Mazda 3 Fastback (2013 - 2018) 2.0 SE-L Nav 4d Owner Review
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In their own words
Driving this car is a pleasure, though not as powerful as some of its competitors it carries more than enough punch for UK roads. Especially if you know how to work the manual gear box. The six speed gear box is comfortable to row through and the gear change indicators in the dash are easy to read and generally 100% correct. The steering is light and precise which is a pleasent surprise, especially on windy country roads. The suspension is also smooth and holds the car well. I went with the 2.0ltr petrol engine and unless you are regularly driving long haul journeys each day there is no real reason to get the diesel. In fact from the forums the petrol engine on this car is pretty much bullet proof. Whereas the diesel can be fussy if it doesn't get driven far enough regularly.
The start stop in the car is good if a little fussy, if you have the a/c on too high it won't engage, Mazda clearly have the parameters for the battery set to err on the side of caution.
The MazdaConnect infotainment system is starting to show its age. But for those only looking for an aide it works great. The 3D satnav display is one of the most aesthetically pleasing i have seen in a while. Its just a shame it was paired with a horrible search function. If buying used from a Mazda dealers, haggle to get the android auto or apple carplay installed. The car is instantly perfected by this one thing. The sedan body styling is just sportier looking than the hatchback, plus with the glut of crossovers and SUV's on the road its a unique look. I especially like the whhel arch lines and how they flow along the motor.
The seats are comfortable and support well, as a 6ft 1inch big boi with a much abused back i feel well held by the seats. I have the heated seats, which unless you want to be cooked do not need to be turned up to full. The driving position is good and lets you feel on control of the car and the road. Boot space in the sedan is good. Plenty of room for in there. The rear seats are comfortable but there is a slight lack of leg room in the rear for people 6ft(ish). But anyone average sized will be fine. Overall this is a great car, with the bonus of an informative community online who are willing to share knowledge and chat about their cars.
How reliable do you find the car?
Note - Electric wing mirror motors sometimes fail. This is a known fault and should be replaced under warranty free of charge.Does the car do everything you expected it to do?
Handles really well, steering is light but precise. Tested on Northern Ireland's twisty country roads up the Mourne Mountains and across the Sperrin's as well. Engine power, though only 120 PS the car pulls well and responds to driver input. I have yet to feel like it won't be able to keep up with my needs. In 6th gear at motorway speeds it'll eat up hugh travel distances at a steady 2.4K rpm. The longer the 2.0 ltr runs the more efficient it becomes. When driven economically its possible to get up to 53 mpg. Averaging out to 43 with shorter journeys. The body styling of the sedan is great, gives the motor a sporty look that i feel compliments how it drives. Practical enough for daily driver needs, plus unique looking on the roads compared to the crossover / SUV flood.About their car
- Fuel type Petrol
- When purchased January 2021
- Condition when bought Used
- Current Mileage 18,000 miles
- Average MPG 45 mpg
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