Hatchback car comparison

Mazda MAZDA3 vs Toyota VITZ

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

Mazda MAZDA3 31,975 on NZ roads
VS
Toyota VITZ 31,288 on NZ roads
$18/week cheaper to fuel — Toyota VITZ at $38/wk vs $56/wk
50.8 kW more power — Mazda MAZDA3 at 116.8 kW
Mazda MAZDA3 31,975 in NZ
Toyota VITZ 31,288 in NZ
Registered in NZ
31,975
31,288
Fuel Economy
7.1 L/100km
4.8 L/100km
Power
116.8 kW
66 kW
Weight
1,792.8 kg
1,269.1 kg
Fuel Type
Petrol
Petrol
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Seats
5
5
Year Range
2003–2026
1999–2020
Imported New
91%
0%

NZ Registrations Over Time

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

Regional Popularity

Region Mazda MAZDA3 Toyota VITZ
AUCKLAND 10,886 13,285
CHRISTCHURCH CITY 1,941 3,798
HAMILTON CITY 1,690 1,138
WELLINGTON CITY 1,431 1,165
TAURANGA CITY 1,275 715
DUNEDIN CITY 735 857
LOWER HUTT CITY 761 668
PALMERSTON NORTH CITY 773 529

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more popular in NZ — the Mazda MAZDA3 or Toyota VITZ?

The Mazda MAZDA3 is more common with 31,975 registered in New Zealand compared to 31,288 for the Toyota VITZ. A larger fleet means more mechanics familiar with the car and easier access to parts.

Which is cheaper to run — Mazda MAZDA3 or Toyota VITZ?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Toyota VITZ uses less fuel at 4.8 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 Toyota VITZ 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 Toyota VITZ 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 Toyota VITZ, 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.