Mazda Mazda3
JDM · Mazda
Mazda's compact sedan and hatchback. From the Speed3 era to the modern Skyactiv-X turbocharged variants. Mazda's volume model.
The Mazda3 is a compact sedan and hatchback produced continuously since 2003 across four generations. The Mazda3 is Mazda volume model in the compact segment, anchoring the brand sales globally. The model has been particularly successful in markets that value driver engagement, with reviews consistently praising the chassis dynamics and overall driver-friendly character. Notable Mazda3 generations include the first generation (2003-2009), the second generation (2009-2014, the first Mazda3 with Mazdaspeed 3 / Speed3 variant), the third generation (2014-2019, with Skyactiv-G technology), and the fourth generation (2019+, with Skyactiv-X engines and refined chassis dynamics). The fourth-generation Mazda3 (2019+) is the modern era. Available as sedan or hatchback. Available with various engine options including the standard Skyactiv-G 2.5 liter four-cylinder, the Skyactiv-G 2.5 liter Turbo (250 horsepower), and various lower-displacement options. The Mazda3 Turbo (with the 2.5 turbo) is the closest modern equivalent to a Speed3 variant. The Mazda3 has been positioned as the premium compact car. Pricing is typically slightly higher than competitors (Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla) but the build quality, interior materials, and driving dynamics provide value. The model has been consistently reviewed favorably for the chassis dynamics and overall package. On WhipJury, Mazda3 submissions appear regularly, particularly the older Mazdaspeed 3 / Speed3 variants and modern Mazda3 Turbo cars. Modified Mazda3 builds with suspension upgrades, intake/exhaust modifications, and various other improvements appear regularly.
Mazda3 generations
First (2003-2009). Original Mazda3. Compact sedan and hatchback. Various engine options including 2.0 and 2.3 liter four-cylinders.
Second (2009-2014). Refined styling, included Mazdaspeed 3 (Speed3) variant 2010-2013.
Third (2014-2019). Skyactiv-G technology launch. Improved fuel efficiency and refined dynamics.
Fourth (2019+). Current generation. Skyactiv-X engine option (with compression ignition technology). Mazda3 Turbo variant (2021+) with 250 horsepower.
Mazda3 on WhipJury
Mazdaspeed 3 (covered separately as Speed3) and modern Mazda3 Turbo submissions are most common. Stock examples appear regularly. Modified Mazda3 builds with various performance upgrades are popular. The community recognizes the Mazda3 as one of the better compact car platforms.
Frequently asked questions about Mazda Mazda3
More on the Mazda Mazda3
Every Mazdaspeed3 made 263 hp and 280 lb-ft from a 2.3-liter turbo four, from 2007 through 2013. Here is how Mazda kept that torque in check through the front wheels, what magazine tests clocked, and why the 2010 car wore a grin.
The 20/4/10 rule is a car-buying guideline that says you should put at least 20 percent down, finance for no more than 4 years, and keep your total monthly transportation costs under 10 percent of your gross monthly income. Transportation costs means everything: the loan payment, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.
New cars have fake exhaust tips because designers want the look of a performance exhaust without the cost, packaging, and emissions headaches of actually routing one there. The real pipe usually exits lower down, pointed at the ground behind the bumper, while a chrome trim piece sits in the bumper doing nothing.
The $3,000 rule for cars is a budgeting guideline that comes in two forms depending on whether you're buying a car with cash or financing one. For cash buyers it suggests that $3,000 is roughly the floor for buying a reliable used vehicle worth owning. For buyers financing a vehicle it suggests that $3,000 should be your minimum down payment before committing to a loan. Both versions of the rule are built around the same underlying principle: car ownership costs significantly more than the purchase price, and you need a financial buffer before you start...