2019 Mazda3 Review: Reliable Compact Car With Low Ownership Costs As It Ages

Sep 1, 2023

The 2019 Mazda3 lasts around 250,000 miles with some relatively minor A/C system and stereo issues reported. At $19,150 to $27,250, it’s a great value for a compact car with some luxurious features for the money.

The Good

The handling is responsive for a small car, interior materials are refined, and there’s a lot of advanced safety technology available.

The Bad

Passenger legroom is limited in the rear seats, there’s slightly less cargo space and it’s not as fast as some competitors.

Is the 2019 Mazda3 a Good Used Car?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a great year for the Mazda3 since it offers a lot of technology and an upscale cabin for the money. Owner reviews praise the sporty steering, low ownership costs, and smooth suspension.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are better than a lot of other small cars, the seats are supportive on long drives, cargo space is also decent for its size.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2019 Mazda3. Avoid the 2014 model, which has brake system issues, while models from 2015–2022 are reliable.
Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the standard four-cylinder engine, although it’s more focused on efficiency rather than power.
Safety 8/10 – The 2019 Mazda3 is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, along with automatic emergency braking.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 30 MPG, giving 396 miles of range from the 13.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are $27 cheaper than average at $162 per month.
Value 8/10 – The 2019 Mazda3 is more expensive than some other small cars on the market, although slow depreciation rates make it a good long-term value.

Positive Owner Reviews

Srireddy B

I love to drive Mazda very much. It is very comfortable.

The 2020 Mazda 3 sedan is offered in four trim levels (also referred to as packages). The base comes with a decent level of standard features plus a full suite of advanced safety features. Stepping up to the select adds some niceties and smartphone integration, while the preferred and premium versions up the luxury and tech quotient. The hatchback version is reviewed separately. I love diz car.

Nichole M

Mazda 3 review- pretty white color that sparkles in the sun.

Cute, sporty little car, good power for size. Comfortable design lots of options, some troubles but easy fixes were needed a software update to fix my gas mileage recordings. 2 occasions I have had my ac on and it is came out as heat. The heated seat must be on a timer, it takes a while to warm up then it gets hot and shuts off and it does not turn back on for a while.

Evelin V

Red Mazda 3, best car for a new driver.

I am currently leasing the Mazda 3 from 2019 for a very good price and it has been my dream car from the start. As a new driver I feel incredibly safe any time I drive the vehicle, it has so many modern features even if you do not ask for any of the extra features. The base sedan is incredible and I wouldn't want any other car as my first.

Joel D

Mazda is the car for you!

I love my car so far in the year I have had it! I Haven't had any issues yet and I still get excited every time I hop in it! If you are in the market for a sporty looking car than the Mazda 3 is for you! It already has plenty of pep when you hit the pedal, but on sport mode, the higher rpms allow you to zoom around cars without a second thought.

Steph G

All black exterior and interior with Apple CarPlay

So far the only issue I have had with the vehicle is that the automatic light sensors tend to overheat when in direct sunlight. I live in Florida so that is virtually impossible to avoid. I love how sleek the car is. The leather seats, Bose speakers, I love that the car has Apple CarPlay. It is so convenient. When in cruise control you are able to adjust how far your car will be from the vehicle in front of you and the car slows down or speeds up accordingly.

Rebekah K

Mazda, just do it, best decision of your life.

Mazda is the epitome of a safe and reliable vehicle. This car is my third Mazda and I will probably always have. Mazda sedan. It is the best on gas and comfort levels are amazing. The quality of the car is way more than its price tag. Luxury for a great price!

Michael H

Mazda3 hatchback: good just got better!

The mazda3 hatchback offers extreme versatility at an unbeatable price point. Giving you plenty of cargo space and a reliable performance that you can expect of Mazda products. This vehicle is comfortable on highways and has amazing acceleration that will not leave you wanting more!

Heather M

Review of my 2019 Mazda 3.

The car handles and accelerates beautifully. There is a bad blind spot, but the car has blind spot monitoring that works well. There were initially some software problems with the automatic braking system, but they have since been resolved. The view from the backup camera is crystal clear.

Negative Owner Reviews

Alyssa F

I like the safety features and blind spot monitoring.

Very bumpy ride and the speakers are not good. When the passenger is sitting in the front the car is so bumpy. I get car sick every time I am in the car and not driving. The music system is not good and I blew my speakers and I do not even listen to music loudly.

Kassandra

Car is very unreliable

I've had nothing but issues with my 2019 Mazda 3 Hatchback. The Mazda dealership was unable to fix my heat for over a year. It was in the shop several times. Try defrosting you car in -30 weather without working heat. Air conditioning was acting up as well. My driver side door was catching on the rear door actually causing me to be stuck in my car unable to get out some days. The trunk wouldn't shut sometimes. The back up camera worked intermittently. The automatic breaking feature would just go off when I was going around a bend on a road and a car was coming toward me in their own lane. That gave me a fricken heart attack and was not the first time the automatic breaking system went off when it shouldn't. My stereo would randomly turn off while I was driving where I'd have to pull over and turn my car on and off to get the stereo to turn back on. Seat belt beep would go off telling me to put my seat belt on when my seat belt was on lol. This only happened for a couple days then never again. Everything happened intermittently and even with video evidence of these issues Mazda still wanted to charge me to inspect the car. After all these issue plus more within the first few months of buying the car, Mazda still refused to swop me out into a demo which made me wonder if all the cars had this many issues as well and that's why they didn't feel that would solve my issue. My car has been in the shop so many times I was relieved to move within walking distance of the dealership because they also do not give you a loaner car when your brand new car is in the shop constantly. I will NEVER, I mean never buy another Mazda no matter what the price is. The shitty part is I leased it for four years and they only have warranty for three and refuse to let me out of my lease without paying 5k. Now my car makes a clunk sound when I break and Mazda will tell me they see no issue until a recall comes out for the exact issue like always.

jacob B

The highlight is how it does in right situations.

The car runs fine, the only problem is the pick up speed is. It takes awhile to kick but when it hits over 60 it starts to fly. It's easy to control and fun to drive. The backseat is okay on space and the trunk is very roomy. Sound system can go very loud and it sounds very smooth. The air conditioning doesn't take that long to work, probably like 2 minutes tops to cool the whole car down. The car is very well in tight parking and tight areas. It is also very well in downtown and city areas.

Amber M

Speedy, and great for families

Don't do leather it gets to hot. Drives fantastic though and back up camera is helpful. His and hers comfort adjustments are a dream come true. It's great for camping and lots of room for families. Sound system can get pretty crazy but if you like to blast your music it's great

Michaela M

Reliable, teenage safe and trusty Mazda.

The Mazda 3 hatchback is very reliable as ours is almost at 100,000 miles and has yet to have any problems. This car was purchased with the intent to teach two new drivers and have them in a safe vehicle. Additionally, a lot of storage space was a priority. For being such a tiny car, the hatchback has a very large trunk. The front seats are comfortable however the back seat is a little small. I'm sure this is because the trunk space is so large we needed to give up one of the two. This isn't a big issue because of how little we use the backseat. The Mazda gets very impressive gas mileage, about 38 mpg. The pick up on the car is a little slow but not something that would be a make or break deal.

Aniya E

The mazda 3 base model is a beautiful car that is a great first car.

Low mileage. It does not last on a full tank more than 230 miles. Other than that it is okay. Not as fast as I would like it to be. The stereo is very good. Lots of trunk space. Drives smooth overall. I’d go for a higher trim just because it has more features especially if your young and buying your first car from somewhere.

Isa U

Okay car with sporty details but uncomfortable jerky ride.

The car is okay. It is definitely faster than older models and I like the sporty look. However, the car is very uncomfortable and not a smooth ride. It revs unnecessarily and consumes so much gas. I also do not like how jerky it is when you are driving and step on the gas.

Susan C

Mazda3- fun but/and small.

It is a fun car to drive, the way it accelerated quickly, and how it handles roads. The upgraded sound system is awesome. I love the safety system and how it detects if you are too far right or left in a lane, as well as letting you know via a light or sound if there’s a car in your way to change lanes. Very helpful. My negatives are ones that are obvious upon buying it. The trunk is quite small and truly does not hold a ton. The same can be said for the back seat. While both of my 5’3” daughters fit in without issue, I cannot imagine my 6’5” nephew doing the same. Overall, a good car for the price. It is certainly not a luxury car but a small, fun car to drive.

What Do Critics Say About the Mazda3?

Consumer Reports says the 2019 Mazda3 offers an elegant and refined ride, with high owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
Edmunds rates the Mazda3 at 4/5, enjoying the responsive steering for a compact car, but doesn’t like the limited legroom in the rear seats.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Mazda3 a 4.2/5, praising the extremely quiet interior at highway speeds, but owners don’t like the relatively high purchase price.

What Common Problems Does the 2019 Mazda3 Have?

Common problems found on the 2019 Mazda3 include the A/C system blowing weak, the stereo system freezing, along with the lighting system malfunctioning. Overall, these problems are relatively minor compared to a lot of other small cars on the market, leading to lower costs as they age.

The A/C system blowing weak is the most widespread complaint from 2019 Mazda3 owners, showing up within the first 5,000 miles. One of the most common sources of the problem is a dirty or clogged cabin air filter. If your cabin air filter is fine, then there are some blend door issues which restrict airflow. Fixing the blend door costs around $150, but usually are covered under warranty.

The stereo system freezing has also been reported by some Mazda3 owners within the first 1,000 miles. There are new software updates available for the stereo system which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install these updates for free during normal servicing, but some charge around $50.

The lighting system malfunctioning is another problem at around 1,000 miles, and it has the warning “auto light system malfunction”. A common source of the problem is the automatic lighting system sensor overheating when parked in direct sunlight. There is an updated sensor available which can solve the problem, and costs around $200 to install. Usually, when the sensor cools down, the automatic lighting system starts working again.

There are six recalls on the 2019 Mazda 3, which is similar to many other small cars. The most serious recall covers a software error which can cause the engine to stall. Mazda will update the software on affected models for free to fix the problem. Other recalls include the air bags, along with the rearview mirror glass. Mazda will also fix those issues for free.

How Long Will the 2019 Mazda3 Last?

A well-maintained 2019 Mazda3 can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other compact cars, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $398 per year.

As a used 2019 Mazda3 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the drive belt idler pulley for $135, a purge valve costing $225, along with the coolant temperature sensor which costs $400.

Douglas W

I have had it for about 3 months and have not had any problems with it. With all the features that is has and having no problems show's Mazda is a great vehicle.

Joe C

The break gets loosened quick and easily gets rusted so it squeaks. The plastic under the bumpers are not durable.

How Is the Technology?

Standard entertainment technology is great for a small car, offering an 8-.8-inch central display with Bluetooth. Optional upgrades include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bose stereo system.

Safety technology is fairly basic on the entry-level Mazda3, only offering a rearview camera.

Optional driver assistance features include:

Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking
Rear cross traffic alert
Automatic high-beam headlights
Lane keep assist
Adaptive headlights
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Pedestrian detection
Blind spot monitoring
Driver attention monitoring
Lane departure warning
Head-up display
Adaptive cruise control

Is the 2019 Mazda3 a Good Value?

Yes, the 2019 Mazda 3 is a good value since it offers a nice mix of reliability paired with an upscale interior for the money. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $19,150 to $27,250, making it more than a Hyundai Elantra or Nissan Sentra. When new, the price range was $21,000 to $28,900. Depreciation is better than some competitors, only losing about 5% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Mazda3?

There are four main models of the 2019 Mazda3 offered from the entry-level Base through to the more luxurious Premium. The Mazda3 comes as either a four-door sedan, or five-door hatchback. All Mazda3 models come standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

Base is the entry-level model with:

16-inch alloy wheels
LED exterior lighting (headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights)
Rearview camera
Push-button start
Driver information screen
60/40-split folding rear seat
8-inch central display
Bluetooth and voice commands
Eight-speaker audio system with HD radio
Two USB ports

Select is a popular upgrade, adding:

18-inch wheels
Automatic headlights and wipers
Keyless entry
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Vinyl door trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel
Simulated leather upholstery
Rear armrest
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
Adaptive cruise control
Driver attention monitor
Automatic high beam control
Lane keeping assist

Preferred adds some more items such as:

Power-adjustable driver’s seat
Driver-seat memory functions
Heated front seats
12-speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio

Premium is the flagship model with:

Adaptive headlights
Sunroof
Head-up display
Leather upholstery
Paddle shifters (for models with the automatic transmission)
Black-painted wheels (hatchbacks only)

Base Sedan

186 HP 30 MPG

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w/Select Pkg Sedan

186 HP 28 MPG

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Base Hatchback

186 HP 27 MPG

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w/Preferred Pkg Sedan

186 HP 28 MPG

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w/Preferred Pkg Hatchback

186 HP 27 MPG

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w/Premium Pkg Sedan

186 HP 28 MPG

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w/Premium Pkg Hatchback

186 HP 27 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Mazda3?

2.5L SKYACTIV-G 4-Cylinder Engine: This engine churns out 186 horsepower and comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual transmission is available for some models. With the automatic gearbox, its combined fuel economy is around 30 MPG. As for acceleration, this engine propels the Mazda3 from 0-60 MPH in roughly 7.3 seconds.

What Colors Does the Mazda3 Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Mazda3?

The 2019 Mazda3 is often lauded for its refined interior and superior ride comfort, especially in its segment. Stepping inside, one is immediately struck by the upscale materials and quality finishes that wouldn’t be out of place in a more expensive luxury vehicle. The seating, both in the front and back, offers ample support, making it suitable for longer drives.

Noise insulation is commendable, guaranteeing that the cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds, effectively muting most external noises. Mazda has paid careful attention to the car’s suspension, providing a balanced blend of responsiveness and comfort. This translates to a smooth ride that easily absorbs most road imperfections, providing a driving experience that feels both premium and enjoyable.

The infotainment system, controlled by a tactile rotary knob, further adds to the user experience, minimizing distractions and making sure that drivers and passengers remain comfortable and entertained throughout their journey. The 2019 Mazda3 provides a comfort level that challenges and, in some respects, surpasses its competitors in the compact car segment.

How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda3 Have?

The 2019 Mazda3 offers varied storage space depending on the body style you opt for, whether it be the sleek sedan or the versatile hatchback. For the sedan variant, the trunk provides about 13.2 cubic feet of space. This space can comfortably fit a couple of full-sized suitcases or a week’s worth of groceries.

On the other hand, the hatchback offers more flexibility with its storage, boasting 20.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. This extra space can accommodate bulkier items like a bicycle with its front wheel removed, a larger stroller, or even a set of golf clubs. When the rear seats are folded down, the hatchback provides even more space, making it ideal for those occasional larger hauls or weekend getaways.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The fourth generation of the Mazda3 was introduced for the 2019 model year.

2015: New optional six-speed manual transmission on the 2.5L engine.

2016: Rearview camera is now standard on all models, the SV model has been discontinued.

2017: Minor exterior styling changes, improved dash, and more standard entertainment equipment.

2018: Touring 2.5 model removed from the lineup, forward collision warning added to Sport model, and some options packages have been renamed.

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

2020: More standard driver assistance and safety features on all models.

2021: Two new engine choices have been added to the lineup.

How Does the Mazda3 Compare to the Competition?

The 2019 Mazda3 is a great compact car, offering a lot of luxury features and decent technology while still being reliable, which helps it earn our recommendation for shoppers.

The Honda Civic is another small car available for about $1,000 more. Performance is better in the Honda Civic, while the Mazda3 offers a much more upscale interior for the money. We recommend the Mazda3 since you get more features for your money, although it’s worth test driving both to see which you prefer.

The Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV which can be found in the same price range. Passenger room is better in the Hyundai Kona, while the Mazda3 has better long-term reliability ratings. We recommend the Mazda3 since it will be cheaper to own as they age.

Ranks #15 Small Cars by Owners

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2019 Mazda Mazda3

4.43

Do Owners Recommend the Mazda3?

Douglas W

It is a great vehicle. It is a pleasure and fun to drive. I would recommend it to everyone. It has so much safety features that I have not got used to all of them yet.

Reagan B

Yes, there is enough storage space in the trunk and it drives comfortably. The interior is comfortable and the outside looks clean as well.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Hannah T on June 20, 2021

Beautiful car to look at but I wouldn't recommend to purchase.

The car is beautiful. The seats are nice and the media package is lovely. However the driving assistant features like the lane switching assistance and the cameras and lights on the cars will not work if your car gets hit from being in the sun. Also my tires never stay full on this vehicle, they constantly lose air even after I bought all new tires!

Jennifer N on June 20, 2021

Ok car so far, time will tell.

I have had problems with heat not working and errors about automatic lights but since the problem it intermittent it has not been fixed. I do like the style and I love the heated seats. The engine is very responsive when accelerating and I like that too. I wish I hadn't gotten black, especially in TX.

Aaron M on June 15, 2021

Best in class sedan. Mazda 3.

Has best in class interior, has adequate power for its size. It is very comfortable, smooth transmission. Speakers are best in class. Have had no problems so far after 6 months. Lane keep assist gets annoying after a bit and is not as effective as other car manufacturers systems..

Diana N on June 11, 2021

Mazda’s are awesome vehicles!

I absolutely love Mazda! They make vehicles that are fun to drive and are very reliable. Rarely have I had any issues with any of the mazda’s that I have owned and they are very comfortable and nice looking. I highly recommend Mazda vehicles if you are looking for an awesome ride!

Isa U on June 5, 2021

Okay car with sporty details but uncomfortable jerky ride.

Heather M on May 24, 2021

Review of my 2019 Mazda 3.

Shakayla O on April 15, 2021

Beautiful mazda3 hatchback.

This car is good on gas, has most of the wanted electronic feature (Bluetooth, screen to see on, buttons on steering wheel, can be voice activated). Has sports mode with v-4 engine so it is good on gas. Has driving and braking assistance program. The car is extremely nice to look at and the maintenance is easy and cheaper than most cars. However, some aspects of the car I wish were a little better. The seats should be automatic not manual when it comes to adjusting the seat. The car looks a lot more spacious than it actually is so if you are tall I recommend sitting in the front but make sure you have no one or a small person behind you. The trunk can also be a bit bigger as well.

Steph G on March 28, 2021

All black exterior and interior with Apple CarPlay

Karen P on March 21, 2021

Red mazda3 w/preferred hatchback.

This vehicle has had very few problems, even though I have been using it for almost a year. I actually bought an already used Mazda 3, so I was very pleasantly surprised that its performance has not declined at all. I recently went on a long road trip with this car and it was very reliable throughout.

Lindsay T on March 6, 2021

Drives smoothly and quietly.

The car is great. It drives smoothly and quietly, and it takes corners and turns very well and smooth. The sound system in the car is also great and very clear. However, the interior in the car is quite small and can be difficult to get in and out of, and it can sometimes feel cramped in the backseat especially if more than one person is sitting back there.

Alex R on February 27, 2021

The gold flakes in the paint make for an extra shiny color in the sun.

I love my car, it has saved me from many accidents due to its safety features and it rides very smoothly. The comfort of the seats is perfect and there is plenty of space in the trunk. The features on the screen are perfect except for the fact that it is not touch screen while you are driving.

Enrique M on February 21, 2021

Smooth riding, clean and wonderful man.

It's amazing just keep up with oil changes and tune ups it lasts forever!! Love it and rides smooth! The windshield is crystal clear and has a factory tint from heaven, the lights at night are just right and bright, this vehicle could change your life's outcome.

Jackie B on February 8, 2021

2019 Mazda 3 hatchback likes and dislikes.

I have owned my car for less than a year and love the way it drives and performs. It has been very reliable so far, but not as good on gas mileage as I had expected. It is very comfortable in the front seats and driver seat, but little leg room in the backseat for additional passengers.

Emily B on February 4, 2021

Reliable with bad luck:-p.

The only problems I have had were in no part due to Mazda or their products. Two broken windshields, two flat tires, one dead battery. I love the features of the flat screen, I should have gotten the navigation like I had in my 2016 Mazda 3. It was awesome. Comfortable and reliable.

Chelsea A on February 1, 2021

Compact comfort of a Mazda.

I love my Mazda. It's sporty, it's compact. It feels like a Coupe with the convenience of four doors instead of just two. The engine contains a lot of power for one of its size, and it is very peppy! The changeable options on the touchscreen interface are very user friendly as well.

Nicole F on January 31, 2021

My Mazda 3 hatchback is amazing! Love it so much.

I love everything about my Mazda 3 hatchback.. The GPS, android auto, backup camera.. The only thing I do not like is the blind spots, unless I use the backup camera I am afraid I'll not be able to see someone coming, or use the driving assistance. But so far it is been amazing.

Jessica K on January 22, 2021

Review of 2019 Mazda 3 including overall look and safety features of the vehicle.

I absolutely love the Mazda 3. It is the perfect size and drives very smooth. The Bluetooth connection does sometimes go in and out but for the most part works great. I do like that you can plug your phone into the car for charging and for GPS navigation without paying extra. The seats are leather which I like and the interior looks very sleek. The safety features work well too. The wheel vibrates if you start to veer out of your lane. It also beeps and stops the car if you get too close to another car in front of you or in the lanes next to you.

Barbie E on January 9, 2021

2019 Mazda 3 sedan review.

Mu husband and I are really happy with our Mazda 3. It has a lot of good safety features, gets great gas mileage and has plenty of room for us. It is great as an everyday vehicle and has been great for traveling. The interior is roomy and it has black leather seats. The car is really a great vehicle and we couldn't be happier.

Kassandra on December 30, 2020

Car is very unreliable

Tiffany G on December 27, 2020

Red four door car, with a backup camera and Bluetooth capability.

To small, needing more leg in the back seat. The Bluetooth does not always connect the way that it should. The seats in the back do not fold down making it hard to store anything in the back when the trunk is not available. Several blind spots due to the mirrors being very small.

Meg K on December 25, 2020

Fun to drive and no major issues.

Comfortable on long trips and everything is user friendly and easily accessible. Very fun to drive and has good power and is responsive. All issues have been minor and covered under warranty with no problem. Only real complaint is that the sound system is not great.

Casey W on December 10, 2020

Love the look, technology could use improvement.

Overall, the Mazda 3 is a very sharp looking vehicle and provides a reliable means of transportation. The only issues I have with the vehicle has to do with the technology. The car play system does not always sync up properly and when it does it is difficult to navigate to it through the controls. When it is attached, the audio will sometimes only adjust on the navigation and the car controls will not allow you to lower volume in the music without disconnecting the phone and then reconnecting. I do enjoy the audio system, the Bose speakers play nicely in the car. Also, the interior leather is very nice but have began to fray on the back seats and I am unsure if this is from people seating there, poor design, or maybe things being slide in and out of the car. Either way, it is odd that with less than a year of 10 months of use on a new car the seats are beginning to have fibers stick out. Overall, I do really enjoy the car and love the look. I get a lot of compliments on the vehicle and color.

Aniya E on December 9, 2020

The mazda 3 base model is a beautiful car that is a great first car.

Susan C on December 3, 2020

Mazda3- fun but/and small.

Seth T on November 30, 2020

Mazda 3 is great for those who want style speed and comfort.

This is the best car I have ever owned. It has style, speed and comfort. So far I haven't had any real problems with it and would definitely recommend it to someone looking for a small car. I was deciding between this and a Honda civic, but this one beat it out in the end and I am glad it was the one I got.

Richard H on November 22, 2020

2019 Mazda 3 AWD 2.5l review.

The car drives very well and smooth. It has very nice features and is pretty easy to use. The gas is not too bad but it can be if you drive a lot. I usually have to fill up 2 times a week for my drive to work. The leather seats are really comfortable and the moon roof is another awesome feature.

Camila S on November 7, 2020

Mazda 3: the best car in its class.

I love my car. It is not too big but not too small. I feel really safe in my car with all of the sensors that alert me of my surroundings and blind spots. Someone had hit my car and damage with minimal to my car and it really protected me. The CarPlay feature makes long drives easier with the GPS and the sound system is great for listening to music or podcasts. I get great gas mileage which is perfect for a college student on a tighter budget.

Sophia S on October 31, 2020

Mazda did a great job with this car!

The vehicle is really nice. It is very sleek looking, high - tech, and smooth to drive. It has a lot of really cool features to do with both safety and entertainment. My only issue with it is that the gas mileage can be a little faulty sometimes, but the problems are always solved with a service.

Greer M on October 25, 2020

Sporty, safe, and can fit my dogs.

I have a Mazda 3 AWD. Good for where I live. I am getting use to the safety features, first car I have owned with them. I like that it has the line assist on the side mirrors helps with blind spots. Seats are comfy and even in the 3 sedan I am able to fit my 2 large dogs in the back no problem.

Kristeena L on October 23, 2020

Mazda3>all my previous vehicles.

My Mazda has so many safety features, I cannot remember all of them. Lane keep assist, lane departure warnings, backup camera, sensors to detect anything to close to any side of your car, auto braking, adaptive cruise control, the list goes on. Not to mention the sleek, stylish yet fierce look. In love!!

Keziah N on October 17, 2020

Mazda 3, I love it, though a bit small for families.

I love the shades of paint Mazda vehicles come in, including our dark blue. The seats are comfortable, in my opinion, and can be heated. I enjoy having the driver and passenger controls separate, as our car has, since it really helps. We haven't had any trouble with the way it runs, and I like how smooth it is. The trunk is not overly large, but it is big enough for our stroller, and several other things. Interior space could be better, because the front seat has to be pretty far forward in order for our rear facing child seat to fit. But overall, I love this car.

Michael H on October 15, 2020

Mazda3 hatchback: good just got better!

Alyssa O on October 15, 2020

My vehicle is just the right size, it is fast and good on gas.

My vehicle has had a lot of recalls. But that happens with newer cars. My censors have also been acting weird lately. But it is good in gas and gets me where I need to go. I like my car but I wish I felt safer driving it. Who knows what could mess up or go wrong.

Shawna W on October 10, 2020

Cute blue shiny sporty car.

I love my new mazda3 it is a great car but in less than a year various pieces of trim have fallen off. The rear door window trim and the under bumper rubber trim have come loose. The center console is very difficult the operate and is extremely difficult to open.

Emily W on October 9, 2020

Probably one of the best, most reliable vehicles I have owned.

Beautiful body style, great visibility, great torque. Super fast as well. Step on the gas, and you are off! Merging on the freeway is a breeze. Amazing gas mileage, about 40 mpg. Almost drives like a sports car but you know it's just a Mazda 3. Haven't had any mechanical issues yet. Dealership has great and reliable service.

hunter H on October 9, 2020

My smooth-driving Mazda 3.

I really like my car! It drives incredibly smoothly and I love the safety features. I may be a little biased because my dad works for Mazda but I have driven some Mazdas I didn't like and I really like my Mazda 3. My friends love when I drive us around because they think that the car drives smoothly as well. I live in San Francisco and the car manages the hills and stop and go traffic like a champ. Whenever people ask me if I like my Mazda I always recommend it to them.

Mark R on October 3, 2020

The underdog of modern sedans.

I truly love my car. This is my first sedan, my previous cars were SUVs or hatchbacks. Trunk space is roomy and holds everything I need it to. Fuel economy is pretty decent. Power and speed are good. A truly fun car to drive. The exterior and interior are spectacular. Every time I walk away from the car, I always look back for a second look. The interior is elegant and comfortable as can be. Truly a spectacular machine.

Connor W on September 29, 2020

All around great vehicle to own.

This car has never had any problems. It is very comfortable and has plenty of room in the back seat as well. This car has plenty of power to pass or get up to cruising speeds. Nice in dash radio screen with easy to read display. There is a good size trunk for whatever you may need to put in there. The car also handles very well.

veronica P on September 15, 2020

Furthermore, my favorite part of this car is the clean and slick look of it.

I have always had older vehicles, so the newer features are awesome, but I have noticed it does not have as many features as I had hoped. While Bluetooth and backup camera is great, I wish it had a few other features such as seat warmers, navigation, car detection, etc. As for comfort, I really do think I could take a long road trip and be just fine. Trunk space is huge and will be traveling in it so it is very good to have that large space. Reliability is also 100%. Haven't had any issues just yet, but it is only the first year of driving.

Srireddy B on September 9, 2020

I love to drive Mazda very much. It is very comfortable.

Chloe Q on September 7, 2020

Great choice for a new car!

I haven't had the car too long, but it is been a fantastic upgrade compared to my 2010 ford focus. Nice sleek look on the inside and outside. All around great looking car. The radio and all the dash features are unique and really make the car even better. So far it is just been an awesome car.

Dani A on September 5, 2020

Likes, dislikes of interior.

I like the pick up speed. And the option for sport mode. I do not like the placement of the USB plug by the cup holder. It gets in the way. The unique leather like seats are easily cleaned and do not stain. I like the touchless feature for the locks.

Katlin D on August 12, 2020

Luxury without the price tag.

The mazda3 is a great sedan with a beautiful, simple interior. I love the sleek design of the exterior taillights and grill, as well as the hand-stitched leather seating and dash. If you are looking for a turbo engine, you will not find it here, as the hp is a little on the lower end. The drive is fun and the car hugs all the curbs of the road, but cabin noise is a noticeably louder than usual. Surprisingly for such a small car, gas mileage averages around 30-32 for highway driving, somewhat less than other cars in its class. Overall, this is a great small sedan for those looking for a fun, luxury feeling vehicle without the luxury price tag.

Ryan L on July 15, 2020

It is the best car I ever owned. It drives smooth and is so good looking.

Gas cap fell off spontaneously. There has been a few recalls that have to do with technology. There is an automatic brake assistance feature and it would misfire. I have never had the problem. When I first bought the car, the rear view mirror would fall off when it got too hot. I love my car. There is tons of cargo space, it drives super nice and smooth, and goes fast.

Lexi P on June 28, 2020

Mazda offers so much for such a reasonable price.

I have not had any issues regarding performance, reliability, comfort or the features of my car. I love the safety features, the seats are very comfortable, and it gets very good mileage. My favorite safety features include blind spot monitoring that alerts on the center cluster, the side mirrors and makes a noise, as well as the lane assist that vibrates the steering wheel when the car senses you are drifting. The seats have comfortable leather trim and have a dial on the side that allows for the seat to be tilted up or down by the knees to alleviate pressure during long car rides. I am able to fill up my gas tank for about $20-$25 depending on the gas prices and only have to fill up about once every two weeks.

Michaela M on June 9, 2020

Reliable, teenage safe and trusty Mazda.

Lexi K on May 26, 2020

Love this car it is beautiful and safety features are well.

Tires pop easily but other than that the car is great. It is reliable and comfortable. It has a lot of safety features too which is amazing. It has heated seats and the look of the car is beautiful. My car did come with a couple scratches though. I am happy.

Josh D on April 18, 2020

Affordable option for an expensive look.

Few electronic issues at first, which is expected in the first year of a redesign. None of the bugs/issues affect performance, and all of it is covered under warranty. Issues include: Auto Light Malfunction, A/C malfunction, minor rattling noise and two recalls.

Kristen J on April 14, 2020

Small, compact, and easily able to pack up and go on a great adventure!

My Mazda 3 Hatchback is absolutely amazing. It provides a great amount of comfort and a surprising amount of space. I just finished driving 24 hours moving across the country in my Mazda 3, and I was surprised at the amount of items I was able to comfortably fit while still providing space enough for my cat. The car has great handling, pickup, and gas mileage so no need to worry about constantly filling up a new tank each time you take the car on long trips. The display and read-outs provided are also easy to adjust, read, and customize to provide a better experience for the driver and all passengers. I love the size of the car! It is very easy to find parking almost anywhere, but your car is not so small that people on the road are unable to see you. Overall, I will definitely be a Mazda fan for life after having this vehicle.

Troy H on April 12, 2020

It is a very technology strong car, which is both a blessing and a curse.

The lane departure system is tough because it's a computer Does not know if you are trying to avoid a pothole or a car or person and it tries to swerve back in. The brake warning system will sometimes brake too soon or if there are no cars it will brake randomly and it can lead to jolting or danger if there is a car behind me.

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.