Source type: Mazda Southern Africa
Mazda CX-3 vs KIA Sportage
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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Mazda CX-3
2.0 Individual Auto FWD
Petrol
6-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 551,600
ex-showroom
⚡ 115 kW
🔧 206 Nm
⛽ 15.9 km/l
VS
KIA Sportage
2WD 1.6T-GDI GT-Line S DCT
Petrol
7-Speed DCT
Current
ZAR 823,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 132 kW
🔧 265 Nm
⛽ 13.9 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Mazda CX-3 vs KIA Sportage: the short answer
Sportage has a modest catalogue-index lead, while CX-3 remains close.
CX-3 starts ZAR 222,995 cheaper
CX-3 from ZAR 440,000 · Sportage from ZAR 662,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | CX-3115 kW @ 6000 rpm | Sportage132 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | CX-3206 Nm @ 2800 rpm | Sportage265 Nm @ 1500 rpm |
| Engine Size | CX-31998 cc | Sportage1591 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | CX-315.9 km/l | Sportage13.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | CX-3155 mm | Sportage181 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Source type: Official OEM South Africa
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
CX-3
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
Specification evidence leader
Sportage
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
CX-3
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
Sportage
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2015 | 2022 |
| Generation | Current first-generation DK-series Mazda CX-3 | Fifth generation (NQ5); global launch 2021, SA 2022 |
| Facelift History | The CX-3 has received successive equipment and design updates since its 2015 debut; Carbon and Individual now sit together at the top of the South African range. | Fifth generation (NQ5) launched SA 2022; no facelift yet |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2015 | 2022 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | SUV | SUV |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | Active | active |
| Segment | Compact crossover | SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1270 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Type | SUV | SUV |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Steel Grey, Intense Red, Glacial White Pearl, Interstellar Grey |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Drivetrain Note | - | Drive layout derived from the official derivative naming: 2WD 1.6T-GDI GT-Line S DCT |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4275 mm | 4515 mm |
| Width | 1765 mm | 1865 mm |
| Height | 1542 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 155 mm | 181 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 l | 54 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 230 l | 466 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1270 kg | 1570 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1735 kg | 2080 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 465 kg | 500 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 850 kg | 1500 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.7 m | 10.8 m |
| Front Legroom | 1058 mm | 1040 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 888 mm | 855 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | - | 181 mm |
| Number of Rows | - | 2 rows |
| Front Headroom | - | 1010 mm |
| Rear Headroom | - | 955 mm |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Automatic | Yes |
| Power Windows | Front & Rear | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Smart | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Yes |
| Sunroof | Standard | Yes |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Yes |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1140 l | 1455 l |
| AC Type | Automatic | Yes |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1140 l | 1455 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Aero Kit | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | Yes |
| Boot Opener | - | Remote |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | No |
| Climate Zones | - | 2 |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.33 |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 7.2 |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Remote |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Heads Up Display | - | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Intercooler | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | Standard | Yes |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | - | Yes |
| Rev Matching | - | Yes |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Yes |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Seat Type | - | Leather Seats |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Spare Wheel | Temporary spare 185/60 R16 | Temporary Spare |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Response | - | Normal |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 8.5 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Automatic | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Centre Console | - | Centre Armrest |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Gasoline Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | - | No |
| Difflock | - | No |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Front Wiper | - | No |
| Front Wipers Type | - | No |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Lift Gate | - | Yes |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Manual Aircon | - | Yes |
| Mirror | - | Electric |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Power Sliding Doors | - | No |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | Yes |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Remote Start | - | Yes |
| Rim Size | 18 X 7.0 J | 235/45 R19 |
| Roof Load | - | 75 kg |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Yes |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Sonar | - | Yes |
| Sound System | 7 | 10 |
| Source Model Column | - | sportage |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Sub Frame | - | Unibody |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| TPMS | - | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Unlocking | Smart | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | Yes |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 1.6-litre Turbocharged Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Officially Disclosed | G4FJ |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1998 cc | 1591 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | Not Officially Disclosed | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Officially Disclosed | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Not Officially Disclosed | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Bore | 83.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Stroke | 91.2 mm | 85.4 mm |
| Maximum Power | 115 kW @ 6000 rpm | 132 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 206 Nm @ 2800 rpm | 265 Nm @ 1500 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic | 7-Speed DCT |
| Top Speed | 197 km/h | 198 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | Not Officially Disclosed | 8.5 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Sport | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 90.6 kW/tonne | 84.1 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 162.2 Nm/tonne | 168.8 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | 6-Speed Auto | 7-Speed DCT |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel drive | FWD |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | No |
| Paddle Shifters | Standard | Yes |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.325 | 3.63 |
| Number of Gears | 6 | 7 |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Dual Clutch Transmission |
| Gear Shift Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Standard | Yes |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Automatic | 7-Speed DCT |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | 4x2 | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 6 | 7 |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| LSD Available | - | No |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.2:1 |
| Clutch Type | - | Dry Dual Clutch |
| Gear Shift Indicator | - | No |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 15.9 km/l | 13.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 12.8 km/l | 11.0 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 18.7 km/l | 16.7 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 l | 54 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro stage IV | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 48 | 54 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 15.9 km/l | 13.9 km/l |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Front & Rear | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| AEB | Not Available | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Not Available | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Front & Rear | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Yes |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | - | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | - | Yes |
| Alarm System | - | Yes |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Brake Override System | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| TCS | - | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 7 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 7 |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| EV Mode | - | No |
| Sport Mode | - | Yes |
| Park Assist | - | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | - | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Black Leather | Leather |
| Heated Seats | Not Available | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Available | Yes |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Available | Yes |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1360 mm | 1405 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1281 mm | 1350 mm |
| Steering Wheel Material | Standard | Leather |
| 60 40 Split Seat | (60:40) | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 10-Way Power Adjustable (Driver) | 8-Way Power |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 10-Way Power Adjustable (Driver) | 4-Way Power |
| Seat Trim | Black Leather | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | - | 8-Way Power |
| Steering Type | - | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | - | Yes |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Rear USB Ports | - | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Digital |
| Interior Colour Options | - | Black |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Power |
| Cooled Seats | - | Yes |
| Fabric Seats | - | No |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | Yes |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Armrest Front | - | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1455 |
| Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 12.3+12.3-inch panoramic curved display, 64-colour ambient lighting, Meridian audio (GT-Line), ventilated/heated front seats (GT-Line), head-up display, panoramic sunroof (GT-Line+), 6 airbags standard |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather |
| Interior Colours | - | Black |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Yes |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Yes |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Standard | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Wireless | Yes |
| Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 7 | 10 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Not Available | Yes |
| USB Ports | 2 | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-Inch | 12.3 |
| Touchscreen | 8-Inch | 12.3 |
| Navigation System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Wireless | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 8-Inch | 12.3 |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Infotainment Display | - | 12.3 |
| Rear Usb | - | Yes |
| Premium Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 7 | 10 |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Display Audio | - | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 4 |
| Head Up Display | - | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | - | Digital |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | Standard | Yes |
| Alloy Wheel Design | Black Metallic + Machining | Alloy Alloy |
| Exterior Colour Options | Aero Grey, Snowflake White Pearl, Jet Black, Machine Grey, Polymetal Grey, Platinum Quartz and Soul Red Crystal are listed, with Carbon availability limited to selected finishes. | Multiple |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Standard | No |
| Fog Lamps | - | Yes |
| Roof Rails | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | No |
| Body Cladding | - | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Roof Type | - | Standard |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | No |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Colour |
| Body Type | - | SUV |
| DRL | Standard | Yes |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Overhang | - | 880 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 760 mm |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Standard | Yes |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Standard |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 7 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Departure Angle | 25.7 deg | 24 deg |
| Terrain Modes | Sport | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Ground Clearance Max | 155 mm | 181 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 155 mm | 181 mm |
| Approach Angle | - | 21 deg |
| Wading Depth | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Protection | - | No |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 17 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 19 deg |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 21 deg |
| Breakover Angle | - | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 24 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 215/50R18 | 235/45 R19 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Solid disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Temporary spare 185/60 R16 | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 18 X 7.0 J | 235/45 R19 |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic | Electronic |
| Wheel Type | Black Metallic + Machining | Alloy Alloy |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 325 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 280 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electronic |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 105 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Brake Type Front | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Spare Tyre | Temporary spare 185/60 R16 | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Type | - | Radial |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | 18 X 7.0 J | 235/45 R19 |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Yes |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary Spare |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Wheel Material | Black Metallic + Machining | Alloy Alloy |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 235/45 R19 |
| Wheels | Black Metallic + Machining | Alloy Alloy |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Macpherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion beam axle | Multi-Link |
| Front Track Width | - | 1601 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1608 mm |
| Chassis Type | - | Unibody |
| Power Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Column | - | Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | - | Unibody |
| Front Suspension Type | Macpherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Multi-Link |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion beam axle | Multi-Link |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 146 g/km | 167 g/km |
| Start Stop System | - | Yes |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Available |
| Noise Level | - | 68 dB |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | CVVT |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | 95 Octane |
| Particulate Filter | - | No |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 6 |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | 5 |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | 175 |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Yes |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 167 |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 3 Years/Unlimited km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Interval | - | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | - | R3,800 per service |
| Battery Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 Years/Unlimited km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 Years/Unlimited km | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Yes |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Service Intervals | - | 15000 |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | flagship equipment and comfort derivative | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 551600 ZAR | 823995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | flagship equipment and comfort derivative | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 551600 | 823995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 551600 | 823995 |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Years | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 5 Years/Unlimited km | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Spec | CX-3 | Sportage |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 9.3 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 12.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 15.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 17.5 l/100km |
In depth: how these cars differ
This CX-3 and Sportage comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: CX-3 47 vs Sportage 57.
Efficiency index: CX-3 61 vs Sportage 54.
Safety-equipment index: CX-3 84 vs Sportage 100.
Practicality index: CX-3 48 vs Sportage 63.
Ownership-cover index: CX-3 not separately scored vs Sportage 71.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
CX-3 and Sportage image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Mazda CX-3
View 8 more CX-3 images
KIA Sportage
View 8 more Sportage images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Sportage leads by 9 points
Sportage has a modest catalogue-index lead, while CX-3 remains close.
Evidence leader
69
/100
Lead
9
points
Data
99%
source coverage
69
#1
Evidence leader
Sportage
99% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 100
Check
Efficiency 54
Performance
57
Efficiency
54
Safety
100
Practicality
63
Ownership
71
Leads by 9 points
60
#2
CX-3
71% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 84
Check
Performance 47
Performance
47
Efficiency
61
Safety
84
Practicality
48
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Sportage +10
Efficiency
CX-3 +7
Safety
Sportage +16
Practicality
Sportage +15
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Sportage
Performance
57/100
Efficiency
54/100
Safety
100/100
Practicality
63/100
Ownership
71/100
CX-3
Performance
47/100
Efficiency
61/100
Safety
84/100
Practicality
48/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
KIA Sportage
leads the specification evidence index with 69 pts
vs 60 pts for CX-3
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Sportage leads. However, CX-3 may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
CX-3 vs Sportage questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.