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Hatchback car comparison

Subaru IMPREZA vs Mazda MAZDA3

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

Subaru IMPREZA 37,204 on NZ roads
VS
Mazda MAZDA3 31,975 on NZ roads
8.600000000000009 kW more power — Subaru IMPREZA at 125.4 kW
Subaru IMPREZA 37,204 in NZ Wins 3 of 3
Mazda MAZDA3 31,975 in NZ
Registered in NZ
37,204 ✓
31,975
Fuel Economy
7.1 L/100km
7.1 L/100km
Power
125.4 kW ✓
116.8 kW
Weight
1,586.6 kg ✓
1,792.8 kg
Fuel Type
Petrol
Petrol
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Seats
5
5
Year Range
1992–2026
2003–2026
Imported New
16%
91%

NZ Registrations Over Time

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

Regional Popularity

Region Subaru IMPREZA Mazda MAZDA3
AUCKLAND 11,743 10,886
CHRISTCHURCH CITY 4,429 1,941
HAMILTON CITY 1,386 1,690
WELLINGTON CITY 1,205 1,431
TAURANGA CITY 1,055 1,275
DUNEDIN CITY 1,187 735
LOWER HUTT CITY 761 761
QUEENSTOWN-LAKES DISTRICT 914 —

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more popular in NZ — the Subaru IMPREZA or Mazda MAZDA3?

The Subaru IMPREZA is more common with 37,204 registered in New Zealand compared to 31,975 for the Mazda MAZDA3. A larger fleet means more mechanics familiar with the car and easier access to parts.

Which is cheaper to run — Subaru IMPREZA or Mazda MAZDA3?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Mazda MAZDA3 uses less fuel at 7.1 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 Subaru IMPREZA and Mazda MAZDA3 the same body type?

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

Are these cars typically imported new or used?

16% of Subaru IMPREZA models were imported new to NZ, while 81% came as used imports. For the Mazda MAZDA3, 91% were new and 7% 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.

View Model Details

Subaru IMPREZA Mazda MAZDA3

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