new vios AT vs facelifted Mazda3 (entry level)

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I'm sure you have reasons why you don't want to settle for a Honda but they do have a competitive line-up to consider.

For starters, if you want a very affordable sedan sans the safety features then go for the City 1.3 S CVT at PHP 665,000.00 . Adding a more powerful VTEC and safety features then go for the City 1.5 V CVT (w/ SRS and ABS) at PHP 745,000.00 .

This is probably a long shot as per your budget, but if you really want a sedan sans any safety features, then go the Civic 1.8 V AT at PHP 817,000.00 .

I have to agree, the MZ3 is not that spacious esp. the back seat. However, I find that it (MZ3) has a better driving position (at least to me) compared to the FD Civic, which has a big steering column and steering wheel sticking out. This awkward arrangement position the steering wheel too close and forcing one to sit further away from the floor pedals (which is an impediment if a person is vertically challenged).

But if it were just downt to the MZ3 and the new Vios, then I will settle for the MZ3. The MZ3 has a better looking body overall. I like its driving position and dash layout except for the dash integrated audio system (which can be a bum to upgrade or at least replace). The front seats are positioned quite high so passengers at the back may feel dwarfed by this.


In terms of safety, for the FRONTAL OFFSET TEST both cars got a rating of "GOOD" from the IIHS.

Mazda 3 2004-07 models FRONTAL OFFSET TEST


Toyota Yaris 2007 models FRONTAL OFFSET TEST


As for the SIDE IMPACT TEST, since both cars will likely never come equipped with side airbags, both got a rating of "POOR" from the IIHS.

Mazda 3 2005-07 models SIDE IMPACT TEST

Toyota Yaris 2007 models SIDE IMPACT TEST

Bottomline: Safety-wise, as with all things constant (or when both vehicles are similarly equipped in terms of safety features), both vehicles are on equal footing.