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2020 Mazda Mazda3

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Make
Mazda
Model
Mazda3
Year
2020
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OEM Interior Primary
OEM Exterior
OEM Exterior
OEM Interior
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Expert Rating
3.4 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

Select a Trim
Select a Trim
2020 Base 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Sedan
most popular
Price:   -  From $21,500
2020 Select Package 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $22,700
2020 Base 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Hatchback Price:   -  From $23,700
2020 Select Package 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $24,100
2020 Preferred Package 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $24,200
2020 Base 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Hatchback Price:   -  From $25,100
2020 Preferred Package 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Hatchback Price:   -  From $25,200
2020 Preferred Package 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $25,600
2020 Premium Package 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $26,500
2020 Preferred Package 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Hatchback Price:   -  From $26,600
2020 Premium Package 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Hatchback Price:   -  From $27,500
2020 Premium Package 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $27,900
2020 Premium Package 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Hatchback Price:   -  From $28,900

Overview

What's New

The 2020 Mazda Mazda3 returns largely unchanged after last year's redesign. The only major update is that the base trim now includes Mazda's suite of active safety features that includes, among other things, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

Choosing Your Mazda Mazda3

The Mazda3 is available in four trims: Mazda3, Select, Preferred, and Premium. The available five-door hatchback is only available in Mazda3, Preferred, and Premium guise. Pricing starts at $22,420 including destination for the Mazda3 and climbs to $28,420 for the Premium hatchback.

Engine Choices

Every Mazda3 model uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The only available transmission in the sedan is a six-speed automatic. Hatchbacks are almost exclusively found with two pedals as well, but the Premium trim does offer a six-speed manual for traditionalists.

Unlike most compacts, all-wheel drive is available with either body style on all hatchbacks, and the Select, Preferred, and Premium sedan. It's a $1,400 upcharge and is strictly limited to the automatic transmission.

The Mazda3 sedan achieves an EPA-estimated 27 miles per gallon city, 36 mpg highway, and 30 combined, or 25/33/28 mpg (city/highway/combined) with AWD. The hatcback earns 26/35/30 mpg with the automatic, 25/35/29 mpg with the manual, or 24/32/27 mpg with AWD.

Passenger and Cargo Capacity

Both sedans and hatches will seat up to five people. Compared with the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, and the Mazda3 gives up nothing in front-seat space. In back, things are a little more decisive, with the Mazda's 35 inches of leg room a full 2 inches shy of what the Honda offers. The Corolla's rear seat is the least roomiest of the three.

As for cargo-toting ability, the hatchback's 20 cubic feet with the rear seats up is plenty spacious, but the sedan's 13 cubes trails the competition. In both four- and five-door form, the Civic handily trumps these numbers, and a number of other compact sedans match or exceed the Mazda3 sedan's meager trunk space.

One thing worth noting: the cargo space offered by the five-door isn't only competitive with other compact hatches but also subcompact SUVs. It's in fact more roomy than Mazda's own CX-3, as well as the Chevrolet Trax and Toyota C-HR.

Mazda Mazda3

Safety Features

For 2020, all Mazda3 models now come standard with Mazda's i-Activsense suite of active safety features. Some of the notable technology grouped into this safety bundle include automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also standard.

This comprehensive list of standard features is more than what's offered by the Civic and Corolla, both of which charge extra for blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Other compacts, like the Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Jetta, and Hyundai Elantra, are also not quite as generous with their standard safety features. All of these models have a significantly lower starting price than the Mazda3, however.

Connectivity

Every Mazda3 gets a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen with the brand's latest Mazda Connect infotainment software. Embedded within this system is Bluetooth, HD radio, voice command, and Pandora radio integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard, as are two USB ports.

Base audio systems are eight speakers, though higher-trim models use a 12-speaker Bose system and also include SiriusXM. The Premium trim comes standard with a head-up display.

Navigation ($450) and a wireless charging pad ($275) are standalone options on every trim.

Mazda Mazda3

Mazda3 - From $22,420

The cheapest Mazda3 is the base four-door sedan; the equivalent hatchback runs another $2,200. Among the standard features are split-folding rear seats, cloth upholstery, keyless entry, and rain-sensing wipers.

The hatchback gets additional niceties such as dual-zone climate control, keyless start, and leatherette upholstery. Both models come with full LED lighting and body-colored mirrors and trim. The sedan comes standard with 16-inch wheels, while the hatch is rolling on 18-inch aluminium-alloy rims.

Select - From $23,620

The Select trim essentially equips the sedan with all the base hatchback's extra standard features. It's not available on the hatchback and there are no further options outside of paint selections.

Preferred - From $25,120

Both body styles are available in the Preferred, though the hatch costs another $1,000. Standard features include memory-equipped heated side mirrors, illuminated vanity mirrors, heated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift. This is also the cheapest trim to offer the SiriusXM and the 12-speaker Bose audio system as standard.

Premium - From $27,420

The fanciest Mazda3 is the Premium. As with the Preferred, the hatchback is another $1,000 over the sedan. Both models come standard with leather upholstery, a memory-equipped driver's seat, paddle shifters for automatic-equipped cars, and a head-up display. A power-sliding moonroof with a one-touch open feature and interior sunshade is also standard.

Compare Mazda3 Trims Side-By-Side

CarsDirect Tip

We're most smitten by the 2020 Mazda Mazda3 Preferred, which is plenty luxurious for the class. Of course, the hatchback would be our choice – there's too much inherent practicality in the five-door to not splurge for it.

author image
Automotive Editor
Read Less

Expert Review

Pros
  • Beautiful styling
  • Thoughtful interior
  • Fun and comfortable
Cons
  • Less attractive hatchback
  • Not as roomy as some
  • Menu-laden infotainment
Expert Rating
3.4 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Automotive Editor

Budget luxe. If there’s a story to be told about the 2020 Mazda Mazda3, it’s that of a car grown up. This is a racy adolescent that put on a suit and tie – though there’s still a gleam in the eye.

It’s a good-looking suit. The Mazda3’s exterior is deceptively simple, but a long hood and cohesive design lend a presence that compact cars usually lack. It’s dressed up without feeling overly formal.

The inside is just as nicely laid out. A low beltline adds to the sense of space, and bright trim accents add flair without being distracting.

The misfit of the bunch is the hatchback. The design isn’t bad, but the shortened body and wide rear pillar don’t have the same elegance as its sedan sibling. We’re generally hatchback fans, but we’d be hard-pressed to pass up the sedan this time.

Fun grown up. The maturation continues with the driving experience. Mazda has a history of spunky economy cars, and the previous Mazda3 was a blast to toss around. This version remains entertaining, but it tones down the enthusiasm.

The suspension is more refined, the cabin quieter. The steering is still well-weighted and accurate, but the ride is compliant enough to absorb bumps in the road. It’s a nice balance between comfort and agility.

The engine is balanced as well. Its 186 horsepower is more than many rivals, and natural aspiration means a linear and predictable delivery of power. The six-speed automatic transmission that comes on most trims is quick and predictable, and the six-speed manual is as precise as a Miata. The available all-wheel drive doesn’t spoil the handling, and it’s quick to compensate in slippery conditions.


Mazda Mazda3

Compact who? The Mazda3 doesn’t just look like a larger car – it feels like one on the inside. Seats are supportive, and the driver gets a perfect seating position and a pleasantly chunky wheel.

In general, interior fit and finish help the Mazda3 punch above its weight class. Low-sheen surfaces cover the dash and doors, with tasteful accents throughout the cabin. In many trims, the Mazda3 compares favorably to some entry-level luxury cars.

Space in the second row isn’t quite as impressive, but it’s adequate for a compact car. Ingress and egress are easy, at least.

With 13 cubic feet of cargo space, the sedan trails the hatchback – but not by as much as you might think. The hatch is designed for European markets, so it’s nearly 8 inches shorter than the sedan, and it therefore only offers 20 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which is only average for the class.

Asking a premium. With a starting price of over $22,000, the Mazda3 asks more than rivals like the Honda Civic. In addition to the car’s premium feel, Mazda adds extra features to make up the difference. The 8.8-inch infotainment screen is generous, and Mazda’s standard suite of safety tech includes advanced features like adaptive cruise control.

The base trim is likable enough, but our favorite trim is the Select. For a price increase of $1,200 over the base Mazda3, the Select gains smartphone compatibility, synthetic leather upholstery, and dual-zone automatic climate control. It feels premium enough to justify the price.

Our biggest complaint is the infotainment system. The display is crisp, but the interface has a series of menus that takes getting used to. It’s not the worst system we’ve used, but others from competitors are more intuitive.

Final thoughts. Transitioning into adulthood is always bittersweet, and never trouble-free. We’ll miss the zest of previous Mazda3 generations, and we wish that Mazda would update their infotainment system (and their hatchback design).

Overall, however, the 2020 Mazda3 benefits from maturity. It’s now a small car that’s as refined as it is fun and as polished as it is stylish. It’s not without flaws, but it deserves a place on the shortlist of best-in-class compact cars.

Check prices for the 2020 Mazda Mazda3 »

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.5L I-4 / 186 HP / 186 ft.lbs.
Transmission
6-spd sequential shift control auto w/OD
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
26 / 35 / 30 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
5
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.5L I-4 / 186 HP / 186 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
26 / 35 / 30 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Strut
Rear Suspension
Semi-independent Torsion Beam Beam
Spare Tire And Wheel
Compact Steel
Fuel Tank
13.2 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Regular Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$50
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
13.2 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
93 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
183.5 "
Exterior Width
70.7 "
Exterior Height
56.9 "
Front Headroom
38.0 "
Rear Headroom
37.3 "
Front Legroom
42.3 "
Rear Legroom
35.1 "
Front Shoulder Room
55.7 "
Rear Shoulder Room
53.5 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
3,071 Lbs.
Wheel Base
107 "
Turning Radius
17.4 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
16.0 " Silver Aluminum / 18.0 " Black Bbs Forged Aluminum / 18.0 " Black Aluminum / 18.0 " Polished Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone / Metallic Monotone / Pearlcoat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote
Bumpers
Body-colored
Grille Moldings
Black W/chrome Accents
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
Stainless Steel
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
5
Seat Trim
Cloth
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
8-way
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
4-way
Front Armrests
8-way
Rear Armrests
Rear Seats
60-40 Bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Am/fm/hd, Seek-scan
Speakers
8
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night / Auto-dimming Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Front And Rear
Tinted Windows
Light
Vanity Mirrors
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
1
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver And Passenger
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Smart Brake Support (sbs) Forward Collision Mitigation
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keep Assist System (lkas) Lane Departure
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Smart Brake Support (sbs) Pedestrian Detection Prevention
Driver Attention Alert
Driver Attention
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
High Beam Control (hbc) Auto High-beam
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Major Components Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
Roadside Assistance Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation
60 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles

Used 2020 Mazda Mazda3 for Sale

5 vehicles found within 100 miles of your area
Mazda
Base 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Sedan
Color: Blue
Price

$17,583

Mileage

78,998 mi

Map location icon

Mazda of South Charlotte (80 mi)

Phone: (980) 224-9250
Mazda
FWD w/Preferred Package
Color: Black
Price

$20,201

Mileage

49,521 mi

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Keffer Mazda (64 mi)

Phone: (833) 414-1858
Mazda
FWD
Color: Gray
Price

$21,500

Mileage

21,351 mi

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Adams North Charlotte (67 mi)

Phone: (704) 361-6959
Mazda
FWD
Color: Black
Price

$21,784

Mileage

25,692 mi

Map location icon

Southern States Mazda (78 mi)

Phone: (919) 828-0901
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