2012 Mazda3 Review: Dependable, Sporty & Upscale Compact Car With Low Ownership Costs

Oct 8, 2022

The 2012 Mazda3 lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor transmission and dashboard issues. At $7,350 to $14,599 it’s a great value for a reliable compact car with a nice interior.

The Good

Interior materials are more luxurious than other compact cars, steering is responsive and the engines are very efficient.

The Bad

There’s a lot of road noise, legroom is cramped in the back seats and the suspension is firmer than the competition.

Is the 2012 Mazda3 a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2012 is a good year for the Mazda3 with decent reliability giving it a high overall score. Owner reviews praise the fuel economy, low ownership costs, as well as the comfortable handling.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nicer than other compact cars, the seats are supportive, although cargo space is smaller than the competition.
Reliability 7/10 – There are some transmission problems which are not widespread. We recommend models from 2011–2021, which are all good choices.
Performance 6/10 – Performance is worse than average from the available 4-cylinder engines. The steering is responsive, though, making it feel sportier than average.
Safety 7/10 – The 2012 Mazda3 gets an overall rating of 4 stars in government crash tests. There’s an optional blind spot monitoring system available.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 33 MPG giving 478 miles of range from the 14.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $47 cheaper than average at $168 per month.
Value 8/10 – The 2012 Mazda3 is similar in price to other compact cars, if you can find one with under 100,000 miles, there’s plenty of life left in it.

Positive Owner Reviews

Mallory P

The Mazda 3 also has sports mode, which is so interesting!

My vehicle has had no problems and it is been a great car. It's been in the family for a few years now and besides the regular things you need to do to keep your car going, like oil, tires, etc.There’s been no problems with it. In my opinion the Mazda is a great vehicle.

Laura L

It is a very smooth car, great for first time drivers, also very economic.

I love how it feels when you hit on the gas, like I am going to 25 mph and it feels like I am going at 35mph, it is also very smooth when hitting the brakes or the gas.

Pebbles R

Gas/fuel efficient. I can go to New York without stopping for gas.

Maintenance is low. Gas/fuel efficient. Color is unique. Almost 6 years and no major maintenance needed. I do not dislike my car.

Latoya S

Sleek elegant, comfortable sweet car that delivers satisfaction.

My Mazda 3 is one of the best vehicles I have ever bought. Great on gas, smooth, sleek, elegant noise resistant riding. She has over 160,000 miles and not one major problem yet. My oldest child loves it and wants my Mazda 3 now. Great starter car, in between a sports car and sedan. Drives either stick or automatic of course another term ( switch shift). Great climate controls, radio, CD, USB, aux cable, Bluetooth reachable access. Other than my Acura 3.0 and my dodge journey overall, this is one of my top three vehicles ever owned.

Yue X

Practical Performance on a Budget. It hauls cargo AND it hauls a*s.

Pro: fairly fast, practical, large cargo space Con: turbo lag, FWD

emily P

The screen is on top of the dashboard.

I love my car! It drives very smooth and has not given me any problems. It is good on gas, and also has a big trunk which comes in handy for groceries. Would highly recommend to anyone. The exterior is white and the interior is black. When you turn the volume up or down the purple lights in the car glow. The stereo works very good and is loud!

Gianna M

It's great on gas and has not given me any issues since i purchased it

This car has been very good to me i don't really have any complaints i love my car

Nichole M

I deliver pizzas and it has lasted me a long time. It is a reliable car that I would recommend.

One day it got really hot and the plastic next to the display screen that shows the time got kind of warped. Other than that it has been a really reliable car. I would recommend it to family and friends I love my car.

Negative Owner Reviews

Martha J

It's an awesome commuter vehicle and gets amazing gas mileage.

Reliability is really awesome, the 4 cylinder Mazda 3s performance really lacks, it shifts late and take a long minute to get up to speed. It's a comfortable car for a shorter person that is single and has no children or large dogs, I don't recommend this car to people on the tall side. The back seat is supper cramped and can barely fit an infant's car seat.

Joe B

Do not recommend unless you like buying tires every month.

This model has a defective chassis which causes major wear and tear on tires. I have purchased numerous back tires per year. This has caused a huge financial burden. I am looking forward into trading this vehicle in and moving on to something better and more reliable.

Terri T

It is extremely dependable.

It gets really good gas mileage and it is reliable. It is comfortable to drive. It handles really good snow. I wish I had purchased the Mazda CX-5 though. That one will be my next vehicle.

Tom M

2012 Mazda 3 - roomier than it looks.

Performance and reliability are good. Decent mileage. Visibility to the sides is obstructed by the side airbags/pillars, so I have to look 3-4 times each way to make sure no one is coming. Comfort is not too bad - plenty of legroom. Back seat leg room is not generous, but it is ok. Trunk could be a little larger.

Patricia M

The Mazda three is a reliable vehicle, but not especially comfortable.

The vehicle is quite reliable. It doesn't get the kind of gas milage you might expect. The seats are not very comfortable, especially the back seats. The view from the driver's seat seems a little off. It takes getting used to, for sure.

Sarah C

These are my pros and cons of the Mazda 3.

I huge pro of this car is the gas mileage. On average I'd say I get around 25 to 30 mph. However, there are several cons. I have had multiple breakdowns. The interior began to wear down significantly a year after purchase. I also have issues with the car's alignment often.

Sam P

You wouldn't expect a Mazda 3 to have a sound system like that.

My vehicle drives well on very flat roads but is very sensitive to potholes and bumps in the road. The seats are a nice material for staying warm in winter and not getting too hot in the summer. The sound system is my favorite part, and the lack of speed is my least favorite. The engine is very small and it takes a lot of kick to get up. If you drive about 85 or 90, the car will shake a bit.

Kim P

Mazda3 is small, for better or worse.

I did not pick it and wouldn't have, but got it used. It is ok, but it is very small. There is very little leg room if you have 4 people. Also it has no pep. From a stop or a slow speed it struggles to accelerate there is very little room in the center console which is bothersome. However it gets good mileage and it is easier to parallel park than my old SUV.

What Do Critics Say About the Mazda3?

Consumer Reports finds the Mazda3 to be one of the best compact cars, with high owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Mazda3 4.4/5, liking the tight handling, but finding the suspension too firm.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Mazda3 a 4.6/5 enjoying the premium interior, but find the infotainment screen is small.

What Common Problems Does the 2012 Mazda3 Have?

Common problems found on the 2012 Mazda3 include grinding gears, splitting dashboards, as well as some engine surging issues. Overall, these problems along with the repair costs are average compared to other compact cars.

Grinding gears are the most widespread complaint at around 20,000 miles. Many owners have had the gears replaced in the transmission under warranty since there were some initial manufacturing defects. Other owners have chosen to replace the transmission for around $2,000.

Splitting dashboards happen on some Mazda3 models in the first 100,000 miles. The glue in the dash wears out after it’s been left in direct sunlight, causing pieces to split apart. Some owners have installed a dash cover for under $100, while others replace the entire dash for roughly $1,000.

Surging engines are also reported by some 2012 Mazda3 owners at roughly 35,000 miles. Owners report the engine surging to higher RPMs when they downshift in the manual transmission model. Mazda dealerships say the surging is normal, and nothing to worry about.

There is only one minor recall on the 2012 Mazda3, which covers the rear lift gate on the hatchback model. If the hinges corrode as it ages, then the lift gate will slam shut.

How Long Will the 2012 Mazda3 Last?

A well-maintained 2012 Mazda3 will last over 250,000 miles, which is slightly less than the highly-rated Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact cars at $459 per year, according to data from Repair Pal.

Since nearly all 2012 Mazda3 models will have over 100,000 miles buyer should be prepared to replace the A/C lines for $580, fuel injectors costing $650, and the heater hose which costs $400.

Amber T

Very reliable. Like I said 134,000 miles and no major issues. The engine takes full synthetic oil so it is a little more expensive to upkeep but worth it in the end.

Lola M

Yes, this is a reliable car, so far I haven't run into any problems directly related to the manufacturing of the vehicle.

Donna M

I used to drive a lot more than I do now and never broke down . It had normal wear and tear repairs including tires but no difficulty with engine or transmission.

Karen H

Yes. It is reliable. I have never had to do more for it than routine maintenance. I cannot think of any major problems.

Anne M

It is unbelievable there is nothing ever wrong with it as long as I maintain by the book (I.e. oil changes and tire rotation)

Kiara E

Yes, it has been very reliable. Only had to replace power steering pump in the seven years I have owned it. Other than routine oil changes and air filter replacements

Sam P

Yes, I have had to replace the battery once, but other than that my car has never broken down. No major problems.

Renee A

My car has been reliable the entire time I've owned it. I've done regular maintenance and love the experience I've had with it.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is fairly basic in the 2012 Mazda3 with a standard stereo system. Optional upgrades include Bluetooth, a navigation system, as well as a stronger stereo. Safety technology is also missing modern features. The only option is a blind spot monitoring system.

Is the 2012 Mazda3 a Good Value?

Yes, the 2012 Mazda3 is a good value since it’s a dependable compact car. Blue book prices range from $7,350 to $14,599, making it cheaper than a Honda Civic or Subaru WRX. When new, the price range was $15,200 to $24,200. Depreciation is similar to other small cars losing about 10% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Mazda3?

There are five models of the Mazda3 offered for the 2012 model year from the base 3i SV all the way up to the powerful Mazdaspeed3.

3i SV is the stripped-down entry-level model with:

16-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Power Windows
4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 3.5mm AUX Jack

3i Sport adds features including:

Air Conditioning
Premium Cloth Seating
Keyless Entry

3i Touring is a step up and adds:

16-Inch Alloy Wheels
Cruise Control
Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
6-Speaker Stereo With Bluetooth

3s Grand Touring offers additional features such as:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Seating
Heated Front Eats
Navigation System
10-Speaker Bose Surround Sound Stereo

Mazdaspeed3 is the performance model with:

18-Inch Alloy Wheels
Unique Exterior Styling
Sport Suspension
Bi-Xenon Headlights

i SV

148 HP 28 MPG

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i Sport

148 HP 27 MPG

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i Touring

155 HP 32 MPG

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s Touring

167 HP 25 MPG

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i Grand Touring

155 HP 32 MPG

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Mazdaspeed3 Touring

263 HP 21 MPG

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s Grand Touring

167 HP 25 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Mazda3?

The base engine is an average 2.0L 4-cylinder which makes 184 horsepower while getting up to 28 MPG.
An available upgrade is the more efficient 2.0L Skyactiv 4-cylinder which produces 155 horsepower at up to 33 MPG.
The most powerful engine available is the stronger 2.5L 4-cylinder which generates 167 horsepower at up to 25 MPG. Performance is worse than average, taking 8.1 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Mazda3 Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Mazda3?

The 2012 Mazda3 is a very comfortable compact car available as a 4-door sedan or 5-door hatchback. There’s room for up to 5 passengers. The seats are made of high-quality materials and are supportive.

Passenger room is decent throughout the cabin, although taller passengers may feel cramped in the back seats since there’s limited leg room.

How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda3 Have?

Cargo space is lower than average in the sedan with only enough room for 2-3 suitcases in the trunk. There’s more cargo space in the hatchback model, which has enough space for 5-6 suitcases.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The second generation of the Mazda3 was introduced in 2010 and was replaced by the third generation in 2014.

2010: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new exterior styling and more efficient engines.

2011: Standard stability control added, Bose stereo added to Grand Touring model.

2012: New 2.0L engine launched along with more hatchback models.

2013: Larger navigation screen as well as USB audio.

2014: Fully redesigned for the third generation with new electronics and exterior styling.

2015: Manual transmission available on the 2.5L model.

2016: SV model discontinued, standard rearview camera as well.

How Does the Mazda3 Compare to the Competition?

The Mazda3 is better than a lot of other compact cars from 2012, offering an upscale interior for the money. Long lasting engines paired with a sporty driving experience make it a good choice for shoppers.

The Ford Focus is another compact car available as a sedan or hatchback, which costs about $2,000 less. Passenger room is a bit better in the Ford Focus, however, the Mazda3 has a more luxurious interior for the money. We recommend the Mazda3 since there are fewer problems reported by owners as it ages.

The Honda Civic is a competitor which costs about $600 more. The base engine is more responsive in the Honda Civic, while the Mazda3 offers more technology along with a nicer interior. We recommend the Mazda3 for 2012, but the competition is very close since they are both excellent compact cars.

Ranks #11 Small Cars by Owners

2012 Volkswagen GLI

4.8

2012 Volkswagen Eos

4.76

Tie

2012 Mazda Mazda3

4.36

Do Owners Recommend the Mazda3?

Amber T

Yes. It gets great gas mileage. I have not had to make any major repairs (knock on wood). I love that you can switch the gear shifter to manual and shift your own gears like you are driving a stick shift. Overall a wonderful car to own.

Lola M

Yes, it has a very smooth drive and it is easy to reach and maneuver the controls from the driver's seat. Adjusting seat, mirror, and steering wheel is simple. Nice sound quality in the speakers.

Donna M

Yes dependable and minimal repairs . The car handles well and is good on gasoline. The interior has not held up as well,the drivers side seat is severely worn.

Karen H

Absolutely. It handles well, is reliable, and is fun to drive. I have had very few maintenance issues with it in the time I have owned it.

Winter J

Yes. It is good looking reliable almost maintenance free other than oil changes and tires I hope Mazda does an affordable Hybrid I would definitely buy

Nicholas K

Yes, it has been very reliable and has great fuel economy. It has decent acceleration and has been a good small family car. It is cramped in the back but fine for younger children

Douglas W

Yes, it drives very efficiently and smooth. I also feel very safe in the car and feel that it keeps me protected. I have never had any major issues with the car. The mpg is pretty good as well.

Laura P

I love it. It’s a great vehicle. It’s reliable and gets great gas mileage. I've had it for 4 years and I love everything about it

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Terry on December 24, 2023

Still cheaper than buying new

I purchased this car new in 2012 and always serviced it at the dealer,they know the the car and what had been done to it over the years, always serviced at the dealer…may cost more but worth it. Have 170,000km on it with the engine strong as when I bought it,of course you need to maintain and service as you would with any car, had shocks and struts replaced,belts and oil changed at regular intervals. Great investment getting the new parts put in and drives as new as the car came of the lot. Don’t fear buying a used Mazda3, very reliable if you maintain the car.

Justin on June 23, 2023

Brakes system fiasco over the past couple of years

I've bought brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake hoses, etc over the past couple of years. Then, a coupe of months ago, I got the check engine light.I brought the car to 2 mechanics and they both said that I need the ABS module replaced. Also, non brakes related, I need a new EVAP sensor too. For the first 8 years, I didn't have many issues at all.

WMX on June 23, 2023

First 8 years were fine, but past 3 have not been

I've gotten brake pads, rotors, calipers, hoses, etc replaced. Now, it seems like the ABS module needs to be replaced. I'm getting tired of all of the brake issues.

WMX on June 23, 2023

First 8 years were fine, but past 3 have not been

I've gotten brake pads, rotors, calipers, hoses, etc replaced. Now, it seems like the ABS module needs to be replaced. I'm getting tired of all of the brake issues.

helen harper on October 9, 2022

Car is live

To all car lovers bit.ly/3Vdmbn9

Helen P on October 9, 2022

Car is live

To all car lovers bit.ly/3Vdmbn9

Brianna H on June 25, 2021

Perfect car for commuters.

My Mazda 3 has been wonderful. At 135,000 miles, it has needed no major maintenance. I spend a total of 2 hours a day in this car and I enjoy my commute because of the car. It gets great gas mileage and is easy to drive. Parking is a breeze because of the small size. A potential issue could be the limited interior space, however, it is perfect for a commuter car.

Angel E on June 24, 2021

Sleek all black Mazda 3-I.

It is a smooth ride. Radio bumps. Fits 5 comfortably. Windows come tinted. A lot of room in the trunk. Push start button. Didn't really have mechanical problems. The only thing I do not like is the brakes squeak whether the brakes are new or not. Also needs to be turned on quite often.

Adel P on June 17, 2021

Great drive and great size trunk.

The Mazda 3 has been very reliable. I enjoy the way the vehicle handles turns and is a very smooth ride. The middle console has a try that I find very useful so things are easily accessible. For being a smaller sedan, I have been very impressed with its trunk space.

Pam W on May 29, 2021

Great commuter and travel car.

Easy to drive car with great responsiveness and easy on the gas budget. Nice sound system and has plenty of room to carry people and/or other items. Great build and reliable transportation that has stood up to heavy use. Maintenance is great, but like cars that get older, can be slightly pricey.

Julianna W on May 28, 2021

My Mazda 3 is great on gas!

I haven't had any problems with my Mazda for over 2 years now. It had around 60,000 miles on it and now has about 78,000. Gas mileage is excellent. I could go about two weeks or more until I needed to fill my tank. It costs around $30 every time I fill it. The interior is comfortable but may be small for taller people.

Gary B on May 24, 2021

Mazda 3. Fun car to drive but do not expect fast pick up.

Mazda 3 handles well on turns and has a great stereo. The car is usually reliable. Excretion is somewhat lacking. Step on the gas hard coming in on a highway and there is a lot of noise, but no speed. Parts cost more than Toyota or Honda and are not as commonly available.

Mary M on May 23, 2021

Comfortable car that drives really well.

I love this car. It is very comfortable and drives really well. I often drive it on windy roads and it hugs the road well; it feels very safe to drive. I also love that I can turn it on and heat it up before I have to drive anywhere just by clicking a button on my key! My only issue with it so far is that the engine runs louder than my old car, but if that is the biggest issue, then I'd say I am in pretty good shape!

Michael H on May 14, 2021

Small car high gas mileage.

I expected better gas mileage, and it has too much tire/road noise. It is also a low riding car, and very confining. I love the standard transmission. The pickup in the accelerator is awesome. If I had to do over again I would not have bought this car. For the size it should have much better gas mileage, and less road noise.

Lona M on May 8, 2021

This is a wonderful reliable car.

This car is very comfortable. Amazing on fuel mileage. Handles very well. Very roomie. Great get up and go for a small car. As a parent you will love the auto locks once the car is in motion. For the constant person on the go the Bluetooth is wonderful. In today's society hands free is great. For the parent on the go you will love the big trunk. Tons of room for groceries and shopping bags. The seats are very comfortable. Lots of legroom. This car has a on dash message center. Which is wonderful for the constant on the go person. It is wonderful to have a reminder to check the pressure in your tires. Or if you have kids a message that informs you if the door is secure and closed. Automatic windows and doors are a great plus. At the click of a button you can lock and unlock the car and trunk..

Samantha J on May 8, 2021

I love the color of my vehicle. It is very unique. The gas mileage is wonderful.

My vehicle performance is wonderful. I never had many issues with my car. The only problems I encountered were the fuel pump went bad and had to be changed out and eventually the battery needed to be changed out as well. I take care of my car and get oil changes every 5000 miles and rotate my tires and alignments. My car is very comfortable to drive and I love my cloth seats. I have cruise control, Bluetooth, and hands free calling incase anyone calls my cellphone I can talk to them through the car.

Taylor M on May 4, 2021

Car is a man's best friend.

I love it. It is spacious, cozy, zippy, and gets great gas mileage. It is compact and easy to park. I love the color. It has an aux outlet so I can play my music. Sometimes it has trouble starting though. Other than that I haven't had any problems with it so far and I have had it for a year now.

Sondra R on May 1, 2021

Great car. Runs wonderful.

It is a great car. Haven't had any major problems yet. It drives well and handles great. I love the color. It is gray. The best. I have only had to do regular maintenance. It will get me to where I need to go and back home. It is a great running vehicle. Great car.

Tanya S on May 1, 2021

Still runs like a new car!

Comfortable and sporty! Great gas mileage in town and highway! Reliable. I have over 100k miles and runs like new. With regular maintenance I do not see why all mazda’s wouldn't last as long or longer! Love all the extras. Leather, sunroof and heated seats plus great safety features. Definitely will buy another vehicle from the Mazda family.

LAURA S on April 16, 2021

Cute, reliable, and good car to choose.

I have never had any major issues with my car. The only issue I now, with over 120,000 miles. Is that I have a check engine line on which I think has something to do with my mines. Overall a great car and would buy again! It is not super comfortable like a luxury car, but it isn't uncomfortable either.

William B on April 16, 2021

The Mazda engine gets me over 40 miles per gallon and saves me alot of money.

I love my Mazda 3... It is great on gas and I get about 40 miles. It is very safe and hugs the rode especially when I am driving around bends my Mazda also has a very comfortable interior... It is very good as far as use of room!The radio and speakers are stock but excellent quality I have had no mechanical issues only thing I have had to replace is brake pads.

Chany R on April 6, 2021

Great basic everyday car!

Great car for everyday use. It gets great gas mileage so it is perfect for commuting and road trips. I feel safe driving this car and would recommend it for anyone looking for an everyday drive car. The only negative to the 2012 model is that it does not have a USB outlet so I cannot charge my phone. Also, it does not have GPS. But I use my phone for GPS so it does not bother me too much. If you are looking for a basic car, I'd recommend this.

Derek S on April 2, 2021

It's easy to park on LA streets.

I like that the Mazda 3 gets good fuel economy for a non-hybrid. However, my next vehicle will certainly be either a hybrid or electric vehicle. I like the tight turning radius and satellite radio as well.

Erik T on March 31, 2021

2012 Mazda 3: a great car for all.

The car rides loud. When you are driving down the highway you can hear the wind and air moving around the car. The car gets great gas mileage and handles extremely well going down back country roads and in the city. The 2012 Mazda 3 is a highly reliable vehicle that never has trouble starting up.

Amanda C on March 30, 2021

Mazda dealership: fair and honest.

My Mazda 3 is extremely reliable. I have had to do some routine maintenance (new battery, replacing tires) but this is to be expected as I bought it used. I really appreciate the way Mazda and its local dealership care about value and customer service.

Steph S on March 30, 2021

Great car with some tricks.

Car drives very nicely, never really had a problem with it besides the fact that engine light turns on quite often. Have taken to mechanic and nothing is wrong just sensors are on. Airbag warning light is on for no reason. But overall it is a good reliable car.

Brian V on March 23, 2021

The car is very reliable. It will probably last 200k Miles.

My vehicle is really dependable. It runs well. But it is starting to get up there in miles and years. I would definitely buy the same make and model in the future.

Sarah R on March 22, 2021

Great gas mileage, especially on the thruway.

Very smooth ride. Small interior though, not much room. The backseat is cramped. The back doors do not open wide. Spacious trunk.

Melissa G on March 20, 2021

The hatchback! Although the car is small it is perfect for a weekend getaway.

I enjoy my Mazda 3 hatchback because of the amazing gas mileage it has. I currently live about 5 hours from my hometown. When I do travel sometimes I able to travel the 350+ miles on a half a tank of gas. One addition we also added to our car was dark tint. During the summer time, I was able to cool down the car pretty quickly. The Mazda company has always been good about fixing any common issues that may arise with the Mazda.

Amy W on March 19, 2021

Great car that holds up over time.

I have had no problems with the car except routine things that wear out. The gas mileage is great and the car is quite “zippy”. The car has quite a bit of space, especially in the hatchback area. The turning radius is amazing. I have over 130,000 miles on the car and it runs almost as well as when new. It does need to have a wheel bearing replaced but with that mileage I am not really complaining. The only recall has been for the hatch closing prematurely but I have never experienced that issue. My car has after factory leather and the seats are very firm but that has really only been an issue in the last year or so and a seat cushion fixes the issue.

Olivia D on March 18, 2021

It has a good gas mileage and a nice drive.

I have noticed problems with water leaking on the inside of the car. The paint scratches very easily. Transmission does not last very long. There is rusting. The car has a very bumpy ride. There is not much room in the back, as well as no cup holders. Dust is very noticeable on the inside. The dash is warping.

Sierra K on March 18, 2021

Good car overall. Great gas mileage.

The car drives very smooth. I have not had any issues with the car other than the brakes seem a little rough for a “newer” car but I am told that is a thing with mazda’s. And the only other downside is that it does not have cruise control. But other than that I love it.

Lisa C on March 12, 2021

My Mazda 3 is very reliable - I love it.

Sleek styling; fun to drive; good mileage; reliable. The sound system could use some fine tuning, but that is my only negative. Very affordable and very adaptable- would buy a Mazda again.

Jared I on March 12, 2021

Why my Mazda 3 is amazing.

My vehicle has very few issues, but I did take it to get repaired, due to the ignition coils being faulty. It can manage long miles and the city gas mileage is stupendous and affordable. I hope to use this vehicle for uber related reasons. My Mazda 3 is a wonderful piece of machinery and I use it everyday.

Lauren J on March 11, 2021

Great gas mileage. Smaller back seat but trunk is big.

Only issues that needed to get fixed so far are from wear and tear. Have over 110,000 miles on it and dealership said car was in great shape.

Connie S on March 11, 2021

The mazda3 has awesome Bose speakers when you get the sunroof.

I like the smooth drive and the comfortable seats. My dash warped and caused it to separate from the screen.

Florence G on March 10, 2021

Mazda 3 is a good car despite ford engine.

It's a really great car! Drives smoothly! However it doesn't handle well in the snow or wind, but aside from that it drives really well. It has a ford engine which is a huge turn off yo the car considering the issues that ford has. The parts to replace have to special ordered though.

Eduardo V on March 7, 2021

Stick to the Mazda for reliability.

My Mazda 3 from 2012 has resulted in a very good experience for me and my family. First it is a very reliable car. It also drives extremely smooth. There is no need to take it to the shop constantly either, no maintenance or repair is needed. It is also a very fuel efficient vehicle and saves me a lot of money every week.

April L on March 5, 2021

Nice sporty looking vehicle that performs great in all weather conditions.

Had to replace motor mounts at 150,000 miles. Car is a bit bouncy. Has a lot of space even in trunk. All in all the performance of the car is good. Not as fast as I’d like. Automatic windows and seats as well as heated seats are great! Leather interior.

Cali F on March 4, 2021

This car is stylish and drives well. You would not be disappointed!

This car is fuel efficient. It is easy to drive and very stylish. I have had very few mechanical problems. A cosmetic problem that I had was a recall and was fixed at no expense.

Nicole F on March 2, 2021

Mazda 3 hatchback is roomy.

This is the first hatchback vehicle I have owned. I love the fact that I have 4 doors now, & a big trunk. I also have heated seats & a sunroof which were a must! It has a built in navigation system, & also warns you when something or another car is too close to you.

Meghan F on March 1, 2021

I love the safety features in my car. I have side airbags along with blind spot assistance. I also enjoy the extra features I have which include a sunroof and heated seats.

My car has great safety features that make be feel safe.

Erin L on February 25, 2021

Save on gas mileage with a Mazda.

My Mazda is very good on gas mileage. Nice car for road tripping or every day use. Very reliable and comfortable. I am currently on my second Mazda, and would definitely by another one. I love everything my car has to offer. Have had it 3 years, and no issues.

Lucy D on February 23, 2021

Great gas mileage, great handling but gas issues.

Car does not have comfortable seats for driving long distances. The car has to many blind spots. The car also prematurely wears out tires because of the negative camber. It does not handle well in any snowfall. On the positive side it has great gas mileage and handles well on the highway.

Jackie P on February 22, 2021

A Mazda 3 is an affordable car with modern touches

I love my Mazda3! The car drives great and is super cute. It is a perfect first car or a perfect car for a young family. It is quite comfortable and spacious. The reliability great and it is easy to maintain. I really cannot think of anything negative about my car.

Abby M on February 22, 2021

Mazda 3 touring: reliable and speedy.

My Mazda 3 touring has been very reliable and has had few performance problems. The gas mileage is great and it drives comfortably. The drive is not as smooth as many larger sedans, but the drive makes you feel speedy and powerful. One problem I have had with my car is the brake pads. I have had to replace the brake pads twice in the four years I have owned the car.

Kristen N on February 22, 2021

Small but convenient ride!

This car is a little small and a little gutless, but it has 126k miles on it and has only had regular maintenance/oil changes. I love this car! I feel very safe in it as well. I wish it had more horsepower though. Also, there is not much leg room in the rear or cargo space.

Tia N on February 22, 2021

It is very safe and reliable.

I've never had an issue with my car. It has great acceleration, great mileage, very dependable and safe. It is quiet and smooth, and a good looking car as well. Easy to clean, easy to take care of. Never had any issues with the maintenance and it is currently at 175k miles.

Nicole T on February 22, 2021

Sleek edgy and reliable with comfort for you and your family and friends!!

Love this car it drives so smooth and effortless. It is both reliable and quality made.!it gets great mileage and is good for driving long distance as well as for short periodic trips. It is also very comfortable and support fitting. I would recommend this car to anyone

Melanie P on February 21, 2021

Reliable and low maintenance vehicle

I love my car. It's reliable, gets good gas mileage and I've only had to do minor repairs on it in the 6 years I've owned it.

Jennifer S on February 19, 2021

It is a great car, it says hello and goodbye every time you turn on the car.

I love the car. It is very peppy, and easy to handle. The gas mileage is great. The dashboard gets warped from being in the sun, it curves up away from the top screen and creates a gap in the interior.

Mylene W on February 16, 2021

One of the few manual transmissions in a car still available.

The dashboard has not held up, it has raised and has a gap in it over the info reader. The air conditioner is making a very loud noise. I haven't had mechanical problems. The car runs very good, and is very peppy. I have a 6 speed manual trans, which makes the car fun to drive.

Andrew R on February 14, 2021

It is manual and the sound system is very good.

I got my Mazda 3 brand new in 2012 and it has taken me back and forth across the country more than 5 different times. It is extremely reliable and durable. I am happy with my purchase.

Dana L on February 13, 2021

Amazing gas mileage and great level of comfort.

This car is amazing. I have had it for several years and wouldn't change anything about it. It is extremely comfortable and includes all the features I want in a car! Additionally, the gas mileage cannot be beat! If I ever do need a new car I will definitely be getting another Mazda.

Aaron F on February 13, 2021

Amazing car, fun to drive, easy to work on.

I absolutely love this car, has plenty of power and handles very well around turns. The shifter feels tight, short (so you do not feel like you are rowing a boat) and clicks into each gear which is nice feedback. Not only is the car fun to drive but it looks beautiful. It is easy to work on and doing regular maintenance on this car is a breeze. You can change the oil without having to take a splash guard or cover off, very well designed. I have not had many issues with this car besides the starter going out, the climate control unit stopped working, both I fixed myself, and the paint seems to chip fairly easy.

Sarah D on February 12, 2021

It's easy to control and the dealership is very easy to work with.

I do not have any complaints about my vehicle. I like that it is small but I dislike that it is older now.

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.