When buying a used Mazda 3, which year is the best?

After more than two decades in existence, there are several used Mazda 3 models to pick from; here's how to select the best one for you.

The Mazda 3 has consistently been one of Australia's most popular compact vehicles. Its sales high occurred in 2014, when over 43,000 units were sold Down Under in a single year.

In recent years, new Mazda 3 sales have dropped to less than 10,000 units per year in both 2022 and 2023, although the vehicle remains popular in the used car market.

According to AutoGrab statistics on used vehicle sales, the Mazda 3 was the fourth most popular used car in 2023, with 44,238 second-hand cars sold privately and via dealerships.

The earlier Mazda 3 models have been a highly popular choice for first-time automobile owners because they are a safe, inexpensive, dependable, and spacious solution for the inexperienced driver.

The first generation (2003-2007) model was available in both manual and automatic transmissions, with options for 2.0-litre and 2.3-litre petrol four-cylinder engines, as well as a unique 2.3-litre turbo petrol for the Mazda Performance Series (MPS) variation. There was also a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel variant, which did not sell well in Australia, although they do appear on occasion.

The Mazda 3's second generation (2008-2013) received a redesign, minor interior improvements, chassis upgrades, and the option of 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre (SP25) petrol four-cylinder versions, 2.2-litre diesel, and the reintroduction of the 2.3-litre turbo petrol in the MPS.

The third generation (2014-2018) Mazda 3 had the most substantial upgrades since its introduction. Mazda switched from building the Mazda 3 on a Ford platform to the KE CX-5 platform, which included the option of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol (Neo, Maxx, and Touring), a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol (SP25, SP25 GT, and Astina), and a 2.2-litre diesel, which was dropped from the lineup in 2016.

The fourth generation (2019-present) received yet another makeover, new suspension, and changed proportions that made the vehicle somewhat longer than the previous model. Revised 2.0-litre (available as a mild hybrid 2021-2023) and 2.5-litre SkyActiv engines are available, and the manual transmission was an option until mid-2023, when it was discontinued.

With 20 years of history, it's difficult to pinpoint the ideal Mazda 3. Fortunately, we have the whole breakdown on the Mazda 3 market for you!

What year Mazda 3 is best to purchase used?
The facelifted third-generation Mazda 3 (2017-2018) at any trim level higher than the Neo provides the best value for money.

The 2017-2018 models cost between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on the trim level. They have outstanding technology for a vehicle under $20,000 and fantastic style that is still relevant in 2024 - but without some of the drawbacks of previous iterations.

While older models are not protected by a manufacturer guarantee, automobiles purchased from used dealerships in most Australian states are covered by a statutory warranty if they are less than ten years old or have logged 160,000 kilometers. You receive 5000 kilometers, or three months of coverage.

While the basic Neo model for this generation is mechanically sound, it lacks Mazda's impressive touchscreen display, MZD Connect rotary dial system, and satellite navigation system.

Following the facelift, every trim-level third-generation Mazda 3 now has autonomous emergency braking (AEB) at low speeds, while the second-from-base Maxx and above have AEB in reverse, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic warning. Upper-range models have traffic sign recognition and radar cruise control.

The third generation outperformed in ANCAP safety testing, earning a near-perfect score of 36.40 out of 37 and a five-star rating, which has since expired.

It should be emphasized that ANCAP testing develops year after year, with new tests taking into account things like driving aids and using more demanding crash-testing scenarios.

The latest generation Mazda 3 also did well in ANCAP crash testing, earning five stars. The rating for this vehicle is valid until December 2025.

If you want a current-generation Mazda 3 that isn't brand new, choose a 2020 model or later to benefit from the stunning makeover and Mazda's five-year, unlimited-kilometer guarantee.

The 2020 upgrade also improved the interior and adds Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Smart Brake Support to the list of features.

There's nothing wrong with the current generation; it's simply that 2017-2018 were some of the finest years for value on the secondary market. You also have a far wider range of options since the current sales projections are much larger than those for 2020 and beyond.

Which year's Mazda 3 should you avoid?
A local Mazda service technician informed us that it's difficult to find a Mazda 3 to avoid, and they have an excellent reputation throughout most model years.

Even looking at the Mazda 3's recall history over the last 20 years, it has had relatively few recalls when compared other automobiles from the same age.

As with many used vehicles, the higher the odometer reading, the greater the danger. In general, it is a good idea to buy a secondhand automobile that has only traveled 15,000 kilometers each year.