2025 Mazda 3 Hatchback

Price Range: $25,150 - $37,150

2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr Hatchback Exterior

Below Average

The 2025 Mazda 3 is a comfortable, refined and borderline luxurious little hatchback. Its available turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive are added bonuses. However, it suffers from a cramped back seat, an inconvenient cargo area design, and a high sticker price.Read full review

33 Owner Reviews

30 mpg

Combined MPG

4 Offers Near Des Moines, IA

Check out current offers on the Mazda3 Hatchback

View Offers

MazdaUSA.com

See All for Sale

Shop vehicle inventory at dealers near you

Mazda 3 for Sale

Pricing

Select year

Select a type

Edmunds suggests you pay

$23,900

See All for Sale

Edmunds suggested price is based on sales in IA thru 9/21/26, including destination fee, but not other dealer fees. Final assembly in Mexico or Japan.

Pros

Premium interior design and materials
Confident handling makes it fun to drive
Available all-wheel drive
Quick acceleration with the available turbocharged engine

Cons

Mediocre legroom in the back seat
Less cargo capacity than other small cars
Center display is too far away from the driver to easily use as a touchscreen

What's new

Entry-level 2.5 S trim now offered on hatchback models
Newly available Alexa Built-in voice assistant
Available onboard navigation now gets over-the-air updates
Part of the fourth Mazda 3 generation introduced for 2019

Overview

Written by automotive expert Alex Nishimoto

Updated: 9/22/2026

If you listen to your heart more than your head when purchasing a car, the Mazda 3 might be for you. Available as both a sedan and hatchback, this compact car is largely overshadowed by its competitors on paper. But it stands out in a few key areas: It's exciting to look at and drive. The Mazda 3's interior is another highlight because it uses higher-quality materials than you'd typically find in this class.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

Driven, tested, rated by automotive expert Kurt Niebuhr

Below Average

5.6

out of 10

We drove the 2025 Mazda 3 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Driving experience

6.6/10

How does the Mazda 3 drive? Both the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the optional (and far more powerful) turbocharged engine provide smooth power. At our test track, the base engine sauntered to 60 mph in a respectable 8.1 seconds. The turbocharged Mazda 3, on the other hand, rocketed to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest compact cars you can buy. Both the manual and automatic transmissions shift smoothly. We also like the Mazda 3's smooth ride. It soaks up bigger dips on the highway and feels very stable at higher speeds.

There are a few drawbacks to driving the Mazda 3, however. Visibility out of the back isn't great because of the hatchback's small rear window and rather large roof pillars. Also, some of the 3's advanced driver aids, such as the lane keeping system, aren't as helpful as those in some rival cars, like the Honda Civic.

Comfort

6.6/10

How comfortable is the Mazda 3? The Mazda 3 hatchback has an upscale interior. Even if you don't spend the extra money for the premium leather upholstery, the seats are comfortable and supportive, and the layout of major controls is driver-focused. The Mazda 3 is also fairly quiet, which helps it feel more premium than even fully loaded competitors. Engine and road noise is well isolated. As a bonus, the climate controls are real buttons and easy to reach.

Buyers looking for the Mazda 3 to pull family duty will be disappointed. The 3's back seat is difficult to get into and cramped for adults. Larger car safety seats might not fit unless you slide the front seat up, at which point it's going to be uncomfortable for the front passenger.

In-cabin tech

5.8/10

How’s the tech? The Mazda 3's screen is small, but it looks more purposefully integrated than the screens in other compact cars. The interface is on the minimalist side, but its graphics are clean and the system functions well with the control knob behind the shifter.

Usually, you use the Mazda 3's control knob to select menus on the display screen. But if you pair your smartphone using wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the system gains touchscreen functionality. The screen is also too much of a reach for easy touch access.

The Mazda 3 offers multiple USB ports in the front and a wireless charging pad along with a phone app that supports basic features. However, it's missing rear USB ports.

Storage & cargo

3/10

How’s storage and cargo? Cargo and interior storage space are not areas where the Mazda 3 excels. The trunk area is smaller than you'll find in the Honda Civic and isn't as convenient for loading in things. The trunk's floor isn't level with the opening area, making things more difficult.

Storage for small items in the cabin is surprisingly limited. There's some space in the center console and a small bin next to the steering wheel. But otherwise finding a home for multiple things or larger items will be troublesome.

Value

6.4/10

Is the Mazda 3 a good value? While the Mazda 3 hatchback offers extra power, refinement, and a more luxurious interior, all of these things come at a price. At its most affordable, the Mazda 3 is more expensive than the entry-level options from the Honda Civic and the Hyundai Elantra, and when fully optioned, the Mazda 3 is perilously close to $40,000 when new. For your money, fit and finish is excellent, and the Mazda 3 looks and feels special and price-appropriate. It's just a shame that some nice-to-have features are locked into the most expensive trim levels.

Warranty coverage for the Mazda 3 is typical for a mainstream brand, with bumper-to-bumper coverage of three years/36,000 miles and powertrain coverage extending to five years/60,000 miles.

MPG

5/10

How’s the fuel economy? At its best, the Mazda 3 hatchback is rated to return 30 mpg combined with either the automatic or manual transmission. Opting for all-wheel drive drops that number to 29 mpg. If you decide to spring for the turbocharged model, expect your average mpg to fall to 26-27 mpg combined. Unlike some of its competitors, it's worth noting that the Mazda 3 is not available with a hybrid powertrain.

X factor

9/10

With sophisticated styling, powerful engines, and an interior fit for a luxury car, the Mazda 3 stands out among its competitors. The availability of a manual transmission and optional all-wheel drive should further entice buyers looking for something special. While the latest Mazda 3 isn't as athletic or fun to drive as previous iterations, it has gained refinement to the point where it feels and drives better than many entry-level luxury sedans. It's more expensive than its rivals, but it feels more special.

Save as much as $3,805 with Edmunds

2025 Mazda 3 Hatchback pricing in Des Moines, IA

Edmunds suggests you pay

What should I pay

See all for sale

Deals & Buying Tips for the 2025 Mazda 3 for October

The big story on the 2025 Mazda 3 is scarcity: there are effectively no new cars left nationwide, so your smartest play is to pivot to used examples.

Skip new-car negotiation talk here. New inventory is basically gone, and the few remaining 2025 cars are just leftover stock. If you want a specific trim or color, the used market is the practical move.
Used supply is much healthier, with about 682 used Mazda 3s nationwide and prices starting around $19,900 for a used car. That wider selection gives you more room to compare listings and avoid overpaying.
If you shop used by trim, the 2.5 S Select Sport looks easiest to find with about 362 used cars, while the 2.5 S Preferred also has solid selection at about 171. Rarer trims like the 2.5 Carbon Turbo will take more patience.
On the leftover new cars, buyers were paying about $2,600 under MSRP on average, and there are no general customer cash rebates. There is a $500 Military Offer, but it matters less when new supply is this thin.

Was this information helpful?

2025 Mazda 3 trim level differences

The 2025 Mazda 3 is available as a sedan or a hatchback. There are two main trim levels that coincide with the choice of engine: Mazda 3 2.5 S and Mazda 2.5 Turbo. The base 2.5 S trim is eligible for all-wheel drive, while the Turbo has it as standard equipment. Compare the 2025 Mazda 3 trim levels in-depth.

Which 3 trim does Edmunds recommend?

For our money, the 2.5 S with Select Sport package offers the best bang for the buck. The Select Sport doesn't cost much more than the base model but gets you more attractive 18-inch wheels, synthetic leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, hands-free keyless entry and more. The 2.5-liter under the hood is also pretty gutsy for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder and should provide adequate thrust for most commutes.

Competitors to consider

The Mazda 3 competes with other compact sedans and hatchbacks on the market. If you're shopping for a car with a traditional trunk, you might also look at the Honda Civic sedan, Toyota Corolla sedan, Kia Forte, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Jetta and Nissan Sentra. The Mazda 3's hatchback rivals include the Civic hatch and Subaru Impreza, and could also include hot hatches like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Toyota GR Corolla if you're comparing them against the highest trim of the turbocharged Mazda 3.

Edmunds spotlight: All of the Mazda 3's changes for 2025

For 2025, Mazda has made the base 2.5 S trim available with the hatchback body style. Additionally, 2.5 S Select Sport models and up receive a new Alexa Built-in AI voice assistant, which can control the temperature in your car or change the radio station via voice prompts. It can also connect to Alexa-powered smart devices in your home. Models equipped with Mazda's onboard navigation system will now get the most current map data through over-the-air updates.

What’s it like to live with?

We spent a year with a 2020 Mazda 3 sedan, and despite its lackluster non-turbo engine, the compact four-door left us impressed. We liked the upscale feel of the interior and cushiness of the seats. A few editors complained about the stiff ride and limited trunk space, but many found it to be a fine road-trip companion. Read our full thoughts on the Mazda 3 sedan here.

Mazda 3 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.1

33 reviews

5(58%)

4(15%)

3(12%)

2(12%)

1(3%)

Owners Say

Overall, owner sentiment is positive. Owners love the Mazda 3’s stylish looks, nice interior, and fun, smooth drive. Many also praise its good gas mileage, strong safety features, and solid value. Some owners say the back seat and storage are tight, and a few dislike the confusing controls or small tech quirks.

This summary is AI-generated from the text of owner reviews

See all 33 reviews of the Mazda 3

Write a vehicle review

Most Helpful Owner Review

Really Good and really bad

BillW, 08/08/2025

2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S Select Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

First, let me say that the fit and finish on this car is absolutely fantastic. The interior materials and quality makes it feel like a much more expensive car and would rival luxury brands. The buttons and controls feel top notch. The controls and figuring out how to find and work things will take a while, especially if you are a bit older. The stereo has what I would consider … average entry level sound. The engine is absolutley wonderful, except for the cylinder deactivation which very much ruins the driving experience if you are a purist. It at time stumbles and will engage / disengage with a jerk. It will annoy the hell out of you if you pay attention. This is not good for an engine and I can not believe Mazda puts this crap in such a wonderful car. The car will get the MPG it claims and can far exceed it if you drive in a flat area and keep it 55 or under. In the hour drive home from the dealer I averaged 44mpg on the computer. Power is ample for a 4 cylinder and I love that they made it a large 4 cylinder. In a world of terrible CVT's the 6 speed regular transmission is a big win in the longevity department. The cabin it tight, cargo space limited. Seats are comfortable if you are not too big. I am about 5'9'' 195 lbs. Back seats are tight, head rooms is limited. With me in the drivers seat, I could not sit behind me in this car. The cup holders are terribly located and under the dash. A far reach for the very limited selection of small cups you can use. No 40 or 30 oz Stanleys for sure. Only 2 USB C ports, no 12 v outlet, but there is an empty hole for one. Want to install a dashcam....not so fast. Every fuse under the hood and in the cabin is hot when the car is off. Your camera will never shut off if you hardwire it. Not much useful storage in the cabin. That being said, it is a really solid car. Cabin is very quiet. Make sure your test drive it with all of your daily essentials in their places. Make sure you drive it long enough to experience the cylinder deactivation and see if you can live with it. 8/11/26 Update- Paint is very soft and chips easier than any car I ever owned. Cylinder deactivation is still atrocious-Shame on you MAZDA. Overall MPG mixed driving, mostly city is about 35ish mpg. Ride is very stiff, rough over anything but perfect roads. PA/OH roads are terrible, not a great choice of cars.

Helpful shopping links

2025 Mazda 3 Features & Specs

Type:

Hatchback

Trim:

2.5 S

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$25,150
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	30 MPG
Cost to Drive	$174/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	20.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Reliability

The 2025 Mazda 3 has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 1 recall. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #15 out of 46 among Compact Cars.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent

#15 out of 46 among Compact Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$386/yr

vs. $416/yr
for Average Compact Car

Frequency

1.09x/yr

vs. 1.01x/yr
for Average Compact Car

Severity

vs. 10.4%
for Average Compact Car

Recalls

1 recall found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V357000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 7525E
Manufactured from:: 2023-08-22 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 171412
Defect Description:: Mazda North American Operations is recalling certain 2024-2025 Mazda3 and CX30 vehicles. The Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) units may set an error code and deactivate the air bags, due to a low battery condition.
Defect Consequence:: Air bags that do not deploy in the event of a crash increase the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will reprogram the SAS unit with improved software or replace the unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Mazda's number for this recall is 7525E.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Compare the Mazda 3

Mazda 3
Add any vehicle to compare

Safety

Key safety features on the 3 include:

Back-up camera
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Departure Warning
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Pre-collision safety system
Post-collision safety system

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	5 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	10.1%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test	Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original	Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated	Good
Side Impact Test – Original	Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Updated	Good
Roof Strength Test	Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Not Tested

Research other 3 years

2026
2025
2024

FAQ

Is the Mazda 3 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 3 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 5.6 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the 3 has 20.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mazda 3. Learn more

What's new in the 2025 Mazda 3?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Mazda 3:

Entry-level 2.5 S trim now offered on hatchback models
Newly available Alexa Built-in voice assistant
Available onboard navigation now gets over-the-air updates
Part of the fourth Mazda 3 generation introduced for 2019

Learn more

Is the Mazda 3 reliable?

To determine whether the Mazda 3 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the 3. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the 3's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2025 Mazda 3 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Mazda 3 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 3 and gave it a 5.6 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 3 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2025 Mazda 3?

The least-expensive 2025 Mazda 3 is the 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $25,150.

Other versions include:

2.5 S 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $25,150
2.5 S Select Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $26,190
2.5 S Preferred 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $27,890
2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $30,760
2.5 S Premium 4dr Hatchback (2.5L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $30,850
2.5 Carbon Turbo 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $33,450
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $37,150