Mazda Mazda3 cars

The style of the car

The Mazda3 really stands out from the mid-size family car crowd. You certainly won’t lose it in a car park. The latest version was launched in 2019. The older model was sold new from 2013 to 2019. Both come with five-door hatchback or four-door saloon bodies, the latter badged Fastback. Their interiors have a minimalist look that’s designed to reduce driver distraction while still being user-friendly. 

How it drives

The feeling you get when you drive the Mazda3 sets it apart from other mid-size family cars. Which is saying a lot, as some of those cars feel fantastic. The Mazda is responsive and balanced in a way that no rival can quite match. Which means it’s great fun on a winding country road but also easy to drive in town. It gives a really smooth ride on motorways, too. The view out the back when parking isn’t ideal, but standard sensors do help. Petrol and diesel engines are available, all of which give good acceleration. The latest version has mild-hybrid technology for better fuel economy. Some models have an automatic gearbox. 

The interior

The Mazda3 is a five-seat family car that’s roughly the same size as the Ford Focus or Peugeot 308. There’s plenty of room in the front seats for people of any size, while there’s reasonable space in the back. Tall people might feel a bit hemmed-in, though. Children may struggle to see out of the small, high back windows, too. But if you only occasionally use the back seat, that won’t matter too much. The boot is a decent size, with space for a few medium suitcases. All models have sat nav, climate control and cruise control. And the latest version has a head-up display that allows you to see the speedo and sat nav instructions without taking your eyes off the road.  

Running costs

The Mazda3 is designed from the ground up to be as fuel efficient as possible. And it is, indeed, among the most economical cars of this type. According to official figures, older petrol models (sold until 2019) give fuel economy of up to 55mpg, while diesels can give more than 70mpg. The latest version gives up to 54mpg with a petrol engine and 56mpg with a diesel engine (as measured in a stricter test).

How it compares with similar cars

Mazda3 rivals include the Renault Megane and Vauxhall Astra, but the Mazda’s striking styling, user-friendly interior and fabulous driving experience really stand out. It may not be the most practical as a family car, but it’s a great choice if you only occasionally need a back seat and want a car that’s bigger than a supermini.