Skip advert
Advertisement

Used Mazda CX-3 (Mk1, 2015-2020) review - What do owners think? 

Mazda has a strong reputation for reliability, but some models haven’t been highly rated in our Driver Power satisfaction surveys

Mazda has an excellent reputation for reliability and is a consistently strong performer in Driver Power. Its ninth-place finish in the 2015 survey was well ahead of premium brands such as Audi and Mercedes. And while its dealers didn’t finish as well in the same poll, the network still outperformed these two.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Other cars from Mazda have finished surprisingly low down the Driver Power list in the past – older versions of the 3 compact family car and 6 large family car tumbled down the table, for example, making it seem as though owners were more critical in 2015 than they had been in previous years. Yet at the same time, more modern models performed much, much better, so the omens are good for the CX-3, which shares technology with this latest generation of cars.

Reliability

The CX-3 ranked a disappointing 48th in the Driver Power 2018 new car satisfaction survey; poor ratings for practicality, comfort and running costs dragged the score down. But owners were far more enamoured with the ride and handling, along with the exterior design and finish. The infotainment and connectivity are also well thought of. Safety and reliability came mid-table.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,640Avg. savings £2,419 off RRP*Used from £8,995
Toyota Yaris Cross
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £11,990Avg. savings £586 off RRP*Used from £9,000
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £38,050Avg. savings £3,250 off RRP*Used from £25,250
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Jeep Renegade to target Dacia Duster with cheap 'n' tough design
Jeep Renegade exclusive image

New Jeep Renegade to target Dacia Duster with cheap 'n' tough design

Keen to offer a spacious and rugged offering at an attractive price, the new Renegade will have established rivals looking over their shoulders
News
16 Jul 2026
Two new Volvo models on the way this year, and an estate car could follow
Volvo XC40 - front cornering

Two new Volvo models on the way this year, and an estate car could follow

Significantly upgraded SUVs are likely for 2026, but Swedish firm is also leaving the door open for new estate cars in future
News
17 Jul 2026
Are Chinese cars really cheaper? True buying and running costs for top models uncovered
Jaecoo 7 - front cornering

Are Chinese cars really cheaper? True buying and running costs for top models uncovered

Five big-selling Chinese cars go head-to-head with western rivals on fuel, servicing, insurance and depreciation costs, to find out if the disruptors …
Features
16 Jul 2026