Nissan NV350 Urvan Cargo (2015) vs Mazda 3 Hatchback SkyActiv-V AT (2017)

Nissan NV350 Urvan Cargo (2015) vs Mazda 3 Hatchback SkyActiv-V AT (2017): which should you buy?

For a Filipino buyer who needs cargo capacity and a work‑horse vehicle, the 2015 Nissan NV350 Urvan Cargo is the clear choice. It offers a massive interior volume (5.08 m long, 1.70 m wide, 2.29 m high) and a three‑seat layout designed for hauling goods, plus a robust 2.5‑L turbo‑diesel delivering 129 PS and 356 Nm of torque, which translates to strong low‑end pull for loaded trips. Its price is slightly higher at ₱1,158,000, but the extra power and payload capability outweigh the modest ₱80,000 premium for commercial use. The Mazda 3 Hatchback, priced at ₱1,078,000, is a compact, fuel‑efficient sedan‑style car with a 1.5‑L naturally‑aspirated engine that produces only 112 PS and 144 Nm, making it less suitable for heavy loads. It shines in urban commuting with a five‑door hatch, better fuel economy, and a modern 6‑speed automatic, but its limited cargo space and lower torque limit its utility for business or family hauling. In short, choose the Nissan if you need a durable, high‑torque van for cargo or passenger transport; opt for the Mazda 3 only if you prioritize city driving comfort, lower fuel cost, and a smaller footprint.