Mazda Mazda3 research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Mazda3 is the driver's choice among mainstream compacts. 2011-2013 models offer 2.0L and 2.5L engines (Skyactiv 2.0L from 2012, up to about 39 mpg highway) plus the turbo Mazdaspeed3. The 2014 redesign went all-Skyactiv with a 184-hp 2.5L option, and 2017 added G-Vectoring Control. The 2019 redesign brought a near-luxury cabin and available AWD, and 2021 added a 250-hp turbo. Manuals remain on some hatchbacks.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. The 2026 Mazda3 is current; verify 2026 trims, non-turbo output (published as 186-191 hp) and EPA ratings against current Mazda data.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Engaging handling
Upscale interior 2019 and later
Efficient skyactiv engines
Available AWD 2019 and later
Powerful 2 5 turbo 2021 and later
Manual transmission availability
Sedan or hatchback choice

Things to know before you buy

Engine choice changes by year resolve by VIN
Snug rear seat 2019 and later
Turbo needs premium fuel for full power
Liftgate strut recall 2011 2013 hatchbacks
Smart brake recall 2019 2020
Rust check on older cars in salt states
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 2 (2010–2013)

The second-generation Mazda3 (2010-2013) offered a 148-hp 2.0L ('i') and 167-hp 2.5L ('s') with 5-speed manual or automatic and a 6-speed manual on the 2.5L, plus the 263-hp, 280 lb-ft Mazdaspeed3. For 2012 a 155-hp Skyactiv-G 2.0L with new 6-speed automatic and manual raised highway economy to about 39 mpg.

Buyer takeaway: Look for a 2012-2013 Skyactiv car for the best mpg, or a Mazdaspeed3 for performance with careful inspection. Check rust and the liftgate-strut recall on hatchbacks.

Generation 3 (2014–2018)

The third-generation Mazda3 (2014-2018) is all-Skyactiv: a 155-hp 2.0L or a 184-hp, 185 lb-ft 2.5L, each with a 6-speed manual or automatic (manual with the 2.5L from 2015). It added Mazda Connect infotainment, and the 2017 facelift brought G-Vectoring Control, a new dashboard and pedestrian-detecting automatic braking.

Buyer takeaway: A well-rounded used compact; the 2017-2018 facelift is the pick. Confirm parking-brake (2014-2016) and other recalls by VIN.

Generation 4 (2019–present)

The fourth-generation Mazda3 (2019-present) has an upscale cabin, available AWD and a 2.5L Skyactiv-G (186 hp at launch, 191 hp for 2023-2025), a 250-hp 2.5L turbo with standard AWD from 2021, and a 155-hp 2.0L base sedan for 2021-2023. A 6-speed automatic is standard; a manual is offered on the FWD hatchback.

Buyer takeaway: Choose the turbo for performance, the 2.5L AWD for all-weather use, or a FWD 2.5L for best mpg. Confirm the 2019-2020 Smart Brake recall update.

Mazda Mazda3 by model year

2026 Mazda Mazda3

The 2026 Mazda3 carries over the fourth-generation design with a naturally aspirated 2.5L (FWD or AWD, about 27/36 mpg FWD sedan) or the 2.5L turbo with standard AWD. Published output for the non-turbo engine varies between 186 and 191 hp by source, so verify current specs with Mazda. A 6-speed manual remains on the FWD hatchback.

Engines: 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 186 to 191 hp verify by VIN; 2.5 liter turbo I4 250 hp 320 lb ft on premium fuel
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual hatchback FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional; AWD standard with turbo
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Carryover of the fourth generation
Slightly revised EPA ratings

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2025 Mazda Mazda3

The 2025 Mazda3 continues with the 191-hp 2.5L (FWD or AWD, about 27/37 mpg FWD sedan) or the 2.5L turbo with standard AWD (250 hp on premium fuel), in sedan and hatchback bodies. It remains one of the most upscale-feeling compacts. Certain 2024-2025 cars have an airbag sensor recall tied to low battery voltage; confirm by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 191 hp 186 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 250 hp 320 lb ft on premium fuel
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual hatchback FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional; AWD standard with turbo
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2024

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Forward camera and airbag sensor recalls 2024 2025; 12 volt battery condition; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2024 Mazda Mazda3

The 2024 Mazda3 drops the 2.0L, so every car has at least the 191-hp 2.5L (about 27/37 mpg FWD sedan) or the 250-hp turbo with AWD. A 6-speed automatic is standard and the manual remains on the FWD hatchback. Certain 2024 cars have recalls for camera displays, the forward sensing camera and an airbag sensor, so check the VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 191 hp 186 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 250 hp 320 lb ft on premium fuel
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual hatchback FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional; AWD standard with turbo
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

2.0 liter dropped 2.5 liter standard

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Forward camera and airbag sensor recalls 2024 2025; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2023 Mazda Mazda3

For 2023 the naturally aspirated 2.5L was rated 191 hp, and fuel economy improved to about 28/37 mpg (FWD sedan). The 155-hp 2.0L base sedan had its final year, and the 2.5L turbo (250 hp on premium, standard AWD) continues. A 6-speed automatic is standard and the FWD hatchback offers a manual. Check open recalls by VIN.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp base sedan; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 191 hp 186 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 250 hp 320 lb ft on premium fuel
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual hatchback FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional; AWD standard with turbo
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Non turbo 2.5 liter rated 191 hp
Last year of the 2.0 liter base sedan
Improved EPA ratings

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Turbo engine and premium fuel use if turbo; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2022 Mazda Mazda3

The 2022 Mazda3 carries over three engines: a 155-hp 2.0L base sedan (about 28/36 mpg), the 186-hp 2.5L with FWD or AWD, and the 2.5L turbo (250 hp on premium, standard AWD). A 6-speed automatic is standard, with a manual on the front-drive hatchback. It offers a premium feel for a mainstream price; test-sit the rear seat, which is snugger than some rivals.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp base sedan; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 186 hp 186 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 250 hp 320 lb ft on premium fuel
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual hatchback FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional; AWD standard with turbo
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2021

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Turbo engine and premium fuel use if turbo; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2021 Mazda Mazda3

For 2021 the Mazda3 added a 2.5L turbo making 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel (less on regular fuel), with standard AWD and a 6-speed automatic (about 23/32 mpg). A 155-hp 2.0L base sedan returned, and the 186-hp 2.5L continues. The turbo is the quickest Mazda3 since the Mazdaspeed3. Decode the VIN to confirm the engine.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp base sedan; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 186 hp 186 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 250 hp 320 lb ft on premium fuel
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual hatchback FWD only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional; AWD standard with turbo
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

New 2.5 liter turbo with standard AWD
2.0 liter base sedan added
Turbo rated 250 hp on 93 octane

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Turbo engine and premium fuel use if turbo; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2020 Mazda Mazda3

The 2020 Mazda3 carries over the 2019 redesign: a 186-hp 2.5L with a 6-speed automatic (manual on the FWD hatchback), front- or all-wheel drive, and sedan or hatchback bodies (about 26-27/35-36 mpg FWD). It is quiet, well-built and pleasant to drive. Confirm the Smart Brake System software recall and any brake-caliper bolt recall.

Engines: 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 186 hp 186 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual FWD hatchback only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2019

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Smart brake false activation recall 2019 2020; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2019 Mazda Mazda3

The 2019 Mazda3 is all-new, with a near-luxury cabin, an 8.8-inch display and, for the first time, available all-wheel drive. Every U.S. car uses a 186-hp 2.5L with a 6-speed automatic (about 26-27/35-36 mpg FWD), and a 6-speed manual was offered on the front-drive hatchback. Some 2019-2020 cars had false automatic-braking activations fixed by a recall update.

Engines: 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 186 hp 186 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic; 6 speed manual FWD hatchback only
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; I activ AWD optional
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

All new fourth generation with upscale interior
First available all wheel drive
2.5 liter standard in the US
8 8 inch display and mazda connect update
Torsion beam rear suspension

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Smart brake support and radar function; Infotainment and camera display; AWD operation if equipped; Smart brake false activation recall 2019 2020; Wheel lug nut recall 2019; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2018 Mazda Mazda3

The 2018 Mazda3 is the last third-generation model, with the 155-hp 2.0L (Sport) or 184-hp 2.5L (Touring and Grand Touring), a 6-speed manual or automatic, and sedan or hatchback bodies (about 28/37 mpg for the 2.0L). Certain 2018 cars have recalls for an exhaust valve spring, fuel pump and wiper relay, so confirm completion by VIN.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 150 lb ft; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 184 hp 185 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed skyactiv automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Last year of the third generation
Largely carryover from 2017

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Skyactiv automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Infotainment commander knob and screen; Fuel pump and valve spring recalls 2018; Wiper relay recall 2016 2018; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2017 Mazda Mazda3

The 2017 facelift brought new front styling, an updated dashboard, G-Vectoring Control (which subtly adjusts engine torque in corners for smoother handling) and improved driver aids, including pedestrian detection for automatic braking. 'i' and 's' names were dropped: Sport uses the 155-hp 2.0L, Touring and Grand Touring the 184-hp 2.5L. About 28/37 mpg (2.0L automatic).

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 150 lb ft; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 184 hp 185 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed skyactiv automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Facelift with new front styling
G vectoring control added
Updated dashboard and driver aids
Trims simplified to sport touring grand touring

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Skyactiv automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Infotainment commander knob and screen; Wiper relay recall 2016 2018; Smart city brake support function; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2016 Mazda Mazda3

The 2016 Mazda3 carries over with a 155-hp 2.0L or 184-hp 2.5L, each with a 6-speed manual or automatic, and sedan or hatchback bodies (about 30/40 mpg for the 2.0L automatic sedan). It is a fun-to-drive compact with a quality cabin. Certain 2016 cars are covered by fuel-tank, parking-brake and wiper-relay recalls, so check the VIN.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 150 lb ft; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 184 hp 185 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed skyactiv automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Largely carryover from 2015
Last year before the 2017 facelift

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Skyactiv automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Infotainment commander knob and screen; Parking brake actuator recall 2014 2016; Wiper relay recall 2016 2018; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2015 Mazda Mazda3

For 2015 the 184-hp 2.5L became available with a 6-speed manual, a treat for enthusiasts; the 155-hp 2.0L continues with a manual or automatic. Trims are i SV, i Sport, Touring and Grand Touring (with i or s engines). The 2.0L automatic is rated about 30/40 mpg. Confirm parking-brake actuator and fuel-tank recall completion by VIN.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 150 lb ft; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 184 hp 185 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed skyactiv automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

6 speed manual now offered with the 2.5 liter
Trims sv sport touring grand touring

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Skyactiv automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Infotainment commander knob and screen; Parking brake actuator recall 2014 2016; Fuel tank recall completion; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2014 Mazda Mazda3

The 2014 Mazda3 was redesigned with Mazda's Kodo styling and all-Skyactiv engines: a 155-hp 2.0L (6-speed manual or automatic, about 30/39-40 mpg) or a 184-hp, 185 lb-ft 2.5L with the automatic (about 28/38). It added the Mazda Connect infotainment system and optional i-ELOOP regenerative braking. Certain 2014-2016 cars have parking-brake and fuel-tank recalls.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 150 lb ft; 2.5 liter skyactiv g I4 184 hp 185 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual 2.0 liter; 6 speed skyactiv automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

All new third generation
All skyactiv engines 2.0 liter and new 2.5 liter
Mazda connect infotainment
Available i eloop regenerative braking and driver aids
US sedans begin production in mexico

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Skyactiv automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Infotainment commander knob and screen; Parking brake actuator recall 2014 2016; Fuel tank recall completion; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2013 Mazda Mazda3

The 2013 Mazda3 is the last second-generation model and the final Mazdaspeed3. Choices are the 155-hp Skyactiv 2.0L (about 28/39 mpg sedan automatic), the older 148-hp 2.0L, the 167-hp 2.5L, or the 263-hp turbo Mazdaspeed3 with a 6-speed manual. The Skyactiv models are the most efficient. Check the liftgate-strut recall on hatchbacks.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 148 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 148 hp; 2.5 liter I4 167 hp; 2.3 liter turbo I4 263 hp 280 lb ft mazdaspeed3
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic or manual with skyactiv; 5 speed manual or automatic 2.0 liter; 6 speed manual or 5 speed automatic 2.5 liter; 6 speed manual mazdaspeed3
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Last year of the second generation
Last year of the mazdaspeed3

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Liftgate strut recall on hatchbacks; Automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Dashboard and interior trim condition; Skyactiv vs mzr engine resolution; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

2012 Mazda Mazda3

The 2012 Mazda3 introduced Mazda's Skyactiv technology: a direct-injected 155-hp 2.0L with new 6-speed automatic or manual transmissions, rated up to about 28/39 mpg (sedan, automatic). Older 148-hp 2.0L and 167-hp 2.5L engines and the 263-hp Mazdaspeed3 continued. A light facelift and stiffer body came too. Look for 'SKYACTIV' badging or decode the VIN for the engine.

Engines: 2.0 liter skyactiv g I4 155 hp 148 lb ft; 2.0 liter I4 148 hp; 2.5 liter I4 167 hp; 2.3 liter turbo I4 263 hp 280 lb ft mazdaspeed3
Transmissions: 6 speed skyactiv automatic or manual with skyactiv; 5 speed manual or automatic 2.0 liter; 6 speed manual or 5 speed automatic 2.5 liter; 6 speed manual mazdaspeed3
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

New skyactiv g 2.0 liter direct injected engine
Skyactiv 6 speed automatic and manual
Up to about 39 mpg highway
Minor styling update and stiffer body

2011 Mazda Mazda3

The 2011 Mazda3 is a sporty compact sold as a sedan or hatchback. 'i' models use a 148-hp 2.0L (about 24-25/32 mpg) and 's' models a 167-hp 2.5L (about 20-22/28 mpg); transmissions are 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, or a 6-speed manual with the 2.5L. The Mazdaspeed3 hatchback has a 263-hp turbo 2.3L and 6-speed manual. Check the liftgate-strut recall on hatchbacks.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 148 hp i models; 2.5 liter I4 167 hp s models; 2.3 liter turbo I4 263 hp 280 lb ft mazdaspeed3
Transmissions: 5 speed manual 2.0 liter; 5 speed automatic; 6 speed manual 2.5 liter and mazdaspeed3
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan; 5 door hatchback

What changed:

Second generation carryover
Mazdaspeed3 hatchback continues

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and body by VIN; Liftgate strut recall on hatchbacks; Automatic shift quality; Clutch engagement if manual; Dashboard and interior trim condition; Turbo and clutch condition if mazdaspeed3; Suspension bushings and tires; Brakes; Rust on rocker panels and rear wheel arches in salt states; Maintenance history and oil change records.

Known issues and what to check

Liftgate Support Strut Corrosion Recall (2011-2013 Hatchbacks) (2011–2013)
Recall 16V-644 covers 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles (and other Mazdas) whose liftgate support struts can corrode and break, letting the liftgate drop unexpectedly. Dealers replace both struts.
What to do: Confirm the strut recall is complete and that the liftgate stays up on its own.
Parking Brake Actuator Corrosion Recall (2014-2016) (2014–2016)
Recall 17V-393 covers certain 2014-2016 Mazda3s: water can enter the rear caliper and corrode the parking-brake actuator shaft, so the parking brake may not fully engage or release. Dealers check and replace corroded shafts.
What to do: Test the parking brake on a slope and confirm recall completion.
Smart Brake System False Activation Recall (2019-2020) (2019–2020)
Recall 19V-907 covers certain 2019-2020 Mazda3s whose Smart Brake System could falsely detect an obstacle and apply automatic emergency braking. Dealers update the software, and some cars also receive an instrument-cluster update or replacement.
What to do: Confirm the SBS software update was performed on any 2019-2020 Mazda3.
Other VIN-Specific Recalls (2014-2025) (2014–2025)
Other Mazda3 recalls include fuel-tank handling and shut-off valve issues (2014-2016), wiper relays (2016-2018), an exhaust valve spring and a low-pressure fuel pump (certain 2018 cars), loose lug nuts and a PCM stall software error (2019), forward-camera and camera-display software (2024), and an airbag sensor that can deactivate airbags at low battery voltage (2024-2025).
What to do: Run the VIN and complete any open recall before purchase.
Age-Related Corrosion and Suspension Wear (2011–2026)
Older Mazda3s, especially second-generation cars in salt-belt states, should be checked for rust on rocker panels, rear wheel arches and suspension mounts, and for worn bushings, struts and sway-bar links that cause clunks or uneven tire wear.
What to do: Have older cars inspected on a lift for corrosion and suspension wear.
2.5L Turbo, AWD and Manual Transmission Care (2011–2026)
The 2021-and-later 2.5L turbo makes its full 250 hp only on premium fuel and comes with AWD, so check oil-change records and AWD operation. The 2011-2013 Mazdaspeed3's 263-hp turbo engine and manual gearbox are often driven hard; inspect for modifications, clutch wear and turbo condition.
What to do: On turbo or manual cars, look for maintenance records and signs of modification.
Engine, Body and Mazdaspeed3 Disambiguation (2011–2026)
Mazda3 engines change by year: MZR 2.0L and 2.5L (2011-2013), Skyactiv 2.0L (2012-2018 and 2021-2023 base sedan), Skyactiv 2.5L (2014-present) and a 2.5L turbo (2021-present); the Mazdaspeed3 (2011-2013) is a separate high-performance hatchback. Sedan and hatchback ratings differ slightly. The European Skyactiv-X engine was not sold in the U.S.
What to do: Confirm engine, transmission, drivetrain and body style before comparing prices or mpg.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, body style and VIN. Check the VIN with NHTSA and Mazda for open recalls and completed remedies.

Similar vehicles to consider

Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Mazda3?
Which engine does this Mazda3 have?
Does this Mazda3 have AWD?
Is the 2.5 Turbo worth it and does it need premium fuel?
What is Skyactiv?
What changed in the 2012, 2014, 2017, 2019 and 2021 Mazda3?
What fuel economy does the Mazda3 get?
What should I inspect on a used Mazda3?
What recalls should I check by VIN?
How does the Mazda3 compare with the Civic and Corolla?