Infiniti
Q30
Mazda
3
Infiniti Q30 vs Mazda 3: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
The Infiniti Q30 offers fuel economy, while the Mazda 3 excels at power instead. Choose the Infiniti Q30 if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Mazda 3 if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Q30
Overall
Owner sentiment is mixed, with a clear divide between appreciation for its driving dynamics, fuel economy, and perceived value, and significant criticism regarding reliability, maintenance costs, and brand support. The vehicle is frequently praised for its Mercedes-Benz-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and AWD system, which contribute to a driving experience described as responsive and enjoyable, particularly in Sport mode. Fuel economy is noted as a strong point, with diesel models reportedly achieving 60-65 MPG (UK) on short drives and 40-55 MPG on longer journeys.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific trim as "best." Discussions suggest the 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol and diesel engines are the primary powertrains of interest. The Sport trim is mentioned for its driving mode, but no trim-level consensus emerges from the available feedback.
Known issues
- ⚠Major electrical/system failures: simultaneous failure of power steering, 4WD, ABS, and emergency brake systems with multiple warning lights; suspected software glitch or wiring harness issue. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Expensive and frequent mechanical repairs: reports include cracked coolant pipes (£2,800 / ~$3,500 USD), complete A/C system failure (£3,400 / ~$4,300 USD), and persistent headlight issues that could not be resolved even after replacement…
- ⚠Engine reliability concerns: the Mercedes-sourced 2.0L turbocharged (M274) engine is noted as being prone to piston failures, turbo issues, and water pump failures by those familiar with the platform.
3
Overall
Mixed sentiment, heavily dependent on generation and powertrain. The Mazda 3 is widely recognized for its fun driving dynamics, upscale interior quality for the class, and strong reliability, particularly for models equipped with the long-running 2.5L Skyactiv engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. Owner feedback positions it as a compelling, more engaging alternative to mainstream competitors like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or version. The Mazda 3 Turbo is mentioned as a desirable performance variant, though one owner reports catastrophic reliability.
Known issues
- ⚠Chronic no-start / electrical failure (2023 Turbo): Vehicle failed to start 46 times, requiring multiple battery replacements and dealer visits; suspected faulty hood switch. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Transmission/electrical failure (older generation): Vehicle began refusing to shift, losing electrical power while driving, and eventually failing to start entirely. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Outdated powertrain technology: The Skyactiv-G engine platform, while reliable, is viewed as lagging behind newer hybrid competitors in both performance and fuel efficiency, contributing to poor sales. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti Q30 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Mazda 3, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Mazda 3 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti Q30 or the Mazda 3?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Infiniti Q30 and the Mazda 3. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti Q30 or the Mazda 3?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti Q30 or the Mazda 3?
The Infiniti Q30 is more fuel-efficient on paper: 6.7 L/100km combined versus 9.6 L/100km for the Mazda 3, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti Q30 or the Mazda 3?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Infiniti Q30 than the Mazda 3. See the known issues comparison above.