Overall Average Rating: 83.94%
Position in the Top 100 cars: 61st

Given that the 3 has failed to gain a foothold in the ever more competitive compact family class, its mid-table set of results is fitting.

As you’d expect from a model based on a Ford Focus platform, the handling is above average, while 23rd in the reliability charts proves that Mazda could teach the blue oval a thing or two about making cars last…

Manufacturer Verdict (Position: 10th)

It’s fallen one place, yet Mazda is still in the top 10. The blot in its copybook is 23rd position for running costs, although it’s offset by a fifth-placed rank in both the handling and braking categories.

Overall Average:
4.197
83.94%
55th in Driver Power 2010
Owners who would buy a Mazda 3 again
3.7
74%
53rd in Driver Power 2010
Owners who would buy another Mazda 3 again
4.8
96%
16th in Driver Power 2010
Comfort:
4.154
83.08%
54th in Driver Power 2010
Practicality:
4.333
86.66%
41st in Driver Power 2010
Ride quality:
3.987
79.74%
42nd in Driver Power 2010
Ease of driving:
4.346
86.92%
57th in Driver Power 2010
54-reg Petrol, Owner for 1 to 3 years

Excellent, reliable car. Starts first time without fail, has a bit of oomph when needed, practical and comfortable. The Sporty styling has attracted vandalism though - had it keyed on 3 separate occasions.

Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
4/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
06-reg Petrol, Owner for 1 to 3 years

The Mazda 3 is a reliable, comfortable and attractive ride. I have no regrets with purchasing this car. Good value for money.

Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
5/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
59-reg Petrol, Owner for Less than a year

A most complete small family hatchbake on the market. With smart looks and practicality all round.A joy to drive.

Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
5/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
56-reg Petrol, Owner for Less than a year

It would be great if the clutch didn't make such a noise. There is a distinct 'clunk' when a foot is taken off.

Comfort:
4/5
 Practicality:
4/5
 Ride Quality:
2/5
 Ease of driving:
2/5
06-reg Petrol, Owner for 1 to 3 years

The car has been good value for money. Is comfortable and has an excellent safety record.

Comfort:
4/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
4/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
54-reg Diesel, Owner for 1 to 3 years

Decent car but lacks pulling power if youre carrying 2 or more passengers.

Comfort:
3/5
 Practicality:
3/5
 Ride Quality:
3/5
 Ease of driving:
4/5
07-reg Petrol, Owner for 1 to 3 years

The first automatic I have had, and it is a dream to drive.

Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
5/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
08-reg , Owner for 1 to 3 years

A nice to drive reasonably economical comfy car.

Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
4/5
 Ride Quality:
4/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
07-reg Petrol, Owner for 1 to 3 years

Very good but ride could be improved

Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
4/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5
55-reg Petrol, Owner for 3 to 5 years

Good spacious family car

Comfort:
3/5
 Practicality:
4/5
 Ride Quality:
3/5
 Ease of driving:
3/5
04-reg Petrol, Owner for More than 5 years

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Comfort:
5/5
 Practicality:
5/5
 Ride Quality:
5/5
 Ease of driving:
5/5