The Mazda3 has been one of the brand’s best-sellers since 2004. But early models struggled with reliability, and it wasn’t until 2014 that it became a real competitor in its class.
Key Points
- Mazda3 debuted in 2004 to replace the similarly sized Mazda Protégé.
- The Mazda3 model remains one of the automaker’s best sellers.
- Mazda3s in general have a below-average annual repair cost of just $433.
- First-generation Mazda3s had subpar reliability ratings and quality control issues.
- MazdaSpeed3 performance variant arrived in 2007 offering 263 horsepower.
- The first second-generation Mazda3s struggled with reliability, but the 2014 model turned things around.
- Mazda3’s third-generation delivered a complete overhaul, including new engines, tech, and refined interior.
- Fourth-generation Mazda3s were updated and tread into luxury.
Mazda3 Faced Early Quality Issues but Later Wowed Critics and Offered 263 HP
Replacing the Mazda Protégé in 2004, the Mazda3 quickly gained a reputation for its sporty performance. Available as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback, the new compact enhanced Mazda’s reputation for sportiness, setting itself apart from the rest of the subcompact field. It’s a status that endures nearly two decades later, with the fourth-generation 2021 model still going strong today.
Yet, as it turns out, its overall reputation for reliability is decidedly mixed, with some years being better than others. Reputable sources like Repair Pal rate the model overall with four out of five stars, and score it ninth in reliability out of 36 cars in its class. Reportedly, the Mazda3’s average annual repair cost is excellent at just $433. The average repair cost for cars in this class is $526, and $652 for all vehicles.
We take all the pros and cons into consideration and review the best and worst years for the Mazda3.
Mazda3 Debuted with Limited Cargo Space but Lots of Power and Decent Handling
Debuting for the 2004 model year, the Mazda3’s power came from a 148-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine on base models. More power was available on tonier “S” models, thanks to a 160-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder. Both engines were paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.
But the real power came from the high-performance MazdaSpeed3 that debuted in 2007. Its turbocharged, direct-injected 2.3-liter four-cylinder pumped out 263 hp through a six-speed manual. Thankfully, a limited-slip differential is standard.
Notably stylish and boasting decent performance and handling, the front-wheel-drive Mazda3 is a tempting choice, but it does have a cramped back seat compared to its subcompact competition. And, like many small cars, it suffers from road noise–and a few recalls.
What are the Best and Worst Years for the Mazda3 in its First Generation?
When it comes to finding the best and worst years of the Mazda3’s first generation, we first have to consider its recalls. Recently, in July 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a recall on nearly 261,000 Mazda3s for model years 2004 to 2007. If the driver airbag deploys, the plastic Mazda logo on the steering wheel airbag cover may shatter and shower fragments into the vehicle cabin.
And, in 2016, Mazda extended warranty coverage on Mazda3s built from October 2008 through April 2010 due to dashboards that could melt in hot weather. The warranties for these models were bumped to 10 years from the original warranty start date with no mileage limitation.
When it comes to safety, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, rates the 2009 Mazda3 “Good” in moderate front overlap crash, but marginal head restraint design. The first-generation Mazda3 ended in 2009 when it received a mild refresh for 2010’s second generation.
Actually, we don’t specifically recommend any Mazda3s in this generation, but a clean 2008 or 2009 model with low miles that’s been well cared for, preferably with documented service records, would be best. Everything from 2004 to 2007 we would just avoid in general, including the MazdaSpeed3. Depending on its year, miles, and condition, expect to spend between $3,500-$9,000 per Kelley Blue Book.
Second-gen. Mazda3s Marred By Faulty Dashboards
The Mazda3 didn’t change radically when a redesigned model appeared for 2010, it was more of the same, just better. Riding on the same platform as the first generation, Mazda3 base “i” models retained their 148-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but now came with a five-speed manual or a new five-speed automatic transmission. The MazdaSpeed3 remained unchanged as well, with its turbocharged 263-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. The biggest change came with the upper S models, which get a larger 167-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder power plant. Transmission choices are better than base models, with a choice of a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic.
Reportedly, Mazda’s new transmissions on 2010 models are particularly problematic, according to Car Complaints, particularly clutch failures.
Also, fuel systems are less reliable in 2011, and there are numerous reports of suspension issues and some brake issues as well, Consumer Reports states, with transmissions being troublesome in 2013.
In 2010 overall crash tests, the IIHS rated the Mazda3 “Good.” The second-generation Mazda3 ended in 2013 when it received a major overhaul for 2014’s third generation.
What are the Best and Worst Years for the Mazda3 in its Second Generation?
Overall, 2010 seems to be the worst year of the second-gen Mazda3, with far more problems of all kinds than other model years across all major sites, including here at Vehicle History, where the 2010s also scored the lowest, with just 4.3-stars out of five across nearly 500 reviews. As for which of the three years of this generation are best, 2012 seems to have the least complaints across the board, though we still don’t necessarily “suggest” it as they’re all a bit lackluster. We do, however, suggest paying a little extra for an early third-generation model instead.
Third-gen. Mazda3s Get Skyactiv Engines Offering More Power, Better MPG
A big change came with 2014’s arrival of the third-generation Mazda3. Its platform and engines were new and no longer tied to Ford, which had separated from Mazda in 2008. The new models are stronger yet lighter than before, and all models were equipped with Mazda’s new “Skyactiv” engines, with more power and better fuel economy.
Base “i” models used a 155-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. As before, “s” model gets more juice, in this case, 184 hp from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, it was offered solely with the six-speed automatic.
If you find one that’s well-optioned, you’ll find it to be thoroughly modern. Available amenities included a navigation system; leather upholstery; Bluetooth and adaptive cruise control. You could even opt for such driver-assistance safety features as blind-spot alert, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision alert.
As with the previous generation, a new Mazda3 brings with it more problems. While the 2014 hasn’t garnered the level of complaints generated by the 2010 model, brakes tend to be problematic in this generation, particularly in 2018, according to Consumer Reports.
In 2014 overall crash tests, the IIHS rated the Mazda3 “Good” when equipped with optional crash mitigation systems. The third generation of the Mazda3 ended in 2018, paving the way for the current fourth generation.
What are the Best and Worst Years for the Mazda3 in its Third Generation?
The third-gen Mazda3 is a different car to recommend than a second-generation, the model provides a much more refined driving experience, even at standard trims. We elect the nd 2018 Mazda3s as the best years of the third generation. The 2018 model adds a front-collision system and a few other items over the previous model and just two recalls and 24 registered complaints.
The 2017 Civic had only one recall but lacked a few standard features in comparison. As for the worst years of the third-gen Mazda3, our owner reviews here at Vehicle History show that 2014 through 2016 models ranked lowest among owners, all sharing a 4.5-star rating out of five.
Fourth-gen. Mazda3’s Tread into Luxury Territory
The new 2019 Mazda3’s upscale aspirations belie a suspension that is no longer fully independent, like the previous generation. The 186-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is the sole engine for 2019 and 2020. FWD is standard, all-wheel drive is optional. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, a six-speed manual is available on FWD hatchbacks. For 2021, Mazda once again offered the Mazda3 with a three-engine lineup, with base models getting a 155-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four returning as the top engine choice.
Safety items, like forward-collision mitigation, driver-attention monitor, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, and adaptive cruise control are standard, with the exception of the base model. For 2020, all models come with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning mitigation, and automatic headlights. Despite the new design, the rear seat remains cramped. Consider it a Mazda3 tradition.
Being newer, there are far fewer complaints with the current generation Mazda3, and overall reliability has improved during the last decade. However, brakes issues appear to have elicited a few complaints with NHTSA.
In 2019 overall crash tests, the IIHS rated the Mazda3 “Good.” Given that the Mazda3 was redesigned for 2019, expect it to carry over unchanged for 2022.
What are the Best and Worst Years for the Mazda3 in its Fourth Generation?
The 2020 Mazda3 is the best year in the fourth generation, hands down. With just two recalls and a handful of complaints registered with the NHTSA, the 2020 model looks to be the least problematic year yet. As for the worst year, they have all faired pretty well so far, but we would avoid the early 2019 models and they may almost be out of bumper-to-bumper coverage. Be sure to check the in-service date using our free VIN tool to know for sure how much coverage is left.
Photos: Mazda
