New Mazda CX-3 & Renault Captur vs Seat Arona
Our verdict
There’s no change at the top of this class: the Seat Arona still reigns supreme, thanks to its exceptional all-round talents. It’s good to drive, spacious inside and well equipped, as well as great value for money – especially if you get one on a PCP finance deal.
The Renault Captur has an eye-catching price, especially after discounts, gives it obvious appeal. It’s also practical by class standards, relatively hushed on the move and surprisingly well equipped in its new Iconic trim. The trouble is, it’s let down by a weak engine, poor visibility and a shortage of safety aids, plus heavy depreciation means it’ll cost you more than you might think in the long run.
It just edges the Mazda CX-3 though. Despite a recent facelift, the Mazda remains very much an also-ran. Punchy performance and slow predicted depreciation count in its favour, but it’s poorly equipped in entry-level SE Nav+ trim and the least practical car here.
1st Seat Arona - 5/5
For Best to drive; cheapest monthly PCP repayments; roomiest in the back; best infotainment
Against Performance is only adequate; you can’t add many options
2nd Renault Captur - 3/5
For Cheapest to buy; well equipped; largest boot; sliding rear seats
Against Gutless engine; no automatic emergency braking; poor visibility at junctions
3rd Mazda CX-3 - 3/5
For Punchiest engine; decent infotainment; slow depreciation
Against Stingily equipped; not particularly practical; no automatic emergency braking
Specifications: Mazda CX-3 2.0 Skyactiv-G 121 SE Nav+
Engine 4cyl, 1998cc, petrol
List price £18,995
Target price £17,918
Power 119bhp @ 6000rpm
Torque 152lb ft @ 2800rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 9.2sec
Top speed 119mph
Gov't fuel economy 45.5mpg
Test mpg 41.5mpg
CO2 emissions 141g/km
Specifications: Renault Captur 0.9 TCe 90 Iconic
Engine 3cyl, 898cc, turbo, petrol
List price £16,500
Target price £15,531
Power 89bhp @ 5500rpm
Torque 103lb ft @ 2250rpm
Gearbox 5-spd manual
0-60mph 12.4sec
Top speed 106mph
Gov't fuel economy 52.3mpg
Test mpg 42.9mpg
CO2 emissions 122g/km
Specifications: Seat Arona 1.0 TSI 95 SE Technology
Engine 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
List price £17,830
Target price £16,214
Power 94bhp @ 5000-5500rpm
Torque 129lb ft @ 2000-3500rpm
Gearbox 5-spd manual
0-60mph 10.8sec
Top speed 107mph
Gov't fuel economy 56.5mpg
Test mpg 44.2mpg
CO2 emissions 115g/km
Read more:
Read our full Mazda CX-3 review
Read our full Renault Captur review
Read our full Seat Arona review
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