Faults:

Usual wear and tear for the age and miles, no major problems.

General Comments:

This 2013 Mazda 3 still feels as good as new to be honest; got a good deal on this car as a used buy last year.

Spacious, comfortable and good to drive. Economical as well with around 38 mpg from the 1.6 petrol engine, a simple and reliable unit, preferred over the diesels.

Nothing special to drive, a pretty boring car actually, but if all you want is basic modern transport, a Mazda 3 will do you well.

Faults:

Not a heck of a lot. The ABS sensors need attention at my last MOT, and an exhaust bracket. Brakes have a bit of vibration and will need attention soon. Climate control is still ice cold, but was re-gassed before I bought the car.

General Comments:

A stylish family car, the Mazda 3 looks very nice for what it is. I also opted for the Tamura model as it is well equipped. The car looks very smart in red with original Mazda alloy wheels.

Good looks continue inside with stylish dashboard. Seats are very comfortable. Ride is a bit firm, but the car has a sporty feel. It's a shame the 1.6 petrol engine isn't up to much performance wise. But it is economical enough and I wanted petrol after hearing horror stories about the diesel engine reliability in these cars.

Sharp handling and good visibility, the car is good to use daily. I always get out feeling fine after short or long journeys, the car is easy to drive

Basically the Mazda 3 is a perfect all round car, reliable and economical to run with good looks and decent to drive.

Faults:

Brakes and suspension seem to wear out earlier than expected, but just basic wear and tear. No major faults. Air con is not as great as it used to be. Timing belt and servicing carried out as per guide. Some small rust spots here and there.

General Comments:

Bought this as a run about for work and leisure. Good looking in white with the alloy wheels, sport model gets lots of equipment. Heated seats are a God send on winter mornings!

To drive the Mazda 3 is not the most exciting, but was surprisingly sharp in the handling department. Will not win any races, but the 1.6 turbo diesel pulled fast enough, while doing about 60 MPG. Cannot say fairer than that.

This is the last of the older shaped Mazda 3's (2009 on-wards model) before they changed to the newer shape, which is slightly better looking in my opinion.

Interior is a little cramped, but is well laid out and comfortable. Overall it is a decent modern car. My only concern is the surface rust - at only 7 years old, I find this unacceptable as I have had older cars with no rust whatsoever. Looking through the reviews on here and elsewhere, this seems to be common for Mazda unfortunately.