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Mazda 3 Hatchback (2004-2008) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 29 - 60 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

The majority of the engines are reasonably economical, insurance is cheap for the class and servicing at Mazda dealers is usually reasonable. Improvements made mid-2006 see slight benefits in fuel economy, enough for 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol versions to be placed in a lower road tax bracket than before.

The 3 performs well on the eco front and with an average of 159g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are relatively low for a small family hatchback. The greenest model in the line-up is the 1.6-litre diesel which emits 128g/km of CO2 (in both 90bhp and 109bhp guise) and averages 60mpg.

The Mazda has proven good so far and the firm has a strong reputation for well built and reliable cars. Its predecessor, the 323, was supremely reliable.