For Of all the trims available, TS trim provides one of the best balances of kit and affordability. Choosing the 1.6 petrol engine keeps things even more affordable

Against The 1.6 engine can struggle when you’ve go a full load on board, so some buyers might want more performance. They might want more kit, too – that’s why we recommend TS2 trim.

Mazda 3 Hatchback

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

An affordable trim option, but if you can stretch to it, we’d upgrade to the more generous TS2 trim. We’d also upgrade the engine to the 1.6 diesel.

What Car? readers say

4.4


Key facts

0–60mph
12.2 secs
Top speed
112 mph
Average mpg
44.1
Tank range
534 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole Mazda 3 Hatchback range

Cheaper

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The full Mazda 3 review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

There are lots of engine and trim options to choose from, and you can’t really go wrong with any of them – except the 1.6-litre petrol engine, which is okay only if you don’t want to get anywhere in a hurry. Despite that, Mazda still expects it to be the best seller. We, on the other hand, recommend the smooth and punchy 1.6 diesel.

We’re tempted to plump for TS2 trim, too, which gets climate control, alloys, a CD changer, cruise control and Bluetooth. However, some may reckon that TS trim is the better value overall.

Discount-wise, you might struggle to get to 10% (although you should always try) – anywhere between 5% and 8% will be a decent enough deal.

Reader test team says:

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I puchased my Mazda 3 1.6 Sport in September 2009. I have found this car a pleasure to drive, it is so smooth. It is by no means the quickest car I…

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5 out of 5 stars
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