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2010
Mazda Mazda3

Starts at:
$15,345
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New 2010 Mazda Mazda3
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Notable features

Redesigned for 2010
New 2.5-liter four-cylinder
Sedan or hatchback
Manual or automatic transmission
Optional navigation system

Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sdn Man i SV
    Starts at
    $15,345
    25 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    25 City / 33 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    Gas I4 Engine Type
    2.0L/122 Displacement
    148 @ 6500 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    135 @ 4500 SAE Net Torque @ RPM

    Suspension

    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)

    Weight & Capacity

    2,868 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    15 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist

    Electrical

    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)
    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)

    Brakes

    Pwr Brake Type
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    10.9 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    10.4 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
  • 4dr Sdn Man i Sport
    Starts at
    $16,255
    25 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    25 City / 33 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    135 @ 4500 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    148 @ 6500 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.0L/122 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    15 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    2,868 lbs Base Curb Weight

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    10.4 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    10.9 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type
  • 4dr Sdn Auto i Sport
    Starts at
    $17,105
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    24 City / 33 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    Gas I4 Engine Type
    2.0L/122 Displacement
    148 @ 6500 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    135 @ 4500 SAE Net Torque @ RPM

    Suspension

    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)

    Weight & Capacity

    2,928 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    15 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist

    Electrical

    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)
    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)

    Brakes

    Pwr Brake Type
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    10.9 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    10.4 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
  • 4dr Sdn Man i Touring
    Starts at
    $17,925
    25 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    25 City / 33 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    Gas I4 Engine Type
    2.0L/122 Displacement
    148 @ 6500 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    135 @ 4500 SAE Net Torque @ RPM

    Suspension

    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)

    Weight & Capacity

    2,868 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    15 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Optional Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Optional Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)
    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)

    Brakes

    Pwr Brake Type
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    10.9 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    10.4 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
  • 4dr Sdn Auto i Touring
    Starts at
    $18,775
    24 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    24 City / 33 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    135 @ 4500 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    148 @ 6500 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.0L/122 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    2,928 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    15 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Optional Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Optional Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    10.4 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    10.9 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type
  • 4dr Sdn Man s Sport
    Starts at
    $19,185
    21 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    21 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    2,963 lbs Base Curb Weight

    Safety

    Optional Stability Control
    Standard Brake Assist

    Entertainment

    Optional Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type
  • 5dr HB Man s Sport
    Starts at
    $19,685
    21 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    21 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    Gas I4 Engine Type
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM

    Suspension

    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)

    Weight & Capacity

    3,005 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Standard Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Standard Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)
    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)

    Brakes

    Pwr Brake Type
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
  • 4dr Sdn Auto s Sport
    Starts at
    $19,985
    22 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    22 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    3,025 lbs Base Curb Weight

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Optional Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Optional Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type
  • 5dr HB Auto s Sport
    Starts at
    $20,485
    22 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    22 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    Gas I4 Engine Type
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM

    Suspension

    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)

    Weight & Capacity

    3,064 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Standard Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Standard Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)
    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)

    Brakes

    Pwr Brake Type
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
  • 4dr Sdn Man s Grand Touring
    Starts at
    $21,645
    21 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    21 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    2,963 lbs Base Curb Weight

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Optional Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Optional Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type
  • 5dr HB Man s Grand Touring
    Starts at
    $22,145
    21 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    21 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    Gas I4 Engine Type
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM

    Suspension

    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)

    Weight & Capacity

    3,005 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Standard Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Standard Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)
    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)

    Brakes

    Pwr Brake Type
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
  • 4dr Sdn Auto s Grand Touring
    Starts at
    $22,445
    22 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    22 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    3,025 lbs Base Curb Weight
    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx

    Safety

    Standard Brake Assist
    Optional Stability Control

    Entertainment

    Optional Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type
    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
  • 5dr HB Auto s Grand Touring
    Starts at
    $22,945
    22 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

    Highlights

    22 City / 29 Hwy MPG
    5 Seat capacity
    Gas I4 Engine
    Front Wheel Drive Drivetrain

    Engine

    168 @ 4000 SAE Net Torque @ RPM
    167 @ 6000 SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM
    2.5L/152 Displacement
    Gas I4 Engine Type

    Suspension

    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.)
    w/Coil Springs Suspension Type - Front (Cont.)
    Multi-link Suspension Type - Rear
    MacPherson Strut Suspension Type - Front

    Weight & Capacity

    N/A Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    16 gal Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    Not Available lbs Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.
    N/A Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.
    3,064 lbs Base Curb Weight

    Safety

    Standard Stability Control
    Standard Brake Assist

    Entertainment

    Standard Bluetooth®

    Electrical

    100 Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps)
    N/A Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary)

    Brakes

    Not Available Drum - Rear (Yes or )
    11.0 x -TBD- in Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    11.8 x -TBD- in Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness
    Yes Disc - Rear (Yes or )
    Yes Disc - Front (Yes or )
    N/A Brake ABS System (Second Line)
    4-wheel Brake ABS System
    Pwr Brake Type

Photo & video gallery

2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3 2010 Mazda Mazda3

The good & the bad

The good

Handling
Manual shifter
2.5-liter engine power
Interior quality
Hatchback versatility

The bad

Fuel economy compared to other small cars
Clown-faced front-end styling
Faux-metal interior trim
Too much lumbar support for some
Navigation system too small

Expert 2010 Mazda Mazda3 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Kelsey Mays
Full article
our expert's take

The redesigned Mazda3 will impress driving enthusiasts, and it improves upon its predecessors in a number of other areas. If I were in the market, it would be high on my list. But these days, my backbone does as much as my right foot to sway my opinion — and I have to concede that Mazda doesn’t have the most comfortable small car out there.

I drove a Mazda3 sedan with an automatic transmission; I’ll offer up a short take on it here. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive review of the car, read our evaluation of the stick-shift hatchback version here; you can also compare the 2010 Mazda3 to the 2009 Mazda3 here. The turbocharged MazdaSpeed3, sold only as a hatchback, is covered separately in the Research section.

Moving Around
My test car had the smaller of two available four-cylinder engines; coupled with a five-speed automatic, its power is comparable to a Honda Civic or Kia Forte — and greater than the relatively pokey Toyota Corolla. The automatic’s gear ratios are well spaced for workable 60-to-70 mph spurts, even with two adults onboard, but it sometimes bogs down when kicking down to lower gears.

I found enough power to get around town, but if you’re looking to move away from intersections a bit quicker, consider trading the 148-horsepower four-cylinder for the 167-hp four. It’s optional in the sedan and standard in the hatchback. I’ve driven it, and it packs a gratifying — and palpably stronger — amount of power. Beware, though: You’ll sacrifice 2 – 4 mpg overall, depending on transmission.

Mazda3 Engines and Mileage Compared
  2.0-liter four-cylinder 2.5-liter four-cylinder
Availability Standard on sedan Optional on sedan, standard on hatchback
Horsepower (@ rpm)* 148 @ 6,500 167 @ 6,000
Torque (lbs.-ft. @ rpm) 135 @ 4,500 168 @ 4,000
EPA gas mileage (city/hwy., mpg) 25/33 (manual); 24/33 (automatic) 21/29 (manual); 22/29 (automatic)
* Low-emission PZEV vehicles sold in California and several Northeastern states have 144 hp or 165 hp, respectively. Torque figures are also nominally lower.
Source: Automaker and EPA; all drivetrains use regular fuel.

Some may find the Mazda3’s steering wheel too stiff to turn easily at low speeds. The handling payoff, however, is dramatic: The steering lightens up when you hit 20 – 30 mph, and you can actually carve corners with this thing. Body roll is well-contained, and the steering wheel exhibits good precision with excellent feedback of the road surfaces. A few competitors — the Mitsubishi Lancer and Volkswagen Jetta come to mind — are similarly fun on winding roads. I can’t say the same for many others.

Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard, with traction control and an electronic stability system on most trim levels. The brake pedal doesn’t provide the most linear stopping power, but the response is strong enough. Senior editor Joe Wiesenfelder found the hatchback’s brakes more impressive — though his came with larger discs, as do all trims with the 2.5-liter engine, so that may have had something to do with it.

Ride Quality, Road Noise
Mazda tunes its suspensions “to the handling side of ride [versus] handling,” spokesman Jeremy Barnes told me. He’s right: The Mazda3 rides on the firmer side, even with the test car’s 16-inch wheels. (Cars with the larger four-cylinder get similar suspension tuning but 17-inch wheels with lower-profile tires.) Highway expansion joints come and go with a noticeable kathunk, and uneven pavement can leave you in a constant pattern of down/up motions as the car follows each dip and rise. The suspension sorts things out well enough after each bump, with few reverberations as the car resettles itself, but the shocks could stand to soak up a bit more. The Civic and Forte ride a bit better, and the Corolla veritably glides over the rough patches.

There isn’t much wind noise, and the Mazda3 remains pretty well unfazed by highway crosswinds. Road and tire noise, however, are a different story. They’re noticeable at all times and, over some surfaces, are downright loud. I took the car some 350 miles between Chicago and upstate Michigan, and the road played a constant backdrop to my music. I ended up having to crank the stereo volume to overcome it — which incidentally revealed the mediocrity and overblown bass of the six-speaker system.

The Cabin
If the Volkswagen Jetta leads the pack in small-car cabin quality, I’m prepared to award the silver medal to Mazda. The dashboard panels have upscale textures and padded surfaces, and most controls feel high-rent for the segment. The windshield and dash slope far forward, giving you a sense of roominess that’s similar to the Civic. Over time I felt like I was sitting above everything: The cockpit doesn’t wrap around you so much as it’s arrayed before you, a layout that might take some getting used to.

The cloth seats have supportive backrests, though there could be more shoulder support; the sport seats in 2.5-liter models are intended to help with this. There’s enough bolstering to hold you in as you sling the car through a corner, but my 5-foot-11 frame never had enough thigh support. Part of that is because of the short seat cushions, but the seating angle is also to blame: It didn’t slope back enough for me, particularly when you jack the cushion up — as I do — with the standard seat-height adjuster. It’s possible the highest Grand Touring trim addresses this, as its power-adjustable driver’s seat includes a seat-angle adjustment.

Mazda3 in the Market
Even in its least fun combination — with an automatic transmission and the smallest engine — the Mazda3 courts driving enthusiasts like few cars in this price range can do. When Mazda introduced it for the 2004 model year, I lived in Los Angeles where I could fling cars around impossibly twisty canyon roads. In short order, Mazda’s Civic fighter tore the Civic a new one.

I’m pleased the automaker didn’t tinker with a good formula. The Mazda3 is still a fun little car, and provided your commute is free of too many potholes, it’s a mighty compelling choice.

Send Kelsey an email  
Assistant Managing Editor-News
Kelsey Mays

Former Assistant Managing Editor-News Kelsey Mays likes quality, reliability, safety and practicality. But he also likes a fair price.

2010 Mazda Mazda3 review: Our expert's take
By Kelsey Mays

The redesigned Mazda3 will impress driving enthusiasts, and it improves upon its predecessors in a number of other areas. If I were in the market, it would be high on my list. But these days, my backbone does as much as my right foot to sway my opinion — and I have to concede that Mazda doesn’t have the most comfortable small car out there.

I drove a Mazda3 sedan with an automatic transmission; I’ll offer up a short take on it here. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive review of the car, read our evaluation of the stick-shift hatchback version here; you can also compare the 2010 Mazda3 to the 2009 Mazda3 here. The turbocharged MazdaSpeed3, sold only as a hatchback, is covered separately in the Research section.

Moving Around
My test car had the smaller of two available four-cylinder engines; coupled with a five-speed automatic, its power is comparable to a Honda Civic or Kia Forte — and greater than the relatively pokey Toyota Corolla. The automatic’s gear ratios are well spaced for workable 60-to-70 mph spurts, even with two adults onboard, but it sometimes bogs down when kicking down to lower gears.

I found enough power to get around town, but if you’re looking to move away from intersections a bit quicker, consider trading the 148-horsepower four-cylinder for the 167-hp four. It’s optional in the sedan and standard in the hatchback. I’ve driven it, and it packs a gratifying — and palpably stronger — amount of power. Beware, though: You’ll sacrifice 2 – 4 mpg overall, depending on transmission.

Mazda3 Engines and Mileage Compared
  2.0-liter four-cylinder 2.5-liter four-cylinder
Availability Standard on sedan Optional on sedan, standard on hatchback
Horsepower (@ rpm)* 148 @ 6,500 167 @ 6,000
Torque (lbs.-ft. @ rpm) 135 @ 4,500 168 @ 4,000
EPA gas mileage (city/hwy., mpg) 25/33 (manual); 24/33 (automatic) 21/29 (manual); 22/29 (automatic)
* Low-emission PZEV vehicles sold in California and several Northeastern states have 144 hp or 165 hp, respectively. Torque figures are also nominally lower.
Source: Automaker and EPA; all drivetrains use regular fuel.

Some may find the Mazda3’s steering wheel too stiff to turn easily at low speeds. The handling payoff, however, is dramatic: The steering lightens up when you hit 20 – 30 mph, and you can actually carve corners with this thing. Body roll is well-contained, and the steering wheel exhibits good precision with excellent feedback of the road surfaces. A few competitors — the Mitsubishi Lancer and Volkswagen Jetta come to mind — are similarly fun on winding roads. I can’t say the same for many others.

Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard, with traction control and an electronic stability system on most trim levels. The brake pedal doesn’t provide the most linear stopping power, but the response is strong enough. Senior editor Joe Wiesenfelder found the hatchback’s brakes more impressive — though his came with larger discs, as do all trims with the 2.5-liter engine, so that may have had something to do with it.

Ride Quality, Road Noise
Mazda tunes its suspensions “to the handling side of ride [versus] handling,” spokesman Jeremy Barnes told me. He’s right: The Mazda3 rides on the firmer side, even with the test car’s 16-inch wheels. (Cars with the larger four-cylinder get similar suspension tuning but 17-inch wheels with lower-profile tires.) Highway expansion joints come and go with a noticeable kathunk, and uneven pavement can leave you in a constant pattern of down/up motions as the car follows each dip and rise. The suspension sorts things out well enough after each bump, with few reverberations as the car resettles itself, but the shocks could stand to soak up a bit more. The Civic and Forte ride a bit better, and the Corolla veritably glides over the rough patches.

There isn’t much wind noise, and the Mazda3 remains pretty well unfazed by highway crosswinds. Road and tire noise, however, are a different story. They’re noticeable at all times and, over some surfaces, are downright loud. I took the car some 350 miles between Chicago and upstate Michigan, and the road played a constant backdrop to my music. I ended up having to crank the stereo volume to overcome it — which incidentally revealed the mediocrity and overblown bass of the six-speaker system.

The Cabin
If the Volkswagen Jetta leads the pack in small-car cabin quality, I’m prepared to award the silver medal to Mazda. The dashboard panels have upscale textures and padded surfaces, and most controls feel high-rent for the segment. The windshield and dash slope far forward, giving you a sense of roominess that’s similar to the Civic. Over time I felt like I was sitting above everything: The cockpit doesn’t wrap around you so much as it’s arrayed before you, a layout that might take some getting used to.

The cloth seats have supportive backrests, though there could be more shoulder support; the sport seats in 2.5-liter models are intended to help with this. There’s enough bolstering to hold you in as you sling the car through a corner, but my 5-foot-11 frame never had enough thigh support. Part of that is because of the short seat cushions, but the seating angle is also to blame: It didn’t slope back enough for me, particularly when you jack the cushion up — as I do — with the standard seat-height adjuster. It’s possible the highest Grand Touring trim addresses this, as its power-adjustable driver’s seat includes a seat-angle adjustment.

Mazda3 in the Market
Even in its least fun combination — with an automatic transmission and the smallest engine — the Mazda3 courts driving enthusiasts like few cars in this price range can do. When Mazda introduced it for the 2004 model year, I lived in Los Angeles where I could fling cars around impossibly twisty canyon roads. In short order, Mazda’s Civic fighter tore the Civic a new one.

I’m pleased the automaker didn’t tinker with a good formula. The Mazda3 is still a fun little car, and provided your commute is free of too many potholes, it’s a mighty compelling choice.

Send Kelsey an email  

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2010 Mazda Mazda3 base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5
Side driver
5/5
Side rear passenger
4/5

Factory warranties

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain
5 years / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

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Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 120 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.5
Value 4.7
Exterior 4.6
Reliability 4.8

Most recent

Overall good car, but spring for the hatchback

This so now the 2nd, Mazda 3 I've owned, The first being a 2005 hatchback, this one now the 2010 sedan Overall this car is a great car, in both Mazda 3s I've had now, they've had no major mechanical failures and the work has been routine work, owned the 2005 one for just over three years before it got totaled on an accident back in 2021, the car probably still had another 10 years in it, The 2010 one I have now is the 2nd gen Mazda 3 of course, and its a significant upgrade (excluding it being the sedan instead of the hatchback which does negatively impact storage space) The 2010 Mazda 3 here has great handling, is sporty for it's class, and is very fun to drive, but if you're looking for a car that rides smoothly, this car doesn't, it does have rather stuff suspension. The exterior (in my opinion) is a lot better than it was on the previous body style, I get the "big smiling" front end isn't for everyone but I love the look I did briefly mention storage space earlier for the sedan - the storage space is better than other cars in it's class, and the truck is quite big for a vehicle of it's size, but the opening is small and makes it difficult to fit really any big items in, as for the hatchback, it does fix that issue, I was actually able to fit two full sized bikes inside the vehicle (after putting the back seats down) Although this car does have 1 major issue, The dashboard, Mazda made it out of a rubber plastic material, that when left in the sun, melts and creates a shiney sticky mess that can impact your vision with glare, getting a dash cover at least hides it, but to properly fix it, it requires replacement of the entire dashboard, (which Mazda does not have a tsb or warranty for)
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
Comfort 4.0
Interior 3.0
Performance 4.0
Value 5.0
Exterior 5.0
Reliability 5.0
24 people out of 25 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Super Reliable Car!

I bought this car used with about 110,000 miles on it. Within the first couple months I took it in for an oil change and was told the brakes were ok, but would probably want to replace them in the next year as they were still original. Fair enough. Over the next four years I would replace the tires and have the suspension done. All of these things are consumable parts and replacing them after 100,000 is not out of the norm. Other than that, I replaced the speakers because the factory ones were not too great. What really got me was, no oddities. I did not have to pay for some odd part that broke or wore out for no reason. I have owned cars where random hoses, engine parts, or transmission parts deteriorated and cost me a random $1000 to fix. Not this one. This car has been great incredibly reliable. As for the "negative" traits. There is no room. The backseat can fit two adults fine. But that middle seat is useless. The trunk is small. It is deep, but the opening is not very accommodating. I bought a couple of outdoor chairs at Target (non folding) and could not get them in the trunk. To make matters worse, they did not fit through the doors either. So this is definitely a compact car. Another negative is the price of a replacement key. $350 if you want a fob, $150 for just the key. But overall, this car is great. I have enjoyed it. Gas mileage could be better (30 combined) but it really is not bad. It gets me from point A to point B without costing me a fortune in repairs. It has a nice, smooth ride and a bit of pep.
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
Comfort 4.0
Interior 5.0
Performance 5.0
Value 5.0
Exterior 5.0
Reliability 5.0
43 people out of 43 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2010 Mazda Mazda3?

The 2010 Mazda Mazda3 is available in 5 trim levels:

  • i SV (1 style)
  • i Sport (2 styles)
  • i Touring (2 styles)
  • s Grand Touring (4 styles)
  • s Sport (4 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2010 Mazda Mazda3?

The 2010 Mazda Mazda3 offers up to 25 MPG in city driving and 33 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2010 Mazda Mazda3?

The 2010 Mazda Mazda3 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2010 Mazda Mazda3 reliable?

The 2010 Mazda Mazda3 has an average reliability rating of 4.8 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2010 Mazda Mazda3 owners.

Is the 2010 Mazda Mazda3 a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2010 Mazda Mazda3. 98.3% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 120 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.5
  • Value: 4.7
  • Exterior: 4.6
  • Reliability: 4.8

Mazda Mazda3 history

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