I love my Mazda I was recently almost in an accident and this car saved me. I was going down the highway in Cali at around 70mph in the middle lane and some guy hits the blinker left and turns into the lane at the same time I almost hit him but i start swerving and the car kept its composure and handled everything great. Love my Mazda.
Good thing about Mazda.. You get a beautiful and luxurious ride, driving dynamics, and the badge heritage and legacy, but that thing will put you before anything else and save you!
I have a 2010 GT Sedan with a manual and even after 9 years and 112,000 miles I still enjoy enjoy ripping it around corners. And can we applaud Mazda for still offering a manual on the Grand Touring trim!
This car is my favorite car I have ever driven. I truly feel a connection with this car. You really feel like you are one with the vehicle and the handling is great. It feels comfortable inside and looks beautiful. I have the snowflake white as shown but with black interior. I always get compliments on it. It's fun to drive (sometimes a little too fun!) I will be a Mazda customer for years to come!
2019: Mazda Kai becomes the next Mazda3 with Sky-Activ X. 2020: All wheel drive gets added... until then I will enjoy my 2014 GT... but seriously, there's nothing like these cars out there in this price range. If you're not looking at them, please do!! From a realtime owner of this exact car (just a couple years older), everything this review says is 100% accurate. It's really awesome.
I have a 2014 Mazda 3 S Grand Touring Hatch; love the 2.5 liter engine, sport mode with paddle shifters are awesome! I have the black leather with red sport stitching and all weather mats. I’ve had it since June and it is a fun yet economic car. Practical too with the hatch. Fold down the rear seats and I had more than enough room for my move. Do wish it had a sportier exhaust but I plan on putting a Racing Beat cat back system on it. Definitely a premium compact car. Love it.
Went for a test drive in one of these today. Really beautiful car, nice and smooth to drive and it's got all the bits and bobs that you could want. Decently priced in comparison to others in it's class for the features that you get with it.
Been watching this review for years now and finally traded in my 2010 Mazda3 i Touring for this exact configuration without the appearance package, and loving it so far. Thanks for you all your reviews Matt!
Toyota4Life ...people are programmed, that's why. It takes a while to break people if what they're used to doing. Honda and Toyota earned their reps, rightly so, but Mazda has been making a quality product for years now. Our 2007 Mazda 6 has 177K on it and no major issues since we got it back in Feb of 2011 with 29K on it.
Hennessy * ...not a Mazda fan, I get it but maybe the road noise is because of the tires, I mean Mazda cars are tuned for spirited driving. That said, they've addressed road noise in the newer 6's
I bought a 2017 2.5L Touring HB /w 6 spd manual. All this car needs now is a good set of meats. I'm thinking: Firestone Indy 500 ($104-107 ea), Continental Contacts...Ditch the GAwful Dunlaps. IMHO, a set of good summers on this thing and it'll take to task some very expensive cars....I did this with my Corvette, and the transformation was nothing less than astounding.
My husband has a 2015 Mazda 3 GT and we love it. Very reliable, great fuel economy and much more sporty/better looking then the civic or focus. Love the paddle shifters and the beautiful interior.
I looked at one of these about a year and a half ago and was really taken with it. A genuinely nice looking car, packed with features for a reasonable price. Perfect daily car!
2019 - 2020 is when we should be expecting a hit or miss Mazda hot hatch when they drop the new Skyactiv-X lineup. Cannot wait to see the MPS' successor.
I feel like mazda is so underated compared to the other competitors. This car is so much better than a Honda or Toyota, my dad owns a mechanic shop and constantly gets newer hondas coming in (not many Toyotas though other than rav4s)
The later manufactured 2018 Mazda 3 Touring, and G.T. models have Apple Car Play/Android Auto installed in them. I just bought a 2018 M3 Touring hatchback that has them both installed on the dash monitor. The salesman confirmed that my car has them.
You pay for the brand. German cars have absolutely horrific reliability and are a money drain. I have a feeling they are made bad on purpose to make real profit from dealership visits. I don't understand how to this day Toyota and Honda makes cheap vehicles from cheap parts while German luxury with all its cutting edge technology creates money pits that depreciate like falling meteors.
Mike Garcia: Ford sold their entire stake in Mazda during the recession almost 10 years ago, and the current Mazda’s don’t share even a bolt with Fords.
Looking at a 2018 Mazda3 GT with the 6 speed manual. I actually hadn't planned on buying a car for another year, but when this guy popped up 2 hours from me, I really couldn't let the opportunity pass me by. Going to check it out Saturday, very stoked!
Your my benchmark for how a car performs and handles. Especially when you hit the "backroads" ... the bigger the smile on your face when you punch the gas tells me how good a car is. You and TheFastLane always give consistent reviews. The Mazda 2.5 isnt a Hemi powerwise but with the superbly calibrated transmission shift points in sport mode you can still have a blast and get great economy too! I cant wait for your Mazda 6 Turbo and CX5 Diesel reviews in the near future.
I loved my 04 Mazda6S. It had the Duratec 30 and was a beast. While I’ve fallen into owning Chevrolets (my new Cruze Premier is a great handling car), I still have a special place for the Zoom Zoom special.
I just bought a Soul Red Metallic Mazda 3 Touring Hatchback Manual in the US. I spoke with the dealer about Auto/Carplay. They said that Mazda has finally announced that the Mazda6 will be shipping with it installed this summer and this fall or perhaps early winter it will become an dealer installed accessory. The issue is in part the need of the touchscreen while driving (which Mazda currently locks out over something like 5mph) and in part the USB ports did not provide enough current (amps) to satisfy Google and Apple in charging the devices quickly while interacting with the system. Dealers will replace the USB/SD module and flash the firmware on the system for a fee once it is available. This will be available only for models 2017 and newer for the 3. I do not know about compatibility for the older 6, CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9 models.
I have it in my 2015 and the clarity is good. Bass isn’t too bad either but unlike the previous gens, the bass is primarily from mids in the doors whereas they used to have subs. Only problem is the build quality of the speakers themselves
Got mine used last month 2018 Sport w Preferred pckg w 29k miles Deep Blue, one owner, everything clean detailed and checked out by Mazda and Mercedes. Bought from local Mercedes Benz dealer that I used to work for as a kid. Final price: $13400 OTD.
There is a free internet update you can do to get Android auto for the info system. Just search for it in you tube. Makes the car experience even better!! Enjoy
I'm with you Matt I hope they create a new Mazdaspeed3 for 2019, all they have to do is throw the CX9 motor in it, and tweak the suspension, make it AWD with a manual gearbox, if they did this I would buy one tomorrow lol.
King Keston, Mazda will not be going down that path anymore as they are moving their vehicles to a more premium platform. Not to say the 3 may not get an enhanced engine, it just won't be labeled as a speed version
Something about Skyactiv power plants. The deliver something different to what the raw numbers would have you expect. Sure the peak numbers may be nothing significant, but they produce almost diesel like torque characteristics everywhere in the rev range. They are like a 21st century version of the sort of engine you’d find in 1960s Euros.
true, but there aren't enough enthusiasts around (in America) to purchase that configuration to justify selling it at all, so selling the auto sedan keeps production up enough I'm okay with its existence.
The Mazda3 5-door (hatch) in the GT trim w/ a manual transmission is still sold in the US. There's at least 1-3 vehicles at every Mazda dealership near me that matches those specs. Do they sell many? Probably not, which is why they've only got a few. But they're always in stock, so far as I've seen.
My younger brother own the 3 hatch. It’s a good car, the chassis would of been perfect for a speed3- Mazda’s Kai concept/next generation 3 would most likely return of the speed3. The only problem with the car is the road noise.
I have a 2016 Mazda 3. At first I thought it lacked power, particularly from a full stop. Now that I'm used to it that doesn't bother me. It's a good all around daily driver that doesn't really have any one feature that's outstanding, but then again, nothing that's a nuisance either. Except maybe the lack of Android/Apple compatibility with the infotainment system.
I've owned a couple M3s over the years, a 2nd gen and a 3rd gen, and both were excellent cars with a very sporty character, for the class. The Skyactiv 2.5 is also an amazing engine that offers and excellent balance between performance and economy. I averaged 38 MPGs in mostly highway driving. My only complaints were the cheap feeling of interior materials and the terrible, buggy infotainment system. I like the interior design, but if Mazda wants to call itself a class above, they really need to eliminate the hard plastics and finally offer a more advanced infotainment system that supports Apple and Android. Otherwise, it is the best overall package in the compact segment, in my opinion.
Raiyuden I have a 2014 Mazda3 GT hatch; essentially the same as the 2018 model and I’m in love with it. You will not be disappointed if you go with it. It looks handsome and is very fun while still being very practical and getting pretty good fuel economy. On the highway I actually get about 40 mpg if driving naturally. Spirited driving in sport mode will of course result in lower numbers but nonetheless as great car. I compared it against the Civic hatch sport trim when I was looking for a new car and the Mazda won hands down for me. I didn’t buy new because I was going to take a bit of negative equity on my trade in and when I bought my 14 in June it only had 23k miles and was in excellent condition.
Bought this exact car in Titanium Flash Mica without the optional package. It's so nice to have a car that I can actually feel the road with. Minus side - potholes. Yikes.
I feel honoured that you love my car. 😊 Honestly wouldn’t have any other in this segment. I’ve had mine for nearly 4 years now and all I really want from it is AWD, a black headliner and a little more power (and maybe if it could shift a little faster). That being said, I’m planning on trading up next year but I’m actually having a hard time finding something this reliable, efficient, fun to drive and high quality at such a reasonable price. Would you suggest a Lexus IS maybe?
ildrichaseron Kia stinger 4 cylinder premium or base, just my opinion. More bang for the buck and better options. Plus awd for 2k. Styling is amazing to me but that's up to you
The Lexus IS350 would be a good upgrade if you don't mind a stiffer ride than the Mazda. You could always trade up to the new Mazda 6 with the turbo motor. Kia Stinger is also an excellent choice.
I do love the look of the Mazdas and how sporty they are according to reviews (would love to test drive one to compare to my 13 Cruze), I don't like their infotainment system versus Chevy and some others, and I too would hate that HUD and how it is executed as you stated and the driver information/Dash area is so simple, and different than what I am use to, but if I had one I could acclimate to it just fine. Another nice review Matt as always, I like a thorough and comprehensive review over the quick walkarounds. ZOOM ZOOM!!!
Night and day difference compared with a Cruze. My buddy has a 2012 Mazda 3 Sport with auto and it was 1000 times better than my 2014 Cruze with manual. Another friend has a 2008 Mazda Speed 3, and his friend has a brand new 2017 Mazda 3. In comparison with my Cruze (which is LONG gone now), it made the Cruze look / feel like a Chinese knock off a 300k mile Yugo.
Matt, would you prefer this type of Mazda 3 or the Hyundai Elantra Sport with the 1.6 turbo as a daily driver? I don’t think you have driven the ES yet.... curious what you think before hand. Also, please do a review of one!! Love your review style. Cheers
I have a 2015 S Touring Manual hatchback and the driving experience and powertrain have been generally great (knock on wood). However I've been a bit disappointed with the quality of the car's components, and mine's the Japanese-made one: - Leather steering wheel is starting to tear - Driver door lock has failed 3x and the 4th lock is buzzing again too - Both front door Bose speakers have blown due to a design flaw where water leaks from the windows outside down into the unprotected speakers which corrodes them prematurely. - Headlights have condensation trapped in them - Creaky front suspension is starting to develop - Cabin air filter has been changed three times due to musty smell - Major orange peel in the finish and thin paint in general... lots of mini rock chips All at just under 50,000 miles! And I'm the type of person to park at the back of every parkinglot, handwash or touchless carwashes weekly, no food in the car, avoid potholes like the plague... So although the drive and engine components have been great, I've been very disappointed with the quality and am considering selling. I used to recommend Mazda to everyone, used to work at their dealership. Unfortunately, I'm not sure I can anymore. Such a shame -- great care let down by quality issues -- all of which are NOT uncommon!
I have a 2015 GT and tomorrow i am replacing the the front Bose speakers the right one has a little rust and has blown. Thanks for clearing up the water leaking issue. My steering wheel is also chipping off. Went in for 25k service and ended up having to replace the rotors in the back which is premature as well. I totally agree with the quality of some of the parts as well. Japanese one too.
Todd Stewart I was more upset before I realized everyone is having the same issues. That’s the problem with buying from a company like Mazda who is “newer” and operates on a smaller scale. Great mechanically so far but I’m unfortunately thinking of selling because the failures all seem to be due to poor design rather than one-offs and seem destined to happen again... Sad, because I bought this to be a 200k mile car!
got a '17 gt hatch, and the gas mileage stated 26/35 mpg, but how did the '18 get to 27/36 with no change? Did the EPA make another revision to their mpg calculation? Anyway, i had been averaging about (combined) 30.00+mpg until 9k. Since 9k, I don't know if it just the motor finally broke in, but now my combined mileage has increased to almost 33mpg.
Nice! I’ve got a 2015 I grand touring sedan in the same color (except the interior is black). My only wish is not getting the s trim but the 2.0 is still a proven engine
I might get one. I like Matt's reviews. Of the 2018's I've watched he's seemed to really like the Mazda3, Ford Fiesta ST, and Toyota Corolla hatchback (in the 20k range) the best.
Hey guys, I'm torn between mazda3 hatch and civic hatch. I've test drove both and still can't decide. I wished the civic had the blind spot indicators, heated wheel, transmission, and more mature looks from the mazda. But I wished the mazda has the space, and turbo from the civic
Tech Defender The turbo on the Civic really doesn't do much for it. They're both basically the same horsepower. The civic is just a smaller displacement with a turbo, the mazda has a larger displacement and no turbo. I'd go with the Mazda
Tech Defender I think the Civic is excellent but I think the extra features and nicer interior on the Mazda 3 would keep me entertained longer than the Civic especially because the Mazda has good power from the 2.5 Liter engine.
I don't know if you're looking for a manual, but I would actually say that my friend and I enjoyed the clutch and shifter feel MUCH more in the Civic hatch. Yes, the Mazda interior is better, but I think the driver experience in the Civic is better. Both are very close, though.
It depends on what trim level you want to get. I was about to get a Mazda 3 iTouring but ended up getting Civic EX-T sedan instead because it had more features for less money. The EX-T trim is a great value and you get a little bit more for your money than a similarly priced Mazda. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend $28k I'd go for the fully loaded Mazda. As for base models, I find the Civic to be a better value in my opinion. Not trying to be a Honda fanboy here, they are both wonderful cars. Just my thoughts 🙂. Let me know which one you get!
Best in it's segment? Likely, though I do really like what VW brings to the table with the GLI. Just needs a bigger engine and I could see people ditching some of their luxury cars for these new Mazdas.
2.5 engine is great and good pick up for passing, 2.0 engine feels slow for passing unless you put your foot into. The road noise is so bad I hope changing my tires out will help once there wear out. If you one a Mazda 3 get the 2.5 or you will be sad.
I love my Mazda I was recently almost in an accident and this car saved me. I was going down the highway in Cali at around 70mph in the middle lane and some guy hits the blinker left and turns into the lane at the same time I almost hit him but i start swerving and the car kept its composure and handled everything great. Love my Mazda.
Good thing about Mazda.. You get a beautiful and luxurious ride, driving dynamics, and the badge heritage and legacy, but that thing will put you before anything else and save you!
I have a 2010 GT Sedan with a manual and even after 9 years and 112,000 miles I still enjoy enjoy ripping it around corners.
And can we applaud Mazda for still offering a manual on the Grand Touring trim!
Mazda is a true underdog. They make fantastic vehicles!
This car is my favorite car I have ever driven. I truly feel a connection with this car. You really feel like you are one with the vehicle and the handling is great. It feels comfortable inside and looks beautiful. I have the snowflake white as shown but with black interior. I always get compliments on it. It's fun to drive (sometimes a little too fun!) I will be a Mazda customer for years to come!
Still better than the 2019 model. Get one of these used with low mileage. It's a steal!
why do you say that? Im in the market right now
It’s actually what I’m planning to do
I own a 2018 in this color that I bought new. Drove the 2019 as a rental car and would never trade my 2018 for the newer 3.
Nikolai Harhai good to know. I wanted an opinion from a driver who has driven both. I plan on getting an 18 fully loaded
@@richl1319 Glad to know I could help.
2019: Mazda Kai becomes the next Mazda3 with Sky-Activ X. 2020: All wheel drive gets added... until then I will enjoy my 2014 GT... but seriously, there's nothing like these cars out there in this price range. If you're not looking at them, please do!! From a realtime owner of this exact car (just a couple years older), everything this review says is 100% accurate. It's really awesome.
Not a bad little car, most up scale looking in it’s class imo.
I own a 2018 GT and it's the best sedan car I've ever had... 4 out of 5 for reliability, 30 mpg combined, 186 HP that makes it fun 😊
I LOVE my Mazda 6. I've driven a fair amount of cars in this class and IMO nothing compares in terms of driving.
I have a 2014 Mazda 3 S Grand Touring Hatch; love the 2.5 liter engine, sport mode with paddle shifters are awesome! I have the black leather with red sport stitching and all weather mats. I’ve had it since June and it is a fun yet economic car. Practical too with the hatch. Fold down the rear seats and I had more than enough room for my move. Do wish it had a sportier exhaust but I plan on putting a Racing Beat cat back system on it. Definitely a premium compact car. Love it.
I have a 2017 4 door sedan Grand Touring with manual transmission and I love it. To me the sedan looks so much better than the hatchback.
I bought this car today!
CC 420 awesome I’m looking to buy one used also
Just purchased one and I’m so pleased and happy I bought it. I have the preferred package. Wish it had Apple Car Play/Android Auto.
I downloaded android auto from some guy on youtube and it works great on my 2015 mazda
Went for a test drive in one of these today. Really beautiful car, nice and smooth to drive and it's got all the bits and bobs that you could want. Decently priced in comparison to others in it's class for the features that you get with it.
Been watching this review for years now and finally traded in my 2010 Mazda3 i Touring for this exact configuration without the appearance package, and loving it so far. Thanks for you all your reviews Matt!
Sooooo far ahead of its competition, not even close!
Klasse Act lol then why do you see more of the competition ?
Toyota4Life ...huh😊
Toyota4Life ...people are programmed, that's why. It takes a while to break people if what they're used to doing. Honda and Toyota earned their reps, rightly so, but Mazda has been making a quality product for years now. Our 2007 Mazda 6 has 177K on it and no major issues since we got it back in Feb of 2011 with 29K on it.
Klasse Act ... Maybe he ment that Mazda vehicles road noise is louder than the competition ... That's definitely ahead of the game
Hennessy * ...not a Mazda fan, I get it but maybe the road noise is because of the tires, I mean Mazda cars are tuned for spirited driving. That said, they've addressed road noise in the newer 6's
I bought a 2017 2.5L Touring HB /w 6 spd manual. All this car needs now is a good set of meats. I'm thinking: Firestone Indy 500 ($104-107 ea), Continental Contacts...Ditch the GAwful Dunlaps. IMHO, a set of good summers on this thing and it'll take to task some very expensive cars....I did this with my Corvette, and the transformation was nothing less than astounding.
My husband has a 2015 Mazda 3 GT and we love it. Very reliable, great fuel economy and much more sporty/better looking then the civic or focus. Love the paddle shifters and the beautiful interior.
I looked at one of these about a year and a half ago and was really taken with it. A genuinely nice looking car, packed with features for a reasonable price. Perfect daily car!
This would be the real enthusiast car if it is a Mazdaspeed3
The entire Mazda lineup has a pretty style to it, just wish we would get a hot hatch again from them!
look to hyundai for that atm with the i30n and the new veloster.
Not hot as you are :P
veloster is shit
2019 - 2020 is when we should be expecting a hit or miss Mazda hot hatch when they drop the new Skyactiv-X lineup. Cannot wait to see the MPS' successor.
@@toreclipsian One of the original simps. Nice.
I feel like mazda is so underated compared to the other competitors. This car is so much better than a Honda or Toyota, my dad owns a mechanic shop and constantly gets newer hondas coming in (not many Toyotas though other than rav4s)
Purchase a 17 hatch, its been one year and has 7500 miles. Love the car runs great. Handling is awesome
The later manufactured 2018 Mazda 3 Touring, and G.T. models have Apple Car Play/Android Auto installed in them. I just bought a 2018 M3 Touring hatchback that has them both installed on the dash monitor. The salesman confirmed that my car has them.
So does mine! I love it
My 2018 touring hatch also has them installed. It was a nice surprise, along with the larger 2.5 liter engine that the 2017 touring didn't have.
Better interior quality than the BMW 3 Series.
You pay for the brand. German cars have absolutely horrific reliability and are a money drain. I have a feeling they are made bad on purpose to make real profit from dealership visits. I don't understand how to this day Toyota and Honda makes cheap vehicles from cheap parts while German luxury with all its cutting edge technology creates money pits that depreciate like falling meteors.
You're living in the past if you think German cars still have horrific reliability. Don't be so ignorant
Alexander Major the Mazda is pretty nice but no it is definitely not nicer than a 3 series.
cutthroat795 read my comment. I have driven both and my comment is in reference to the interior quality alone. Nothing else
Agreed I have the 2017 Mazda 3 and my dad has the bmw 3 series I enjoy driving my car way more
Mazda’s four cylinders sound almost as good as V6s tbh.
I have a CAI for my Mazda 6 2.5 and it sounds very good. More base note and has a nice burble intake sounds at lower RPM.
I love hearing my 3 rev, but I can't get it in the upper ranges of the tach very often given SF traffic
It’s a ford, so ur saying fords 4 cylinders sound good? Lol
Mike Garcia: Ford sold their entire stake in Mazda during the recession almost 10 years ago, and the current Mazda’s don’t share even a bolt with Fords.
brassrox
Nope incorrect my friend, Ford still owns a little bit Mazda . And I know for sure Mazda still uses ford engines in there vehicles
Most value for the price. What even comes close? 2018 even added 2.5L engine to the 22k mid trim
#bringbackthemazdaspeed3
dollaz and sense 4life Damn straight!
Looking at a 2018 Mazda3 GT with the 6 speed manual. I actually hadn't planned on buying a car for another year, but when this guy popped up 2 hours from me, I really couldn't let the opportunity pass me by. Going to check it out Saturday, very stoked!
Your my benchmark for how a car performs and handles. Especially when you hit the "backroads" ... the bigger the smile on your face when you punch the gas tells me how good a car is. You and TheFastLane always give consistent reviews. The Mazda 2.5 isnt a Hemi powerwise but with the superbly calibrated transmission shift points in sport mode you can still have a blast and get great economy too! I cant wait for your Mazda 6 Turbo and CX5 Diesel reviews in the near future.
I loved my 04 Mazda6S. It had the Duratec 30 and was a beast. While I’ve fallen into owning Chevrolets (my new Cruze Premier is a great handling car), I still have a special place for the Zoom Zoom special.
I just bought a Soul Red Metallic Mazda 3 Touring Hatchback Manual in the US. I spoke with the dealer about Auto/Carplay. They said that Mazda has finally announced that the Mazda6 will be shipping with it installed this summer and this fall or perhaps early winter it will become an dealer installed accessory. The issue is in part the need of the touchscreen while driving (which Mazda currently locks out over something like 5mph) and in part the USB ports did not provide enough current (amps) to satisfy Google and Apple in charging the devices quickly while interacting with the system. Dealers will replace the USB/SD module and flash the firmware on the system for a fee once it is available. This will be available only for models 2017 and newer for the 3. I do not know about compatibility for the older 6, CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9 models.
really good video, good quality and really helpful info on it Thank you keep doing videos as this one !!!
Thank you !
i bought the hatchback and i love it
I have a 17 hatch and its amazing. The civic is still lagging behind to me
I love my 18 hatch. What colour did you pick?
Thanks Matt For FINALLY Doing a mazda
What about the Bose sound ??? Please talk more about the sound systems in reviews ! This is important !
Yeah everyone knows if it's Bose it's gonna sound great
I have it in my 2015 and the clarity is good. Bass isn’t too bad either but unlike the previous gens, the bass is primarily from mids in the doors whereas they used to have subs. Only problem is the build quality of the speakers themselves
Classy looking car, tasteful, not over done
Got mine used last month 2018 Sport w Preferred pckg w 29k miles Deep Blue, one owner, everything clean detailed and checked out by Mazda and Mercedes. Bought from local Mercedes Benz dealer that I used to work for as a kid. Final price: $13400 OTD.
spookerr wow that’s a steal I’m looking into one also used fully loaded though. Is yours a manual ?
I’ve actually been thinking of ditching my e92 328i for one of these in a manual for my daily
Evan's Garage both nice cars. I love the interiors of these cars
First car I'm gonna get when I graduate college for sure !! But in hatchback form with a 6-speed!
They are hard to find in America. I had to set up a dealer trade for one 200 miles away and I had to not be picky about trim and color.
Finally!!Been waiting since 2014 for you to review 3rd gen mazda 3's!!
Freaking LOVE my 2018 GT (6speed manual) he hustles..I agree with the tires and springs. Coil-overs are needed.
Backroad 11:16
thanks
Dear Mazda, bring back the MazdaSpeed3
Thank you so much for this video Matt! I'm looking at this car right now!!
got the 2018 hatch black...love it!!!
Woooah, I'm late. Was expecting subaruwrxfan intro and I got a quick, concise Matt Maran. Lol still love your reviews man
Now, that's a nice car. Similar to my 2018 Mazda3 GT.
I got a 2011 Mazda 3 with 175k miles still running strong
really liked your video man, keep it up!
There is a free internet update you can do to get Android auto for the info system. Just search for it in you tube. Makes the car experience even better!! Enjoy
Great review - so comprehensive. Even some details here that I wasn't aware of. Thanks for sharing!
I like it! And you're my favorite cross-eyed reviewer!
7:30 someone has really bad aim with their USB cable
wasn't expecting that sound haha. sounds nice
They should make a new MPS version of it
Patrick Star that would probly be like a 350hp monster.Id love to see that!
it should have at least 300 hp to take on its competition like the Type R, Focus RS, Golf R
So which do you think is more fun to drive Honda Civic or Mazda 3 ?????
Thought it was a luxury car the first time I saw one in person
I'm with you Matt I hope they create a new Mazdaspeed3 for 2019, all they have to do is throw the CX9 motor in it, and tweak the suspension, make it AWD with a manual gearbox, if they did this I would buy one tomorrow lol.
King Keston, Mazda will not be going down that path anymore as they are moving their vehicles to a more premium platform. Not to say the 3 may not get an enhanced engine, it just won't be labeled as a speed version
Something about Skyactiv power plants. The deliver something different to what the raw numbers would have you expect. Sure the peak numbers may be nothing significant, but they produce almost diesel like torque characteristics everywhere in the rev range. They are like a 21st century version of the sort of engine you’d find in 1960s Euros.
The engine sounds sweet for a 4 cylinder. So the 2019's quiets everything (cabin noise, engine noise) down?
Does hud come on when you start car? Or can you turn it off and on with a switch?
If Mazda is kind enough to lend you a cx7 it would be a terrific car review, it looks so premium than a lot of other cars. Btw, liked the video 😊
Well done, Matt. Looks like a sensible car for those looking for basic transportation with some zing!
Outstanding review. I would love to see you review the Mazda 6 and CX-5 also.
for real, wish honda and toyota would hire these designers
They intentionally design ugly cars so people will buy Lexus and Acura if they want something upscale.
Nice Roberto Clemente shirt Matt!!
I have a 2015 Mazda 3 Touring hatchback and there's been a few times where I got over 40 mpg, the highest was about 45 mpg.
The 3 is the enthusiasts compact, but a real enthusiast would get a manual hatch.
true, but there aren't enough enthusiasts around (in America) to purchase that configuration to justify selling it at all, so selling the auto sedan keeps production up enough I'm okay with its existence.
The Mazda3 5-door (hatch) in the GT trim w/ a manual transmission is still sold in the US. There's at least 1-3 vehicles at every Mazda dealership near me that matches those specs.
Do they sell many? Probably not, which is why they've only got a few. But they're always in stock, so far as I've seen.
Good Review as always
Agree
The Tachometer and speedometer reminds me a lot of the ones from The RX8
My younger brother own the 3 hatch. It’s a good car, the chassis would of been perfect for a speed3- Mazda’s Kai concept/next generation 3 would most likely return of the speed3. The only problem with the car is the road noise.
Great review as always Matt! It's a shame we can't get the 2.5 variant in our country....-_-
Great design and steering feel/handling...really nice interior too.
I have a 2016 Mazda 3. At first I thought it lacked power, particularly from a full stop. Now that I'm used to it that doesn't bother me. It's a good all around daily driver that doesn't really have any one feature that's outstanding, but then again, nothing that's a nuisance either. Except maybe the lack of Android/Apple compatibility with the infotainment system.
I've owned a couple M3s over the years, a 2nd gen and a 3rd gen, and both were excellent cars with a very sporty character, for the class. The Skyactiv 2.5 is also an amazing engine that offers and excellent balance between performance and economy. I averaged 38 MPGs in mostly highway driving. My only complaints were the cheap feeling of interior materials and the terrible, buggy infotainment system. I like the interior design, but if Mazda wants to call itself a class above, they really need to eliminate the hard plastics and finally offer a more advanced infotainment system that supports Apple and Android. Otherwise, it is the best overall package in the compact segment, in my opinion.
Matt your killing us after years of requesting for you to review the mazda 3 it isn't even the hatchback
NOFATCHICK1 Mazda gives him any car to review, not his choice necessarily. I’m sure he would rather it be a hatch, like myself hahah.
I prefer the hatch too but this is what I was sent.
Yep, the sedan is still wonderful too! :)
Come on, dont be so ungrateful
some people are never happy
I honestly can't decide between a 2018 Mazda 3 GT (Hatch), 2018 Mazda 6 GT or the Honda Civic (Hatch) in Sport trim. What do you guys think?
Raiyuden The Civic Sport is basically an LX which would make the Mazda an easy choice for me.
Raiyuden I have a 2014 Mazda3 GT hatch; essentially the same as the 2018 model and I’m in love with it. You will not be disappointed if you go with it. It looks handsome and is very fun while still being very practical and getting pretty good fuel economy. On the highway I actually get about 40 mpg if driving naturally. Spirited driving in sport mode will of course result in lower numbers but nonetheless as great car. I compared it against the Civic hatch sport trim when I was looking for a new car and the Mazda won hands down for me. I didn’t buy new because I was going to take a bit of negative equity on my trade in and when I bought my 14 in June it only had 23k miles and was in excellent condition.
Raiyuden I say get 18 6 for turbo and signature trim. Best sedan for its class.
Bought this exact car in Titanium Flash Mica without the optional package. It's so nice to have a car that I can actually feel the road with. Minus side - potholes. Yikes.
The sounds of my people: 11:16
This was an especially good review Matt! Now would you take this or the new Civic si?
Tough choice. The Civic just feels so big now, I’d probably go for the Mazda.
I feel honoured that you love my car. 😊 Honestly wouldn’t have any other in this segment.
I’ve had mine for nearly 4 years now and all I really want from it is AWD, a black headliner and a little more power (and maybe if it could shift a little faster).
That being said, I’m planning on trading up next year but I’m actually having a hard time finding something this reliable, efficient, fun to drive and high quality at such a reasonable price. Would you suggest a Lexus IS maybe?
ildrichaseron Kia stinger 4 cylinder premium or base, just my opinion. More bang for the buck and better options. Plus awd for 2k. Styling is amazing to me but that's up to you
The Lexus IS350 would be a good upgrade if you don't mind a stiffer ride than the Mazda. You could always trade up to the new Mazda 6 with the turbo motor. Kia Stinger is also an excellent choice.
Can you review the
2018 Elantra GT sport?
I do love the look of the Mazdas and how sporty they are according to reviews (would love to test drive one to compare to my 13 Cruze), I don't like their infotainment system versus Chevy and some others, and I too would hate that HUD and how it is executed as you stated and the driver information/Dash area is so simple, and different than what I am use to, but if I had one I could acclimate to it just fine. Another nice review Matt as always, I like a thorough and comprehensive review over the quick walkarounds. ZOOM ZOOM!!!
Night and day difference compared with a Cruze. My buddy has a 2012 Mazda 3 Sport with auto and it was 1000 times better than my 2014 Cruze with manual. Another friend has a 2008 Mazda Speed 3, and his friend has a brand new 2017 Mazda 3. In comparison with my Cruze (which is LONG gone now), it made the Cruze look / feel like a Chinese knock off a 300k mile Yugo.
Matt, would you prefer this type of Mazda 3 or the Hyundai Elantra Sport with the 1.6 turbo as a daily driver? I don’t think you have driven the ES yet.... curious what you think before hand. Also, please do a review of one!! Love your review style. Cheers
How was that Bose sound system
I need the Kai concept with AWD and a 2.5 Turbo in my life.
Mazda is coming up in the world
I have a 2015 S Touring Manual hatchback and the driving experience and powertrain have been generally great (knock on wood). However I've been a bit disappointed with the quality of the car's components, and mine's the Japanese-made one:
- Leather steering wheel is starting to tear
- Driver door lock has failed 3x and the 4th lock is buzzing again too
- Both front door Bose speakers have blown due to a design flaw where water leaks from the windows outside down into the unprotected speakers which corrodes them prematurely.
- Headlights have condensation trapped in them
- Creaky front suspension is starting to develop
- Cabin air filter has been changed three times due to musty smell
- Major orange peel in the finish and thin paint in general... lots of mini rock chips
All at just under 50,000 miles!
And I'm the type of person to park at the back of every parkinglot, handwash or touchless carwashes weekly, no food in the car, avoid potholes like the plague...
So although the drive and engine components have been great, I've been very disappointed with the quality and am considering selling. I used to recommend Mazda to everyone, used to work at their dealership. Unfortunately, I'm not sure I can anymore.
Such a shame -- great care let down by quality issues -- all of which are NOT uncommon!
I have a 2015 GT and tomorrow i am replacing the the front Bose speakers the right one has a little rust and has blown. Thanks for clearing up the water leaking issue. My steering wheel is also chipping off. Went in for 25k service and ended up having to replace the rotors in the back which is premature as well. I totally agree with the quality of some of the parts as well. Japanese one too.
Todd Stewart I was more upset before I realized everyone is having the same issues.
That’s the problem with buying from a company like Mazda who is “newer” and operates on a smaller scale.
Great mechanically so far but I’m unfortunately thinking of selling because the failures all seem to be due to poor design rather than one-offs and seem destined to happen again...
Sad, because I bought this to be a 200k mile car!
got a '17 gt hatch, and the gas mileage stated 26/35 mpg, but how did the '18 get to 27/36 with no change? Did the EPA make another revision to their mpg calculation? Anyway, i had been averaging about (combined) 30.00+mpg until 9k.
Since 9k, I don't know if it just the motor finally broke in, but now my combined mileage has increased to almost 33mpg.
Good review! Could you please do a turbo and non turbo Mazda 6 review?
If Mazda will send me both I’d happily review both.
You should review the Mazda 6 next, everybody always shines light on the 3, MX-5 and all their SUV offerings, but leave the Mazda 6 in the dark.
Hoping Mazda sends me one of those next, although I’d rather wait for the new turbo one.
Nice! I’ve got a 2015 I grand touring sedan in the same color (except the interior is black). My only wish is not getting the s trim but the 2.0 is still a proven engine
I might get one. I like Matt's reviews. Of the 2018's I've watched he's seemed to really like the Mazda3, Ford Fiesta ST, and Toyota Corolla hatchback (in the 20k range) the best.
Hey guys, I'm torn between mazda3 hatch and civic hatch. I've test drove both and still can't decide. I wished the civic had the blind spot indicators, heated wheel, transmission, and more mature looks from the mazda. But I wished the mazda has the space, and turbo from the civic
Tech Defender The turbo on the Civic really doesn't do much for it. They're both basically the same horsepower. The civic is just a smaller displacement with a turbo, the mazda has a larger displacement and no turbo. I'd go with the Mazda
Tech Defender I think the Civic is excellent but I think the extra features and nicer interior on the Mazda 3 would keep me entertained longer than the Civic especially because the Mazda has good power from the 2.5 Liter engine.
I agree with Kenny, Mazda is the way I'd go too.
I don't know if you're looking for a manual, but I would actually say that my friend and I enjoyed the clutch and shifter feel MUCH more in the Civic hatch. Yes, the Mazda interior is better, but I think the driver experience in the Civic is better. Both are very close, though.
It depends on what trim level you want to get. I was about to get a Mazda 3 iTouring but ended up getting Civic EX-T sedan instead because it had more features for less money. The EX-T trim is a great value and you get a little bit more for your money than a similarly priced Mazda. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend $28k I'd go for the fully loaded Mazda. As for base models, I find the Civic to be a better value in my opinion. Not trying to be a Honda fanboy here, they are both wonderful cars. Just my thoughts 🙂. Let me know which one you get!
How does this handle vs wrx or even the new accord sport 2.0t?
I know you know much more than I do about all vehicles, but can't help but wonder at 3:28, what a TOCK ometer is. Lol
Wish they gave you the hatchback version
Tech Defender I know right ? Why are sedans still being made .. hatchbacks are more practical in every single way.
Best in it's segment? Likely, though I do really like what VW brings to the table with the GLI.
Just needs a bigger engine and I could see people ditching some of their luxury cars for these new Mazdas.
2.5 engine is great and good pick up for passing, 2.0 engine feels slow for passing unless you put your foot into. The road noise is so bad I hope changing my tires out will help once there wear out. If you one a Mazda 3 get the 2.5 or you will be sad.