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It’s a tricky time to be a small automobile.
Sales of reasonably priced small automobiles are down 24.1 per cent this 12 months, and the Hyundai i30 – a phase stalwart – has been discontinued for the native market.
Yet, regardless of declining demand for the common-or-garden hatchback, the Mazda 3 hasn’t misplaced any admirers. It’s simple to see why – the Mazda model holds loads of credibility in Australia, and the present 3 nonetheless appears to be like nearly as good because it did when new again in 2019.
Mazda has additionally made certain to replace the three for contemporary audiences, from the introduction of Mazda Connected Services to wider standardisation of the Vision Package security suite. The G20 Evolve on check right here advantages from each these upgrades, in addition to a protracted listing of ordinary tools that not too long ago grew to incorporate USB-C connectivity, wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wi-fi cellphone charging.
But is that sufficient to justify the accompanying worth hikes? And ought to loyal prospects be wanting elsewhere in 2025? We lived with the Mazda 3 for a full week to seek out out.
How a lot does the Mazda 3 price?
Prices proceed to development upwards, however current rises have additionally coincided with upgrades to straightforward tools.
| Model | Price earlier than on-road prices |
|---|---|
| 2026 Mazda 3 G20 Pure | $31,310 |
| 2026 Mazda 3 G20 Evolve | $33,110 |
| 2026 Mazda 3 G20 Touring with Vision Pack | $37,110 |
| 2026 Mazda 3 G25 Evolve SP with Vision Pack | $37,110 |
| 2026 Mazda 3 G25 GT with Vision Pack | $40,110 |
| 2026 Mazda 3 G25 Astina | $43,310 |
Our check automobile was optioned with the Vision Pack, which provides a surround-view digicam, cruising and site visitors assist, driver monitoring, entrance cross-traffic alert, and entrance parking sensors for an extra $2000.
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
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What is the Mazda 3 like on the within?
Despite sitting close to the underside of the Mazda 3 meals chain, the G20 Evolve nonetheless feels comparatively upmarket inside.
The fabric seats are snug, with respectable bolstering and full handbook adjustment, whereas widespread contact factors just like the steering wheel and centre armrest are trimmed in premium supplies. There’s likewise a suppleness to the door trims, sprint, and even the driving force’s footwell, the place you’ll discover a padded space to relaxation your left knee throughout longer journeys.
It’s not fairly good. The doorways really feel tinny, and scratch-prone gloss black plastic surrounds the shifter and infotainment controls
Nevertheless, the Mazda 3 a really nice automobile to take a seat in, at the least for these within the entrance row.
Recent expertise upgrades additionally make sure the fourth-generation Mazda 3 nonetheless feels considerably trendy almost seven years on from its debut.
The Evolve encompasses a dinky 8.0-inch infotainment display screen as commonplace, however ticking the Vision Package field nets a bigger 10.25-inch system with full touchscreen performance. That’ll be music to the ears of many, nevertheless I discover the display screen sits too distant from my driving place for use recurrently as a touchscreen. Instead, I trusted within the central rotary dial, which felt like a safer and extra snug option to make changes on the transfer.
Native navigation is included, however the infotainment system in any other case lacks depth in contrast with newer rivals. The dwelling display screen presents as a easy scroll menu with not more than 5 tabs for automobile data, leisure, communication, navigation and settings. Most of the time I’d find yourself in Apple CarPlay, which may now be accessed with no wired connection.
The vibrant CarPlay interface attracts consideration to the visible high quality of the infotainment system, which is okay, although not standout. The identical might be stated of processing speeds.
And there’s not a lot for the youngsters to get enthusiastic about with regards to the instrument show, both. Behind the steering wheel lies a conventional instrument cluster that includes two analogue gauges flanking a central speedometer. It’s hardly a flashy setup, however I personally admire the class and timelessness of this format.
And if driving trendy automobiles has taught me something, it’s that Mazda has made the suitable name by holding bodily local weather controls that fall simply handy.
Despite the compact nature of the Mazda 3, there’s loads of cupboard space up entrance. A spacious break up centre console and deep glovebox are highlights, when you additionally get skinny door bins, a sun shades compartment, centre cupholders, and a coin tray subsequent to the steering wheel.
The Evolve additionally comes with a wi-fi cellphone charger, in addition to two USB-C retailers and a 12V socket.
It doesn’t, nevertheless, provide a lot in the best way of second-row area. Kids will match again there simply fantastic, however adults ought to anticipate a claustrophobic expertise.
Amenities are additionally in brief provide. There’s a centre armrest with built-in cupholders, bottle holders within the doorways and a single map pocket, however no USB retailers or air vents.
As such, homeowners are higher served folding the rear seats down and treating the bench as additional baggage area. But even that technique is dependant on the entrance seats being set fairly far ahead.
Excluding bench storage, boot capability is quoted at simply 295 litres. That’s far lower than you get in a BYD Dolphin, Skoda Scala or Hyundai i30, the latter of which is now in runout.
The boot within the Mazda 3 could also be small, however the aperture is properly sq. and the handbook tailgate opens excessive enabling simple loading of things. An area-saver spare tyre is positioned underneath the boot ground, which is good to have in case you run into hassle.
| Dimensions | Mazda 3 Hatch |
|---|---|
| Length | 4460mm |
| Width | 1795mm |
| Height | 1435mm |
| Wheelbase | 2725mm |
| Cargo capability | 295L |
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
What’s underneath the bonnet?
A pair of naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines can be found with the Mazda 3, this being the smaller 2.0-litre lump producing 114kW and 200Nm.
| Specifications | Mazda 3 G20 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L naturally aspirated 4cyl |
| Power | 114kW |
| Torque | 200Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automated |
| Drive kind | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1418kg |
| 0-100km/h (claimed) | 9.4 seconds |
| Fuel financial system (claimed) | 5.9L/100km |
| Fuel financial system (as examined) | 9.8L/100km |
| Fuel tank capability | 51L |
| Fuel requirement | 91-octane unleaded |
| CO2 emissions | 138g/km |
| Emissions commonplace | Euro 5 |
| Braked tow capability | 1200kg |
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
How does the Mazda 3 drive?
There’s one thing very acquainted, if not old-school, about how the Mazda 3 drives.
It units off easily from a standstill and delivers easy, linear energy courtesy of a long-lived four-cylinder engine that continues to be devoid of turbocharging or any type of hybridisation.
The 2.0-litre on check right here feels very related in character to 2.5-litre variants, simply with rather less punch. The torque deficit is certainly noticeable from behind the wheel, however it’s forgivable given this G20 Evolve is meaningfully extra reasonably priced than its G25 equal.
And, for a contemporary hatch, the obtainable efficiency remains to be greater than satisfactory. Sure, 114kW and 200Nm doesn’t sound like a lot, however this entry-level Mazda 3 feels correctly pokey if you wind it out. I say that as a result of rivals just like the hybrid Toyota Corolla and electrical Dolphin Premium can have the Mazda 3’s measure from a set of site visitors lights, such is their instantaneous energy supply. But, on stability, there’s not a lot to separate a lot of the choices within the small automobile phase.
Mazda can be seemingly conscious of the constraints of naturally aspirated energy, as the three comes outfitted with paddle shifters that enable the driving force to choose gears and entry the ability band extra simply.
The transmission itself is a traditional torque-converter automated slightly than a dual-clutch, and that pays dividends in stop-start metropolis driving. Shifts are easy, predictable, and free from the jerkiness widespread to the gearboxes present in Volkswagen Group automobiles such because the Golf and Skoda Scala.
However, there are some drawbacks to the powertrain discovered on this Mazda 3, specifically noise and gas consumption.
The engine in G20 variations of the Mazda 3 is pressured to work tougher these discovered within the G25 or exterior rivals, and it reveals. There’s a seemingly fixed buzz from underneath the bonnet, and the thrum solely grows louder as you flex your proper foot.
Life with the Mazda 3 additionally requires common servo stops. That’s as a result of this little hatch can drink upwards of 10 litres of gas per 100km in metropolis driving, a determine that doesn’t fly in 2025. With that stated, homeowners can get away with utilizing 91-octane unleaded. Still, you’ll save tons of of {dollars} per 12 months on gas by shopping for a Corolla as a substitute, and electrical options are even cheaper to run.
However, neither the Corolla nor EVs just like the Dolphin and GWM Ora maintain a candle to the Mazda 3 within the dynamics division.
Indeed, the Mazda 3 continues to be one of the crucial rewarding automobiles to drive in its class, with completely weighted steering and predictable pedal response. Handling is an actual power of this platform, whether or not you’re slicing via the suburbs or having fun with a winding nation street.
The suspension skews in direction of the firmer aspect, however finds a contented medium between rigidity and luxury. Body management is superb, and the Mazda 3 recovers shortly from imperfections that will unsettle lesser automobiles.
It additionally feels at dwelling on the freeway, which may’t be stated for all hatches and small sedans. Our check automobile got here outfitted with the Vision Package, which provides true semi-autonomous driving functionality to an already stacked suite of driver help programs. The system succeeds in taking the stress out of lengthy journeys, and it’s simple to regulate cruising velocity and following distance utilizing the bodily steering wheel controls.
Tyre roar is current at larger speeds however by no means deafening, though the tinny doorways enable extra sound into the cabin than splendid. Additionally, restricted rear visibility could cause points when altering lanes on the freeway.
Don’t fear about these rear blind spots with regards to low-speed city manoeuvres, although, as a result of the three is compact and encompasses a helpful surround-view digicam.
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
What do you get?
All grades obtained further options heading into 2025, with the Evolve gaining Mazda Connected Services, USB-C connectivity, wi-fi smartphone mirroring, and a wi-fi cellphone charger.
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2026 Mazda 3 G20 Pure tools highlights:
- 16-inch alloy wheels – silver
- 7.0-inch instrument cluster display screen
- 8.8-inch Mazda Connect show
- Keyless begin
- Air-conditioning
- Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- 8-speaker audio
- AM/FM/DAB+ radio
- Electric parking brake incl. Auto Hold
- Automatic LED headlights
- Automatic high-beam
- Leather-wrapped gearshift, steering wheel
- Power exterior mirrors – auto folding
- Power home windows incl. auto up/down
- Satellite navigation
- Seat trim – black fabric
- 60:40-split rear seats
- Tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment
- USB-C enter and charging port
- Mazda Connected Services
- MyMazda app suitable
- Vehicle locator
- Geofencing perform
- Flash lights
- Curfew notifications
- Remote locking
- Vehicle well being report
- Vehicle standing report
- Vehicle monitoring help
- SOS name
G20 Evolve provides:
- 18-inch alloy wheels – metallic gray
- Dual-zone local weather management
- Rear air vents
- Auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror
- Paddle shifters
- Rear centre fold-down armrest
- Overhead sun shades storage field
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Wireless Android Auto
- Wireless cellphone charger
G20 Touring provides:
- Keyless entry
- Driver mirror – auto dimming
- Exterior mirrors – heating perform
- Exterior mirrors – reverse tilt-down perform
- Exterior mirrors – place reminiscence
- Seat trim – black leather-based
- 10-way energy driver seat incl. lumbar, reminiscence
- Vanity mirrors with illumination
- Vision Pack
- Surround-view digicam
- 10.25-inch Mazda Connect show
- Cruising & Traffic Support
- Driver monitoring
- Front cross-traffic alert
G25 Evolve SP provides (over G20 Evolve):
- 18-inch alloy wheels – metallic black
- Keyless entry
- Driver mirror – auto dimming
- Exterior mirrors – reverse tilt-down perform
- Exterior mirrors – place reminiscence
- Exterior mirrors in black
- 10-way energy driver seat incl. lumbar, reminiscence
G25 GT provides (over G25 Evolve SP):
- 18-inch alloy wheels – metallic gray
- Exterior mirrors – heating perform
- Heated entrance seats
- Seat trim – black leather-based
- Heated steering wheel
G25 Astina provides:
- 18-inch alloy wheels – gloss black
- Bose premium sound system
- Glass sunroof – energy tilt, slide
- Seat trim – black leather-based or elective Burgundy leather-based
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
Is the Mazda 3 secure?
The Mazda 3 wears a five-star ANCAP security ranking primarily based on Euro NCAP testing, though this may expire in December 2025.
| Category | Mazda 3 |
|---|---|
| Adult occupant safety | 98 per cent |
| Child occupant safety | 89 per cent |
| Vulnerable street consumer safety | 81 per cent |
| Safety help | 76 per cent |
Standard security options embody:
- Autonomous emergency braking (ahead, reverse)
- Lane departure warning
- Lane-keep help
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Traffic signal recognition
- Adaptive cruise management with cease/go
- Reversing digicam
- Rear parking sensors
- Tyre strain monitoring
- Dual entrance, front-side and curtain airbags
- Driver’s knee airbag
- SOS emergency name
Vision Package* provides:
- Surround-view digicam
- Cruising & Traffic Support
- Driver monitoring
- Front cross-traffic alert
- Front parking sensors
* $2000 on G20 Pure, G20 Evolve
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
How a lot does the Mazda 3 price to run?
The Mazda 3 is dearer to service than most rivals. For instance, the Corolla Hybrid and electrical BYD Dolphin each price lower than $1500 to take care of over the primary 5 years, whereas the Mazda will set you again $2284.
| Servicing and Warranty | Mazda 3 |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 5 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | 5 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000 kilometres |
| Capped-price servicing | 5 years |
| Average annual service price | $456.80 |
| Total capped-price service price | $2284 |
To see how the Mazda 3 traces up in opposition to the competitors, take a look at our comparability instrument
CarExpert’s Take on the Mazda 3
Age hasn’t dulled the appeal of the Mazda 3, however appeal alone doesn’t essentially warrant a advice.
Because whereas this mature hatch is secure, attractive and complex, it’s poor in issues that small automobile patrons really need – effectivity, practicality, and low working prices.
Similarly priced options such because the BYD Dolphin Premium and Toyota Corolla SX higher nail that temporary, and the Hyundai i30 N Line stays a stable choice till manufacturing ends for our market in December.
Having stated that, the Mazda 3 remains to be worthy of consideration for many who pack mild, admire the act of driving, and don’t typically get caught in metropolis site visitors.
What’s extra, this G20 Evolve is nearly our decide of the vary, alongside the stronger G25 Evolve SP.
CarExpert can prevent 1000’s on a brand new Mazda 3. Click right here to get a terrific deal
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