Mazda 3
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a family hatchback that doesn’t compromise on style or driving enjoyment? The Mazda 3 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This well-rounded compact car successfully combines practicality with premium looks and engaging driving dynamics. It’s the perfect choice for families who want something more stylish than the everyday hatchback crowd.

From the moment you see it parked up, the Mazda 3 makes a statement. Its distinctive Kodo design language gives it a sleek, almost coupe-like silhouette that stands out from rivals like the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf. The interior continues this premium theme with quality materials and thoughtful design touches throughout. You get the sense that Mazda has spent time getting the details right, from the intuitive controls to the comfortable seating.

Behind the wheel, the Mazda 3 delivers one of the most engaging driving experiences in its class. The steering is precise and communicative, while the chassis strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control. Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying a weekend country drive, the Mazda 3 feels composed and confidence-inspiring. It’s a car that makes even mundane journeys feel more special, proving that practicality doesn’t have to mean boring.

What's the Mazda 3 Like to Drive?

The Mazda 3 offers a range of efficient Skyactiv engines that prioritize smoothness and refinement over outright power. The entry-level 1.5-litre petrol delivers around 120 horsepower, which feels adequate for most driving situations and returns impressive fuel economy. For those wanting more punch, the 2.0-litre petrol with 165 horsepower provides stronger acceleration and makes overtaking effortless. The diesel option, where available, offers excellent fuel economy for high-mileage drivers.

What really sets the Mazda 3 apart is its driving dynamics. This compact hatchback feels more premium than its price suggests, with precise steering and excellent body control. The suspension is beautifully tuned to soak up road imperfections while still providing engaging handling through corners. It’s quieter and more refined than many competitors, making it a pleasure to drive on longer journeys. The six-speed manual gearbox is slick and precise, while the automatic option shifts smoothly and intelligently.

Inside the Mazda 3: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Mazda 3 and you’re greeted by one of the most thoughtfully designed cabins in its class. The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with high-quality materials used throughout. Soft-touch plastics cover the key contact points, while the seats offer excellent support for longer journeys. The driving position is spot-on, with plenty of adjustment to help you find your perfect setup.

The infotainment system is controlled via a rotary dial rather than a touchscreen, which works brilliantly once you get used to it. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, making smartphone integration seamless. Road noise is well suppressed, creating a calm and relaxing environment even at motorway speeds. The air conditioning is effective and the overall build quality feels solid and reassuring. Higher trim levels add leather upholstery and premium features that further enhance the upmarket feel.

The Mazda 3 is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritize driving enjoyment and interior quality over maximum practicality. It successfully combines the reliability and efficiency you need from a family car with the premium feel and engaging dynamics that make driving a pleasure. The build quality is impressive, and the styling has aged gracefully. The main compromises are slightly less rear seat and boot space compared to some rivals, plus a higher initial purchase price. However, these are fair trade-offs for the superior driving experience and premium cabin. If you want a family hatchback that feels special rather than merely functional, the Mazda 3 should be high on your shortlist. It’s particularly appealing to buyers who appreciate good design and enjoy driving.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mazda 3?

The Mazda 3 strikes a good balance between running costs and ownership experience. Fuel economy is competitive across the range, with the smaller 1.5-litre engine achieving up to 58mpg in real-world driving. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically ranging from group 15 to 22 depending on the engine and trim level. Purchase prices start from around £23,000 new, positioning it competitively against mainstream rivals.

Depreciation is generally better than average, thanks to Mazda’s strong reputation for reliability and the car’s desirable styling. Servicing costs are reasonable, and Mazda dealers are known for their good customer service. The comprehensive warranty provides peace of mind for the first few years of ownership. For buyers looking at car finance options, the Mazda 3’s strong residual values help keep monthly payments manageable across PCP and HP deals.

Is the Mazda 3 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a compact family car, the Mazda 3 offers respectable space and usability. The 334-litre boot is adequate for weekly shopping trips and holiday luggage, though it’s not quite as large as some rivals. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space when needed, and there are useful storage compartments throughout the cabin for everyday items.

Rear passenger space is reasonable for adults on shorter journeys, though taller passengers might find legroom a bit tight on longer trips. The Mazda 3 works best as a car for couples or small families with younger children. Compared to other used Mazda cars, it strikes a nice balance between size and manoeuvrability. The compact dimensions make it easy to park in tight city spaces, while still offering enough practicality for everyday family life.

The Mazda 3 stands out in the crowded family hatchback market by offering a genuinely premium experience at a competitive price. It combines Mazda’s renowned reliability and efficiency with engaging driving dynamics and excellent build quality. While it may not offer the most spacious interior in its class, it more than compensates with its superior driving experience and upmarket cabin.

This is a car for buyers who refuse to compromise on quality and driving enjoyment. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading off on a family weekend away, the Mazda 3 makes every journey more enjoyable. For those considering cars under £10,000, earlier generations of the Mazda 3 represent excellent value in the used car market, maintaining the brand’s reputation for reliability and driving pleasure.