Head-to-Head Comparison: 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring vs 2018 Ford Escape

Choosing between 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring vs 2018 Ford Escape isn’t always easy each offers unique perks and some drawbacks. This guide breaks it down to help make the right choice in this matchup that takes fuel efficiency safety performance and comfort into consideration.

Design and Dimensions

Sleek vs. Rugged: A Tale of Two Styles

When you look at these cars, it’s clear they have different ideas about design. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring takes the sporty route with a sleek and elegant exterior. It measures 168.3 inches long and has a wheelbase of 101.2 inches. Its compact body not only looks stylish but also makes it super easy to maneuver around crowded streets and tight parking lots.

On the other hand the 2018 Ford Escape goes for a more rugged look that fits right in with the SUV crowd. It's a bit longer with 178.1 inches and a 105.9-inch wheelbase. This makes it clear Ford's aiming at the more spacious end of the market offering more room for those who need it.

Dimensions at a Glance:

• Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring: Compact and easy to park

• Ford Escape: Larger build with spacious front legroom and shoulder room

While the Mazda CX-3 is ideal for urban commuters the Ford Escape provides more comfort in terms of interior space. It offers more front shoulder room and front legroom too which means taller drivers and passengers will probably appreciate it more.

Interior Space and Comfort

Premium vs. Functional: The Inside Story

Comfort Levels and Features

The Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring feels premium thanks to leather-trimmed seats and a heated steering wheel that gives a luxury feel in winter months. However, it’s not all perfect. One downside is its rear legroom. It can feel a bit cramped for taller passengers sitting in the back. Still it redeems itself a bit with a decent amount of cargo space behind the rear seats.

Alex Collantes, a long-time Mazda enthusiast says, "The leather seats in the Grand Touring feel very upscale for this class. But I do admit the rear seat could use some more room especially on long trips. That's where I feel Ford has an advantage."

The Ford Escape takes a more utilitarian approach. It offers a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that allows you to adapt the interior for both passengers and cargo easily. With up to 67.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity when those seats are down, the Escape clearly leads in practicality.

Summary:

• Mazda CX-3: More luxurious touch but lacks rear space

• Ford Escape: Spacious and more functional for families or travelers

Safety Features

Safety First: Who Protects You Better?

Standard Safety and Ratings

Safety is an important consideration, and thankfully both these vehicles take it seriously. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring comes standard with a rearview camera and Smart City Brake Support. It also earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA which is quite reassuring.

The 2018 Ford Escape has its own strengths in safety offering features like automatic emergency braking and rear cross traffic alert. These features go a long way to assist in potential collision avoidance scenarios. It also scored a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and even received the Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

• Mazda CX-3: Standard rearview camera & Smart City Brake Support

• Ford Escape: Adds automatic emergency braking & rear cross traffic alert

Drawback: The Mazda CX-3 doesn't offer the same level of active safety features found in the Ford Escape which could be a deciding factor for safety-conscious drivers.

Performance and Handling

Engine Power: Sporty vs. Smooth Ride

Different Power Options

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring features a 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine delivering 146 horsepower. It’s paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which contributes to an engaging driving experience—ideal for drivers who like to stay connected to the car. The downside is that this engine can feel a little underpowered when loaded with passengers and luggage.

The 2018 Ford Escape offers multiple engine options, with the base being a 2.5-liter engine producing 168 horsepower. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and offers all-wheel drive on higher trim levels. This gives more versatility in bad weather conditions or light off-roading. However, the Escape’s AWD models tend to be less fuel-efficient.

• Mazda CX-3: 146 hp with a six-speed manual transmission

• Ford Escape: 168 hp base engine; more power options available

Potential Drawback: The Mazda’s smaller engine and manual gearbox might not be to everyone's taste especially those seeking a more relaxed automatic transmission experience.

Technology and Infotainment

Keeping You Connected: Who Offers More?

Infotainment Features

The Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring provides a 7-inch touchscreen display and a Bose premium audio system—great for those who love high-quality sound. It’s also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible which has become essential for many customers.

The 2018 Ford Escape steps it up with an 8-inch touchscreen and also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus it includes features like navigation and even a Wi-Fi hotspot on higher trims, making it a more connected experience for families on long drives.

• Mazda CX-3: 7-inch display & Bose audio

• Ford Escape: 8-inch display, Wi-Fi hotspot, & more tech options

Issue: The Mazda’s infotainment system might feel a bit outdated compared to the more advanced options on the Ford Escape.

Fuel Economy and Maintenance

How Far Can You Go?

Mileage Comparison

In terms of fuel efficiency the Mazda CX-3 is the winner. It has an estimated EPA rating of 29 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, making it a great pick for those who do a lot of urban commuting.

The Ford Escape has a less impressive rating of 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway but remember it also has more power and space to offer, which often comes at a cost to fuel efficiency.

• Mazda CX-3: More fuel-efficient—great for city driving

• Ford Escape: Lower mpg, but more spacious

Maintenance Cost: The Mazda CX-3 also requires more frequent oil changes and tire rotations, which could add to the cost in the long run, but it does have better reliability scores overall.

Pricing and Value

What Are You Paying For?

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring starts around $22,000 whereas the 2018 Ford Escape comes in a little higher at $24,000. With the Mazda CX-3, you get a premium feel and better standard features for a lower price, while the Ford Escape offers more interior space and engine options.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Over a five-year span, the Mazda CX-3 holds its value better with a depreciation rate of about 32%. The Ford Escape depreciates faster, around 46%, which could impact long-term value for those planning to resell or trade-in.

• Mazda CX-3: Lower starting price & better resale value

• Ford Escape: More options, but faster depreciation

Alex Collantes mentions, "If you're looking for a car that keeps its value well and don't need a huge cabin the Mazda is a solid pick."

Known Issues and Reliability

What Are the Known Faults in a Mazda CX-3?

While the Mazda CX-3 is generally considered reliable, it’s not without issues. Rear seat space is frequently mentioned as a problem for those who regularly drive with passengers. Some owners also note road noise being a bit more noticeable than they would prefer. Overall, though, reliability scores for the Mazda CX-3 are strong—meaning it should run well for many years.

Is the Mazda CX-3 a Reliable Car?

Yes, Mazda CX-3 has a reputation for reliability, and with proper maintenance, it’s common to see these vehicles running smoothly past 150,000 miles. It's a low maintenance vehicle when considering mechanical reliability though, like any car, regular servicing is key.

Which Mazda Is Comparable to the Ford Escape?

The closest Mazda to compare with the Ford Escape would be the Mazda CX-5. It offers a bigger size and more power, putting it more in line with the Escape SE and higher trims in terms of space and features.

A Look at the Model Year Differences

When considering the model year of these vehicles, it's important to understand how both Mazda and Ford have made changes that appeal to different types of drivers. The 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring stands out as a sporty and compact option, designed to zip through city streets with efficiency. Meanwhile, the 2018 Ford Escape has seen some design upgrades from previous versions, offering a slightly more refined yet rugged aesthetic, catering to customers who appreciate a mix of urban and off-road capabilities.

Stylish Alloy Wheels: Form Meets Function

Both the Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring and the 2018 Ford Escape come equipped with alloy wheels, which add a significant boost to both aesthetics and performance. The Mazda CX-3's sleek alloy wheels enhance its sporty look while reducing overall weight and improving fuel efficiency. The Ford Escape also features attractive alloy wheels that are more rugged, designed to better withstand rougher terrains. This provides an advantage for customers who are looking for a vehicle that can handle different environments, while still sporting a modern and appealing look.

Shadow Black Appeal in the Ford Escape

The 2018 Ford Escape offers a variety of colors that bring out its bold design features, one of the most popular being Shadow Black. This color highlights the rugged curves of the SUV, making it look both sleek and intimidating—a favorite among those who want their car to make a statement on the road. The Shadow Black finish pairs perfectly with the alloy wheels, offering a sophisticated look that complements the versatile design of this model year. The combination of alloy wheels and Shadow Black ensures the Ford Escape remains stylish without compromising on its tough exterior.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

• 2016 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring: If you're looking for a compact sporty SUV with great fuel economy and luxury touches then the Mazda CX-3 is a good option. It’s perfect for city life and runs efficiently, but might feel cramped for families.

• 2018 Ford Escape: For those who need more room, power options, and tech features that cater to family needs, the Ford Escape is likely a better choice. It does have higher maintenance costs and doesn’t hold its value quite as well as the Mazda, but it delivers where space and power are concerned.

In the End: It's About Your Priorities

Every buyer's needs are different, and that’s why it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. The Mazda CX-3 offers better value and a fun driving experience for a lower cost, but the Ford Escape wins for those who need space and versatility. Which matters more to you: economy and sportiness or comfort and practicality?