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Mazda 3 Used Car Review

The Mazda 3 is a Japanese small car that has for a long time been one of Australia's most popular vehicles. It is considered one of the most fun cars to drive in its class, with great steering and handling. There have been several generations since the model replaced the 323 in 2004. It continues to be offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles. A 2.2-litre turbo diesel model was introduced in 2014 but axed two years later owing to slow sales, leaving a choice between two smooth and efficient petrol engines in 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre form, with a standard manual gearbox or optional automatic. The first- and second-generation Mazda 3 range featured a performance variant called the MPS.

Pros

Cons

  • Mazda 3 places emphasis on driving enjoyment.
  • Good build quality.
  • Broad model range and prices.
  • Roomy cabin. Hatch body style particularly practical.
  • Road noise has been a constant issue for Mazda 3 generations.
  • Lower trim grades can be missing convenient features.
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
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Top2016 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 97280 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2016 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

$18,990 Drive Away^
Hoppers Crossing, VIC

Dealer used
03/05/2024

Top2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 63939 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

$19,894 Drive Away^
Kedron, QLD

Dealer used
18 hours ago

Top2017 MAZDA Mazda3 TOURING

  • 57949 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2017 MAZDA 3 TOURING BN5278 AUTOMATIC Looking for a sleek sedan with top-notch features and fuel efficiency? Look no further than the 2017 Mazda3 Touring Sedan. Packed with advanced technology like blind spot monitoring and forward collision warning, this car has everything you need to stay safe on the road. With a stunning red exterior and leather interior, you'll be turning heads everywhere you go. Don't miss out on this incredible deal - , it won't last long. Upgrade your commute and drive

$18,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
04/05/2024

Top2015 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 96834 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Introducing the stylish and reliable 2015 Mazda 3, a perfect blend of performance and comfort, now available for discerning drivers seeking a pre-loved vehicle that doesn't compromise on quality. With a modest 96,834 kilometres on the odometer, this automatic gem has been meticulously cared for and is ready to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The Mazda 3 is renowned for its responsive handling and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for both city driving and long-distance adve

$18,990 Drive Away^
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
03/05/2024

Top2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 85166 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** The Car Shop WA ** Why buying from us ? Several years in the industry, we prioritise our customers above all else. The Carshop Wa isn't just good, it's 5 - Star AMAZING! Google & Facebook with 500+ reviews, customers rave about our cars, service, and prices. Don't miss out! **** Introducing the fiery 2014 Mazda 3 BM Series Touring Sedan! Sleek, stylish, and painted a ravishing red, this ride is sure to turn heads wherever you go. It's not just a pretty face either, with a 2.0i SKYACTIV-Dri

$16,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
04/05/2024

Top2014 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 109412 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Popular up market compact hatch with the powerful yet economical 2.0 litre engine, six speed Tiptronic auto, cruise with traction control, front-side airbags, Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity, luxurious leather trim, push button start, alloy wheels, reverse camera, sensors plus more. Modest 109,000 kms with excellent service history. Brilliantly priced. We are a friendly and efficient company, trading with integrity and determined to give our customers the very best of service. WA's mo

$17,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2017 Mazda 3 BN5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 34229 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE WITH AFFORDABLE FINANCE PACKAGES & WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE. Located 15 minutes from Melbourne in the eastern suburbs. One of Australia?s largest Pre-Owned Vehicle Sites with over 55 years of experience and operation this Family-Owned business has a large range of quality pre-owned vehicles and 2 on-site valuers to ensure we get the best price for your trade in. Interstate purchases welcome, we?ll help and guide with transportation or arrange a permit if you want to dr

$23,990 Drive Away^
Burwood, VIC

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2017 Mazda 3 BN5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 89234 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** FINANCE AVAILABLE ** PRICED TO SELL!! ** ** ONE OWNER with FULL DEALER SERVICE HISTORY ** ** COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN **PANORAMIC SUNROOF ** SATELLITE NAVIGATION ** REVERSE CAMERA ** PARTIAL LEATHER ** PUSH BUTTON START ** ** REVERSE COLLISION MITIGATION ** LANE DEPARTURE WARNING ** BLIND SPOT MONITORING ** REAR CROSS TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT ** DIGITAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ** - Bluetooth System - Electric Handbrake - Dual Zone Climate Control - Automatic Headlights - Rear Sensors - Central

$22,990 Drive Away^
Preston, VIC

Dealer used
8 hours ago

2018 Mazda 3 BN5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 107423 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a Used Car? Then you have come to the right place! 7 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE 120 Point Safety Check 12 Months Roadside Assist Fixed Price Servicing 24 Month Mechanical Protection Plan ***with an option to upgrade to Premium Mechanical Protection LOCATION Located in North Brisbane we are a short trip from the Sunshine Coast and definitely worth the visit whether you are located in Toowoomba, Ipswich or the Gold Coast. We have over 2500 used cars to choose from! Enquire today fo

$19,990 Drive Away^
Aspley, QLD

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2018 Mazda 3 BN5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Machine Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 41840 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

JUST ARRIVED - 2018 MAZDA 3 TOURING in super condition equipped with the following * low low kms for the age of this very well looked after motor car * treat yourself to this amazing amount of luxury on offer * drives senationally well we are located 90 minutes north of sydney at a large dealership in operation for over 30 years.

$24,983 Excl. Gov. Charges
East Maitland, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM Touring Black 6 Speed Automatic Hatchback

  • 248020 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

WELCOME TO CAR DEALER WE ARE LOCATED 107 TUDOR STREET HAMILTON NSW IN NEWCASTLE,1 HOUR AND 30 minutes NORTH OF SYDNEY. 2014 MAZDA 3 TOURING, 2.0L PETROL, AUTOMAITC, 2 KEYS, SERVICE HISTORY PROVIDED, COLD AIR CON, BLACK IN COLOUR WITH TIDY EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR, VEHICLE ALSO COMES WITH A SAFETY INSPECTION REPORT. Vehicle price includes 5 YEARS WARRANTY MECHANICAL PROTECTION PLAN with endurance only condition is to be service by a licence mechanic every 10,000 klms or 6 months which ever come

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Hamilton, NSW

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Silver 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 115031 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** FULL MAZDA SERVICE HISTORY ** ONE OWNER FROM NEW ** 2 x KEYS ** PACKED WITH FEATURES ** Step into this beautifully maintained 2014 Mazda 3 Touring hatch and you'll immediately notice a sense of style and quality. The 2.0 litre engine and 6 speed Skyactiv auto transmission provides a smooth and effortless driving experience, making it an excellent choice for both city commuting and weekend getaways. The interior is well appointed with luxurious leather seats, adding to your comfort on every

$18,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2015 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 99610 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

****If the car is advertised the car is available**** We are located just 30 minutes west of Sydney airport conveniently just minutes off the M 5 motorway. Located on 7.5 acres. We are open 7 days from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Open Sunday 10.00 am to 4.30 pm. Our aim is to keep our cars the cheapest by comparison without compromising quality. We specialise in quality used cars from a large range of manufacturers, allowing us to offer our clients a huge variety. Each one of our used car sales team

$18,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Condell Park, NSW

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2016 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 120329 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2016 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 131960 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

As a pre-owned vehicle from Melbourne's number one pre-owned specialist based in the South East suburbs, you can trust that this car has been thoroughly inspected and maintained to ensure that it is in excellent condition. We offer a hassle-free, no-haggle policy and price check our vehicles daily to ensure they are competitively priced for their condition, year, and mileage. We have hand-picked all our vehicles to undergo our 101 point safety check, so you can drive away with confidence

$16,980 Drive Away^
Springvale, VIC

Dealer used
15 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 45654 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

JUST ARRIVED INTO OUR SHOWROOM THIS STUNNING 2014 MAZDA 3 TOURING SKYACTIV-DRIVE AUTOMATIC HATCH FINISHED IN UNMARKED METEOR GREY METALLIC OVER BLACK LEATHER SPORTS TRIM.. THIS 1 OWNER CAR FROM NEW HAS TRAVELLED ONLY 45,000Ks AND COMES WITH FULL SERVICE HISTORY, 2 KEYS AND FITTED WITH A DESIRABLE LIST OF OPTIONS; - NAVIGATION WITH SPEED ZONE ALERT - REVERSE CAMERA - REAR PARKING SENSORS - PADDLE SHIFT - ELECTRIC WINDOWS - 16" INCH ALLOYS - BLUETOOTH WITH MUSIC STEAMING - CRUISE CONTROL - DUA

$19,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Sandringham, VIC

Dealer used
16 hours ago

2016 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive White 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 29784 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Immaculate AUTOMATIC SEDAN with Log Books. Genuine Kilometres. All MAZDA Factory Features in Excellent Working Order, Including Icy Cold Air Conditioning. Faultless Vehicle to Drive, Any Inspection Welcome. Option of Extended Registration for NSW Purchasers, Current Pink Slip Supplied. 1-5 Year Australia Wide Warranty Available. On-Site Finance Facilities & Trade-Ins Welcome. Home Delivery Options Available for Local, Country & Interstate Purchasers. Entry Level Australia Wide Warranty from $4

$21,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Five Dock, NSW

Dealer used
16 hours ago

2016 Mazda Mazda3 TOURING 2.0L 6SP AUTOMATIC SEDAN $18,999

  • 103091 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2016 MAZDA 3 TOURING 6SP 2.0L AUTOMATIC SEDAN $18,999 *EXTENDED WARRANTIES AVAIALABLE* LOOKING FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE BIT RELIABLE THEN THIS MAZDA 3 SEDAN IS THE CAR FOR YOU! WITH A COOL BLUE EXTERIOR AND SMOOTH SPORTS AUTO TRANSMISSION, THIS MAZDA IS A JOY TO DRIVE! PACKED WITH FEATURES AND IMMACULATE ON THE INSIDE, COME TEST DRIVE THIS MAZDA 3 TODAY! POWERFUL AND ECONOMICAL 2.0L ENGINE WHICH IS A PLEASURE TO DRIVE, COME IN TODAY AND CHECK THIS GEM OUT! THIS IS THE TOURING VARIANT SO GOT AL

$18,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kenwick, WA

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2015 MAZDA Mazda3 TOURING

  • 29511 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2015 MAZDA 3 TOURING AUTOMATIC 2.0L 4CYL PETROL REGO: 6 MONTHS + RWC ✅ 📖 Finance this car from $102 per week! 💵 💵 ⭐️ 29,511 kms with full service books 🚗 📖 ⭐️ This is a genuine one owner vehicle with really low mileage! It’s the perfect car for those wanting a fun and reliable ride. With an automatic transmission, you will have the power and control to get the most out of your driving experience. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior. Enjoy the sports suspension, push bu

$20,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
17 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 63939 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

$19,894 Drive Away^
Kedron, QLD

Dealer used
18 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 BM5278 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 149000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 Mazda 3 Touring 4 Cyl Petrol 6 Speed Manual Sedan 149000Kms Log Books Leather Sat Nav Alloys Blue Tooth Very Tidy Comes with Qld Rego RWC Clear PPRS History and 12 Months Extended Warranty $14990 Drive Away No More To Pay #mazda #mazda3 #auto #skyactive SP25 #gt #touring #easyfinance #marketplacemotors #autosalesredcliffe

$14,990 Drive Away^
Clontarf, QLD

Dealer used
18 hours ago

2014 Mazda 3 TOURING AUTOMATIC SEDAN

  • 92942 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2014 Mazda 3 TOURING AUTOMATIC SEDAN PERFECT CAR AND DRIVES ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL It is Priced to Sell Quickly at $18999 Traveled only 92942 Kms. Comes With Black Leather Satellite Navigation Reversing Camera Bluetooth Connectivity Keyless Go and Start Log Books Service History Set of Keys and 6Months Registration from the Sale Date THE CAR IS AVAILABLE IF YOU SEE THIS AD. PLEASE DONT SEND GENERIC MESSAGES. NO OFFERS BEFORE INSPECTING! VERY GOOD CONDITION, BOTH INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR Now

$18,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Long Jetty, NSW

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2016 Mazda 3 BN5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Machine Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 87272 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Maroochydore One Owner Leather Finish Service History SUNSHINE COASTS BEST DEALER GROUP! * QUALITY VEHICLES PRICED TO SELL & EXCELLENT VALUE! YOU’LL NEED TO GET IN QUICK OR YOU MAY JUST MISS OUT * CALL US ON THIS CAR AND ASK HOW TO PUT A HOLD ON IT FOR A TEST DRIVE * ALL OUR VEHICLES QUALIFY FOR AN EXTENDED MECHANICAL PROTECTION PLAN FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND * ALL OUR VEHICLES COME WITH A 50 POINT QUALITY & SAFETY ASSURANCE CHECK LIST REPORT * EVERY VEHICLE COMES WITH RWC, CLEAR

$19,888 Drive Away^
Buderim, QLD

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2014 Mazda 3 BM Touring White 6 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 81420 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

A stylish and reliable family-sized sedan, with very low kilometres on the clock for its age, at an affordable price! This 2014 Mazda3 comes with a long list of attractive features both inside and out, and this Touring model presents beautifully in Snowflake White, with 16-inch alloy wheels, and luxurious black leather upholstery. The 2.5L engine under the bonnet is both durable and economical when paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It also comes equipped with dual-zone climate control

$19,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bentley, WA

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2014 MAZDA Mazda3 TOURING

  • 178861 km
  • Sedan
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This vehicle is Available for viewing at our undercover Springwood showroom 22 kms south to Brisbane to Gold Coast on M1 Highway. We are open By Appointment at 9am till 4pm Monday to Friday and 8:30am till 2pm on Saturdays. 2014 MAZDA Mazda3 TOURING Up to Date service history, Just Serviced 178xxx Kilometers Cruise control, Bluetooth Leather seats Rear vision camera Starter button Leather steering wheel Rain sensor wipers Keyless start Remote central locking Alloy wheels with Continental Tir

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Springwood, QLD

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2016 Mazda 3 BM MY15 Touring Red 6 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 120349 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

3 YEAR UNLIMITED KM WARRANTY & 15 MONTHS 5 STAR ROADSIDE AUSTRALIA WIDE* *AUTOMATIC!! *REVERSING CAMERA!! *MOBILE PHONE CONNECTIVTY!! *LOG BOOKS!! Surfside Motors is your one-stop-shop for all things automotive. We buy cars and sell quality used cars, We have an extensive range of Passenger, 4WD, SUV and Commercial vehicles available! It has never been easier to secure the car of your dreams!!!!!!!!!!! We are located only 1 hour north of Sydney and 1 hour South of Newcastle. We deliver

$21,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Tuggerah, NSW

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2016 Mazda 3 BN5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Black 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 99735 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a sleek and stylish ride that doesn't compromise on safety and technology? Look no further than this 2016 Mazda 3 Touring Hatchback in striking BLACK! With features like Blind Spot Sensor, Collision Mitigation, and GPS Satellite Navigation, this car has got you covered on all fronts. Plus, with leather seats, a sunroof, and a multi-function steering wheel, driving has never been more comfortable and convenient. Don't miss out on this top-of-the-line Mazda - it's ready to take you on

$19,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2017 MAZDA Mazda3 TOURING

  • 57949 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2017 MAZDA 3 TOURING BN5278 AUTOMATIC Looking for a sleek sedan with top-notch features and fuel efficiency? Look no further than the 2017 Mazda3 Touring Sedan. Packed with advanced technology like blind spot monitoring and forward collision warning, this car has everything you need to stay safe on the road. With a stunning red exterior and leather interior, you'll be turning heads everywhere you go. Don't miss out on this incredible deal - , it won't last long. Upgrade your commute and drive

$18,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Welshpool, WA

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2015 Mazda Mazda3 TOURING

  • 113000 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2015 Mazda 3 Touring Auto Sedan 2.0L 4cyl Full Service History 4 Brand New Trye Leather Seats Keyless Start HD Reverse Camera Parking Sensor Cruise Control Fuel Economy and lots more! Prestige Car Showroom: 38 Richland Ave Coopers plains Japanese Car Showroom: 3/347 Bradman Street Acacia Ridge. Opening hours Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm, Sun & Public Holiday Closed. Call us now at ********0160 for inspection. Appointment essential. National-wide delivery and Coastal shipping available De

$17,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Acacia Ridge, QLD

Dealer used
04/05/2024

2014 Mazda 3 BM5478 Touring SKYACTIV-Drive Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

  • 109412 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Popular up market compact hatch with the powerful yet economical 2.0 litre engine, six speed Tiptronic auto, cruise with traction control, front-side airbags, Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity, luxurious leather trim, push button start, alloy wheels, reverse camera, sensors plus more. Modest 109,000 kms with excellent service history. Brilliantly priced. We are a friendly and efficient company, trading with integrity and determined to give our customers the very best of service. WA's mo

$17,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
04/05/2024

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Overview of the Mazda Mazda3

Overview of the Mazda Mazda3

The Mazda 3 is a Japanese small car that has for a long time been one of Australia's most popular vehicles. It is considered one of the most fun cars to drive in its class, with great steering and handling. There have been several generations since the model replaced the 323 in 2004.

It continues to be offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles. A 2.2-litre turbo diesel model was introduced in 2014 but axed two years later owing to slow sales, leaving a choice between two smooth and efficient petrol engines in 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre form, with a standard manual gearbox or optional automatic. The first- and second-generation Mazda 3 range featured a performance variant called the MPS.

MAZDA 3 GENERATIONS

2004-2009: 1st generation

2009-2013: 2nd generation

2013-present: 3rd generation

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.2L Diesel (now discontinued): 5.0 to 5.2 litres per 100km

2.0L Petrol: 5.7 to 5.9 litres per 100km (91 unleaded)

2.5L Petrol: 6.0 to 6.5 litres per 100km (91 unleaded)

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO MAZDA 3

How Does The Mazda 3 Perform After 5 Years?

A turbo-diesel version of the 3 that has never left the city is the biggest potential problem-child, with the resulting blocked diesel-particulate (soot) filter needing a trip to the dealership to be cleaned out.

In some cases, the on-board computer pumped more fuel into the engine to try to use engine heat to clear the filter. But sometimes that fuel made its way into the engine oil, diluting it. So watch for a rising level on the dipstick over time.

Some independent workshops ignored the particulate filter that could then fail altogether, requiring costly replacement to keep the car legal and roadworthy.

Some 3s suffered from poorly rust-proofed hatchback struts that could fail, spraying fluid everywhere and dropping the hatch on your head. Or fingers.