Choice compact car for an ordinary buyer, if he is not clearly focused on a specific model, it can cause a stupor. Because the market offers just a huge number of options. In order to properly navigate here, you need to have professional knowledge. The journalists of "Avtostrada" decided to somewhat simplify the task of the "teapot" in the search desired machine, taking for the next test drive two very attractive models in their opinion in terms of price / quality - Mazda 3 and Skoda Octavia.
INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR
With their appearance, test participants demonstrate radically opposite stylistic concepts. In the exterior of the "Mazda" are viewed fresh ideas and oriental expression is felt, while in the restrained and solid appearance of the Skoda, a typical German approach to design is read. In practice, this means that young buyers will probably prefer the styling of the "Japanese", and people in adulthood will prefer the style of an Eastern European car. The interior of the "treshka" also evokes more emotions - an analog-digital instrument panel with a central tachometer, a gripping steering wheel donut and tight front seats create an atmosphere of sportiness. The inner world of the Octavia is harmonious with high-quality materials, but boring in a Volkswagen way. At the same time, Skoda has an advantage in ergonomics due to better visibility and seat comfort. Also, the Czech car is more spacious in the second row and wins in practicality due to its superior volume. luggage compartment- 635 liters versus 475 liters (measurements were made according to the editorial methodology) and the convenience of loading it (the “Czech” has a wider compartment opening and a lower threshold). The sections of the rear sofa of the Octavia when folded do not form a flat floor, like the Mazda, but they have a hatch for long lengths, which is not in the Japanese.
EQUIPMENT
According to the set of basic safety devices, the three-ruble note can be recorded as the class leader - six airbags, ABS, EBD brake force distribution system, EBA emergency brake booster, intelligent system SCBS collision avoidance at speeds up to 30 km/h, DSC dynamic stabilization system, ASR traction control, HLA hill start assist, RVM blind spot monitoring, LDW lane departure warning. The Octavia has a more modest list of standard equipment, but also quite decent: seven airbags, EBD, a system exchange rate stability ESC, ASR, EDL electronic differential lock, MSR engine braking control system.
RIDE AND HANDLING
The duel of cars at the measuring range ended in a draw. Under the hood of the Mazda, a 2.2-liter diesel engine with a return of 150 hp and 380 Nm. Skoda was equipped with a 2.0 liter diesel engine developing 150 hp. and 320 Nm. As a checkpoint, both subjects were 6-speed mechanical units. The winner of the races to measure the accelerating dynamics was japanese sedan, who showed the best time on the basis of all starts. In turn, Octavia demonstrated a more efficient operation of the brakes, spending 13/23/37/53/71 meters to stop from a speed of 60/80/100/120/140 km/h versus 14/25/39/56/76 m, which were required "three rubles".
Fuel consumption measurements also did not reveal a clear favorite. Skoda burned less fuel on the highway (4.4 l / 100 km versus 5.1 l), Mazda - in the city (5.6 l / 100 km versus 5.8 l).
The presence of the phrase SportSedan in the name of the “treshki” is intended to emphasize its sporty character. And this is not an empty phrase. Mazda is endowed with a driver's chassis, fast, accurate and responsive. We add here a high margin of stability and get suitable car for active driving, one of the best in the class. On the other hand, the comfort of the “Japanese” leaves much to be desired, which is to blame for the rigid suspensions, which convey in detail the features pavement and gaps in soundproofing. At Skoda, everything is in order with a smooth ride, as well as with the reliability of protecting the passenger compartment from extraneous noise. Although the habits of the car from Mladá Boleslav do not feel the enthusiasm that is characteristic of the "three rubles", the Octavia steers exemplary. In addition, the reactions of the “Czech” are more accurate and balanced, and there is enough tire grip in any situation. And if driving a Mazda is more interesting, then driving a Skoda is easier.
VERDICT
For those who are looking for a comfortable, well-equipped and pleasant to drive car without overpaying for the big name Skoda Octavia and Mazda 3 are presented the right choice. However, the test winner is the Škoda due to the advantage in practicality, as well as a better balance between handling and comfort.
Based on the materials of "Autostrada" (Spain)
Denis ALEXANDROV
Data obtained during the test
| Parameter | Mazda 3 SportSedan 2.2D | Octavia 2.0 TDI |
| Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, s | 8,24 | 8,41 |
| Travel time from a place of 1000 m, s | 29,54 | 29,71 |
| Acceleration from 60 to 120 km/h in 3rd gear, s | 8,0 | 8,2 |
| Acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h in 4/5/6 gears, s | 6,3 /8 ,0/10,7 | 7,3/10,0/13,9 |
| Travel time for a distance of 1000 m from the start at a speed of 40/50 in 4/5 gear, s | 30,3 / 31,2 | 32,8/35,0 |
| Braking distance from a speed of 60/80/100/120/140 km/h, m | 14/25/39/56/76 | 13 / 23 /37/ 53 / 71 |
| Fuel consumption, l / 100 km highway / city | 5,1/5 ,6 | 4,4 /5,8 |
| Noise level in the cabin when the engine is idling, dB | 46 | 49 |
| Noise level in the cabin at a speed of 100/120/140 km/h, dB | 67/70/73 | 65 / 69 / 72 |
| Interior width in the area of the front/rear seats, cm | 145 /134 | 139/138 |
| Minimum / maximum height from the driver's seat cushion to the ceiling, cm | 93/98 | 93/100 |
| Cushion Height rear seat to the ceiling, cm | 92 | 90 |
| Trunk volume, l | 475 | 635 |
Factory specifications
| Parameter | Mazda 3 SportSedan 2.2D | Octavia 2.0 TDI |
| Price*, euro | 24 200 | 23 140 |
| Type of | sedan | hatchback |
| Number of doors/seats | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Length/width/height, m | 4,585/1,795/1,450 | 4,659/1,814/1,461 |
| Wheel base, mm | 2,700 | 2,686 |
| Curb weight, kg | 1385 | 1330 |
| Luggage compartment volume, l | 419 | 590 |
| engine's type | diesel, with direct injection, turbocharging and intercooler | |
| Working volume, cc | 2191 | 1968 |
| Number of cylinders/valves | 4/16 | 4/16 |
| Maximum power, hp / rpm | 150/4500 | 150/3500 |
| Maximum torque, Nm / rpm | 380/1800 | 320/1750 |
| Drive unit | on the front wheels | on the front wheels |
| Transmission | mechanical, 6-speed | mechanical, 6-speed |
| Turning diameter, m | 10,6 | 10,4 |
| Front suspension | spring, McPherson | spring, McPherson |
| Rear suspension | spring, multi-link | spring, twisting beam with torsion elements |
| Front/rear brakes | ventilated disc/ disc | ventilated disc/ disc |
| Airbags, pcs | 6 | 7 |
| Security systems | ABS, EBD, EBA, DSC, ASR, HLA, SCBS, RVM, LDW | ABS, EBD, ESC, ASR, EDL, MSR |
| Tires | 215/45 R18 | 205/55R16 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 213 | 218 |
| Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, s | 8,0 | 8,5 |
| Fuel consumption, lhighway / city / average | 3,5/4,7/3,9 | 3,6/5,0/4,1 |
| Volume fuel tank, l | 51 | 50 |
| CO2 emission, g/km | 104 | 106 |
* - price in Spain
In the exterior of the Mazda, fresh ideas are visible and oriental expression is felt, while in the restrained and solid appearance of the Skoda, a typical German approach to design is read.
Let Octavia be a liftback and Mazda3 a sedan. Both play in the same segment and cost almost the same. When choosing a middle-class car, it is definitely worth taking a closer look at both models. In this case, however, you can find a fundamental difference between them.
Cars for this comparative test were selected not in the most usual way for AvtoMir. They have parity not in terms of power and dynamics, which we focus on in most cases, but in terms of price. And this is no coincidence, because most often a buyer who has 20–25 thousand dollars (or hryvnia equivalent) in his hands or in a bank, when he comes to a car dealership, first looks at the price list, and only then looks into the table of technical characteristics.
Mazda3 and Skoda Octavia - this is the case when for the same money you can take very different cars. First of all, they have significantly different parameters of power units. The advantage of Octavia in this case is in a wider range power units. The Czech car, which is produced in Ukraine, is offered with engines from 110 to 180 hp. Here and gasoline, and diesel, and "mechanics", and automatic, and "robot" DSG, front and all-wheel drive. All in different variations. The choice is large.
The imported Mazda3 has a much simpler situation - only 1.5 and 2.0 petrol engines (120 and 150 “horses”, respectively), a non-alternative 6-speed automatic and exclusively front-wheel drive.
Both cars on our test are in the richest trim levels. Skoda calls it Style, Mazda3 calls it Exclusive. Here, however, it is necessary to clarify that Octavia has an even more "stuffed" version of the L&K, but it is available only with a 1.8 engine with 180 hp. power, 7-speed DSG, all-wheel drive and a price of 30 thousand dollars, so in this comparison it is inappropriate.
Happy spring restyled Skoda Octavia has acquired the most modern multimedia system, which has lost buttons - their role is now performed by touch keys. It takes getting used to, but in principle it is very convenient. In addition, the glossy screen of the top multimedia system decorates the interior. The set of equipment in both test machines is approximately the same. Basic security systems, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, rain and light sensors, heated seats, an audio system with Bluetooth - both Skoda Octavia and Mazda3 have all this. But still, it is in the details, as always, that the catch lies. So, the Mazda3 has a heated steering wheel and LED headlights included in the price. But even for the top-end Octavia, these things will be optional. Moreover, you won’t be able to pay extra only for them, you will have to take an equipment package, which, in addition to the necessary little things, includes something expensive and far from the most necessary. The same applies to the keyless entry system. At Mazda3 it is included in the price. top version, at Octavia - in any case, it comes at an extra charge.
In the photos, the interior of the Mazda3 looks more modern and bright than in real life. Perhaps the fact is that the driver does not pay attention to the light upholstery, and before his eyes there are laconic instruments and a relatively low-lying console But on Octavia, in principle, you can install a great many factory additional equipment. Starting with nets for the trunk and ending with a set of leather seats with electric adjustments, car parking and keyless entry. And for Mazda3, for example, no autopilots are provided in principle. The "Japanese" does not have alternatives to fabric upholstery.
Set or design?
If you choose a car solely on a set of options, then, in fact, it is enough to carefully analyze them - and you're done. But who does that! We all love to enjoy our own emotions.
And for any person, acquaintance with the Mazda3 begins with them. Maybe it's the cool design and the rapid appearance of the car? Or in a carefully crafted interior? Oh no! During our test, only hardened phlegmatic people did not ooh when they heard the Mazda3 start up. The first minutes of operation, the engine growls very, very loudly in a bass voice, and it doesn’t matter if it’s hot or cold outside. Mazda3 is always recognizable by this sound, which would be more suitable for a diesel car than a gasoline car. And it's hardly the lack of sound insulation! On the move, for example, the Mazda3 is not inferior in acoustic comfort to the Skoda Octavia, which starts work much more delicately.
1 of 10
In terms of space for rear passengers and organization of space on the second row, Octavia subjectively seems better, but in fact the cars have parity.
Octavia is a recognized leader in the segment in terms of trunk volume, ease of loading into it, and competent organization of space in the compartment. Grids, however, are considered an option, but they are definitely worth paying extra for.
The 7-speed DSG shifts gears perfectly - quickly and discreetly.
With the spring restyling, Skoda Octavia has acquired the most modern multimedia system, which has lost buttons - their role is now played by touch keys. It takes getting used to, but in principle it is very convenient. In addition, the glossy screen of the top multimedia system decorates the interior.
In movement, there is generally no feeling that the “Japanese” is inferior to the “Czech” in some way, although in terms of dynamics they formally have a noticeable difference. It's all about how finely tuned the Mazda3 is to the desires of those who still love to drive in today's world, which is rapidly sliding towards autopilots. Driving pleasure
You experience Mazda3 even when you try to accelerate to the speed of the flow, leaving, for example, from a gas station at the metropolitan District. Octavia - and after all, this is one of the fastest cars in its price category- does not give such emotions. You accelerate without noticing how much more dynamic you are than everyone else.
1 of 8
On a long journey, it will be convenient both in a liftback and in a sedan, although in the Mazda3 the rear is perhaps a little less comfortable in terms of acoustics. But climbing to the second row is a little bit, but more convenient
Mazda3 is sold in Ukraine in two versions - on our test there was a sedan, but there is also a hatchback. The sedan, of course, is not so friendly to oversized cargo - it is quite difficult to shove a large square box into a narrow opening. But there is enough depth for everyday needs
Dashboard Mazda3 is not the most typical for Japanese car. There is no abundance of colors and pictograms, everything is strict and simple. Maybe even too easy
Mazda says the screen is positioned this far from the driver for safety reasons to reduce distraction from the road.
Tests Euro NCAP it was not a sedan, but a Mazda3 hatchback, a more relevant model for Europe. However, in terms of security, there is no difference between them. So we can safely say that the Mazda3 received the highest rating for safety. At the same time, she has more points for the presence and work of electronic assistants than Octavia. However, it is just possible not to pay much attention to this, since in Ukraine the set of auxiliary systems is still not the same as in Europe. In addition, the tests were carried out already four years ago, even before the restyling of both models. Things have changed since then, but updated versions Mazda3 and Octavia have not been tested by Euro NCAP.
conclusions
Mazda is good. Looks great, rides great... and generally produces a lot best impression than its characteristics. However, isn't this the case when you have to choose between "appear" and "be"? I personally considered and continue to consider Skoda Octavia the benchmark in its segment, and I can find only one argument against buying a liftback: excessive popularity on Ukrainian roads.
Advantages and disadvantages
Skoda Octavia
Large selection of powertrains and optional equipment, outstanding dynamics, large trunk
The massiveness of the Octavia on the roads makes some choose something else to be "not like everyone else"
Mazda3
quality Japanese assembly, bright design, gambling sensations while driving
Popular with car thieves, less powerful engines than Octavia
Who are the key figures of today's test? Perhaps the co-platformers of Volkswagen Golf, which is not formally (what an intrigue!) in the list of participants? Glittering with trendy LED optics and playing with turbomuscular FR versions, the hot Spanish guy Seat Leon? Or the embodiment of practicality - "Skoda-Octavia", in a new guise more and more reminiscent of not even a "Volkswagen", but rather an "Audi"?
Do not take away leadership ambitions from the latest Mazda 3. Her appearance is like a powerful salvo to the popular belief that the cars around have become the same. Her compatriot Toyota Auris, although she does not claim to be the undisputed leader, will certainly try to outdo her rivals in terms of exterior and engine. Well, the Ford Focus, an experienced fighter in disputes, is an excellent starting point for assessing handling and comfort.
Pay attention to price attractiveness? There are champions here. And God bless him, with "Leon" for 1,133,140 rubles. In the end, the brand's lack of promotion in Russia, Volkswagen genes, plus the orientation of the FR version to a specific consumer give the model a touch of exclusivity.
What can not be said about the potentially massive Mazda with its Sky technologies and an option package, which in our case raises the price right up to 1,121,000 rubles. Faux leather door panels, power and again leather upholstery, 18-inch wheels and lane departure control are not cheap options. They have already got used to the surcharge for metallic (13,750 rubles), but now they demand 18,750 rubles for the branded red color!
Even the very well-equipped Octavia with its price bracket of 1,021,550 rubles is modesty itself. Not to mention the "outsiders" cheaper than a million - "Toyota" and "Ford".
Strict family liftback or bright perky sedan? Skoda Octavia or Mazda 3? These cars are classmates, but can hardly be considered rivals. Mazda has always been distinguished by driver qualities, and Skoda has always been family values. Cars are aimed at too different audiences, despite the fact that Octavia has a sports version. Let's figure it out.
Mazda 3
For example, the dimensions of the compared cars are very similar. With the same ground clearance Octavia is several centimeters longer and taller. However, it has a smaller wheelbase compared to the Mazda 3.
To compare these models, it is necessary to take into account that they are offered with different types body. Mazda 3 in the sedan and five-door hatchback versions, and the Skoda Octavia in only one modification of the five-door liftback - a kind of symbiosis of a hatchback and a sedan.
Mazda 3 is a front-wheel drive C-class car. Currently, the third generation of the model is being produced, leading its history since 2003. The corporate design philosophy has reached the “troika”, making it appearance elegant and dynamic at the same time. In terms of technology, the younger Mazda model does not lag behind its older brothers and boasts Skyactiv engines and gearboxes, as well as a lightweight body with increased torsional rigidity. At the same time, the new generation received a modern Connect multimedia system with the ability to access the Internet and synchronize with a smartphone. In addition, a head-up display can be installed on the Mazda 3, which is a rather rare phenomenon in this class of cars.
Let's try to compare Mazda 3 and Skoda Octavia.
Skoda Octavia
Skoda Octavia is a class C car with front-wheel drive and a liftback body. The model is also in the third generation, shown in the Czech Republic at the end of 2012. In the new generation, designers have retained a recognizable image, while the appearance of the car has become more modern. Octavia A7 has become much larger than its predecessor, providing passengers with an already considerable volume.
Design
The soul of the Kodo movement also moved to the Mazda 3: smooth, swift lines that highlight the front and rear fenders, sloping roof bends, a predatory look of the front optics and a family grille. Plastic features in the dynamics of metal. Mazda attracts the eye and encourages behind the wheel.
The Skoda Octavia is the exact opposite in design. The exterior is distinguished by wide front lights, strict edges of a solid body, more and more reminiscent of Audi. What is it like timeless classic which is always in fashion. The body silhouette is indistinguishable from a sedan, but in fact Octavia, as before, is produced in a liftback body.
Options and prices
Mazda 3 is available in sedan and hatchback. The sedan has a minimum version with a 1.6 liter petrol engine (104hp) and a 4-speed automatic and two others with a 1.5-liter engine (120hp) and a 6-speed automatic automatic transmission. The hatchback is offered only in the Active + version with a 1.5-liter engine and a 6-speed automatic at a price of 1,271,000 rubles.
The Skoda Octavia has a much larger number of trim levels. In three basic equipment levels, three petrol power units are offered, working both with mechanics and with an automatic machine. Medium Octavia in the Ambition configuration - with a 1.4-liter turbo engine and 150 hp.
Both rivals have automatic transmissions. Only Mazda has a classic 6-speed hydromechanics, and Octavia has a choice of a 6-speed hydromechanical or a 7-speed DSG robot.
For lovers of more original and exclusive Skoda variants offers a sporty Octavia RS 2.0 TSI 230 hp. with., prestigious - LK, as well as an all-wheel drive version 4x4.
Seat Leon could become a second in the dispute between the Skoda Octavia and Mazda 3. By its nature, it is somewhere in the middle between the aggression of the Mazda and the calmness of the Octavia. hot hatchback German concern from Spain.
Trying on a tracksuit and winking LED optics, Seat Leon is trying to escape from the wide embrace of the family. For example, for the convenience of the rear passengers, it is a Spanish car slightly inferior to the Octavia. But the rest is an open question. Uncomfortable front seats with massive lateral support. Wheel, cut from below - a controversial decision. The bright front panel with yellow inserts quickly tires.
Southern temperament is felt in everything. Dynamics turbocharged engine- a real explosion. If on low revs this is conventional engine, then after 4500 rpm. expression starts. Much can be forgiven for this dynamics and the sound of the motor. And the average ride, and increased noise in the cabin. But the handling here is far from perfect. Outside of smooth asphalt, the Seat becomes nervous and twitchy, trying to go into a skid from a laid trajectory. Apparently, under the wheels of Leon there should be exceptionally smooth asphalt, Russian roads Spaniards don't fit. This car is too emotional and, unfortunately, a little predictable.
In salons
The driver's seat has a wide range of movements and a set of electric adjustments. But the lateral support is somewhat cramped. Mazda immediately makes an impression - a multimedia screen sticking out with a design challenge in the center of the front panel, a compact and full of toggle switches steering wheel, adjusted according to the efforts and position of the pedal, a lever of a modern 6-speed "automatic". Even the original instrument cluster with the dominant tachometer and retractable Active Driving projection screen are perceived as attributes sports car. But visibility with good exterior mirrors leaves much to be desired. Passengers in the back row will not feel at ease enough. At the same time, the backs of the front seats were made with recesses for the knees of the rear passengers.
But the equipment of the Mazda 3 is beyond competition, there are even six airbags, and only two in Octavia. As for containers for small things, Mazda provides a minimum - in the doorway there is only a place for a bottle of water. But on the central tunnel there are two cup holders, and in the armrest there is a shelf for a smartphone and USB connectors.
The interior of the Skoda Octavia can be expressed in three words - concise, ascetic, practical. Black and gray design, dual-zone climate control and audio system. No navigation or head-up display. But there is a door closer. The quality of materials and assembly is also on top. The driver's seat in the Octavia is comfortable: higher and looser, the side bolsters are not as tight as Mazda's. But the chairs themselves are very simple, both in terms of the quality of materials and appearance. On the back sofa Skoda allows you to stay just chic. There are even hotel deflectors and heated seats. There is also more space for things in the Octavia - huge pockets in the doors, a box under the front passenger seat and in the central tunnel.
Luggage compartments to compare does not make sense. Starting from a volume of almost 600 liters for the Octavia liftback, and a little over 400 liters for the Mazda 3 sedan. The hatchback has even less. And ending with the convenience of loading and unloading. Under the floor of the Mazda 3 there is a dokatka, while the Skoda has a full-size spare wheel.
In move
The latest generation of Mazda continues glorious traditions stamps. SkyActive technologies are a range of engineering solutions in the development of the body, powertrains, transmissions and chassis. For example, with gasoline engine 1.5 liter Japanese engineers managed to squeeze out 120 horsepower without a boost. This was possible thanks to a previously unthinkable compression ratio of 14 units. All elements of the cylinder-piston group, as well as injection, intake and exhaust systems, were finalized. Therefore, Mazda 3 rides very lively. Undoubtedly, miracles do not happen, acceleration occurs in accordance with the theory of an atmospheric engine. The maximum return is achieved at high speeds, before that the car picks up speed quite smoothly. But it sounds like a real driver's car. The machine shifts gears on time, but sometimes with short pauses. But still, the engine-box duo performs superbly. Chassis settings are fully consistent with the capabilities of the motor. The suspension copes with small bumps, but on large potholes it already starts to shake. The steering wheel from lock to lock makes 2.6 turns, which allows you to take turns without intercepting your hands on the steering wheel. As a result, Mazda has a complete understanding with the driver.
The Skoda motor also causes admiring exclamations. He literally drives idling, as if it is not a turbine that helps him, but a drive compressor. Maybe there is not enough dynamics just at high speeds, when you expect the car to explode, but no, everything is strict here too. The 7-speed DSG is of great help, shifting gears almost instantly. But the precise handling does not annoy with severity, the insulation is exceptional, the brakes, like those of Mazda, are responsive and informative. There are complaints about the suspension. Jokingly coping with large irregularities, she suddenly responds with a knock at small joints. Steering Octavia is less sharp - 2.8 turns to the stop, but in terms of accuracy it is somewhere at the Mazda 3 level.
Power measurement
Power is measured on a special stand, which converts the power on the wheels into engine power according to the established program for comparison with the manufacturer's data. Typically, three control measurements are made to increase the accuracy of the tests. The engine spins up to high speed, at which the maximum power is reached.
Mazda 3, as an Asian woman, turned out to be very punctual and showed a result of 123 horsepower out of 120. Of course, there is a measurement error. But Octavia surprised by showing instead of the declared 150 - as many as 169 "horses".
Summing up
What is the result? As expected, the cars are diametrically opposed. Mazda 3 attracts with its aggressive design, refined handling and rich equipment. Skoda Octavia is the embodiment of practicality, rigor and spaciousness. Let dim, but, as it turned out, a car that also knows how to drive correctly. And it's a pity that in a new one with a liftback body.