2018 Mazda3 Review: Reliable Small Car With Reasonable Ownership Costs As It Ages

Aug 1, 2023

The 2018 Mazda3 lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor differential noise and tire pressure warning system issues reported. At $17,590 to $23,450, it’s a great value for a compact car with a nice cabin and plenty of advanced safety technology.

The Good

The safety features are excellent, interior materials are upscale for a car in its price range and the maintenance costs are low.

The Bad

The touchscreen cannot be used while the car is driving, the suspension is stiff with the larger wheels and there’s some wind noise.

Is the 2018 Mazda3 a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2018 is a great year for the Mazda3 since it is a comfortable small car with a lot of technology features. Owner reviews praise the smooth suspension, roomy front seats, and the low fuel costs.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nicer than a lot of other compact cars, the seats are comfortable on long trips, cargo space is also okay.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems with the 2018 Mazda3, stay away from the 2014 model which has a lot of brake problems. In general, models from 2015–2022 are more reliable.
Performance 7/10 – Performance is decent from both of the four-cylinder engines, but it’s not as fast as some other compact cars on the market.
Safety 8/10 – The 2018 Mazda3 is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera along with low-speed brake assist. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control as well as lane keep assist.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 31 MPG, giving 409 miles of range from the 13.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are $38 cheaper than average, at $146 per month.
Value 8/10 – The 2018 Mazda3 is cheaper than some competitors, with lower depreciation rates as well, making it a great value for shoppers.

Positive Owner Reviews

gin b

It's very good on fuel economy.

It's brand new. I just purchased it three days ago. My old vehicle was 10 years old so I'm finding the new one a bit challenging with all the computerized gadgets. But I do love it.

Britney P

Mazda3 gt s drives like a luxury sedan for an extremely affordable price.

The Mazda three grand touring sport is the most comfortable car I have ever leased and by far my favorite. It handles exquisitely and is a dream to drive. With multiple adjustment features, the Mazda 3 seamlessly provides comfortability for all different body shapes and sizes. The sport feature is a plus, but the blind spot monitoring is a key feature which other cars are missing and is crucial to avoiding accidents in high volume traffic areas like New York and Los Angeles.

Brenda M

It's reliable and affordable.

I love my car it's sporty and cute. It was affordable and still gives me the features I wanted.

Kayla Y

My mazda3: in love with my car!

Very satisfied with my Mazda 3. Favorite features include the comfortably of the leather seats and steering wheel. All are made of great quality. The Bose speaker systems are amazing and make for a great driving experience. I enjoy using the easy to turn on sport mode and cruise control. I have had to have several body work repairs done from fender-benders and was disappointed with the expensive rates that was needed for parts and color compared to other makers.

Michael Catsburg

All around great performance,handling and reliability

It's been 9 months and 10,000 miles without a single issue to complain or worry about. Of course the windshield wiper recall was just announced recently and trust it will be taken care of promptly. We gave had no hint of trouble and are enjoying this automobile. Road noise damping should have occurred well before the 2019 model upgrade. It's just too noisy at highway speeds cheers Michael

Michel V

I really like everything about it.

It's brand new so it works really well. It has all of the latest technology. It goes really really fast.

Yuya s

All of this car satisfies me! It's very special car!

Steering is great. After you drive this car, you can't change your car.

Joy M

It's got a 5 star rating for safety. So if you're going to be in a car crash you can't be more protected than in a mazda 3.

I really like the red color and the side accents are super nice. I also really like the front grill. I only wish my windows were tinted, sometimes my car scrapes along the bottom due to it being rather low to the ground because some driveways are super steep in Houston.

Negative Owner Reviews

Ahmed Aly

Sensors?

3 months new Mazada 3 , I have had 4 problems dysfunction of back suspension and I had to send it to dealer to fix tire pressure is always on get fixed and is back on always tire pressure is optimal oil change light never turned on even after 8000 km mileage wind shield cracked in the first warm day without any sign that be hit by any thing

Donna F

You get what you pay for when buying this model.

I purchased this car because it was a standard. The lower gears drive clunky. It has great gas mileage. I did have the brakes freeze up under 30,000 miles, but it was covered and the garage said it was rare. There seems to be a delay with the push start and powering all the systems in the vehicle. This said it is the lower quality and cheaper models of all the Mazdas.

James P

Mazda 3: not as good as they used to be.

The mazda3 takes an excessively long time to start the entertainment console after starting the vehicle. While it starts, you cannot interact with it, including changing the radio station. The vehicle itself has several noticeable blind spots and has a lot of road noise.

Colleen M

Makes it difficult to listen to music.

I do not like how the radio turns on and you have to hit except to say that you know will not play with the radio while driving. Then it takes forever to load the stations or Pandora or Bluetooth or whatever else you have it connected to. Then it turns off sometimes by itself.

Carrie H

Her color is snowflake pearl.

My Mazda 3 is a beautiful white car that has a bigger engine than my previous 2006 Mazda 3. It definitely has pick up but seems like the transmission slides a little bit while driving on a straight away. I believe the body style of the car is sleek and attractive and like all the extra features.

Steve's Sporty 3

Harsh on Bumps. Weak on Cornering.

My headline says it all. Those soft shocks don't absorb bumps well; you feel them, hard. And those soft shocks don't handle the same corner/turn at the same speed well as my old '96 Civic (base model with original shocks/suspension). I'm very disappointed with my 2018 Mazda 3 sedan in that regard. The car looks awesome, but is weak in handling.

Cody E

One interesting detail of the vehicle is the GPS unit you must pay extra for.

Vehicle is reliable and I like the various layout of the radio and dashboard. Additionally, the car is very durable, I've had mine for three years now as a lease and will likely buyout the car at the end of the leasing period. I would recommend the touring version over the base model as the value of the add ons is worth the additional step up.

Angela E

Affordable and smooth car.

I do have some problems with the screen, time, and connecting to my phone, but love has mileage, feel of ride, no problems with mechanics. Easy and smooth ride. This is my third Mazda and I love all of them. Wish it had more drink holders in back but that is it.

What Do Critics Say About the Mazda3?

Consumer Reports says the 2018 Mazda Mazda3 is a great combination of sportiness and efficiency, with high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Mazda3 at 4.6/5, enjoying the high-end features for its price, but doesn’t like the excessive road noise at highway speeds.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Mazda3 a 4.5/5, praising the fun driving experience for a small car, but owners don’t like the lack of rear legroom.

What Common Problems Does the 2018 Mazda3 Have?

Common problems found on the 2018 Mazda3 include excessive noise while changing gears, the tire pressure warning light turning on, and damaged brake rotors. Overall, these problems are similar to other compact cars on the market, leading to average repair costs as the car ages.

Excessive noise while changing gears is the most widespread complaint from 2018 Mazda3 owners, showing up at around 55,000 miles. The problem is usually caused by worn-out fluid in the differential. Having the differential flushed and refilled costs around $150, and usually fixes the issue.

The tire pressure warning light turning on has also been reported by some Mazda3 owners at around 20,000 miles. There are some known issues with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Reprogramming the sensors and receiver can fix the problem, in some cases for around $50, while in others you may need to replace the sensors which cost about $40 per wheel.

Damaged brake rotors are another issue mentioned on the 2018 Mazda3 within the first 15,000 miles. The brake pads tend to wear down quickly in the front, and if they are not caught then the metal-on-metal contact can cause scoring and damage to the rotors. Resurfacing the rotors can be done in some cases for about $150, while a new set of rotors is about $350.

There are four recalls on the 2018 Mazda3, which is similar to other compact cars on the market. The most serious recall is for the fuel pump which may fail and cause the engine to stall. Mazda will replace the fuel pump in affected models for free. Other recalls cover the windshield wipers, as well as the rearview camera. Mazda will repair those issues for free, too.

How Long Will the 2018 Mazda3 Last?

A well-maintained 2018 Mazda3 can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than some other compact cars, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $338 per year.

As a used 2018 Mazda3 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the EGR valve for $250, wheel bearings costing $300, along with the water pump which costs around $550.

Rachel F

Very reliable. I have only had it for 2 years so it's still basically new. I have not had any problems so far.

Jenn P

This Mazda is a very reliable car no problems. Also so much fun to drive. I wish that the car itself.

Rachel L

We have had no mechanical problems in the 7 months we have owned the car. We did have a few technical glitches when we first bought it but the dealer fixed them quickly.

Jacob H

As stated in my last response, no problems in the 20,000 miles/year and a half I have driven it. Not the best in the snow but it manages.

Mercedes H

I have not had any mechanical issues with it so far. It has been very reliable. I have kept the oil changed and tires rotated and everything continues to run smoothly.

Kimberly F

So far I have not had any problems. It drives well and maintenance is affordable. I have had my car for less than a year though.

Sandy H

It is very reliable. I have had no maintenance issues thus far within my 2 months of owning this vehicle. No problems have arisen besides for some scratches on the paint from carts, car doors, etc. I do have the paint protection plan though as well as coverage for if the seats tear or rims get scratched.

Martha S

Yes, is a reliable car. As of now I do not have any kind of problem with mine. Very secure and trustable.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is very good for a compact car, offering a standard 7-inch touchscreen across the lineup. Optional features include a nine-speaker Bose surround-sound stereo system.

Standard safety technology is decent for a car in its price range with a rearview camera along with low-speed forward collision warning with brake assist.

Optional drive assistance features include:

Blind spot monitoring
Rear parking sensors
Full-speed forward collision warning with brake assist
Adaptive pivoting headlights
Lane departure warning
Traffic sign recognition
Rear cross traffic alert
Head-up display
Adaptive cruise control
Automatic high-beam headlights
Lane keep assist

Is the 2018 Mazda3 a Good Value?

Yes, the 2018 Mazda3 is a good value since it’s cheaper than a lot of other compact cars on the market while offering a nice interior and advanced technology. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $17,590 to $23,450 , making it less than a Honda Civic or Subaru WRX. When new, the price range was $18,095 to $24,945. Depreciation is better than a lot of competitors, only losing about 7% of its value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Mazda3?

There are three main models of the 2018 Mazda3 offered, from the entry-level Sport to the more luxurious Grand Touring. The Mazda3 comes as either a four-door sedan, or five-door hatchback. Front-wheel drive is also standard on all models.

Sport is the entry-level model with:

16-inch steel wheels
Remote keyless entry
Keyless ignition
60/40-split folding rear seat
Bluetooth
Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen
Rearview camera
Low-speed forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
Emergency telematics
Six-speaker stereo with two USB ports
Hatchback version includes alloy wheels and a rear spoiler
Optional Preferred Equipment package for sedan: alloy wheels, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, heated mirrors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, upgraded upholstery, rear seat armrest with cupholders

Touring is a step up, adding:

18-inch alloy wheels
Keyless entry
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Simulated leather upholstery
Six-way power driver’s seat
Heated front seats
Includes all features from the Sport trim and its optional package

Grand Touring is the flagship model with:

LED exterior lights (headlights, fog lights, and taillights)
Sunroof
Digital speedometer
Upgraded instrument panel display
Leather upholstery
Nine-speaker Bose surround-sound system
Satellite radio
Premium Equipment package: adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, heated steering wheel, paddle shifters (for automatic transmission), auto-dimming rearview mirror, navigation system, lane departure warning and intervention, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and braking for higher speeds, traffic sign reader
Includes all features from the Touring trim

Sport

155 HP 31 MPG

View Details

Touring

184 HP 29 MPG

View Details

Grand Touring

184 HP 30 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Mazda3?

The base engine in the 2018 Mazda3 is a 2.0L four-cylinder, which produces 155 horsepower, at up to 31 MPG. It’s paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. As for performance, it can go from 0-60 mph in around 8.2 seconds.
The more powerful option is a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that generates 184 horsepower while getting 30 MPG. This engine also pairs with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. It can propel the Mazda3 from 0-60 mph in about 7.4 seconds.

What Colors Does the Mazda3 Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Mazda3?

The 2018 Mazda3 offers a comfortable ride experience for both the driver and passengers, balancing sporty handling with a pleasant and smooth driving feel. The vehicle’s interior design places a strong emphasis on ergonomics, meaning that the controls are intuitive and within easy reach for the driver. This, combined with the car’s high-quality materials and attention to detail, enhances overall comfort.

The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing a comfortable journey even on longer trips. The front seats offer plenty of room, while the rear seats, although not as spacious as some competitors in the compact segment, can comfortably seat two average-sized adults. An available power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and optional heated seats further accentuate the comfort levels.

The 2018 Mazda3 also does a commendable job of insulating the cabin from road and wind noise, providing a quieter ride compared to many of its rivals. Furthermore, the ride quality remains composed even over rougher surfaces, thanks to the effective suspension system that helps absorb bumps and jolts.

How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda3 Have?

The 2018 Mazda3 offers a versatile amount of storage space depending on the body style. The sedan variant provides around 12.4 cubic feet of trunk space. This ample room could comfortably accommodate a week’s worth of groceries, a couple of mid-sized suitcases, or a compact stroller.

For those needing a bit more room, the hatchback model delivers even more utility. Its rear cargo space offers up to 20.2 cubic feet with the rear seats in use, which is enough to house several large boxes, a couple of full-sized suitcases, or a medium-sized bicycle. Furthermore, folding the rear seats down expands this space significantly to about 47.1 cubic feet. This can allow larger items, such as furniture pieces, multiple camping gear items, or a full-size bike, to be transported with relative ease.

Regardless of the model, the 2018 Mazda3 is equipped with clever storage solutions, including door pockets, a center console compartment, and a glove box, enabling drivers and passengers to conveniently store smaller items like phones, wallets, and sunglasses. Thus, despite its compact size, the 2018 Mazda3 offers ample storage that is sure to meet the needs of most drivers.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The third generation of the Mazda3 was launched for the 2014 model year.

2015: 2.5L engine has an optional six-speed manual transmission.

2016: Standard rearview camera on all models, and the SV model has been discontinued.

2017: Small exterior styling changes, upgraded dash, and more standard equipment.

2018: The Touring 2.5 model was removed from the lineup, sport model adds forward collision warning, some options packages renamed.

2019: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new interior, exterior, and technology features.

2020: Additional driver assistance features are now standard on all models.

2021: Two more engine choices are added to the lineup.

How Does the Mazda3 Compare to the Competition?

The 2018 Mazda3 is a very nice compact car, offering a more upscale interior than a lot of the competition, decent reliability ratings, and some good technology features.

The Honda Civic is another small car available in the same price range. Where the Honda Civic stands out is with a sportier driving experience, while the Mazda3 offers better standard technology features. We recommend the Mazda3 for most shoppers, although they’re very similar cars regarding reliability, so it’s worth testing to see which you prefer.

The Hyundai Elantra is a competitor which can be found for about $2,500 less. Interior material quality is slightly better in the Hyundai Elantra, while the Mazda3 offers more responsive steering on winding roads. We recommend the Mazda3 since the predicted reliability is slightly better.

Ranks #8 Small Cars by Owners

2018 FIAT 500

4.9

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4.88

Tie

2018 Mazda Mazda3

4.6

Do Owners Recommend the Mazda3?

Rachel F

Yes. It is reliable, filled with the latest technology, and comfortable to drive around a busy city. It has a nice looking exterior where it looks very expensive but has a reasonable price tag.

Jenn P

Yes. It is a blast to drive. The car is also reliable. I feel the value is far worth the car. I would recommend this car.

Rachel L

It is excellent, we love the horsepower and the fact that the high trim level comes with a manual transmission.

Jacob H

In the 20,000 miles I have driven it in a year and a half I have had no problems. So far I would say it is a good vehicle.

Mercedes H

I think it is. It is on the small side but a very enjoyable vehicle to drive. Heated seats and steering wheel are nice to have as well as the HUD and safety driving prompts.

Pearl B

Yes it is an amazing car. A lot of nice features for a very affordable price. I switched from a Toyota Corolla to the Mazda3 and am happy about the decision.

Amanda T

Yes it performs satisfactory so far. It is reliable, mileage is excellent, and overall safety is exceptional. It has many features to prevent accidents such as lane assist and automatic braking if a crash is sensed. The overall interior has a very sleek, classy look to it. The size is fair, a little smaller than I’d prefer, but it works.

Jonathan C

Yes, is an excellent car. Easy to drive with a lot technology. Bluetooth that connect with smartphones. Back camera and auto brake system

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Shelli S on June 25, 2021

Great power, small interior: parents beware.

I love this car! The sports edition truly has a significant power increase, it is a very smooth ride, and great on gas (except when using sport mode). My only complaint is the room inside the car. I so not recommend this vehicle if you have young children, especially in car seats. Front seats must be more than halfway pushed up just to get my 2 year old into her car seat. My largest complaint: the area on either side of the front seats. It is absolutely impossible to get my mobile phone, even a piece of paper without parking the vehicle, putting seat in back-most position, and going underneath the front of the seat, or vice versa. If I was still young, single, and without child, it would be my most favorite car to date.

corsair L on June 25, 2021

An extraordinarily supreme car.

Great car, very easy to drive, clutch is like butter. Easy to maintain and good quality parts make this car the best economy car you can buy. Do not go with a Nissan or Hyundai because Mazda blows them out of the water with it is state of the art performance. The experience is one of a kind and you'll find out once you take one for a test drive.

Alyssa V on June 18, 2021

If you want a affordable, reliable car that is great on gas choose Mazda!

Performance and reliability is 100% great!! I love using sport mode to get up to high speeds quicker when getting on the highway. Having hands free Bluetooth to receive calls and text messages is much safer than being on the phone. The interior is beautiful, I love the screen. Lots of USB ports for charging!! You can buy a pre downloaded USB GPS to plug into the port that will actually load on to the screen GPS directions to get to a destination!! It also has very easy cruise control that you can adjust speeds with just a press of a button on the steering wheel!!

Haley G on June 18, 2021

Sleek and sporty Mazda sport.

My car is great overall. Problems I would say deal with touch screen. It is a little small and the touch feature does not always work correctly. The tire pressure light is also difficult to take off. It gets great gas mileage and very comfy. It has leatherette and is very easy to clean. I got the blue and it actually sparkles when in the sun. It is a sleek, sporty car that any guy or girl would enjoy.

Shannon D on June 12, 2021

Mazda 3 is awesome! Best car yet.

No problems. I have 21k miles and nothing has broken. I've only gone in to get the filters and oil changed. It is very comfortable it reminds me of a BMW make. The seat warmers are awesome! The leather seats are very comfortable and modern. The sound system is great too I play my music all the time.

Carla O on June 9, 2021

Great speakers, features (such as lane change alert), and smoothness.

I am in love with my mazda3 vehicle. It is smooth, it is gorgeous, and so luxury for their price ranges. I got it about 2 years ago and unfortunately, involved in a hit and run. After having it get fixed up, it still runs like a charm. The speakers are great, adjusted the sound to how I like it, and the optional passenger a/c where they can adjust their temperature on their side is wonderful. And the best part, it only takes around $17 to fill up my tank! My blue Mazda 3 with black interior is a beauty. I would not trade it for anything else.

Kim H on June 5, 2021

My fourth Mazda but may be changing my opinion with the 2018 model.

This is my fourth Mazda. The first three I had were wonderful but my current 2018 model has been in the shop more than my other 3 put together. It might be a lemon with problems that vary. I bought it with under 50 miles on it so I am the only owner. It might just be the 2018 model because I loved my previous grand touring models. I cannot fully describe the pesky problems. They have been more of nuisance problems rather than major issues. This Mazda had changed my opinion and when I get another new car, I think I'll be looking at other makes and not stick with Mazda.

Va M on June 4, 2021

The Mazda 3 is the best first car I could have gotten.

The gas management on this vehicle is great. Even though it is a sports car, the gas tank full lasts me more than a week. The vehicle is very smooth in acceleration and it is very comfortable to drive. The added GPS card provides a stable map feature.

Aaron W on June 1, 2021

Mazda 3 hatchback is a safe and reliable car.

I feel safe driving in the car. It is smooth and gas efficiency is good. It is reliable for any road trip. I feel comfort knowing that it is really secure. CarPlay is also great! When I want to move faster, there is a sport mode and I turn it on, so I travel fast!

Erin E on May 31, 2021

Fun, sporty and reliable car!

The only downside to this vehicle is the gas mileage is not great; I feel like I am always getting gas. This car has been reliable for the 1.5 years I have owned it. The best feature is the sport mode switch that makes the vehicle quicker and makes driving on the highway easier.

Anna R on May 29, 2021

This car absolutely fits me perfectly.

Great car for gas mileage and economy. The price point is wonderful and I was able to get the highest trim level, the grand touring, and all the bells and whistles too. It is very comfortable as well. It is a car that I can see out if easily. I am 5’3” and have no trouble seeing over the hood and behind me. I love the Bluetooth and the sound system is great. One thing I really like about the Mazda 3 is the pop up display above the steering wheel on the dash. It reads out the current speed limit, my speed, the cruise control information and any street signs around. The controls for the sound system are very unique. I love the toggles and knobs for controlling the sound system. You do not even have to raise your arm up. For such a small car there is a huge amount of room. Amazing what I can transport.

jessica G on May 14, 2021

Great affordable vehicle.

Fabulous car I commute over 100 miles per day for work. I love the infotainment system on this car and the hands free functionality. Car drives very smoothly and has lots of great safety features such as lane keep assist and blind spot monitoring as well as smart city brake support. The only downside would be the fuel mileage and the fact the wheels have nitrogen plugs instead of air.

Carly C on May 8, 2021

Love this modern vehicle!

This car has amazing safety features. I really enjoy the sporty look. It is very comfortable and spacious considering it is a sedan. I enjoy the sound system and the apple car play! Nice trunk space and visibility. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for something safe and new.

Dorothy O on May 4, 2021

My Mazda 3 is the best car I have ever driven!

I love my mazda3 because it is. Easy to drive has a great safety rating and good gas mileage. Some of my favorite accessories include the cruise control that maintains a safe distance without me having to touch my brake or turn the cruise off. I like the high beam headlight feature that dims when approaching a car and brightens automatically after the. Car passes me. I like the brake assist. I drive a car with a 6 speed manual transmission and it really does “zoom ”!

Rose D on April 19, 2021

Mazda 3 sports edition, complete with blue iSport engine and Bose sound.

It is amazing. Best car I have ever owned. The drive is smooth and my iSport engine is super fast! The steering is incredibly reliable and under control. Making it safer to drive. It is comfortable to ride in along with a killer sound system! It comes with Bose speakers. Great gas mileage. Can be used as a automatic or manual drive. One nice thing is economy mode. It saves even more on fuel.

kylie M on April 18, 2021

Reliable, safe, and comfortable.

I am not a flashy car person, I just want a car that is comfortable and will not leave me stranded anywhere. The mazda3 is easy to drive, has great safety features, is comfortable, and has not had any issues so far. This is all I need out of a car, therefore I really like this car.

Tim S on April 16, 2021

All-around good vehicle, very reliable and fun to drive.

Very reliable car, good cargo space, good mileage. Also has a rear view camera, which is a real plus. Very quiet interior as well. Smooth ride and good handling. Good visibility front and back. Comfortable seating and easy seat adjustability. Good cornering and performance.

olivia J on April 13, 2021

Mazda 3 touring: pros and cons.

Very reliable. Runs very smoothly. Highly recommend as a first time car for new drivers. It was the first car that was purchased for me after I got my driver's license. Up until then I had only driven a Honda pilot. It is a very good size and the safety features are unbelievably reliable and accurate.

Carolina T on April 11, 2021

Good mechanically but lousy finishes.

Mechanically seems sound. Finished are cheap, paid by has chipped and the interior never looks clean. The USB ports do not keep an iPhone charged using GSP. Seat is too low and not adequately padded. Difficult to clean interior of front and back windshields.

Bekah K on April 1, 2021

Best vehicle on the market for me.

This is my second Mazda vehicle. Out all of the brands, I love Mazda because their cars are great quality. I have never had an issue with any of my cars. The overall performance is the most satisfactory. You literally feel like your driving on the smoothest surface.

Bruce K on April 1, 2021

Best vehicle we have owned: no problems whatsoever! Other people love our car.

Mazda 3 touring is an outstanding vehicle. Great gas mileage, newest technology. CarPlay Bluetooth and hands free siri commands. Outstanding interior space and trunk storage. Great color millennium red. And cruise control. Outstanding Bose speakers with high quality sound.3 speed automatic transmission.

Eugene M on April 1, 2021

Mazda 3 what I like and dislike.

I am a big person who fits nicely. The car has good power and amenities. The radio and sound controls are a bit complicated and it always goes to a default that I don't know how to change. I love the side view mirrors and warnings of approaching vehicles from rear.

Alexander B on March 30, 2021

Compact car with ample storage and comfortable quiet ride.

Comfortable easy driving car, has ample trunk space in a small package. It is very good on gas mileage and the infotainment screen is well positioned. It can comfortably fit 5 people. It looks pretty and makes you happy. The engine is very reliable and you will not have to worry about your car breaking down on you.

Michelle E on March 25, 2021

My vehicle is very fitting with what I use it for getting me to and from work.

My car at the moment needs an oil change along with a alignment, the mileage could be better but for the most park it does take me a long way, the heated seats are a blessing in the winter. The sports mode in the car is one of my favorite features along with the radio controls being in the center console.

Connor P on March 20, 2021

Mazda is functional and sporty. It offers what you need while not compromising.

The Mazda 3 is a comfortable and fun ride. It can navigate city streets, make good time down highways, maneuver well, and is an amazingly comfortable ride. The leather interior, rear view camera, and blind spot monitoring are vehicle features that I absolutely love having. The ride in the Mazda 3 is superior to all other vehicles I have. It feels like gliding on air. The car also is incredibly durable and has very few issues. I have had very few issues and many of which are not related to the vehicle. However, sometimes the front display has issues when turning on the vehicle, and it often will get very hot in the vehicle after being left on the sun because of the black interior.

Hannah T on March 17, 2021

The Mazda3 is reliable. It has a responsive break system, good mileage if you're willing to drive less than 70 mph on the freeway, and has preemptive warning systems for blind spots and upcoming maintenance.

The Mazda is reliable and fuel efficient. It's an acceptable size, with an acceptable sized trunk space. Sound does travel from the outside into the car a bit, and I frequently wonder if my door is not closed properly or the windows aren't closed, due to the sound.

Abbey S on March 16, 2021

My car gets great gas mileage on the interstate.

My car is on the smaller side. It includes a large backup camera, blind spot monitoring, and Bluetooth. I do believe it will be to small for a family, but is perfect for just a couple of people.

Robert B on March 14, 2021

Fun to drive and an easy ride to enjoy.

So far so good. The transmission is really fun how it is a auto and also in clutchless manual. It drives exactly like a manual in it. The body is nice, Mazdas are high quality vehicles. Parts get a bit pricey but you get what you pay for. So far after 3 years no major repairs, only minor maintenance. The oil is the expensive kind but it lasts twice as long between oil changes. The air monitoring and maintenance warning lights are a bit confusing. Otherwise still loving this vehicle.

Kelly B on March 12, 2021

Mazda 3 - the best car ever.

Performance is great, it handles super on the two lane curvy roads around my house and the pick up rate on the interstate is awesome. The gas mileage is super. I love the accessories it has like the heated seats and the lane change indicators. I have gotten almost 40,000 miles on my first set of tires and they’re just now starting to show signs of wear. The cruise control and the adjustable seats work great in my car. If I could add anything to it I would add a sun/moonroof and a CD player. I can honestly say I love my car and will probably buy another Mazda when I get a new car. I am considering the c-3 and possibly a crossover.

Abby K on March 8, 2021

Everything I love about the Mazda 3.

Drives great. I have never had a single problem with it. Very comfortable and has all the newest features including apple carplay which I use all the time. It also projects your speed onto a plastic thing that pops out of the top of your dashboard. This is super handy because you do not have to look down to see how fast you're going you see it while you are looking at the road. Overall it is an amazing car and I would recommend it to anyone.

Hannah B on March 6, 2021

Excellent quality but downsides to model.

Keys locked car from inside twice. Nice leather seating and safety features. Nice wheels. Wish it were a v6 though. Also wish I was given 2019 as grill is better looking. Not a huge back seat so not a ton of room in the back. Overall excellent quality for MSRP. It gets 30 miles to the gallon which is also great.

Beth S on March 5, 2021

The exact car I wanted for less than I expected.

A fantastic car. Has all the bells and whistles of much more expensive cars for way less. Easy and comfortable to drive. I am not the best at basic upkeep on cars and I have yet to have any problems. Fantastic on gas, even having to drive in stop and go rush hour traffic.

Teresa D on March 4, 2021

My car is a great piece of machinery. I like the fact that it is stick shift.

It is a stick shift so I like that the gears are on the dashboard & it lets me know when & to change to. It is very comfortable & suited for a young crowd. Even with that being said anyone can drive this car. This car is reliable & the parts are not costly to fix.

Ashley S on March 3, 2021

Goes faster than you expect.

I really love how driving a Mazda feels, it is very sporty and does not feel like it is dragging on. It is not loud and I Haven't found anything to be upset about. It is pretty comfortable, especially with the heated seats in the winter, and has plenty of space for luggage and friends sitting in the backseat. It has a lot of horsepower and is overall just a fun car to drive.

Kathy S on March 3, 2021

What I like and dislike about my Mazda.

It drives so smoothly and you can change it to sport mode to accelerate more quickly really fast. The only thing I do not like is that there is no cup holders in between the back seats. They are on the doors and the headlights are not automatic which is a bummer because sometimes I switch them on and I do not notice I didn't do it all the way so they're in fact not on.

Nikki S on March 3, 2021

This car accommodates everyone.

This car is so lovely to drive. It is sleek with a powerful engine. It handles turns easily. The dash is modern with several features. I loved the Mazda 3 so much that I bought a newer model when it came out. If you get a hatchback, just know you can fit much more than you think. I was able to get a brand new water heater and several sheets of plywood in the back.

Marcia G on February 28, 2021

Affordable reliable fun and attractive vehicle.

Car performs great. Very impressive range of features come standard with the vehicle. The gas mileage is excellent. Maintenance to this point has been very straightforward and affordable. Vehicle itself is very reliable - the sport mode really does improve the handling of the vehicle.

Tanner W on February 23, 2021

The vehicle overall is very quick and comfortable. No problems at all.

It is very comfortable for a tall person. It is a fast car. The car is very low to the ground which can be good and bad in its own way. Very comfortable on long car rides. I love the telescopic steering wheel. The gas mileage is extremely good. Even when in sport mode.

Kayla B on February 23, 2021

This car is completely worth its price.

This car is very amazing and high-tech. It has a screen where you can view the music, navigation, etc. The seats are comfortable and the style is simply amazing.

Presten C on February 21, 2021

It has a nice dash cluster.

It is a little small for a car seat in the back seats. Overall it is very economical. Great on gas mileage. And comfortable and smooth ride. I would definitely recommend a Mazda brand car for your next vehicle purchase. I would love to buy another one in the future.

Brianne B on February 19, 2021

It is supposedly very safe and it drives nicely and looks nice

Nice car, don't like the star active driving or the way it speeds up

Alexus H on February 18, 2021

2018 Mazda 3 sport feature, good but not great.

No problems so far. Reliability is great I never have to worry about getting to and from work. Comfort is good. I wish it had leather seats, the features are standard. Normal turn knobs. The ax is great and powerful. Performance of turning is great, wish it got off the line a little quicker.

Jill C on February 16, 2021

I have a sport mode switch, and love the dash lighting.

I'm not a fan of some of the interior trim, but has a great dash and screen on dash. Car has great pick up with easy maintenance. Wish it had more digital features in the base model. Great for road trips, bucket seats are comfortable for long trips, has good gas mileage.

Emily D on February 3, 2021

Great value for the price!

No problems, performance good, reliable, comfortable, tons of safety features such as blind spot, traffic emergency braking, skyactiv technology. Has fake leather seats. It is a 4-cylinder but I would prefer a v6 for the improved pick-up. Small and compact.

William M on February 2, 2021

The Mazda 3 is a great car!

The Mazda 3 is a great sporty car. I love its style, and it handles very well. The driving position is very comfortable, but there is not enough room in the back seat for others. The 2.5 liter engine is very smooth, but it could use a bit more power. Maybe I will get a turbo in my next car.

Lauren H on February 1, 2021

The Mazda 3 gt is a fun cute car.

I wish the vehicle had more useful features such as tire pressure display (can see what the pressure is in each tire rather than just the pressure light on). I would like to have the touch screen be touch screen the full time (touch screen deactivates when driving). Those are the only two issues I have with the car.

Shona J on January 31, 2021

Mazda touring drives fast.

Nice a small. Trunk is roomy and has protective cover for items in the trunk. For a small car it is roomy and can hold 4 to 5 people comfortably. It has a sports drive feature which is nice for wanting more speed and edge. Great on mileage. This car takes premium gas and drives very different when cheap gas is used.

Shauna V on January 29, 2021

Comfortable, sporty ride with smooth handling. Great features.

I have the Mazda 3 hatchback and I LOVE this vehicle. It is sporty, light, stable, and comfortable. I am petite in size and I finally feel like I have found a car that fits me.

Kyle P on January 28, 2021

2018 mazda3 hatchback grand touring.

The car drives smooth and performs as expected. So far the car has been reliable and dependable. It gets great gas mileage as long as you stay close to the speed limit. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, with a rotary dial being the primary mode of navigation. However, the system can be very laggy and glitchy upon start up of the vehicle.

Teresa S on January 25, 2021

Very sleek and you feel like your in a race car.

Very comfortable. Hugs corners like no other car I have owned. The radio and sound system are not very good. You can hear the road and cars too much. Not thrilled that the seats are vinyl and hope they hold up. If you are old school you will not like that there is no CD player. The doors are not very heavy so they do not close very well. The biggest disappointment is hearing outside noise.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.