Used Mazda 3 for sale

What types of used Mazda 3 cars are there?

The Mazda 3 was first introduced in 2003 and has since gone onto become a family favourite among car buyers. 

Known for its handling, performance, efficiency and comfort, it’s truly an all-rounder that’s versatile and cheap to run and buy. 

– Read our Mazda 3 review

Popular Mazda 3 trims 

You can have your used Mazda 3 in a few different trims, giving you plenty of choice. Here are some of the most popular: 

> Mazda 3 Prime-Line – the base model with 16-inch alloys and dark grey cloth seats 

> Mazda 3 Centre-Line – a mid-spec trim with rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, wireless phone charging and keyless entry 

> Mazda 3 Takumi – top-spec with fancy leather seats, heated leather steering wheel, privacy glass and Bose speakers 

Other trim levels include the Sport, GT Sport and SE-L models.

Mazda 3 history 

The Mazda 3 has been out for more than two decades and in that time has seen a few different facelifts to keep it in line with the rest of the brand’s models and rivalling cars. 

> First-generation Mazda 3 (2003-2008) - It was a success inside and outside the UK, and was actually Israel’s best-selling car for a number of years 

> Second-generation Mazda 3 (2008-2013) - a style tweak and more engine choices were added 

> Third-generation Mazda 3 (2013-2018) - this saw a drastic change to fit with Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ design language to follow on from the CX-5 and Mazda 6. 

> Fourth-generation Mazda 3 (2019-present) - the latest that had design tweaks, but the most significant change was underneath, altering the multilink independent rear suspension to a torsion beam setup 

Mazda 3 body styles 

You can have your Mazda 3 in two different body shapes: 

> Mazda 3 hatchback 

> Mazda 3 saloon 

What features does the Mazda 3 have?

The Mazda 3 is a fun-to-drive compact hatchback (or saloon) which is as enjoyable on the road as it is parked up at the side of the road. 

This is thanks to its array of onboard tech which includes a sat-nav, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and an eight-speaker sound system with the standard car. 

Upgrade to a higher trim beyond the Centre-Line and you can benefit from all the above plus a Qi wireless phone charger and a sea of leather. 

Is the Mazda 3 reliable?

Pretty much all used Mazdas are reliable. The brand is known for making some of the most dependable cars in the world, along with Toyota and Honda. 

As well as being well-built, its Skyactiv engines are really robust, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a stronger combo. 

How much does the Mazda 3 cost to run?

Mazdas are historically cheap to run, and with few engines to choose from, the Mazda 3 is one of the easiest to maintain. 

Engines are only available in petrol format and are 2.0-litre units which balance performance and efficiency. They’re able to return 40mpg with ease. 

Who is the Mazda 3 suitable for?

A used Mazda 3 is one of those cars that can suit anyone. Whether you have a small family or are just learning to drive, this hatchback can easily blend into your daily life. 

Its main rivals include the Kia Ceed, Skoda Scala and even Mercedes A-Class.