Head to Head

In this week's Head-to-Head, it's a battle between two nameplates that are never missing when on the topic of reliable and most sought-after subcompact SUVs. It's none other than the Honda BR-V and the Mazda CX-3. Watch this.

It's a battle between two nameplates that are never missing when on the topic of reliable and most sought-after subcompact SUVs. It's none other than the Honda BR-V and the Mazda CX-3.

The BR-V is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine that produces 120 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. These engine figures are mated to a 7-speed Continuously Variable Transmission. On the other hand, the CX-3 runs on a 2-liter Skyactiv-G engine that gives out 148 horsepower and 192 Nm of torque, and is coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Two completely different powertrains but both of our cars here ensure that their respective engines do the work.

The design and styling of the BR-V is one that looks familiar, probably because it follows the exterior look of one of Honda's other car. Nevertheless, there are these details that make it stand out on its own way. For example, the front fascia is highlighted by these slim, wraparound headlights. From that you can already tell that it is under Honda's "Solid Wing Face" fascia signature. Meanwhile, at the rear, it has C-shaped tail lights that are connected by a reflective strip. Thanks to these details that the BR-V look tough.

Meanwhile, the same could also be said towards the CX-3's design. It's not something that the public haven't seen before, which is not a bad thing at all especially if it means that car enthusiasts would see another model which styling follows the brand's KODO design language. The front fascia houses this massive grille that comes with sharp lines. There's also this unpainted plastic cladding that matches the overall dynamic of the car. The exterior of the CX-3 is sleek, but not overdone.

Inside the BR-V, everything screams Honda as well. Every corner is wrapped in leather upholstery, giving away that elegant feels to it. It comes with an automatic climate control, a touchscreen and second-row air-conditioning. Since the BR-V is a seven-seater, it has a generous amount of space which ensures the comfort of the passengers may they be sitting on the 2^nd or 3^rd row. The placing of the buttons are done right as well.

On top of it, the infotainment system of the BR-V is equipped with Garmin-powered 7-inch touchscreen with Navigation. It also comes with Bluetooth and USB connectivity as well. Entertainment is courtesy of 4 speakers.

Meanwhile, stepping inside the CX-3, one of the most noticeable factors is the cabin that likewise reflects Mazda's signature design. The steering wheel offers great adjustment, and the controls are easy to navigate. Additionally, the dashboard holds the infotainment screen nicely.

And speaking of the infotainment system of the CX-3, the entertainment is courtesy of 7-inch touchscreen and it comes with 6 speakers and amplifiers.

When it comes to safety and security, both the BR-V and the CX-3 come with the needed features such as Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Stability Control, to name a few. However, the only difference is that the BR-V comes with dual airbags while the CX-3 is equipped with 6 airbags.

That was the Honda BR-V versus the Mazda CX-3-one of the pride and joys of their respective brands simply because they level up the subcompact SUV segment game.

That was the Honda BR-V versus the Mazda CX-3-one of the pride and joys of their respective brands simply because they level up the subcompact SUV segment game. That's it for our Head-to-Head this week.