Hatchback car comparison

Suzuki SWIFT vs Mazda AXELA

Both are hatchback vehicles on New Zealand roads. Based on NZTA fleet data.

Suzuki SWIFT 103,025 on NZ roads
VS
Mazda AXELA 67,443 on NZ roads
$5/week cheaper to fuel — Suzuki SWIFT at $44/wk vs $49/wk
Suzuki SWIFT 103,025 in NZ Wins 3 of 3
Mazda AXELA 67,443 in NZ
Registered in NZ
103,025
67,443
Fuel Economy
5.6 L/100km
6.2 L/100km
Power
76.3 kW
Weight
1,353.4 kg
1,563.4 kg
Fuel Type
Petrol
Petrol
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Seats
5
5
Year Range
1985–2026
2003–2021
Imported New
50%
0%

NZ Registrations Over Time

Registration trend for Suzuki SWIFT vs Mazda AXELA: comparing annual new registrations in NZ from 2020 onwards. Suzuki SWIFT has more total registrations.

Regional Popularity

Region Suzuki SWIFT Mazda AXELA
AUCKLAND 33,062 23,086
CHRISTCHURCH CITY 9,456 5,424
HAMILTON CITY 4,180 3,427
TAURANGA CITY 3,141 2,554
WELLINGTON CITY 3,974 1,706
LOWER HUTT CITY 2,644 1,481
PALMERSTON NORTH CITY 2,294 1,378
DUNEDIN CITY 2,138 1,454

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more popular in NZ — the Suzuki SWIFT or Mazda AXELA?

The Suzuki SWIFT is more common with 103,025 registered in New Zealand compared to 67,443 for the Mazda AXELA. A larger fleet means more mechanics familiar with the car and easier access to parts.

Which is cheaper to run — Suzuki SWIFT or Mazda AXELA?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Suzuki SWIFT uses less fuel at 5.6 L/100km compared to 6.2 L/100km. At current fuel prices of approximately $2.80/L, that difference adds up over a year of typical driving.

Are Suzuki SWIFT and Mazda AXELA the same body type?

Both are classified as Hatchback vehicles in the NZTA fleet data. The Suzuki SWIFT is primarily a petrol vehicle while the Mazda AXELA runs on petrol.

Are these cars typically imported new or used?

50% of Suzuki SWIFT models were imported new to NZ, while 48% came as used imports. For the Mazda AXELA, 0% were new and 98% were used imports.

Where does this data come from?

All figures are sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Motor Vehicle Register, current as of 31 March 2026. This covers 3,678,722 registered passenger vehicles in New Zealand.

Data sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Motor Vehicle Register, current as of 31 March 2026.