Hyundai i30 N Line Sedan vs Mazda 3 G25 GT | Car Comparison

Published March 2026

Hyundai i30 N Line Sedan vs Mazda 3 G25 GT | Car Comparison Close

A Comprehensive Cars Comparison by Cars4us

The Hyundai i30 N Line Sedan and Mazda 3 G25 GT sit at the premium end of Australia's small-car market, but they appeal to very different buyers. The i30 focuses on turbocharged performance and sporty character, while the Mazda 3 prioritises refinement, premium presentation and everyday comfort. If you're deciding between these two popular small cars, the real question isn't which is better overall—it's which better suits the way you drive.

Engine, Performance & Driving Experience

i30 N Line

8.5/10

The Hyundai i30 N Line Sedan uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 150kW and 265Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Peak torque arrives low in the rev range, giving the i30 stronger acceleration from a standstill and more effortless overtaking performance.

G 25GT

8/10

The Mazda 3 G25 GT uses a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 139kW and 252Nm through a six-speed automatic. While it lacks the turbocharged punch of the Hyundai, power delivery is smoother and more linear. The Mazda feels calmer and more refined during everyday driving, whereas the Hyundai encourages a more spirited approach.
Verdict: The Hyundai is the more exciting driver's car, while the Mazda is the more refined cruiser.

Interior Quality, Technology & Features

i30 N Line

8/10

The Hyundai adopts a sportier approach, featuring sports seats, a digital instrument cluster and intuitive infotainment. Everything is easy to use, and the cabin feels contemporary and functional.

G25 GT

8.5/10

The Mazda 3 takes a more premium approach. Material quality is noticeably higher, with softer surfaces, more upscale finishes and a cleaner dashboard design. The driving position feels more luxurious, and the cabin isolation is superior, particularly at highway speeds.
Verdict: The Hyundai feels modern and sporty, but the Mazda feels like a car from the class above.

Practicality & Everyday Usability

i30 N Line

8.5/10

The Hyundai i30 Sedan provides a larger boot and slightly better rear-seat accommodation. Families and commuters carrying luggage regularly will appreciate the extra cargo capacity.

G35 GT

7.5/10

The Mazda 3 counters with the choice of either a sedan or hatch body style, giving buyers more flexibility depending on their lifestyle. However, rear visibility and rear-seat headroom are not quite as generous as the Hyundai.
Verdict: The Hyundai offers better space utilisation, while the Mazda offers more body-style choice.

Fuel Economy & Running Costs

i30 N Line

7.5/10

The naturally aspirated powertrain delivers impressive efficiency without requiring hybrid assistance, while the Hyundai's turbocharged engine uses slightly more fuel in mixed driving.

G25 GT

8.5/10

The difference isn't dramatic, but over long-term ownership the Mazda will generally be the cheaper car to fuel.
Verdict: The Mazda is the more efficient choice, though the Hyundai's performance advantage helps justify the extra consumption.

Safety & Driver Assistance

i30 N Line

7.5/10

Both vehicles include autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. However, the Mazda's stronger ANCAP performance and broader active safety credentials give it a meaningful advantage.

G25 GT

9/10

For buyers placing safety at the top of their priority list, the Mazda is the more convincing package.
Verdict: Both are well equipped, but the Mazda delivers stronger overall safety credentials.

Ownership Experience

i30 N Line

8.5/10

The Hyundai provides a more youthful and sporty package, with stronger performance and greater practicality. It feels designed for drivers who still enjoy getting behind the wheel.

G25 GT

8.5/10

The Mazda focuses on long-term comfort, refinement and perceived quality. It feels more mature and premium, particularly during extended highway driving.
Verdict: Hyundai suits drivers seeking performance and practicality; Mazda suits buyers prioritising refinement and comfort.

Our Verdict

Hyundai i30 8.1/10

Mazda 3 8.3/10

Choose the Hyundai i30 N Line Sedan if you want stronger acceleration, sharper responses, a larger boot and a more engaging driving experience. It feels sportier and more energetic in everyday driving.

Choose the Mazda 3 G25 GT if you value cabin quality, refinement, fuel efficiency and safety. It feels more premium, quieter and more sophisticated over long distances.

Ultimately, the Hyundai wins for drivers who enjoy performance, while the Mazda wins for buyers seeking a more polished and mature ownership experience.

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