The 2021 Mazda3 lasts around 250,000 miles, with some average stereo and wheel bearing issues reported. AT $17,000 to $28,900, it’s a good value for a small car with a nice cabin and the latest technology.
Is the 2021 Mazda3 a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a very good year for the Mazda3 since it offers a nice cabin and tons of technology. Owner reviews praise the low running costs, efficient engines, and the responsive steering.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are nicer than other compact cars, the seats offer great support on long drives, cargo space is also good for a small car.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2021 Mazda3. Stay away from the 2014 model since it has issues, but models from 2015–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 8/10 – The base four-cylinder engine is similar to other cars, while the turbocharged motor is pretty quick for a small vehicle.
- Safety 10/10 – The 2021 Mazda3 is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. Optional upgrades include a head-up display, and a surround-view parking camera system.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 30 MPG, offering 396 miles of range out of the 13.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are $42 cheaper than average, at $153 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Mazda3 is cheaper than some other small cars while offering good features, making it a good value for shoppers.
What Do Critics Say About the Mazda3?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Mazda3 offers an elegant cabin and refined ride, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Mazda3 at 4.1/5, enjoying the quick turbocharged engine, but doesn’t like that there’s less cargo space than some other small sedans.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Mazda3 a 4.2/5, praising the standard driver assistance tech, but owners don’t like the lack of a manual transmission on the 2.5 Turbo.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Mazda3 Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Mazda3 include the stereo system freezing, excessive wheel noise, along with some chipping paint. Overall, these problems are similar to other small cars on the market from the same year, but repair costs are relatively low.
The stereo system freezing is the most widespread complaint from 2021 Mazda3 owners, showing up within the first 1,000 miles. There are some software updates available for the stereo system which improve the reliability. Most dealers will install these updates for free during normal servicing.
Excessive wheel noise is another problem found on the Mazda3 at around 15,000 miles. The wheel bearings tend to wear out quickly, and make a lot of noise. Changing out the wheel bearings costs around $350 since it’s a labor-intensive process.
Chipping paint has also been reported by some Mazda3 owners within the first 10,000 miles. The paint on the edges of the front bumper and hood is prone to chipping from stones hitting it at highway speeds. Some people do touch-up paint for around $100, while others repaint the area, which costs around $1,000.
There is only one recall on the 2021 Mazda3, which is better than other small cars from the same year. The recall covers a tire air valve, which may leak. Mazda will replace the tire valves on affected models for free.
How Long Will the 2021 Mazda3 Last?
A well-maintained 2021 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 small cars, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $403 per year.
As a used 2021 Mazda3 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the horn for $150, the EGR valve costing $270, along with the mass airflow sensor costing $350.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is very good, and includes an 8.8-inch screen. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system, which also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Standard safety technology is great, and features:
- Rearview camera
- Driver attention monitoring
- Forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane-keep assist
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-departure warning
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Optional driver-assistance features include:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Head-up display
- Adaptive headlights
- Traffic-jam assist
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Traffic sign recognition
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Reverse automatic emergency braking
Is the 2021 Mazda3 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Mazda3 is a good value since it’s cheaper than some of the competition while still offering a lot of great features. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $17,000 to $28,900, making it less than a Honda Civic or Subaru Impreza. When new, the price range was $20,650 to $33,900. Depreciation is similar to other cars, losing about 8% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mazda3?
There are three main models of the 2021 Mazda3 offered, from the entry-level Mazda3 2.0 to the more luxurious and sportier Mazda3 2.5 Turbo. The Mazda3 comes standard with front-wheel drive, while there is optional all-wheel drive.
Mazda3 2.0 is the entry-level model, which has:
- Entry-level sedan trim
- Six-speed automatic transmission
- 8.8-inch display
- Eight-speaker stereo
- HD Radio and voice command
- Two USB ports and Bluetooth
- Cloth upholstery
- Front sport seats
- Push-button start and remote keyless entry
- Rearview camera
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Driver-attention monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights
- 60/40-split folding rear seats
- Remote vehicle monitoring and control via smartphone app
Mazda3 2.5 S is a step up, adding:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Select Package:
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Preferred Package:
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings
- Heated front seats
- Sunroof
- Premium Package:
- 18-inch wheels
- Upgraded exterior lighting with adaptive headlights
- Head-up display
- Leather seats
- Paddle shifters
- Integrated navigation system
- 12-speaker Bose audio system
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo is the flagship model with:
- All-wheel drive
- 18-inch black-painted wheels
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Heated steering wheel
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Auto-dimming driver-side mirror
- Trunk Lid spoiler
- Navigation system
- Leather upholstery
- Surround-view camera system
- Universal garage door opener
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Rear automatic braking
- Includes contents of the 2.5 S’ optional packages (excluding leather upholstery and navigation for the base Turbo trim)
What Engines Come In the Mazda3?
- The 2021 Mazda3 comes with three engine options, each offering a distinct balance of power and efficiency. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, producing 155 horsepower. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine achieves a combined fuel economy of around 31 MPG and can accelerate from 0-60 MPH in 8 seconds.
- Upgrading to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine brings a notable increase in power, delivering 186 horsepower. This engine, also mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, offers a combined fuel economy of around 30 MPG. The 0-60 MPH time is quicker, hovering around the 7-second mark, providing a more spirited driving experience.
- The top-tier engine is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which significantly boosts performance with 250 horsepower (with premium fuel). It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and achieves a combined fuel economy of about 27 MPG. This engine propels the Mazda3 from 0-60 MPH in just under 6 seconds, offering the most dynamic and responsive driving experience of the three.
What Colors Does the Mazda3 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mazda3?
The 2021 Mazda3 stands out for its exceptional comfort, which is a defining aspect of its overall driving and passenger experience. This model has been designed with a focus on ergonomics and luxury, typically found in more premium segments of the market. The front seats are a highlight, offering supportive cushioning and ample adjustability, providing comfort even on longer drives. These seats, often described as being both firm and supportive, strike an excellent balance between comfort and the support needed for spirited driving.
In terms of ride quality, the Mazda3 excels with its well-tuned suspension system. It effectively absorbs most road imperfections, providing a smooth and refined ride. This is complemented by the car’s sound insulation, which effectively minimizes road and wind noise, further enhancing the sense of tranquility inside the cabin. The steering is precise and effortless, contributing to an overall sense of ease and control, which is especially noticeable in urban environments or during long highway journeys.
Rear-seat passengers haven’t been overlooked either. Although the space might be snug for taller individuals, the rear seats are comfortable, with cushioning that mirrors the quality found in the front seats. The climate control system in the Mazda3 is efficient and responsive, maintaining a comfortable cabin environment in various weather conditions. Moreover, the interior materials and build quality add to the sense of comfort, with soft-touch materials and an intuitive layout that makes interacting with the car’s features straightforward and pleasant. In summary, the 2021 Mazda3 offers a level of comfort that exceeds expectations for its class, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a comfortable driving experience.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mazda3 Have?
catering well to the needs of most drivers and passengers. The trunk of the Mazda3 sedan provides about 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough for day-to-day requirements and light travel. In practical terms, this space can comfortably accommodate items such as a couple of medium-sized suitcases, a stroller, or several grocery bags. The rear seats can also be folded down in a 60/40 split, offering additional room for larger items when needed, although this feature is more commonly used in the hatchback version.
Besides the trunk, the Mazda3 includes several thoughtful interior storage solutions. The front of the cabin features door pockets with bottle holders, a reasonably sized glovebox, and a center console with an armrest that offers additional storage. Cup holders in the center console and a small storage area beneath the infotainment system provide convenient spots for smaller items like phones, wallets, or keys. The rear passengers haven’t been forgotten, with door pockets and seatback pockets for extra storage. These features combine to make the Mazda3 not just a vehicle with adequate trunk space but also one that offers numerous practical storage solutions throughout its interior, enhancing its usability for everyday life.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the Mazda3 was launched in the 2019 model year.
2015: Optional six-speed manual transmission offered with the 2.5L engine.
2016: Standard rearview camera on all models, SV model has been discontinued.
2017: Small exterior styling changes, updated dash, and more standard safety equipment.
2018: Touring 2.5 model discontinued, standard forward collision warning on Sport models, options packages have also been renamed.
2019: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with a new interior, exterior, and technology.
2020: There are now more standard driver assistance and safety technology features.
2021: Two new engines have been added as options.
How Does the Mazda3 Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Mazda3 is a great compact car since it offers a lot of technology features and a more upscale cabin than some of the competition.
The Toyota Corolla is another popular small car, which is available for about $2,000 more. Long-term reliability ratings are better in the Toyota Corolla, while the Mazda3 offers a better interior. We recommend the Toyota Corolla, but it’s worth it to test drive both to see which you prefer.
The Honda Civic is a competitor, which can be found for around $1,500 more. Steering is more responsive in the Honda Civic, while the Mazda3 is more luxurious. We recommend the Mazda3 since it’s nicer, but it’s worth testing out both of them to help you decide which one fits in your life better.
