Dodge
Hornet
Mazda
CX-3
Dodge Hornet vs Mazda CX-3: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Dodge Hornet comes out ahead of the Mazda CX-3 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Hornet
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment, characterized by widespread criticism of its initial pricing, perceived poor quality and reliability, and its identity as a badge-engineered vehicle. The vehicle is described as a significant market flop, with very frequent mentions of deep dealer discounts (e.g., new models selling for under $25,000 versus a $43,500+ MSRP) being necessary to generate any interest. Positive remarks are isolated and focus on its acceleration, standard all-wheel drive, and feature content when heavily discounted.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. No specific trim level receives consistent praise or recommendation.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe electrical/system failures causing a no-start condition: dashboard lights cycle through numerous error messages, vehicle fails to turn over, often related to faulty batteries, corroded wiring, or water intrusion into modules.
- ⚠Software glitches and warning light cascades: system malfunctions trigger unrelated warning lights (e.g., parking brake, collision assist) during normal operation or simple tests. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Poor build quality and component failures: plastic door latches that fail in cold weather, loose door handles, and general concerns about subpar materials and assembly. Frequency: recurrent.
CX-3
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The first-generation model (2016-2021) is associated with recurrent and costly mechanical and electrical failures, including transmission behavior complaints, infotainment unit failures, and fuel system issues, leading to significant owner frustration and repair expenses. In contrast, discussions of the current-generation model (2022-2026) are sparse, with only isolated mentions.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. No specific trim or model year within the current generation is recommended or criticized based on the provided data.
Known issues
- ⚠• First-Generation (2016-2021) Issues:* Costly and recurrent mechanical failures: including timing belt replacement, complete air conditioning system repair/replacement (evaporator, compressor), front shock and mount replacement, and beari…
- ⚠Infotainment (CMU) failure: complete black screen and non-operation, with one specific case involving a DTC U3000:42 (Control Module General Memory Failure) following a battery replacement, suggesting potential vulnerability to voltage spi…
- ⚠Intermittent stalling and no-start condition: engine starts but loses power and cuts out when pulling away after a short stop, accompanied by a strong fuel smell and a sporadic low fuel pressure code; unresolved despite replacing high-pres…
The verdict
The Dodge Hornet is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Mazda CX-3, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mazda CX-3 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Hornet or the Mazda CX-3?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Hornet and the Mazda CX-3. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Hornet or the Mazda CX-3?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Dodge Hornet is classed as a CUV, the Mazda CX-3 as a SUV, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Hornet or the Mazda CX-3?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Hornet or the Mazda CX-3?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.