VW Golf vs Mazda 3 vs Ford Focus 2019 comparison review
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- čas přidán 28. 08. 2024
- We compare three hatchbacks - the new Mazda 3 G25, the Volkswagen Golf 1.4T and the Ford Focus 1.5T. Which is best? The small car segment is very competitive with lots of good cars, but we think the Golf, Focus and 3 are the best cars here for 2019. Only one can be crowned the champ, though. We take the Focus Titanium, Golf Highline and 3 Astina out in this triple test episode of Chasing Cars.
Let us know your favourite hatch in the comments - and whether you think the Focus, 3 or Golf is best!
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Compares interiors, practicality, price, and driving of the Volkswagen Golf 1.4T Highline vs Mazda 3 G25 Astina vs Ford Focus Titanium.
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READ our full 2019 Mazda 3 vs 2019 Volkswagen Golf vs 2019 Ford Focus tests here: chasingcars.com...
Australian video car review of the Ford Focus 2019 and Mazda 3 2019 and Volkswagen Golf 2019.
Skip to the car you want to see!
0:00 - Intro
2:18 - Golf interior
4:56 - Focus interior
7:58 - 3 interior
10:38 - Boots/trunks
12:55 - Golf driving
16:06 - 3 driving
19:24 - Focus driving
23:09 - Wrap-up and Winner
Good comparison vid (is there a longer more detailed written version with HD photos? - edit, I just saw the link to the site but not directly to the article, at the bottom of the video description), but I wish there were more premium cars in this to compete with the luxurious 3 - Why? Let me explain in "detail"..
The top spec 3 mild-hybrid 2.5 or the X, is the car I'm waiting for now. After long-term ownership disappointments with ze Germans (VW, Audi and BMW mainly, and Mercs slightly), I've come to learn of the joy that Japanese higher quality offerings can offer, both personally and through trusted friends, family and motoring contacts. The better handling and practical (newer) Lexus models and higher end Mazda models/trims, are now the cars we look to get or already own. I even look more favourably to Hyundai/KIA and some Volvo(Geely) models now compared to ze Germans and their "add-on scams" - yes Volvo can do this too, but at least in my country they are more transparent about it.
Thoughts per section:
Intro - Just kept thinking, how more interesting it would be to me, if there was also a BMW or Audi competitor in this. Hope there will be a more premium comparison like this next year from you, but with the totally outclassed Focus left out.
VW Interiors (and exteriors) - Simple and premium, but it doesn't stand out and look luxurious and unique to many buyers now. Starting from now with the 3 and onwards with their all-new luxurious models, even Mazda will be considered more premium that VW - laugh now, but let's look back 10 years from now. Other point of course - OMGawd!.. The interior of my VWs is where I often received the warning lights or first started to realize that there were serious (and later expensive to fix) problems with the car. Seared into my/our brains! So getting into a interior with the same design language, only brings all of it back. Hope you can understand/emphatize with us who have been through this many times. True, Ford's have given me/us issues too (not really gearbox, as ours were dual-clutch wet and never early batches), but not to the extend and price tag of VWs. I would still consider testing and possibly buying a Ford now, but never again for Nazi founded and many crimes in the past VW, and especially so after dieselgate - I'm a fan of clean Mazda diesels naturally, and I just hope a updated 2.2L Mazda 3 and CX-30 comes in later to my/some markets.
Focus Interior - Even though we all love these compact Ford's for Euro markets, the long-term build quality of Ford's are not good. After heavy milleage or many years, everything else might still be running or going fine with the car (with your careful care given to it) but the Interior will start falling apart and making a lot of noise and creaks. A lot more noise from outside wil creep in too, and that wasn't very good to begin with It definitely will not be as good long term as the better built rivals in its class. I speak from personal experiences here too, and not just from contacts. I'm fearful for Ford now in the future actually, especially once the 2020 D-MAX/BT-50 comes out in the market where the Ranger competes. They may have helped out Mazda during their difficult times, but "not" working together with them on cars and SUVs/trucks, will be bad for Ford in the long run (out of the US), especially now that the two main alliances have formed:
- Toyota/Daihatsu, Suzuki, Mazda (with Isuzu), Subaru,
- Nissan, Renault, Mitsubishi
Mazda 3 Interior - weird that you say that about the seats. Almost all other reviews from respected publications have said they are among the best in class, even if you bring in ze Germans :) I find the Focus and Golf here too firm, especially if you drive long-distance. I'll just add that back row seats or boot space is not a priority for my upcoming purchase in this compact segment car (3) and CUV/SUV (CX-30), and their rivals, including the Lexus UX which is on my shortlist of cars/crossovers to test before deciding.
Mazda 3 Driving - A lot of us with certain backgrounds on cars, do not like turbos. We also appreciate the simplicity/directness (there is always a lag despite what some say) of feel and control/precision, in what Mazda does here. The long-term reliability and maintenance costs are also factored in, along with long distance and highway milleage. Quite simply, this is how it goes... "2.5L in a compact C-segment car curently! Shut up and take my money!” :) And LOL the same time at a small cc turbo petrols. Come on guys, just rev it harder and drive in sports or manual mode. Come to think of it Tom, drive faster in more videos man! haha. Also to add, the 2.5L turbo and 2.2L turbodiesel Skyactiv engine could fit in this 3 and CX-30 too.
Chasing Cars where’s the corolla bro?
It would be here if Toyota sent us the European-spec hybrid - the rather average Australian spec 1.8-litre hybrid just doesn’t cut it in this competition.
Not all heroes wear capes
Nice video and organisation i followed
Mazda all day.
I just can't look at anything other than that Mazda3. It just looks perfect.
Yeah, but because it has such and expressive design, it is gonna look old really quick compared to for example golf which still looks great because the design is more conservative.
@@elukok I get your point but I don't quite agree. For me the one that looks older and it looked so as it came out 7 years ago is the VW. Even the renders for the new generation VW look a little bit old to me. I don't know why but the design of the mazdas makes me like even the old generation Mazda 3, even now. But hey, each person has its own preferences and opinions and that's why each brand has its own design and style too.
elukok you’re talking from your fanboy heart. VW’s clearly looks the older and uglier, plus the current generation is thrash.
@@LuisGonzalez-sb9lx Have you just watched the same video as me?
@@William_Lewis I also like the look of this Mazda, more than golf, but i hated the old one, that car was really ugly.
I prefer the look of mazda 3, but I know that in a few years, I might not like it that much while I know that if I kind of like how the golf looks right know, i will probably like it trough out my whole ownership.
Mazda3 all the way.
It looks classy and sporty at the same time.
It's hardly sporty
It's weak
Mazda all the way!
Mazda seems to have almost turned it’s back on the traditional small hatch segment with the new 3. With so many options in their SUV range (and soon to be expanded with the 3 on steroids, the CX-30), it’s almost as if they’re saying, if you want practicality, buy one of our SUVs. If you want a small, funky, stylish hatchback, buy a 3. Personally, I’d take the 3, as it’s all I want in a car. It’s horses for courses.
Crosshead1 I totally agree with you. The 3 is great style, full of techs and reliability as it’s accompanied by a 5 year unlimited km warranty
I think this is a pretty fair summary, Crosshead. They have that many practical cars they can sell - 6, 6 wagon, CX-5, forthcoming CX-30 - that I believe Mazda think they can make the 3 more expressive, placing less priority on boot space and rear seat space. Honestly, that might be okay. To me, it is, because in Australia these sorts of cars aren't used as family cars.
Chasing Cars and all the more reason to drop the 2.5 turbo into the 3 with AWD. All it needs is a bit more low down, effortless grunt. They’d sell as many as they can make.
Mazda 3 is the best car in this class!
We think so too - at the moment.
Lol.
Love that Mazda!
It’s a good car.
And the color is amazing
Fear the rust.
Taoma H rust problems are long gone
@@Haldexify their design with color is amazing
I've always liked the Mazda 3. I've owned the VW and the Ford Focus and neither of them can touch the reliability and handling of my Mazda 3. I'll stick with Mazda, thank you.
Ford Focus handles just as well as the Mazda and is just as reliable. Stop speaking out of your ass
@@MrSamwiseable the Mk2 Focus was utterly bulletproof. I covered 410,000km in mine, with only a coil pack and alternator replaced, before it was written off by a learner driver. At that stage the only sign of its miles was slight wear on the steering wheel. It was better to drive than just about anything south of a sports car and had copious amounts of space for its size. It was car of the previous decade for a good reason.
The Mk3 wasn't half the car the Mk2 was and, while the Mk4 seems a step in the right direction, its reliability remains to be demonstrated.
@@MrSamwiseable have had a lot of problems with my 2015 ford focus
Sam RN I'm not speaking out my ass but to one. I had 4 Focus' and all died within 110,000 miles. All had AC and suspension issues. One had tyranny issues. None handled as well as my Mazda 3.
Matt S lemme guess... transmission problems?
I purchased a manual Astina in Polymetal Grey with burgundy leather and I couldn't be happier...
thats a nice combination. Congrats!
We’re the multiple recalls annoying? Did you also have issues with the weak A/C?
@@XQoozMii I’ve only had the first two sorted in the first 6mths. Had it now 20mths with no issues ac is icy cold
@@XQoozMii Mazda have good customer service unlike some other brands....
Mazda WIN!!!
Good review as always Tom, I consider your reviews to be the least biased and most consistent in the Australian automotive journalism landscape now.
Beat me to it. Stay the course, your videos are very well done and don't feel like ads at all.
Thank you both. I really appreciate that.
Exactly. Very refreshing.
Ditto - many of us appreciate your efforts and the high production values.
I have a 2019 touring 3 in silver ,black leather and vision package .Quite cabin,great sound system and all the tech.The 3 drives so smooth .I could not be happier with my purchase.You cant go wrong.
Great car. Best looking as well. I prefer the Soul Red one. About the rear view blind spots for trafic or bicycles any difficulties? Like when changing lanes?
I drive the new 2.0 liter (122hp) Mazda 3 and I don’t regret it at all. Sure you have to rev it out to get it going, but I really like to hear her purr. The engine note is beautiful. Add a new exhaust and you’ve got everything you can ever wish for. The economy can be quite good as well. On the back roads I get 5l/100km which is 47mpg if carefull. Which is very good. And when I park it and look at it, it just makes me smile. Beautifully done Mazda
Great comparison review as ever. Without being too bias towards the marketed car like other reviewers, rather to the quality and proper winner for all the important reasons. Looking forward to when you get the Focus ST!
Thank you, Dave. Trying my best! Agreed - can’t wait to have a steer of the new Focus ST.
Exterior and interior wise the Mazda actually shits on the other 2, it's no comparison really
Nah the Mazda hatch is ugly as fuck.
Mazda: A concept car from the future available today. Shouldn't be as good as it is but always pushes the envelope of expectations. Ford: Typical Ford product. Subpar materials, inoffensive style if not having a disappointing front fascia. Does everything well. Could have a tried a little bit better but whos really going to care? VW: If it's not broken why change it styling/driving dynamics. Not trying to be something its not philosophy. Does all thing well but could have more character. The winner for me in NA, the Mazda. It's the best bang for the buck with style, awd, quality, utility, comfort, unique.
Well said. And don't even mention about all the VW's scandals. Golf boring handling car as well too. Boring at all the way.
Mazda 3 wins for me. No questions. Those other two don't even come close. What a beauty the Mazda 3 especially in Soul Red Crystal.
Another great review Tom. I am biased and I would go for the Mazda3 in a heart beat. Having said that the engine is the weak link in the new 3 , hopefully the SkyActiv X will fix this 👍 of course the 2.5 Turbo would be nice.... as we know with Mazda they design their floorplan in a way that if it fits in one of their models it fits in all .... now Mazda just need to show horn the SkyActiv 2.5 Turbo under that sexy long bonnet
Good review. That front seat area in the Mazda looks great. I've heard horrible stories (from family and friends) about Ford and VW customer support. So personally I'd be skipping those. Pity, the VW front end looks good.
Greg Wallace I have a Focus Titanium and had to deal with Ford Customer Support in Melbourne. They were fantastic and exceeded my expectations. I think the company has addressed concerns from the past.
Greg Wallace I’ve heard some horror stories about VW customer services as well. So you’re not wrong.
Ford focus owner at one time. COMPLETE rubbish , i liked the car but that gearbox was just atrocious. The ford service was decent. The product on the otherhand. Surprising they can still sell any with there reputation of unreliable heaps
@@diamondd2778 but better than any dieselgate vw
Mazda 3 is the best looking car in the group Nice comparo review
I like the Mazda too, but I think each of these cars is quite attractive
Laich F so the Golf looks nice to you? 🤣🤣🤣
Mazda please keep setting the price so acceptable
Just got the 3 and I’m blown away. I only wish there was a handbrake to play with in the snow...
That would be fun!
you can hold the button up and its the same
Haha! My man spitting some harsh truth at 10:57: "but as usual with pretty things in life, if it's pretty, it's sometimes not that good at actually doing stuff."
I also reckon its back end is pretty.
Well, as it happens, it isn't too bad… in fact, it's a very talented car! But that rear end is compromised for looks - no doubt about it.
It’s amazing how dated the new Mazda3 makes the previous model seem... and VW must be hoping the Golf’s days are ending with the impending release of the ID.3...
Given the ID.3 won't be coming to Australia (at least for a couple of years) I really doubt VW are giving up on the Golf. Watch this space for the Mk 8!
Great work in your comparison, nice manner to manage the test, perfectly ok with the conclusion !.
Thanks, Maxim!
Going to pick up my mazda 3 2017 red today 😅 super exiting 😍😍
Great review as always mate!
Greetings from Europe.
Thanks! Hope all is well!
Even tho i got audi A1, Im loving the design of this new Mazda 3. Looks dope!
Mazda hands down winner......
Mazda interior is FIRST Class..
Mazda Looks...NO Comparison the other two looks 20 years old.
MAZDA Fit and Finish and Performance, again #1
Mazda is in a class of it's own.
mazda without any kind of doubts, design, interior , style....
Most people still don't realize that golf is 7 years old, yet it can still go head to head with the other two in most aspects. I personally like the looks of the new focus and mazda 3 better than golf. But will have to wait and see the new golf without it's camo.
The Golf has aged incredibly well. Hope they don’t drop the ball on the Mk 8.
@@chasingcars aaaand guess what happened.. sadly VW did. Golf 7 is the best Golf of them all.
I think Mazda's front looks like not belong to back but in interior made a great job👍
Toyota corolla vs mazda 3 hatch comparison can't wait to see
Mazda 3 .Also for the reliability
Ordered my mazda 3 getting it in october ive gone for 2.0 sports lux model in soul red crystal...cant wait :)
You are lucky to have the Mazda equiped with the 2.5L engine and backseat air grills. European version doesn't get those on any of the trims.
Yeah. Mazda sells very well in Australia, so our market has a disproportionately large say in what product is sent to us.
Now in Europe 2ltr 122HP and a 2ltr 180HP version available.
I test drove all these cars and the Peugeot 308 and Skoda Octavia and let me say:
All family hatchbacks are amazing. Its the most bang for the buck segment with all around amazing cars.
I went with the 150bhp Diesel Focus(with IRS) in the end since the driving experience was by far the best and the back is the lost spacious. I also like touch screens on the dash for esse of use.
However, the Octavia has amazing boot space, the Peugeot and Mazda have amazing interiors and the Golf just has the VW will last long kinda feeling so again, all around great cars.
Mazda3 really awesome. now they need MPS version
Interested to know what you think about the cylinder deactivation feature of the mazda3 2.5 ltr engine. Did you notice anything at lower speeds?
Just bought a Mazda 3. I love her.
Mazda...mazda...mazda...only mazda...and...
Mazda!!!!!!
Great review!! Cheers from Spain!!
Thanks! Welcome.
Who doesn't love the hatch? I love the Mazda hatchback it's gorgeous. The other two has no comparison at all in every aspect.🏎 🏎 👍 👍
Well, they are comparative in some aspects - hence this video! But I agree with you about the Mazda's expressive styling. It's something else.
The other two drive better lol
I'm looking at this in the UK in February 2024. The Mazda looked so much better both inside and out four years ago and still does. I've just ordered a Takumi in Polymetal Grey to replace my Alfa Romeo
All journalists commenting on how high quality VWs interior are, not commenting on how much complaints they have regarding long term reliability. After the warranty is out high chances of electrical issues, dsg issues or VAG's infamous plastic water pump failing. You're then at the mercy of VW for them to fix it under "goodwill"
At the end of the day, we review new cars, with consideration of their new car warranty. Each car here is covered under a five year, unlimited kilometre warranty. Under that term you'll be looked after. What happens after five years isn't really our domain. When you consider how complicated modern cars are, keeping them beyond five years is always going to be something of a risk. I know that is a rather unpleasant reality, but it is a reality nonetheless.
True.
Great comparison! New subscriber here! Here to see what's more in store!
Thanks for subscribing!
Awesome review! Keep the good work mate!!
The focus does have air vents for the rear passengers. It’s under the front seats
Great review I have had two Toyota Corollas over the last 30 years and I think for me it's going to be the new Mazda 3 Skyactive I don't like what they have done to the new Golf 8. Can we have an updated review would be good to compare in here 2022
Love the look of the interior on the Mazda 3, considering replacing my golf r for one....
I have a 2019 Mazda 3 and I’m considering replacing it with a golf R lol. If you care about performance at all then I think you should reconsider. The Mazda is a great luxury car but it doesn’t have anywhere near the power that an enthusiast would want.
@@noahhauptman1756 Turbo 3 coming out... 320 lb-ft of torque..
Man, they really shoulda kept that focus here in the states, we need more hatches, urban crossovers. At least we still have the gorgeous mazda
Sadly they stopped selling the golf in the states, so we've only got Mazda civic, or corolla.
I like these comparison videos, well done
Thanks, Rory. Glad you’re enjoying them. We like making them.
Focus for me, although I'm a dyed-in-the-wool Ford fan so I'm somewhat biased. That said, I wish that Ford would offer a manual gearbox with the entire Focus range rather than limiting it to just the ST. If Ford offered a manual Focus Titanium, I'd seriously consider it.
Yes, I wish they would too. That's a real Mazda strength in Australia - manuals on every 2 and 3 trim.
Even the ST line with 184 hp is only as automatic available here in Germany. That sucks.
What a beautiful car. You know which one.
The Mazda which is The true art
Hi Tom, I really enjoy your comparison videos. Do you think the appearance of the Mazda 3 hatch will age ok with the thick C pillar?
Thanks, Bob. Hard to say, but my personal opinion is that sharper creases and edges tend to age better than round shapes.
@@chasingcars i beg to disagree.. look at porsches🤔 curvy
@@chasingcars I'm a sucker for curvy rear ends.
Good example, Dornier.
@@dornierserctajon8094 & one or two Alfas.
Great review mate well presented too.. I'll take the Ford Focus thanks..
Interesting review, the driving review portion you may want to stop driving around the same parking lot over and over again. Take it to some of those country roads you mentioned and "fang" it a bit to give creditability to that review. Obviously don't break any speed limits or drive unsafe but get a few twisty roads and see how it really handles. When you're talking about the focus being direct and nimble but you're driving around the same parking lot seen many times previously it makes me wary of that portion of the review. Obviously being a smaller reviewer you've got limited time with the vehicle so can appreciate you have to be selective where you drive. Your interior overview and boot space reviews seemed quite reasonable though.
Fair point. The cars were, in fact, all tested on a variety of roads, but not with a photographer present. The filming was done last, in one place, but the evaluation driving that went into it was thorough.
@@chasingcars makes sense. Thanks for the reply.
One strange detail I notice! Why Mazda in Your video have air ventilation in the back row? Every singel video on CZcams about new Mazda3 says that there is NO AIR VENTS in the back
michal the European and Asia markets get better equipment. I have a 2019 Mazda 3 hatchback preferred and I don't have heated side mirrors like my old 2018 Mazda 3 touring but the euro and Asia markets do. It's weird
I know some viewers like the sexy look of the Mazda, but the Golf in Atlantic Blue is pure class.
Atlantic Blue is a great VW colour.
I test drove the ford focus and Mazda 3 same day and found that the Mazda wasn't even close to the focus ride and handling the amount of grip that ford had was amazing and it's so refined barely hearing any wind or road noise, the Mazda looks great and has a great interior up front and his very refined but that's it,if you have children forget it there's no room in the rear for them the boot is small ,the ride and handling are dont come even close to the focus and the 3 has really poor rear visibility and massive blind spots.And its 3 to 4 grand more expensive.
the links lizard alright we got it.. u have a focus
@@aleksandarnikolov2331 i don't mate i have a vw golf
I swear the next Mazda 3 is going to look like a worm or something, the whole design's more and more going in a "I'm a tube, rawr!"-direction. Certainly doesn't look bad though for now. Exterior Focus, Mazda, VW. Interior Mazda/VW, Focus. Wouldn't want to be in the position to review them against each other, since it boils down to personal preference like so often. Good video!
While the engine on the Mazda 3 is very quiet as long as you’re not repping it, there is a lot of wind noise at highway speeds. On the Focus, you can clearly hear the engine during acceleration, but when cruising at highway speed, it’s far more quiet than the Mazda 3.
Julius Bello I’ve tried both the 1,5 gasoline Focus and the 122 hp gasoline Mazda 3, both cars twice.
Below highway speed I find the Mazda very quiet. At highway speed you still cannot really hear the engine much, but you do get wind noise. I’d say similar to in a Kia Ceed. I found myself turning up for the audio system (which is a very nice system). In the Focus, when you accelerate at any speed, you clearly hear the 3 cylinder engine. However, when you cruise at a constant speed, it’s very quiet, also at highway speeds.
So one you hear during acceleration and the other when driving at highway speeds.
Julius Bello I think the most quiet car in the segment is the Golf followed by Hyundai elantra which I’m surprised how this is coming from Hyundai.... btw Test drove the new 3 and the Hyundai and i own a Golf and I found my 5 year old golf is more isolated 🤷🏾♂️, was looking to buy a new car but I will wait for the mk8 golf
That mazda soul.red crystal is gorgeous the back is funky I.hope they bring back mazda 3 hothatch
Love Soul Red Crystal - but at what point will it be overused? That’s what I’m wondering.
Yea tom I guess
The Focus has the same cargo space as a Golf (atleast that's how it's rated here in Europe): 380l. Which is impressive to me: it has the same boot but better space for the back seats :)
Interesting. In Australia, the Focus is rated at 341L while the Golf is rated at 380L.
@@chasingcars Well something near 340L has my MK2 Ford Focus which is 2 generations behind the new MK4.
Also I think you said something about 290L about the Mazda 3, which is impossible to me, considering it is a big hatchback EVEN with it's curvy and beautiful design.. My sister's MK7 Ford Fiesta has 286L which is way smaller than what you can fit in the 3 in this video..
On the basis of the endearing quality and overall performance of the Golf Mk7-7.5 range, the Mk8 should be an interesting launch indeed. Just how much higher will is raise the bar?
It’s a good question. I fear that the huge cost of dieselgate fines will start to bite and maybe the Mk 8 won’t be a particularly noteworthy jump. Hopefully, those fears are wrong.
Chasing Cars and glad to see you using the Golfs adjustable centre console arm rear. More cars should have this feature !!
Given that T-Cross and Polo have upped their use of hard plastic, I'm nervous Golf 8 may be a step in the wrong direction. We'll find out in a few weeks when it's revealed.
@@chasingcars I think the cost of the dieselgate fine is already being seen across the entirety of VAG. For example new Lambos have the same infotainment as Audi which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but even the chimes are the exact same. To me it's perfidious paying hundreds of thousands to get an Audi infotainment.
The way the exhaust looks like in the new S6 also screams of cost cutting. You have a fully fake 4-tipped exhaust while the real exhaust is hidden under the bumper pointed down.
I'm not concerned about the MK8 however, VAG has a lot of tech they can transplant from their premium brands into the MK8 to make it decent. They can keep making the same thing with better tech and revised interior styling and people will buy.
I like the Ford most... interior looks modern and exterior does too... just beautiful!
As he said Mazda seems to be very popular in Australia, if you pay attention to the cars parked on the side of the road while he's driving you could spot mainly Mazda vehicles.
Yes, Mazda punch well above their weight here in Australia.
Because Australians choose qualities above brand image. Can't blaim them 🙂. Like the Toyota Land Cruiser for his reliability and for offroading.
Mazda offers wireless charging for the Mazda 3 in Europe, I got it in mine for an additional $170.
Nice option! Wish they offered it here in Australia.
@@v60adv Wireless charging is just a wasteful old technology that has ridiculous efficiency and its really slow. Just plug in the damn thing.
I want the Mazda!!😩
Excellent review. Thank you.
Thanks for watching.
Great review. You got a new subscriber here after watching this. Although I live in Europe and actually own a focus mk4, have driven a golf mk7 and never driven a Mazda 3, I will agree with you that the Mazda is the most appealing to me too overall. The main things I don't like about it are the higher price, the back of the hatch looks horrible to me but I do like the Sedan. Yes, I know this is subjective but I do think the majority of people will not apreciate the way the Mazda hatch looks at the back and mostly nobody will appreciate the rear seats. I do like their naturally aspirated gasoline engines and their front seats and the interior quality. The golf is good overall. The engine reliability is the worst part about vw.. They make good diesel engines and crappy gasoline ones. So.. Although it's a good practical car I don't need a car to drive to the repair shop. The focus has worse build quality. The doors might not alligb right. It has a 3 cylinder engine that is noisy like you said, and most of all it's ground height is very low.... And that is a pain for me. But what I do like about it alot is the vast interior space and the price. So there goes my 2 cents. Looking forward to seeing other great reviews on this channel. Congrats!
Thanks for sharing your views - and for subscribing. Welcome.
I wonder if prices have changed that much in Europe, but when I bought my Mazda 3 last year, at the same options level as a Focus and Golf it was the cheapest option by a a few thousand Euro!
As I'm single the rear seats are for occasional use only and of no interest to me. The longer warranty and cheaper standard checkups costs, looking the best and thankfully no turbo were also very welcome.
I don't understand the love for turbo's. My previous gasoline guzzlers had turbo's and while I see what people might like pulling away with a Turbo it kills your milage and they still feel worse at high speeds than the Mazda.
May consider buying a 3. The exterior is something you'd expect from an older Alfa, very nice.
Yeah, it looks like what a modern Giulietta should look like.
It's interesting how the golf is even in the same conversation. Design wise, interior and exterior and even premium feeling the Mazda looks way more premium, luxurious and all around just beautiful. The focus is also kind of good looking, but a bit bellow, specially inside. The WW I can't even compare, I know the engine is amazing and rides well, but looks like a 15k car to me. This is just my opinion, I know there's a lot of people that love the WW or the Ford and that's the reason why all the cars have market.
The DSG Transmission only last 10 minutes, shorter than this video . Than will cost you 15K to have it replaced .
Weird how I owned a DCT for 11 years without a fault
These are family cars in Europe, the Mazda didn't impress me due to the cramped rear space, the high window line which blocks the view for children, the dark roof also makes it feel dark in the back, the boot is too small also, the engine is lacking power when the car is loaded (unless it's revved). Looks are subjective, some area's look good, but the rear C pillar looks very strange and is also a massive blind spot. I test drove all cars and went for a focus active (raised 3cm, not the station wagon version) in the end, couldn't be happier, my 6yo daughter loves the back seat, lots of space, for the price of a Mazda I got a panoramic roof, HUD, quick clear windscreen will be great in winter as it's parked outside. Would like a slightly bigger boot, but it's good for 99% of journeys. Same spec golf was much more expensive. Had 3 golfs in the past, R32 (coil pack problems) and x2 1.4 tsi (turbo engage problems), so happy to steer clear of VW. Had a CX5 in the past (diesel, and just a complete nightmare) and a Mazda 2 (great car, but just got too small). For whatever reason, the Focus is so much cheaper here, so it was my winner. Enjoy whichever car you go for though!
Rear air vents in Mazda 3? Where was it sold with that equipment? In Italy for example, also the top level of Mazda 3 hasn't the hair vents for the back seats
I'll take 'fun to drive' over interior quality debates, every time. I spend more time driving and (as a result) looking outside the car than I do nudging panels with my knees and wondering 'Is that REALLY carbon fibre?' 🤔 Imagine driving a Ferrari and being upset about the lack of cupholders.
There’s a Ferrari and then there are cars you actually have to live with every day while commuting. We assess them differently.
@@chasingcars I agree, but you chose the Mazda for its 'interior quality' and its 'style', not its boot space, practicality or drivability... y'know... every day commuting stuff. A Ferrari is for driving - a family hatchback is for driving a family about whilst still trying to pretend you're young. 😉 Nice review though. Thanks. (Still can't afford the Ferrari though 😥.)
so is the mazda 3 hatch or sedan the best otion for probably the second car of the family?? school runs, shopping, chucking the golf clubs in... love the look of the hatch but open to whatever
Never tought that mazda 3 looks larger and longer than focus.
Yeah, it’s a surprise when they are side by side, isn’t it.
I just realized that it was Golf, just try to compare Mazda 3 with Golf GTI / R
First, they all have a transverse engine, so it is not a transmission tunel. Second, the Ford WILL rust in 2-3 years in winter climates, please mention it. Other than this, thanks for the video
OK, hump. As for the Ford rusting, due to Australia’s temperate conditions that’s not an experience that I have had, but I promise that I’ll look into it. Thank you for the feedback.
That's doubtful seeing as I'm not seeing rusted Fords in eastern Europe and nobody's complaining about it here.
It's even more doubtful to have this problem in Australia where this review is made because the winters are mild.
Aussie Mk1 Focus owner here, no rust anywhere.
Thanks Tom! Would like to see you do one of the Kia Cerato GT with these - think it will come up trumps.
A car I’d definitely like to drive. I’ll look into it with Kia.
I am not gonna say the Focus has bad interior quality but it does look basic...and cheap. The centre console really remembers me of Fiat Tipo
The 3. Yep.
There is no comparison. Mazda 3 is the best looking and best driving car in the segment. I will gladly pay the extra money for the mazda compared to the focus.
And spending way more on a golf would just be useless
I'm waiting on Tom's review for the CX-30 Skyactive-X review :)
Exciting proposition - though we don’t think it will be built until mid 2020
@@chasingcars it is built and out here in Europe
With the Skyactiv-X engine!?
@@chasingcars yeah some of the euro reviewers already test driving it a couple of days ago. So time to pack those black Chasing Cars suitcases to go back to Europe :D
If you are thinking to buy one , just buy cx30 2.5 lt . You won’t regret. Style ,space , power and comfort it got everything!! With 5 years unlimited kms warranty
Its strange that as a owner of a 2 yer old Astina I dont find myself lusting over the new model. I might if Mazda put the 2.5 turbo under the bonnet and 4wd offered in other countries.
A 2.5T + AWD would be quite something.
Mazda 3 2022. MY Car.
theres no substitute for horses, 2.5L or 1.5L turbo, service intervals for higher tuned cars?
Great rewiew, Tom but sincerely new focus st line and focus titanium two types and St Line should be on these test the engine 1.0 125 or q. 1.5 150 hp that is higer level than these titanium
Not in Australia. Only one engine
Only a couple of things, what was Ford thinking with that extremely daft gear selector, the Mazda unfortunately dips out for me as it’s put styling over functionality and in this segment I think that’s a big draw back, it’s a pity as the interior quality has pushed things forward in the segment and the drivetrain I’d lackluster in this day and age. For me it’d be between the Golf or the Focus in this grouping but I’d probably plump for the Golf for its top marks in practicality but I’d probably wait for the Mk8 due soonish. The other brand I’d look at in this segment might be the equivalent Skoda.
That's a good perspective. And yep, not sure what's happening with the Ford shifter. Interesting to note that Jaguar-Land Rover are in the process of ditching it, and fast.
NZsarge1 It takes about 10 mins to get used to the Ford auto shifter. I have it and it’s great, frees up so much space. When you hit the engine off button it automatically rotates to park. Nice feature!
The auto shifter is amazing. Much less cluttered than with a stick.
The backend of the Golf still looks like it did 10 years ago.
really like the review. Very thorough but would like to know what was the reason Hyundai i30 n line was not in the review
We’re a small team so need to be discerning about the number of cars involved. The Focus beat out the i30 for a spot. We like the i30 and the N-Line is a really good offer, though. Expect to see content on it soon!
Abir karmakar great value for money. Plastic low tent interiors.
Hyundai and Kia are full of hard cheap shit plastic inside
Nowadays many peoples choosed to own Mazda..the car looks better on most of car aspects than their competitors
The Mazda destroys the competition with styling, handling, comfort, technology and especially interior quality. The Toyota Corolla is being left in the dust with its cheap interior, ugly exterior and handling. The Mazda looks like it should be up against and A class or an A3.
It doesn't drive as well as it looks. It's weak
I'd prefer the vw golfs interior but I think the focus in a different colour looks nicer outside
Thinking about getting the Tesla Model 3 (Dual motor long range) or the Mazda 3 (manual Skyactive - X)
Really hard decision as the Mazda is quite a bit more expensive where I live. But it just looks so nice!
Wow, such different cars! Good luck with the search.
This comparison is different to other CZcams reviews as the Mazda has come second to the Golf, Civic, Corolla and Focus in the other tests. The flaws of the Mazda (steering wheel controls, centre armrest opening onto rear legs, wobbly facia trim, torsion beam rear) don’t appear to have been considered like the other cars in the comparison with their issues. Maybe it simply is that good to forgive the cramped rear and have less family/friends. I still don’t know which car to buy.
All 3 are good cars, although they excel in different aspects so it's just a matter of what you think is more important. If you drive alone or with a single passenger most of the time, then the cramped rear of the Mazda is less of a problem. If you do carry more passengers often or need a more practical trunk, then either the Golf or Focus would be the better pick.
But then again, all 3 cars are great choices if you're looking for something in this segment.