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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Mazda MAZDA3

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Overview

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2013 Mazda MAZDA3 Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 8.1

The 2013 Mazda3 is a compact car with a lot of soul. Available as a 4-door sedan or 5-door hatchback, the Mazda3 stands out for its fun-to-drive nature, value and fuel economy. The last got a big boost with the recent introduction of Mazda's Skyactiv engine technology, which enables this car to attain up to 40 mpg while not sacrificing its lively driving manners. Two other engine choices remain available, one offering less power and the lowest price, the other more power and additional features in the model's top trim. Then there is the hatchback-only MazdaSpeed3, an apt name if there ever was one. The 2013 MazdaSpeed3 boasts a high-power turbocharged engine and a stiff suspension that's more at home at the track than in daily traffic.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you want a compact sedan or hatchback that's both fun to drive and fuel-efficient, the 2013 Mazda3 makes an excellent choice. Strong resale value means it's a good bet in the long run, too.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If all-wheel drive is a requirement in your next compact car, consider a Subaru Impreza or a Mitsubishi Lancer with that option. Those seeking comfort over sportiness should look at the Chevrolet Cruze, while those who seek a long warranty will want to consider a Hyundai Elantra or Kia Forte.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

8.1
Driving Dynamics

9.6
Comfort & Convenience

7.1
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.9
Value

7.1
Safety

N/A

How It Ranks

#19

out of 19

MPG

#6

out of 19

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

8.9 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2013

After receiving the new Skyactiv engine and a freshened face the year before, the 2013 Mazda3 carries over mostly unchanged. The i Sport model now comes with the Skyactiv engine, and the Sky Mica blue exterior color has been dropped.

Driving the MAZDA3

2013 Mazda MAZDA3 Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions In sedan or hatchback form, the Mazda3 is a nimble car that offers decent-to-good acceleration depending on which engine is under the hood. The base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder in i SV...

models is adequate for getting the car up to speed, while the larger, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder in s Grand Touring models makes for a surprisingly quick vehicle. In the middle is the new Skyactiv 4-cylinder, which boasts zippy performance and commendable fuel economy. All 2013 Mazda3 models feel agile for this class of car, making them more fun to drive on twisty roads than rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra. Then there is the MazdaSpeed3 hatchback, a devil of a car with blistering acceleration and tenacious road grip. Unfortunately, since the MazdaSpeed3 is a front-wheel-drive car, the engine's tremendous power results in considerable torque steer under full acceleration. If you choose a 2013 Mazdaspeed3, be prepared to do your own shifting and get ready for a stiff ride.

Favorite Features

SKYACTIV ENGINE
This sophisticated engine is both fuel-efficient and powerful enough to make the Mazda3 feel zippier than expected. When connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission, it's rated at 40 mpg on the highway.

BLIND-SPOT MONITORING
It's unusual to find this safety feature on a compact car, but it's standard on Grand Touring models of the 2013 Mazda3 sedan and hatch. The system warns of a potential collision by illuminating an icon in the side mirrors and by emitting an audible warning.

2013 Mazda MAZDA3 Details

2013 Mazda MAZDA3 Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

The 2013 Mazda3 sedan and hatchback feature a similar interior that's easy on the eyes and very ergonomic. Buttons and knobs on the dash and steering wheel are laid out well and within easy reach. Appreciative touches include ambient blue lighting and, on higher trims, push-button start/stop. The Mazda3's front seats are comfortable even in cloth form, and feel even better when outfitted with leather. The rear seats, meanwhile, can feel cramped for taller adults. The sedan's trunk is on the small side, though the rear seats fold for added space. Mazda3 hatchbacks have more cargo room and added versatility. Up front, the available navigation display is on the small side and sits not in the middle of the dash, but at the top, where it can be difficult to see directions.

Exterior

Among the most noticeable features on the 2013 Mazda3 is its front fascia, which to some can resemble a big grin. Whether that's a trait you like will be a matter of personal taste. That design element notwithstanding, the Mazda3 sedan plays it relatively safe but retains handsome lines. The Mazda3 hatchback shares some traits with the slightly larger 2013 Mazda CX-5 SUV. MazdaSpeed3 versions are distinguished by a bulging hood scoop and revised front fascia. Like Mazda3 sedans and hatchbacks with the 2.5-liter engine, the MazdaSpeed3 has dual exhaust outlets, adding to its sporty looks. Wheels range in size from 16 inches to 18 inches.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2013 Mazda3 sedan is available in five trim levels, while the 5-door hatchback can be had in three. The MazdaSpeed3 hatch comes in just one. A base sedan in the i SV trim is relatively well-equipped with tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and 6-way adjustable driver's seat for a good fit, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD system with auxiliary input. At the other end of the Mazda3 spectrum are the Grand Touring models, which are packed with the blind-spot-monitoring system, navigation system, power front seats, leather interior, Bluetooth, and an upgraded audio system with a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound system with HD Radio.

Optional Equipment

Options for the MazdaSpeed3 vary by trim. Among them are a spoiler and auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink remote garage control in lower trims and a moonroof and premium sound system in mid-level models. A tech package in the i Grand Touring model adds self-leveling bi-xenon headlights and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Except for the MazdaSpeed3, an automatic transmission is available in all trims.

Under the Hood

Several engine and transmission choices are available in the 2013 Mazda3 lineup. The base i SV sedan is now the only one to use the 148-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that has powered past Mazda3 vehicles. The i SV is linked to a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Using the new 2.0-liter Skyactiv engine that makes 155 horsepower are the i Sport, i Touring and i Grand Touring models, which can all be had with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda3 s Grand Touring uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that makes 167 horsepower for even livelier acceleration, and uses a 6-speed manual or 5-speed auto transmission. Then there is the speed demon in the lineup, the MazdaSpeed3 hatchback, which uses a 2.3-liter turbo-4 that cranks out 263 horsepower – and a whopping 280 lb-ft of torque – and is available only with a 6-speed manual transmission. All Mazda3s are front-wheel drive.

2.0-liter inline-4
148 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
135 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/33 mpg (manual), 24/33 mpg (automatic)

2.0-liter Skyactiv inline-4
155 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
148 ft-lb of torque @ 4,100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 27/39 mpg (manual sedan), 28/40 mpg (automatic, sedan), 27/38 mpg (manual, 5-door), 28/39 mpg (automatic, 5-door)

2.5-liter inline-4
167 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
168 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28 mpg (manual), 22/29 mpg (automatic)

2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4
263 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
280 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/25 mpg

Pricing Notes

A base 2013 Mazda3 sedan with manual transmission has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $17,495, with an automatic transmission an extra $850. The lowest-priced Mazda3 with the new, more efficient Skyactiv engine is the i Sport model, starting at $19,170. The top sedan is the s Grand Touring, which starts just over $25,000 and offers a lot for the money. Mazda3 5-door models begin at $20,795, while the 2013 MazdaSpeed3 is priced just under $25,000. The 2013 Mazda3's starting price is higher than base versions of the Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Kia Forte and Mitsubishi Lancer, and nearly the same as the Volkswagen Jetta, Hyundai Elantra, Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Sentra. The Mazda3's base price is lower than that of the Subaru Impreza. The MazdaSpeed3's price is in line with base versions of the Volkswagen GTI and Ford Focus ST, and less than the Subaru WRX. Be sure to check the KBB Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are actually paying for the 2013 Mazda3. In the long term, the Mazda3's resale value is expected to hold up very well, near the top of this class.

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2013 Mazda MAZDA3 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.9

Out of 10

Based on 258 Ratings for the 2010 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.1/10

Quality

9.0/10
Reliability

9.3/10

Performance

9.2/10
Comfort

8.7/10

Styling

9.0/10

Software Update Problem Beware

By Dennisjds1 (FL) on Tuesday, July 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,098

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Love driving the car, great gas mileage."

Cons: "Tech support if there is a problem is not good"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 5

"Last week I had my car serviced and they did a software update my current fuel econ readout which had worked perfectly now does not work right. The dealer tells me I have no problem, Mazda is not interested in correcting the problem. I have now owned the car 18 months and was happy with the car until they fixed something that was not broken and now I am not happyy at all"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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New clutch at 20k miles

By chris_l (CA) on Monday, July 29, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 20,000

10 5.0

overall rating 5 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 5/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 1/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 5/10

Pros: "Nice design"

Cons: "Clutch failure, bad warranty"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"Buyer beware when it comes to honoring the warranty: I first took my car in to the dealer when I noticed the clutch slipping after I shifted or when I accelerated at freeway speeds. Now, after 16 days, I finally have my 2011 Mazda 3 back with a completely new clutch assembly. Mazda paid 50%, not including the rental car. My final bill: $700 (not including the rental car cost for this time). They replaced not only the clutch disc, but the flywheel and associated bearings and parts. Apparently they consider replacing the clutch at 2 years / 20k miles to be "normal wear and tear" and not under warranty. In my opinion, the fact that it wore out so quickly, in itself, means it was defective. I have driven a manual car for almost 10 years (previously a Mazda RX-7) without any issues. I do not abuse my car, I do not ride the clutch, and I do not let anyone else drive the car. Mazda would not allow me to speak to anyone with the authority to assist me, specifically the district manager who made the decision. On top of that, the woman I spoke with when I called their customer service line at (800) 222-5500 was not only unhelpful, but flat out rude and confrontational. After this experience, I plan to trade this car due to the fact that it will need another new clutch at 40k miles of normal driving. Mazda has lost a loyal customer for life with their "guilty until proven innocent" mentality toward warranty claims."

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love it!

By lovemymazda (NC) on Sunday, July 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 11,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought it for a great deal for a new car. I love that it has a lifetime warranty on all of the big stuff. The car is beautiful and best of all the gas milage is wonderful. I live in a bumper to bumper city and I get a solid 25-30 mpg. On the highway I get up to 50. For a 4 cylinder car it has a lot of get up and go and has really good traction even when driving in pouring rain. Love it!"

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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LOVE, LOVE

By AJLEWIS (TX) on Sunday, July 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 34,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "looks awesome, smooth ride, great gas mileage"

Cons: "NONE AT ALL"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is my second mazda3 and I have not been disappointed in anything at all with either one. I highly recommend this car!"

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The most fun for the money ever!

By Peter Pan (NY) on Saturday, July 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 36,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "fun to drive"

Cons: "the 'smile'"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is my 3rd. Mazda 3 and I love it. The first 2 were plain 3s, so I finally got the Mazdaspeed I always wanted. It is a fantastic car and I recommend it to everyone who asks about it. There isn't another car that will accelerate and handle as well for the price."

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Reviews don't lie

By Juan (FL) on Tuesday, July 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 27,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 6/10

Pros: "Very fun to drive, interior quality, speed"

Cons: "not comfortable for long rides"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I owned a mazda 3 before and it got totaled in an accident. I could not think of a better car to get into but the mazdaspeed3. It is fast, very responsive on curves, roomy, great quality interior compared to its rivals. Torque steer? yes, sure you can feel some of it when you floor the gas pedal. But is not an issue once you learn how to drive it. The transmission is very smooth and short, even though there is six gears, it slides exactly to the one you direct the stick shift towards. The only "negative" I see in the car is the driver comfort for long drives. I wouldn't recommend for drives over 3 straight hrs."

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See all 258 reviews