For The 148bhp engine provides lots of pace with reasonable running costs, and Sport trim gives the Mazda 3 the sporty looks to match.

Against This is one expensive Mazda 3. The 1.6 diesel engine provides all the pace you need, but costs much less to buy and run.

Mazda 3 Hatchback

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

A nice car, but way too expensive for a Mazda 3. For the best value in the range, stick with the 1.6D TS2.

What Car? readers say

4.4


Key facts

0–60mph
9.2 secs
Top speed
127 mph
Average mpg
54.3
Tank range
657 miles
See all running costs

View the whole Mazda 3 Hatchback range

Read in full

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:

Mazda 3 Hatchback 1.6D TS2 5dr

I Bought this car in summer 2011, and it is brilliant, apart from road noise which is a bit loud when on the motorway, but it handles so well and so…

Jason Morton

5 out of 5 stars

Mazda 3 Hatchback 1.6 Takuya 5dr

Have only done 4k in six months since purchase but the Takuaya is definately a good purchase. Got me out of a hole when my previous Mazda 6 "died" -…

Dominic Amans

4 out of 5 stars

Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.2D 185 Sport 5dr

We have just purchased the 2.2d (185) sport in the top spec with leather etc. The car is fantastic to drive and we are really impressed. This is my…

Jabbar Sardar

5 out of 5 stars

Mazda 3 Hatchback 1.6 Sport 5dr

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…

Helen Briggs

5 out of 5 stars
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