has a host of other safety tech available designed to make your driving life easier, safer, and hassle-free.

“The 2018 Mazda CX-3 has an enviable safety scorecard with newly standard safety equipment on every model.”

The Car Connection

Prime Performance

While some consider it a crossover, the Subaru Forester is actually a wagon which makes sense when you get behind the wheel. It’s not exactly an exciting ride, which is a trait that’s been flagged by many automotive publications. The Car Connection calls its performance
“Pokey” and U.S. News and World Report notes that it has slow acceleration.

The 2018 Mazda CX-3, on the other hand, is light and agile, so it’s a dream to take around corners and you can accelerate quickly when you need to pass someone on the highway. This agile CUV provides enough space for cargo and a couple of passengers, while still delivering exceptional ride quality.

“The CX-3 is a great small crossover. Sporty performance is the real highlight of this SUV, thanks to its lithe handling and eager, fuel-efficient engine.”

U.S. News and World Report

You’ve read about the CX-3 and now it’s time to drive one. Take one for a spin and see if the 2018 Mazda CX-3 is the right crossover for your lifestyle.​