Mazda 3 Review 2024
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![2023 Mazda 3 2.0 e-Skyactiv X MHEV [186] Takumi 5dr Auto](http://images.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/url/crop/150x100/https/cdn.uk.prod.group-mobility-trader.com/images/cas/989542ae47856ac55017faf63ec49d83/8ee9000530ed1230ea50c241b442995a.jpg)
Mazda 3 At A Glance
Looks great in hatchback and saloon form. Premium interior with excellent standard specification. Fun to drive with excellent manual and automatic gearboxes.
Rear seats a bit claustrophobic. Poor rear visibility. Entry-level 2.0-litre petrol feels slow compared to turbocharged rivals. Diesel axed in 2019.
The Mazda 3 has always been an underrated alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. That's especially true of the 2019 model with its eye-catching looks, premium interior and generous amount of standard equipment. Our Mazda 3 review will find out if it's the full package.
Is there a better looking hatchback (or affordable saloon) out there than the latest Mazda 3? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, of course, but we're utterly convinced it's easily as desirable as premium brand rivals such as the BMW 1 Series, Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
The 3's interior is just as easy on the eye as its exterior, with lots of well-finished materials and a simplistic layout. Refreshingly, the (relatively small and thin) infotainment screen sits on top of the dash and is controlled via a rotary controller positioned between the front seats. There's no touchscreen as Mazda says it's too distracting - something many of our readers agree with.
With seats positioned low down, there's loads of room for even the tallest of adults in the front of the Mazda 3. There's a reasonable amount of room in the back, too, but the 3's sloping roofline hinders headroom, while the small rear windows also make things feel slightly claustrophobic. The rear bench is wide enough for three adults, though, while the Mazda 3 Saloon offers slightly more head and shoulder space back there.
Continuing the driver-focussed theme, the Mazda 3 is as good to drive as the Ford Focus - and that's saying something. Its communicative steering provides lots of confidence, whether you're tackling city traffic or negotiating winding roads - while the snickety MX-5-like manual gearchange is a delight to use.
Buyers looking for the smoothest possible ride are better opting for the 16-inch alloy wheels which are fitted as standard to the SE and SE-L models, as the 3's slightly unsettled ride around town is emphasised by the 18-inch wheels fitted in Sport guise. The bigger wheels don't make things too uncomfortable, though, and they certainly help the car's design.
The Mazda 3 was initially offered with a 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces a lowly 122PS, or a 1.8-litre turbodiesel with 116PS. The diesel was dropped just a few months after the car was launched, replaced by a clever 180PS (upgraded in late 2021 to 186PS in the e-Skyactiv X) mild-hybrid Skyactiv-X petrol engine which is said to provide diesel-like economy. None of them are actually all that fast, so if you want a hot hatchback look elsewhere, but they're perky enough for most people's needs.
To overlook the latest Mazda 3 in your search for a sensible smaller family car would be a huge oversight. Its interior is up there with the best - with lots of soft-touch materials and buttons in favour of a huge touchscreen display. It's also fairly practical and represents very good value for money.
Looking for an older model? You'll need our Mazda 3 (2014-2019) review
Reviews for Mazda 3's top 3 rivals
Mazda 3 handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.8d to 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 186 Automatic
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 32–56 mpg
Mazda 3 2024: Handling and ride quality
In terms of handling, Mazda could justifiably get away with marketing the new 3 as an MX-5 hatchback. Despite a bit of lean, the 3 remains composed in the bends and you'll have to be pushing it fairly hard before your passengers start to feel uncomfortable. The steering is nicely weighted and precise, too - it's good enough to live with the Ford Focus in handling terms.
In town, the steering is light and it's an easy car to slot in and out of traffic - although rear visibility is slightly disappointing. Rear parking sensors are standard across the range, though, as is a reversing camera on all but the entry-level SE-L model.
No matter which spec or engine you opt for, you may be surprised at just how quiet and refined the Mazda 3 is. Even at high speeds, the 3's cabin is extremely hushed, with little in the way of road, engine or wind noise making its way inside.
Mazda 3 2024: Engines
We're so used to cars being offered with small capacity, turbocharged units that 122PS from the Mazda 3's 2.0-litre petrol engine sounds pretty lacklustre. Mazda favours naturally-aspirated engines for their real-world economy and long-term reliability, and understandably so.
If you jump from a 1.0-litre Ford Focus to the 2.0-litre Mazda3 expecting impressive performance, you'll be disappointed. Regular gear changes and a willingness to cling onto revs is required to get the best out of the petrol engine. And doing so does impact refinement (and fuel economy). For some drivers it will be fine, though - if you're not regularly tackling steep hills or seeking effortless overtakes, the 2.0-litre is up to the job.
The diesel is better, with lots of grunt available from low down in the rev range. It actually isn't very diesel-like to drive, happy to rev surprisingly highly and without too much noise. Unfortunately, the Mazda 3 was only offered with a diesel engine for a short amount of time before it was dropped in favour of the new Skyactiv-X petrol.
The Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X is another non-turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, but this it puts out a more healthy 180PS. It uses compression ignition, which is something diesels usually have, and that means better fuel economy. It also means a slightly gravelly diesel-like noise at certain points in the rev range, though.
If you buy one made from 2021 (badged e-Skyactiv X) you'll get 186PS and a slight torque boost, too. The torque boost is useful, but in either version you still needs to work it harder than in turbocharged rivals to get the best out of it. Do so and it'll go from 0-62mph in a decent 8.2 seconds.
Buyers can choose from an excellent six-speed manual gearbox or an equally good six-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. The manual transmission is a delight to use (Mazda has form for some of the slickest gear changes in the business), but if you prefer to let the car take the strain, the automatic is quick to select the correct gear with little hesitation.
Mazda 3 2024: Safety
As with many of the Mazda 3's rivals it achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating when it was crash tested. All versions come with lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert, and some of that is optional on rivals.
You'll also get an autonomous emergency braking system that'll stamp on the anchors if it detects an impending collision, as well as a driver attention camera that'll detect signs of tiredness. The outer rear seats have Isofix mountings, too.
Mazda 3 2024: Towing
All Mazda 3s have a towing capacity of 1200kg. You won't be using them for much more than a small trailer to the tip.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 SKYACTIV D | - | - | 108 g/km |
| 1.8 SKYACTIV D Automatic | - | - | 126 g/km |
| 1.8d | - | - | 107–109 g/km |
| 1.8d Automatic | - | - | 121–128 g/km |
| 2.0 | - | 8.2 s | 96–102 g/km |
| 2.0 122 | - | 8.2 s | 117–119 g/km |
| 2.0 122 Automatic | - | 8.6 s | 126 g/km |
| 2.0 Automatic | - | 8.6 s | 117 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-G 122 | - | 10.4 s | 124–127 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-G 122 Automatic | - | 10.8 s | 138–141 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 180 | - | 8.2 s | 100–131 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 180 Automatic | - | 8.6 s | 119–120 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 180 Automatic AWD | - | 8.9 s | 125 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 180 AWD | - | 8.5 s | 109 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 186 | - | 8.1–8.5 s | 96–121 g/km |
| 2.0 SKYACTIV-X 186 Automatic | - | 8.5–8.6 s | 117–137 g/km |
Mazda 3 interior
- Boot space is 334–1138 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4460–4660 mm |
| Width | 2028 mm |
| Height | 1435–1440 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm |
Mazda 3 2024: Practicality
The seats are very comfortable, with manual height and lumbar adjustment standard on entry-level models. Positioning the front seats low down not only adds to the MX-5 feel of the Mazda 3, but also means there's plenty of space for taller adults.
That's the case in the front, anyway - space in the rear is a little on the tight side, especially in terms of legroom, but those looking to carry four adults regularly would be better looking for a bigger car. Legroom isn't too bad. but the effects of that dramatic sloping roof mean headroom for six footers isn't generous.
Things are slightly better in the Mazda 3 Saloon because it has a taller roofline, meaning fractionally more room for your shoulders and head. But even so, a Skoda Octavia is significantly roomier stll.
Although the Mazda 3's boot capacity of 358 litres isn't class-leading and there is quite a lip to hoist heavy items over, it's usefully square in shape. There are indentations behind the arches to carry a lengthy item like a golf bag, while the rear seats drop easily enough to provide a relatively flat load deck.
The Mazda 3 Saloon's boot capacity is 450 litres; a lot more generous, then. But there's a caveat. While the outright capacity is bigger, the saloon's boot opening is noticeably smaller than that of the hatchback, meaning you can't fit big items in it even if they would technically fit.
In terms of exterior dimensions the Mazda 3 hatchback is 4,460mm long, 1,795mm wide and 1,435mm tall. The Mazda 3 saloon's dimensions make it 4,660mm long, 1,795mm wide and 1,440mm tall.
Mazda 3 2024: Quality and finish
The Mazda 3's interior feels uncluttered and modern, taking an almost premium approach - even on lower-spec models. We reckon it's actually a nicer place to sit than the latest Volkswagen Golf, and isn't far off what BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi are offering.
There's plenty of appealing soft-touch materials about the place, plus some lovely two-tone leather upholstery and dash trim (we like the bold red option). Nothing really feels cheap or built down to a price, although if we were really fussy the central armrest isn't as adjustable or solid as the German equivalents.
Mazda 3 2024: Infotainment
Navigation is standard across the range, accessed via an 8.8-inch screen positioned on top of the dash and further away from the driver than usual. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard, allowing you to access your phone's apps such as Waze, Google Maps and Spotify through the system.
It seems to work better in the Mazda 3 than other models we've used it with - the buttons work seamlessly to allow you to skip tracks, for example, and hitting the navigation button take you to your phone's default navigation app (rather than the car's sat nav system).
There's a logic to positioning the infotainment screen where it is. It's easier to glance at during driving than an oversized display positioned in the centre of the dashboard, while a windscreen-projected head-up display provides information such as navigation directions, vehicle speed and traffic sign recognition. Again, this is standard on even entry-level models - and it's surprisingly clear for a 'mainstream' car.
Rather than reaching forward to access the menus of the infotainment system, Mazda has snubbed a touchscreen system in favour of a rotary controller positioned between the front seats. This is something that's very easy to get used to - and it's easy to see why Mazda claims it's safer to operate while driving than a touchscreen system.
Mazda 3 value for money
Mazda 3 2024: Prices
As of 2022, new prices for the Mazda 3 start at £23,365 for the entry-level SE-L with the 2.0-litre E-Skyactiv-G engine. SE-L Lux and Sport Lux add another £1,100 respectively, while the GT Sport and GT Sport Tech are £27,365 and £28,265 respectively.
You'll need SE-L Lux and above to get the E-Skyactiv X petrol engine, and we reckon you'll want that. It adds £1,900 to the list price, but then it'll be worth more when you come to sell it. This in turn means finance deals should be competitive.
The automatic gearbox adds £1,550 to the price of either engine. If you want the Mazda 3 Saloon that starts at £26,265, but that's partly because the base trim for that is SE-L Lux, and partly because it's only available with the more powerful engine.
On the used market you'll find 2019 Mazda 3s available from as little as £14,500 for a 2019 SE-L with 29,000 miles on the clock. Diesels are rare but they start at around £18,000, while the cheapest Skyactiv X we could find was a 2020 GT Sport with 26,000 miles on the clock for just under £20,000.
Mazda 3 2024: Running Costs
Although the 'diesel-like economy' figure Mazda quotes for its clever Skyactiv-X petrol engine isn't quite accurate, an official combined WLTP economy figure of 51.4mpg is very respectable given its power. The four-wheel drive and automatic versions are thirstier, but all will still manage well over 40mpg.
The lower-powered Skyactiv-G engine isn't as clever, and as such returns 45.6mpg with the manual gearbox and 43.5mpg as an automatic. These figures will be achievable in the real-world in our experience, however.
2021 saw both engines rebranded as e-Skyactiv G and e-Skyactiv X. Improvements to the mild hybrid system and a torque boost for the more powerful engine means the G now manages 51.4mpg combined, while the X promises 54.3mpg combined.
We've not heard of any major issues with the Mazda 3, and the brand is known for producing pretty reliable cars. Insurance is on the high side for a family hatchback or saloon, but it's pretty affordable to tax if you stick with the manuals (the higher emitting automatic adds to the first-year rate).
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The early entry-level Mazda 3 SE-L isn't available any more, but for used buyers it comes equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, auto lights and wipers, LED headlights, rear parking sensors and the same 8.8-inch infotainment system as the rest of the range. It gets navigation, DAB radio and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, plus Bluetooth.
The new entry point in the range, the Mazda 3 SE-L Lux, adds to SE-L with kit such as auto dimming mirrors, front parking sensors, a reversing camera, smart keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and a CD player, which is a novel addition these days.
The mid-level Mazda 3 Sport ups the alloy wheel size to 18 inches and adds rear privacy glass. It also features adaptive LED headlights, a frameless auto-dimming rear view mirror and chrome trim additions inside. Versions with an automatic gearbox also feature paddle shifters.
Stepping up to the Mazda 3 GT Sport adds leather upholstery, an electrically adjustable driver's seat with memory function for various elements, electric lumbar support, a heated steering wheel and a 12 speaker Bose premium audio upgrade.
At the top of the range is the Mazda 3 GT Sport Tech. This further brings a 360-degree surround-view camera plus additional driver assist features including rear crossing smart brake support.
Mazda doesn’t offer loads of optional extras. Stone or Burgundy leather costs £200 extra when new (and is desirable on the used market), while metallic paint is a £550 option. Machine Grey and Soul Red Crystal paint finished are both more expensive (£670 and £790 respectively).
In 2021, Mazda added a standard-fit sunroof to Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech models with the more powerful engine.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4460–4660 mm |
| Width | 2028 mm |
| Height | 1435–1440 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1368–1574 kg |
| Boot Space | 334–1138 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000–12500 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £23,680–£32,880 |
| Insurance Groups | - |
| Road Tax Bands | A–D |
| Official MPG | - |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
Currently on sale
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Centre-Line SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £26,280 | - | - |
| Centre-Line SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £24,780 | - | - |
| Centre-Line SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £26,680 | - | - |
| Exclusive-Line SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £27,980 | - | - |
| Exclusive-Line SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £26,480 | - | - |
| Exclusive-Line SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £30,480 | - | - |
| Exclusive-Line SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £28,980 | - | - |
| Homura SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £26,780 | - | - |
| Homura SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £25,280 | - | - |
| Homura SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £27,180 | - | - |
| Prime-Line SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £23,680 | - | - |
| Takumi SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £30,380 | - | - |
| Takumi SKYACTIV-G MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £28,880 | - | - |
| Takumi SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £32,880 | - | - |
| Takumi SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | £31,380 | - | - |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Exclusive-Line SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £28,980 | - | - |
| Takumi SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 4dr | £32,880 | - | - |
| Takumi SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £31,380 | - | - |
On sale until September 2024
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| GT Sport Edition SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 4dr | £30,520 | - | 8.5 s |
| GT Sport Edition SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £29,020 | - | 8.5 s |
| GT Sport SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 4dr | £30,195 | - | 8.5 s |
| GT Sport SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £28,655 | - | 8.1 s |
| GT Sport Tech Edition SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | 8.5 s |
| GT Sport Tech SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £29,555 | - | 8.1 s |
| SE-L Lux SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £25,455 | - | 8.1 s |
| Sport Lux SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | £26,855 | - | 8.1 s |
On sale until December 2022
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 122ps GT Sport Tech Auto 5dr | £28,195 | - | 8.6 s |
| GT Sport Tech SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £30,595 | - | 8.5 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| GT Sport Tech SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 4dr | £30,595 | - | 8.5 s |
| Sport Lux SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 4dr | £27,895 | - | 8.5 s |
On sale until August 2021
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 100th Anniversary Edition SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 122ps SE-L Auto 5dr | £21,895 | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Sav-X Mhev 180 SE-L 5dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Sav-X Mhev 180 SE-L Lux 5dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180 GT Sport Auto 5dr | £28,895 | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180 GT Sport Tech 5dr | £28,275 | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180ps GT Sport 5dr | £27,375 | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180ps Sport 5dr | £23,555 | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180ps Sport Auto 5dr | £25,095 | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180ps Sport Lux 5dr | £25,575 | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X GT Sport Tech AWD 5dr | £30,475 | - | 8.5 s |
| 2.0 Skyactv-X 180 Sport Lux Auto 5dr | £27,095 | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Skyact-X 180 GT Sport Tech Auto 5dr | £29,795 | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Skyact-X GT Sport Tech Auto AWD 5dr | £31,995 | - | 8.9 s |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 Sav-X Mhev 180 SE-L 4dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Sav-X Mhev 180 SE-L Lux 4dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180 GT Sport Auto 4dr | - | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180 GT Sport Tech 4dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180ps GT Sport 4dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactiv-X 180ps Sport Lux 4dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
| 2.0 Skyactv-X 180 Sport Lux Auto 4dr | - | - | 8.6 s |
| 2.0 Skyact-X 180 GT Sport Tech Auto 4dr | - | - | 8.6 s |
| Sport SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Auto Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | 8.6 s |
| Sport SKYACTIV-X MHEV Hybrid Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | 8.2 s |
On sale until March 2021
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.8d 116ps GT Sport 5dr | £26,395 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps GT Sport Auto 5dr | £27,735 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps SE-L 5dr | £22,395 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps SE-L Auto 5dr | £23,735 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps SE-L Lux 5dr | £23,495 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps SE-L Lux Auto 5dr | £24,835 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps Sport Lux 5dr | £24,595 | - | - |
| 1.8d 116ps Sport Lux Auto 5dr | £25,935 | - | - |
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| GT Sport SKYACTIV-D Auto Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | - |
| GT Sport SKYACTIV-D Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | - |
| Sport Lux SKYACTIV-D Auto Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | - |
| Sport Lux SKYACTIV-D Start/Stop 4dr | - | - | - |
Model History
- November 2018: New Mazda 3 makes debut
- February 2019: New Mazda 3 goes on sale
- April 2019
- June 2019: SkyActiv-X petrol engine details announced
- July 2019
- July 2019: Prices and specifications announced for Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X
- September 2019
- October 2019: Mazda 3 diesel axed
- August 2020: Mazda 3 100th Anniversary Special Edition priced from £29,995
- March 2021: Mazda 3 updated with e-Skyactiv X engine
- August 2024: 2025 Mazda3 available to order now with new 140PS engine option
November 2018
New Mazda 3 makes debut
Features "more mature interpretation of Kodo design that embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics." Plus the breakthrough Skyactiv-X Spark Controlled Compression Ignition petrol engine that combines the drivability of a petrol engine with the fuel economy of a diesel and should be capable of 60mpg.
February 2019
New Mazda 3 goes on sale
Offered initially with either a 122PS 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol or 116PS Skyactiv-D diesel engine, the model line-up sees a choice of five trim levels: SE-L, SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech.
It features high-end technology such as a windscreen projecting colour head-up display with Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Cruise Control and LED headlights across the range. Every model in the line-up also features navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an advanced eight speaker audio system.
From SE-L Lux onwards highlights include a reversing camera, smart keyless entry, heated front seats, while Sport Lux sees the high-class cabin enhanced with additional chrome detailing, a frameless rear view mirror and rear privacy glass. GT Sport sees the introduction of black leather seats with power adjustment, a heated steering wheel and Bose audio, while the range-topping GT Sport Tech features a suite of additional active safety equipment, including a 360 camera and Driver Attention Alert with interior camera.
With the exception of the flagship GT Sport Tech model, which is matched exclusively with the 122PS Skyactiv-G engine, all trims are offered with both diesel and petrol engines, while a choice between manual and automatic gearboxes is offered across the entire range.
For improved efficiency the Skyactiv-G petrol engine now features a cylinder deactivation system and Mazda’s M Hybrid 24V system. This mild-hybrid system improves fuel economy by recycling recovered kinetic energy. A belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) converts the energy in the 600kJ lithium-ion battery, while the DC-DC converter supplies it to the cars electrical equipment.
All models feature a seven-inch colour TFT driver instrument display, while the latest version of Mazda’s MZD-Connect infotainment system features a larger 8.8-inch central display, improved navigation and a revised multimedia commander control dial, to name just a few of the enhancements.
Offered exclusively on the hatchback, Mazda’s newest paint colour Polymetal Grey makes its debut on the All-New Mazda3. SE-L and SE-L Lux cars feature 16-inch silver wheels, while from Sport Lux onwards 18-inch Grey Metallic wheels, rear privacy glass and piano black window garnish distinguish higher grade models.
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L manual: £20,595
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L automatic: £21,895
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L Lux manual: £21,695
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G SE-L Lux automatic: £22,995
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G Sport Lux manual: £22,795
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G Sport Lux automatic: £24,095
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport manual: £24,595
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport automatic: £25,895
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport Tech manual: £25,495
Mazda 3 2.0 122PS Skyactiv-G GT Sport Tech automatic: £26,795
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L manual: £22,395
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L automatic: £23,795
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L Lux manual: £23,495
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D SE-L Lux automatic: £24,835
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D Sport Lux manual: £24,595
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D Sport Lux automatic: £25,935
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D GT Sport manual: £26,395
Mazda 3 1.8 116PS Skyactiv-D GT Sport automatic: £27,735
April 2019
The 2019 Mazda3 has captured the “Red Dot: Best of the Best” prize at the 2019 Red Dot product design awards. This competition’s highest accolade is awarded to products whose designs are considered genuinely ground-breaking and visionary. It is designed according to the Kodo: Soul of Motion philosophy.
June 2019
SkyActiv-X petrol engine details announced
Making its debut in the new Mazda 3, Mazda’s new Skyactiv-X engine will go on sale in the UK this autumn.
Featuring Mazda’s unique Spark Plug Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, the 2.0 litre, four-cylinder Skyactiv-X engine is the world’s first commercial petrol unit to combine the spark ignition of a petrol engine with the compression ignition of a diesel.
Mazda claims the SkyActiv-X engine will combine the free-revving performance of a petrol engine and the superior response of a diesel. It has maximum power output of 180PS and 224Nm of torque. It returns 52.3mpg under WLTP fuel economy tests and CO2 emissions from 96g/km depending on transmission and wheel size.
The Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X is also equipped with Mazda M Hybrid technology. This intelligent 24V mild-hybrid system minimises fuel consumption, increasing fuel economy and lowering emissions by recycling energy recovered during deceleration that powers an electric motor that assists the engine.
Orders will open later in 2019, available on both hatchback and saloon models with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The Mazda i-Activ all-wheel-drive system will be available on the Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X Hatchback. Full UK specification and pricing details of the Mazda3 Skyactiv-X will be announced next month.
July 2019
Mazda awarded “Red Dot: Best of the Best” prize for the All-New Mazda3. The Red Dot product design awards’ top honour is given by the international jury of design experts on only the most exceptional products.
July 2019
Prices and specifications announced for Mazda 3 Skyactiv-X
Arriving in October, Mazda 3s fitted with this clever engine will start from £23,555 with combined economy of up to 52.3mpg, while at the same time the Mazda3 saloon will make its UK debut powered by the 180ps Skyactiv-X engine and the 116ps Skyactiv-D diesel engine.
Featuring Mazda’s unique Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, Skyactiv-X is the world’s first production petrol engine to exploit the benefits of compression ignition. Providing drivers with the free-revving performance of a petrol engine with the superior response of a diesel, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder 180ps Skyactiv-X engine features the highest compression ratio for a production petrol engine in the world, while its lean burn capabilities ensure outstanding fuel economy and low emissions.
The entry point to the Skyactiv-X line up, the £23,555 manual All-New Mazda3 Sport hatch emits 100g/km, while the identically priced Sport saloon emits just 96g/km. Across both body styles the Skyactiv-X powered Mazda3 is offered in Sport, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trim levels, with a choice of automatic or manual transmission available on all models.
Additionally, for the first time since the Mazda 323 AWD, Mazda is offering UK drivers a four-wheel drive car in the family hatch segment. Exclusively matched to the high-grade GT Sport Tech trim and hatchback body, this Mazda3 combines the cutting-edge efficiency of the Skyactiv-X engine with the security and dynamic excellence of Mazda’s latest i-Activ all-wheel drive system.
Like the rest of the range, Skyactiv-X hatch and saloon models are specified with a level of standard equipment never seen before on a Mazda in this sector: the All-New Mazda3 features high-end technology such as a windscreen projecting colour head-up display with Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Radar Cruise Control and LED headlights across the range. Every model in the line-up also features navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an advanced eight speaker audio system.
Even the Sport trim entry point to the Skyactiv-X range has a cabin enhanced with chrome detailing, a frameless rear view mirror and rear privacy glass, while Sport Lux models feature a reversing camera, smart keyless entry and heated front seats. GT Sport sees the introduction of black leather seats with power adjustment, a heated steering wheel and Bose audio, while the range-topping GT Sport Tech features a suite of additional active safety equipment, including a 360-degree camera and Driver Monitoring System with interior camera.
Exclusive to cars powered by the Skyactiv-X engine, GT Sport and GT Sport hatchbacks can be specified with £200 Burgundy leather, while the saloon can be equipped identically priced Stone leather.
Inside, the stylish cabin environment takes a minimalist approach with every aspect of the cockpit laid out in perfect horizontal symmetry with the driver to deliver both ergonomic simplicity and beautiful design.
Mazda’s focus on Japanese mastery inspired craftsmanship is evident in both high-class materials found throughout the interior and the impressive build quality. All models feature a seven-inch colour TFT driver instrument display, while the latest version of the Mazda Connect infotainment system features a larger 8.8-inch central display, improved navigation and a revised multimedia commander control dial, to name just a few of the enhancements.
Like the Skyactiv-G petrol engine, Mazda’s Skyactiv-X engine is matched to the Mazda M Hybrid 24V mild-hybrid system that recycles recovered kinetic energy. A belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) converts the energy in the 600kJ lithium-ion battery, while the DC-DC converter supplies it to the cars electrical equipment.
Externally, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech Skyactiv-X powered cars are marked out by bright 18-inch alloy wheels on the saloon and metallic black alloys on the hatchback, while the keen eyed will spot the wider exhaust tailpipe and Skyactiv-X tailgate badge.
A stand out compact premium small saloon, the All-New Mazda3 saloon shares just its bonnet and windscreen with the hatchback, ensuring that it delivers a uniquely sophisticated and executive look distinct from the hatchback. Sharing an identical wheelbase, the saloon is 200mm longer, while the 444-litre boot ensures this stylish saloon delivers impressive levels of practicality.
September 2019
Mazda announced that the 2019 Mazda 3 with revolutionalry Skyactiv X engine is now on sale across Europe. Featuring Mazda’s unique Spark Plug Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology, the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Skyactiv-X engine is the world’s first commercial petrol unit to combine the spark ignition of a petrol engine with the compression ignition of a diesel. It now launches across Europe in the All-New Mazda3, delivering 180PS and 224Nm of maximum torque with smooth, free-revving performance, excellent responsiveness and outstanding real-world fuel consumption.
October 2019
Mazda 3 diesel axed
Mazda no longer sells the Mazda 3 with the Skyactiv-D diesel engine.
August 2020
Mazda 3 100th Anniversary Special Edition priced from £29,995
Celebrates Mazda's centenary with Snowflake White paint and burgundy interior. Limited to 100 examples in the UK. Powered by Skyactiv-X engine.
March 2021
Mazda 3 updated with e-Skyactiv X engine
The 2021 model year versions of the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda 3 see the debut of the updated version of Mazda’s unique Skyactiv-X SPCCI Spark Controlled Compression Ignition petrol engine. Renamed e-Skyactiv X, the updated version delivers increased performance and even more efficiency.
The latest 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv X engine produces 186PS at 6000rpm and maximum torque of 240Nm at 4000rpm – an increase of 6ps and 16Nm respectively
Corresponding to the renaming of the e-Skyactiv X engine, Mazda’s 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is moving to e-Skyactiv G naming.
On sale from the 1st April, the nine-model 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv G line-up features SE-L, SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trims with the option of an automatic gearbox on all but the entry-level SE-L. The e-Skyactiv X hatchback range features nine cars across SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech trims with the option of an automatic gearbox from Sport Lux onwards. Additionally, the stylish 2021 Mazda 3 Saloon is offered exclusively with the e-Skyactiv X engine with the same nine model line-up as the hatchback.
Small changes to the Mazda3 see a sunroof added to Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech e-Skyactiv X models.
August 2024
2025 Mazda3 available to order now with new 140PS engine option
Mazda has announced that the latest version of the Mazda3 is available to order. While the interior and exterior design is unchanged, all models get Alexa Voice Assistant, and the Mazda navigation system now benefits from cloud-based points of interest and database updates.
The biggest change to the 2025 Mazda3 line-up is the introduction of a new e-Skyactiv G engine. Replacing the current 122PS 2.0-litre e-Skyactiv G engine, the 140PS 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G becomes the entry level Mazda3 engine.
The 186PS e-Skyactiv-X engine is retained unchanged and both engines can be had with a manual or automatic transmission.
What to watch out for
Report of problems with the i stop system of new 2019 Mazda 3 malfunctioning every day and the charging system failing regularly. Both faults flagged up dashboard warnings to stop using the car and have them checked and rectified. Owner kept the car for two weeks and then successfully rejected it and received a full refund. Dealer denied faults at first and also initially refused to accept owner's right to reject within 30 days. He had to engage an expensive consumer rights lawyer to back up his rejection rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Owner also complained that car hads been delivered with a scrateched instrumnent panel and scratched piano black centre console.
30-10-2023:Mazda 3 models with the Skyactiv-x MHEV engine can suffer from a misfire under gentle driving (1600 - 2300 rpm in 3rd/4th/5th gear). One reader managed (after much work) to get authorisation from Germany for a new short engine. Car was less than four years and had under 28,000 miles.
