Hatchback car comparison

Mazda MAZDA3 vs Nissan NOTE

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

Mazda MAZDA3 31,975 on NZ roads
VS
Nissan NOTE 27,277 on NZ roads
$22/week cheaper to fuel — Nissan NOTE at $34/wk vs $56/wk
Mazda MAZDA3 31,975 in NZ
Nissan NOTE 27,277 in NZ Wins 2 of 3
Registered in NZ
31,975
27,277
Fuel Economy
7.1 L/100km
4.3 L/100km
Power
116.8 kW
Weight
1,792.8 kg
1,392.8 kg
Fuel Type
Petrol
Petrol
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Seats
5
5
Year Range
2003–2026
2004–2025
Imported New
91%
0%

NZ Registrations Over Time

Registration trend for Mazda MAZDA3 vs Nissan NOTE: comparing annual new registrations in NZ from 2020 onwards. Mazda MAZDA3 has more total registrations.

Regional Popularity

Region Mazda MAZDA3 Nissan NOTE
AUCKLAND 10,886 10,791
CHRISTCHURCH CITY 1,941 2,656
HAMILTON CITY 1,690 1,353
WELLINGTON CITY 1,431 1,215
TAURANGA CITY 1,275 940
LOWER HUTT CITY 761 798
PALMERSTON NORTH CITY 773 451
DUNEDIN CITY 735 463

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more popular in NZ — the Mazda MAZDA3 or Nissan NOTE?

The Mazda MAZDA3 is more common with 31,975 registered in New Zealand compared to 27,277 for the Nissan NOTE. A larger fleet means more mechanics familiar with the car and easier access to parts.

Which is cheaper to run — Mazda MAZDA3 or Nissan NOTE?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Nissan NOTE uses less fuel at 4.3 L/100km compared to 7.1 L/100km. At current fuel prices of approximately $2.80/L, that difference adds up over a year of typical driving.

Are Mazda MAZDA3 and Nissan NOTE the same body type?

Both are classified as Hatchback vehicles in the NZTA fleet data. The Mazda MAZDA3 is primarily a petrol vehicle while the Nissan NOTE runs on petrol.

Are these cars typically imported new or used?

91% of Mazda MAZDA3 models were imported new to NZ, while 7% came as used imports. For the Nissan NOTE, 0% were new and 99% 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.