Solano I vs 3 II (BL): which is better?
Lifan Solano I (2008–2016) vs Mazda 3 II (BL) (2009–2013): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Lifan Solano I
Mazda 3 II (BL)Specifications
| Lifan Solano I | Mazda 3 II (BL) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2008–2016 | 2009–2013 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 106 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque, up to | 137 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Gearbox | manual | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 550 mm | 4 580 mm |
| Width | 1 705 mm | 1 755 mm |
| Height | 1 495 mm | 1 470 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 605 mm | 2 640 mm |
| Fuel tank | 50 L | 55 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Lifan Solano I
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- No data
Mazda 3 II (BL)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Z6 / LF / FS engine: oil consumption at high mileage
Engine (Mazda Z6 / LF / FS): oil consumption at higher mileage; carbon buildup and ring coking.
Which one to choose
- Solano I — if you care more about: power.
- 3 II (BL) — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Solano I or 3 II (BL)?
Solano I: up to 106 hp, 3 II (BL): up to 105 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Solano I — about 13 675 ₸, 3 II (BL) — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.