Poll: Fiat 500X or Mazda CX-3?

Craig Cole
by Craig Cole

Crossovers come in a huge array of sizes, from gigantic three-row models to tiny subcompact offerings, with nearly every conceivable variation in between.

But with today’s poll we’re focusing on the smaller end of the spectrum, pitting the funky Fiat 500X against Mazda’s vaunted CX-3. Which model would YOU rather own? Read on for more details about each one and make sure to vote!

Starting off, the Fiat is offered with two engines and two transmissions. The entry-level offering is a 1.4-liter Multiair turbo that’s good for 160 horses and 184 lb-ft of twist. It’s offered exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission.

For drivers that want a little extra oomph, the 500X can also be had with 2.4-liter four-cylinder. It’s good for 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Unlike its smaller brother it’s only available with a nine-ratio self-shifting gearbox. For extra grip, all-wheel drive is available with this powertrain.

As for the Mazda, it’s offered with just one engine, a smooth-running 2.0-liter Skyactiv ‘banger that puts out a rather meager 146 horses; its torque rating is identical. Front- or all-wheel drive is offered, though only one transmission is on the menu, an automatic with six forward speeds.

Dimensionally, these two subcompact crossovers match up quite nicely. Curiously, their wheelbases are identical at 101.2 inches, though the Fiat is a bit wider. Countering this advantage, the CX-3 edges out its Italian rival in overall length, if only by fractions of an inch.

As for pricing, both of these vehicles start at a refreshingly affordable $20,000, which is just another thing they share in common. But surely you’d rather have one than the other, right? Well, make sure to vote down below! If you’d like more information about either of these vehicles feel free to compare them directly right here.

Craig Cole
Craig Cole

Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).

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  • Smartacus Smartacus on Oct 16, 2016

    oh this was the easiest one: CX-3

  • Adiaiadi Adiaiadi on Oct 18, 2016

    Of course CX-3, who would want to buy Fiat (Dodge/Chrysler) crap. Fiat /Chrysler were made for each, both are great at producing crappy cars with a life span of a few months.

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