Mazda 3

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The Mazda 3 blends an upmarket interior with impressive dynamics for a small hatch that stands out.

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We compare the 2022 Mazda 3 sedan and 2021 Kia Cerato sedan across commonly-asked questions about cost, fuel economy and performance.

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Find out what cars are eligible for the Drive Car of the Year 2024 – Best Urban Car Under $50K category

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After over two decades in production, there are plenty of used Mazda 3 models to choose from.

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When should you choose the Mazda CX-3 over the Mazda 3? We explain the key differences.

It's the sexiest car I have ever owned in looks.Owner: Amit C

The first car. Those years of waiting, months of learning to drive in your parent's car, days of excitement all over as the keys to your new prized possession are placed in your (not-so) trusty hands for the first time, signifying the start of a life of car ownership. Okay... who am I kidding? For most kids, the passion of getting their first car is just like any other mildly exciting day. Some might scroll the classifieds for an hour or so once a week for a few months, looking for that few thousand-dollar beater that is just right for them – or what their parents think might be just right, anyway. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with this. However, as a lifelong car nut, this is something that just wasn’t going to happen with me. After spending months searching online, I’d saved a range of vehicles, including the Skoda Octavia RS, Volkswagen Golf GTI and Hyundai i30 SR, but ultimately – as flamboyant as these cars may be – the dependability and subtlety of the Mazda 3 stood out to me in the end, with my eyes initially peeled on top-spec versions of the facelifted previous-generation BN range. In the end, I picked up my first car in late February: a used 2019 Mazda 3 G20 Touring hatch with 24,000 kilometres on the odometer. A car that, to quote my parents, “is too nice for a first car.” Do I care? Maybe. Only because I will miss out on telling any stories in the future that we’ve all heard before: how this car broke down and how that car was modified. Having a peculiar interest in the Mazda brand – despite deeming myself as an ‘impartial’ car lover – meant the current-generation 3 was the perfect car for me, especially since I’d spent considerable time in our now-departed CX-9 over the past few years (of which I’ve reviewed twice – here and here). Priced from $29,990 when new, the G20 Touring continues to fill the middle-ground of the 7-strong model range with a decent level of standard equipment, slotting between the G20 Evolve and G25 Evolve models while also offering some features offered in the more-powerful but $4.5k-pricier G25 GT grade. Whilst I would have loved to get a model powered by the 2.5-litre engine, this car was the only one available locally that was decently priced with a relatively hassle-free purchase experience. Standard kit is expansive, with highlights including an 8.8-inch widescreen infotainment display, head-up display, leather seats, keyless entry and start, rear parking sensors, a powered driver's seat and LED headlights with halogen DRLs – though these were quickly swapped to LED globes (a somewhat easy process) within 24 hours of ownership. It is disappointing for any recent car to be fitted with ancient and cheap-looking halogen lights in the age of efficient and low-cost LED globes, let alone the always-visible DRLs that are standard across the majority of Mazda’s local range (including the $70,000 CX-9 GT SP). The 3 also rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and features a full suite of safety and driver assistance features, such as seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. However, my car is not optioned with the factory-fit Vision Technology package, which adds front parking sensors, a driver monitoring camera, traffic-jam assist, front-cross traffic alert and a 360-degree camera system. Whilst this is a shame, the standard array of active safety technology is more than sufficient – especially for a $30,000 car. Although most active safety features work well, the lane-keep assist system is a bit frustrating – strangely, it seems Mazda has downgraded the system from that found in older models (such as the CX-9), with it now offering less than adequate lane-centering, unreliable reading of road lanes, removal of indication in the head-up display and frequent beeping. Particular attention must go to the excellent traffic sign recognition system which works in tandem with the windshield camera and satellite navigation to provide a mostly accurate speed limit indication – this is very handy in an age of rapidly changing speed limits and hefty speeding fines. Moving inside, while the black-on-black style of the interior leaves little to the imagination – with the nice two-tone materials found in the almost-identical CX-30 annoyingly not carried over – the high-quality materials and large screens stand out, supplementing the modernness of the 3’s cabin. Being the first model derived from Mazda’s updated design philosophy, the 3 continues to debut many interior elements for the brand that help to elevate the ambience to bring it among the top of the class, rivalling – if not surpassing – the all-new Mk8 Volkswagen Golf. To me, it feels just as well built as more expensive Mazda models, with the interior praised for being on a similar level to brands such as Lexus, rather than other small cars. This is something I can certainly agree with. The infotainment system runs on an 8.8-inch widescreen display, powered by the latest Mazda Connect interface. This second-generation unit is a million times better than the old MZD Connect system in execution, with an easy-to-use UX, nicer graphics and better implementation of smartphone mirroring. Apple CarPlay, in particular, looks excellent with a full-screen implementation and effortless switching between the two systems. While the lack of a touchscreen may annoy some, using the rotary dial is something that is easy to get used to, working mostly fine when using both CarPlay and the Mazda system – although some elements within CarPlay can be a bit clunky to use, especially music applications. On music, some audiophiles may lament the added oomph of the 12-speaker Bose stereo system available on upper 3 grades, however, the standard 8-speaker Mazda-branded speakers are still excellent with great clarity, though the lack of a subwoofer is noticeable with bassy songs. It is disappointing that Mazda has failed to implement wireless CarPlay into their newer system thus far, instead opting to only provide it to a few updated models that still feature the old MZD Connect system, such as the MX-5 and CX-5 (in other markets). Under the bonnet of the 3 is a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 114kW of power and 200Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. While these figures may seem yawn-inducing - after all, a N/A FWD hatch is hardly the epitome of driving enjoyment - the 3 is more than adequate and feels quite right for a first car. Not too slow, but not too fast either. With the 3 being affordable to maintain thanks to an average fuel economy of around 7.5L/100km, it manages to find a perfect balance between sportiness and economy. Despite this, a lower-capacity turbocharged or hybrid competitor is a better option for those looking for a more economical option. Being quite used to my parents' turbocharged CX-9 meant the lag on acceleration was an initial caveat to get used to – despite this, the 3 feels only slightly slower than the CX-9 once it gets going (mostly due to the lack of the added heft from a large SUV). On the road, the 3 feels poised with decent steering response and an eagerness to be dynamically pushed around. In addition, this accurate steering allows the 3 to handle corners with ease and strong balance, allowing you to have a level of fun that is not typically expected from this segment. While NVH levels have been a bugbear of Mazda vehicles in the past, the 3 is well insulated with the odd grunt from the engine penetrating into the cabin – this is something that doesn’t bother me, but it could be a grievance to some, especially since the naturally-aspirated engine can become pretty vocal. Improvements for future models? Firstly, as mentioned, it is time for Mazda to scrap halogen DRLs from their local line up – including on the non-Astina 3 range. They exude a sense of cheapness for the people who see them driving past, which is not acceptable for a brand pioneering itself on being ‘semi-premium'. It would also be nice to see front parking sensors make their way into the G20 Touring – especially since they’re standard on the equivalent CX-30 grade – plus heated seats to complement the cosy leather pews. Though not likely, Mazda should develop turbocharged versions of their 1.5 and 2.0-litre engines with SkyActiv-X technology to replace their current N/A mills – this would help to circumvent the initial lethargy of the engines upon acceleration and significantly improve fuel efficiency. For a brand resting its laurels on internal-combustion technology, Mazda’s continued reliance on larger-capacity naturally-aspirated engines and slow-paced rollout of its (self) lauded SkyActiv-X technology is a real concern, especially with the inevitable emergence of stricter environmental standards around the world. Styling-wise, less reliance on piano black surfaces is a demand of many owners, including myself, with deep scratches on my car diluting the sublime look of the interior. On the outside, a standard-fit larger spoiler – such as the one available with the optional Kuroi Sports Pack – would be a great addition to the hatch to help draw attention away from the large C-pillar. Also, I'm hoping we’ll see Mazda bestow the blacked-out ‘SP’ treatment to the smaller 3 and CX-30 with their forthcoming updates. Perhaps a 2.5-litre turbo Astina SP RS, as well. Food for thought, Mazda... While the added pep from the 2.5-litre engine would have been nice, the Mazda 3 G20 Touring is shaping up to be an awesome first car for me, with the luxurious interior, exceptional technology and great dynamics being standout features of my car. It certainly looks and feels much nicer than some of the other cars I contemplated and is a great option to consider for both used and new-car buyers alike. Perhaps the G25 Evolve with the Vision Technology package is the sweet spot of the 3 range, though.

In late 2020 I brought a 2012 Mazda “3” sedan in a private sale. The purchase was made to replace our mid spec 2008 Honda Civic VTI-L, which had 235,000 kilometres on the clock and will be used for my 170 kilometre round trip commute up the Pacific Highway to and from work each day. Put simply we wanted a younger car with less clicks on the clock. It has been a very noticeable step up, although to the Civic’s defence, it was a very good car in its own right. This review is based on two months of ownership and 3,500 kilometres of travel. Our 2012 Mazda “3” is the base model “Neo” sedan and had 122,500km on the odometer at time of purchase. There’s a lot to like about it, especially the level of safety features that includes head, front and side air bags, anti lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, dynamic stability and traction control systems. These features are sellers in themselves. The level of standard equipment is also impressive and includes cruise control, front and rear power windows, variable intermittent windscreen wipers, a nifty, but basic onboard computer to monitor fuel economy, distance to empty, maintenance schedule, tyre rotation and speed alarms. There are two large instrument binnacles that house the speedometer and tachometer separately, while there is a small electronic display between the two that also shows the fuel gauge, odometer and two separate trip metres. Interestingly there is no gauge for the engine temperature. . The car also has cruise, stereo and audio controls on the steering wheel, a reach and rake steering wheel and fold down rear seat that can access the largish 430 litre boot to carry long items like a whipper snipper, so that is a big smiley face from me on that point. It comes with a USB port to charge your mobile phone on the run, but strangely no Bluetooth, which is a glaring omission on a 2012 vehicle, even if it is the bottom spec variety. You can run your GPS/Dashcam off the cigarette lighter in the storage console between the two front seats and there’s a port to plug your MP3 player in too, or if you are a bit old school, there’s also a single in dash CD player, with the normal stereo adjustments. The stereo itself is quite excellent, with great sound coming from the good quality speakers. There is no distortion when the volume is cranked up. This definitely appeals to someone like me, who loves his music to help overcome the tedious one hour commute home from work, while on road trips to watch the footy or when heading up to see family at Yamba NSW. So all in all, that’s a lot of fruit for a base model car and it has impressed me. Our car is the 6 speed manual variety. To date the engine has started straight away every time and is smooth and quite in operation. The performance from the perky two litre engine is, dare I say it, somewhat sporty, which can bring a smile to ones face. It does like being revved and is at its best when you’re running through the gears. The changes are slick and precise, which adds to the enjoyment of changing gears for yourself and makes the overall drive more engaging and fun. Another thing is in comparison to my old five speed manual Civic, I’ve found myself having to change up and down more regularly. I imagine this may have something to do with the extra cog and way the engine and transmission are aligned. This is more an observation than a criticism. I only really use 6th gear on the highway or above 80km/h. The Mazda “3” has been a noticeable step up from the Civic, which felt a bit underpowered. While the two litre motor is no sports car in terms of outright power and torque, there certainly is no issue with it cruising on the highway at 110km/h. Besides if I wanted a performance car, I would have brought a Subaru WRX. The headlights are both bad and good. Low beam is inadequate, especially when travelling on the freeway at 110km/h or when it’s raining, yet the high beam is very bright, providing good forward vision. So I guess Mazda gets both a frown and a smile on this one. On the road the car is what you expect from a car in this vehicle category. It will happily cruise on the freeway at 110km/hr on a shade under 3,000rpms, as it will driving from home to the local shops to buy a loaf of bread and a bottle of milk or picking up the kiddo from his friends place. The steering is light, responsive and provides adequate feedback from what’s happening on the road. The suspension travel is generally OK, although big bumps can unsettle the ride. You definitely know when this happens by the loud “thump”, and the car jolting about. Unfortunately you do have to drive fairly conservatively around Taree, as the conditions of its local roads are the worst of any place in Australia I’ve driven on. From reviews I have read from both motoring journalists and actual Mazda owners, one major bug bear is the level of road noise that infiltrates into the cabin of this company’s vehicles. My one is no different. It is an incredibly noisy place to be, especially when driving across coarse bitumen roads at freeway speeds. It does become a little tiresome and tedious when you driving the 170km I do each day and is the one really disappointing aspect of what is otherwise a really good car. I currently have Goodyear Tyres on it from when I brought it, so I’m not sure if that is a contributing factor or not. I’ll soon find out as I am about to replace the front ones with some Toyo Nanoenergy ones. Cranking up the stereo volume does help with this issue. There also have been a lot of negative comments in regards to the cars fuel economy. I have not found that to be the case at all. In fact it has been quite the opposite. I have averaged around an excellent 6.5 litres/100 km, although that may be a little misleading because 90% of my driving has been cruising at 110km/h on the Pacific Highway. It would be interesting what the fuel economy would be if I spent more time poking about town. I am getting around 650km out of the 45litre tank and it costs around $55 to refuel. The interior of the car is a bit of a disappointment. There is a lot of cheap dark black plastic, including the steering wheel, which make it a tad dreary and sombre place to be. There is no rear air vents for back seat passengers and only one storage pocket on the back of the front passenger seat. While only very minor, it does simply take away from the overall appeal and is just another example of running with a cheap and nasty cost cutting charter. Having just one rear pocket really doesn’t quite make much sense to me and comes across as doing something a bit half arsed. That said, on a positive note, there are a few cubby holes for to store ones knick knacks like house keys, wallet and mobile phone. The centre console bin even has a little tray you can put a pen on. Between the front seats there are two cup holders to sit a cappuccino in while on the run and both the sun shades have a mirror on the back off them so the girls can put the lippy on or for you to see to give your hair a quick brush. There are large door pockets that can accommodate several water bottles, so that is an added bonus. While the front seat bucket seats are comfortable, you do sit low in them, which can restrict vision for the vertically challenged like me. The steep slopping bonnet and wide A & C pillows add to this problem. The rear seats one are a bit limited for both hip and leg room and are definitely for just two adults if you’re travelling more than an hour or so away. It’s not really an issue if you are like me and don’t carry rear seat passengers very often, but if you will be using them a lot, it is something you will need to consider. While I am generally very happy with the car and consider it a good purchase with excellent features for a base model, it’s not all kisses, hugs and high five’s. There are aspects about its design that could have been better thought out and done better. One thing I absolutely HATE is the space saver spare tyre. They are nothing short of a mean spirited, cost cutting exercise by car manufactures and Mazda are no different. It’s was an aspect of the “3” that was VERY CLOSE to being a deal breaker for me. Had we been considering it for my family’s main car, it would have been. Given they are speed limited to 80km/h, they are dangerous and should be made illegal. OK rant over. At the end the day, for me, the positives of the 2012 Mazda 3 Neo sedan far outweighed the negatives. Firstly the large amount of proactive safety features is a huge selling point. Then there’s the excellent reliability of the brand to consider. It had a massive influence on me deciding to look at this car in the first place. It has many practical features, excellent highway fuel economy, spirited performance and lots of space for a small car, which are all big, big winning ticks. Throw in all the excellent features for a base model, for me, buying at the price I got it for was a bit of a no brainer and I haven’t regretted buying whatsoever. r. On the negative side of the ledger, you will need to decide if the intrusive road noise, lack of Bluetooth, drab interior and space saver tyre is a deal breaker for you. For me it wasn’t which is why I am a happy owner.