Mazda3 2009-2013 used car review

The Mazda3 is a practical small hatchback that drives extremely well.

Richard Edwards
Richard Edwards
Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group
Exterior , 3.5 out of 5 Drive , 4 out of 5 Safety , 5 out of 5 Value , 3.5 out of 5 Interior , 4 out of 5

Overall score , 4.0 out of 5

The good
  • Excellent handling and comfortable ride
  • Good reliability and build quality
  • Sporty looks for a family car
The not-so-good
  • Interior design feels a little confused and mismatched
  • Boot could be bigger
  • Thirsty compared to competitors

Inside and out

On the road

Safety

Reliability

Cost of ownership

Buyers’ guide

Variants

Timeline

Details

Review vehicle

2010 Mazda3 GLX hatch

Price

$9,000 to $25,000 for models which have travelled 70,000 to 120,000km

Engine

2.0-litre four-cylinder, 110kW and 183Nm

Transmission

Five-speed automatic, front-wheel drive

Safety rating

Five-star ANCAP rating

Servicing

10,000km or 12 months

Spare wheel

Full size spare

Fuel economy

8.3-litres per 100km (claimed)

Fuel type

Regular

Length

4505mm

Width

1755mm

Height

1470mm

Towing capacity

500kg (unbraked), 900kg (braked)

Turning circle

11.2m

Image gallery

Richard Edwards Richard Edwards
Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group