The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport, part of the Mazda3 model line which debuted in 2003, is a compact car offered as a sedan or hatchback. Key trims for 2022 include the 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Carbon Edition, Premium, and the performance-oriented Turbo variants. Pricing typically ranges from around $22,000 to over $35,000. It stands out for its premium interior, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale design, often punching above its weight class in perceived luxury and refinement.
The Good
The 2022 MAZDA3 Sport excels with its refined and sporty handling, luxurious interior rivaling luxury brands, and striking exterior design. It offers a comfortable ride and competitive fuel economy. This blend appeals to those seeking driving enjoyment and premium feel (emotional) while also appreciating its practicality and value (practical).
The Bad
Potential drawbacks for the 2022 MAZDA3 Sport include a somewhat cramped rear seat and cargo area, especially in the hatchback. The infotainment system, while featuring a rotary dial, can have a learning curve. Some drivers might find the ride slightly firmer than some competitors, and the base engine can feel less potent than rivals'.
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport offers two primary naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines and a potent turbocharged option.
- 2.5L Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder: Standard on most trims (2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Carbon Edition, Premium).
- 2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: Available on Turbo and Turbo Premium Plus trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L Naturally Aspirated: 191 horsepower.
- 2.5L Turbocharged: 250 horsepower (on premium fuel) or 227 horsepower (on regular fuel).
- Torque:
- 2.5L Naturally Aspirated: 186 lb-ft.
- 2.5L Turbocharged: 320 lb-ft (on premium fuel) or 310 lb-ft (on regular fuel).
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates - MPG):
- FWD (2.5L NA): 28 City / 37 Highway / 32 Combined.
- AWD (2.5L NA): 26 City / 35 Highway / 30 Combined.
- AWD (2.5L Turbo): 23 City / 32 Highway / 27 Combined.
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L NA (FWD/AWD): Approximately 7.2-7.5 seconds.
- 2.5L Turbo (AWD): Approximately 5.7-6.0 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable; the MAZDA3 is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features (Highlights):
- 2.5 S: 8.8-inch infotainment display, push-button start, LED headlights, cloth upholstery, MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration.
- Select: Adds dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, leatherette-trimmed sport seats, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
- Preferred: Adds Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system, paddle shifters, power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support and memory, heated steering wheel.
- Carbon Edition: Unique black exterior accents, red leather interior, Bose® 12-speaker premium audio, heated steering wheel, sunroof.
- Premium: Adds leather-trimmed sport seats, Active Driving Display (head-up display), traffic sign recognition, overhead fog lights, HomeLink® garage door opener.
- Turbo / Turbo Premium Plus: Features the more powerful 2.5L Turbo engine, AWD standard, unique interior and exterior styling cues, and advanced technology features like a 360-degree view monitor (Turbo Premium Plus).
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2022 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MAZDA3 Sport |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive Automatic |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HOFU |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | 446.02 cm |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | 272.54 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $26,765 USD |
| Invoice Price | $25,640 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $1,015 USD |
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What Problems Does the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Have?
The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, benefiting from Mazda's consistent performance in this area. However, like any vehicle, there are some reported issues and considerations.
One area sometimes mentioned by owners is the infotainment system. While praised for its intuitive rotary dial controller, some users find the system itself to be less responsive or feature-rich compared to touchscreen-heavy competitors. Minor glitches or occasional freezes have been reported, though typically resolvable by a restart or software update. The system is designed for driver focus, minimizing touchscreen use while driving, which might be a point of contention for those accustomed to frequent touch interactions.
Another point sometimes raised relates to the suspension and ride quality. While lauded for its sporty handling, some owners find the ride to be on the firmer side, especially over rougher roads. This is a trade-off for its engaging driving dynamics and is more of a preference than a definitive problem.
Regarding recalls, the 2022 model year for the MAZDA3 has had a few, as is common for many vehicles. For instance, there have been recalls related to potential issues with the rearview camera displaying incorrectly or not at all, and in some cases, potential problems with the fuel pump. It's crucial for prospective buyers to check the specific VIN for any outstanding recalls and ensure they have been addressed by a dealer. These are typically safety-related fixes and are usually resolved efficiently.
Long-term reliability is generally considered strong for Mazda vehicles, and the MAZDA3 is no exception. The powertrain, especially the naturally aspirated engines, are known for their durability when properly maintained. Owners who adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes and fluid checks, can expect the MAZDA3 to provide many years of reliable service. There aren't widespread, recurring major mechanical failures reported for this generation of the MAZDA3 that would cause significant long-term concern, making it a solid choice for durability.
One area sometimes mentioned by owners is the infotainment system. While praised for its intuitive rotary dial controller, some users find the system itself to be less responsive or feature-rich compared to touchscreen-heavy competitors. Minor glitches or occasional freezes have been reported, though typically resolvable by a restart or software update. The system is designed for driver focus, minimizing touchscreen use while driving, which might be a point of contention for those accustomed to frequent touch interactions.
Another point sometimes raised relates to the suspension and ride quality. While lauded for its sporty handling, some owners find the ride to be on the firmer side, especially over rougher roads. This is a trade-off for its engaging driving dynamics and is more of a preference than a definitive problem.
Regarding recalls, the 2022 model year for the MAZDA3 has had a few, as is common for many vehicles. For instance, there have been recalls related to potential issues with the rearview camera displaying incorrectly or not at all, and in some cases, potential problems with the fuel pump. It's crucial for prospective buyers to check the specific VIN for any outstanding recalls and ensure they have been addressed by a dealer. These are typically safety-related fixes and are usually resolved efficiently.
Long-term reliability is generally considered strong for Mazda vehicles, and the MAZDA3 is no exception. The powertrain, especially the naturally aspirated engines, are known for their durability when properly maintained. Owners who adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes and fluid checks, can expect the MAZDA3 to provide many years of reliable service. There aren't widespread, recurring major mechanical failures reported for this generation of the MAZDA3 that would cause significant long-term concern, making it a solid choice for durability.
How long will the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport last?
Based on owner data and general automotive trends, the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport is estimated to provide an average service life of 150,000 to 200,000 miles when maintained diligently. Many owners report achieving well over 200,000 miles with regular oil changes, timely servicing of other fluids, and prompt attention to any minor issues. The naturally aspirated Skyactiv engines are particularly known for their long-term durability. Weaknesses that might emerge over time could include typical wear and tear items like brakes and tires, and potentially some minor electronic glitches with the infotainment system, though these are not typically indicative of fundamental powertrain weaknesses. The chassis and suspension components are generally robust, contributing to its longevity.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport is well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features, reflecting Mazda's push towards a more premium experience.
Technology and Entertainment: Standard across all trims is the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, controlled via an 8.8-inch center display. While it's not a touchscreen (intended for driver focus), it features Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. Higher trims add features like a Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality. An optional Active Driving Display (head-up display) is available on Premium and Turbo trims, projecting key driving information onto the windshield.
Driver-Assistance Features: Mazda includes a strong set of standard driver-assistance technologies, often referred to as i-ACTIVSENSE. These typically include:
Safety Features: The 2022 MAZDA3 boasts excellent safety ratings. It received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with specific headlights and front crash prevention systems. This means it performed exceptionally well in crashworthiness tests and its available front crash prevention system earned superior ratings. Standard safety features include a full array of airbags, stability and traction control, and a robust body structure designed to absorb and redirect impact energy. The combination of active safety features and a strong passive safety structure makes the MAZDA3 a very secure vehicle.
Technology and Entertainment: Standard across all trims is the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, controlled via an 8.8-inch center display. While it's not a touchscreen (intended for driver focus), it features Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. Higher trims add features like a Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality. An optional Active Driving Display (head-up display) is available on Premium and Turbo trims, projecting key driving information onto the windshield.
Driver-Assistance Features: Mazda includes a strong set of standard driver-assistance technologies, often referred to as i-ACTIVSENSE. These typically include:
- Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning System and Lane-Keep Assist
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Smart Brake Support (Automated Emergency Braking) with Pedestrian Detection
- High Beam Control
Safety Features: The 2022 MAZDA3 boasts excellent safety ratings. It received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with specific headlights and front crash prevention systems. This means it performed exceptionally well in crashworthiness tests and its available front crash prevention system earned superior ratings. Standard safety features include a full array of airbags, stability and traction control, and a robust body structure designed to absorb and redirect impact energy. The combination of active safety features and a strong passive safety structure makes the MAZDA3 a very secure vehicle.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport had an MSRP ranging from approximately $22,000 for the base 2.5 S sedan to over $35,000 for a fully equipped Turbo Premium Plus hatchback. Currently, on the used market (as of late 2023/early 2024), prices typically fall between $18,000 and $28,000, depending heavily on trim level, mileage, condition, and drivetrain (AWD and Turbo models command higher prices). The MAZDA3 generally experiences a moderate depreciation curve, losing about 20-25% of its value in the first year and another 15-20% in the second. Factors that positively affect resale value include lower mileage, a well-maintained history, desirable options like AWD or the turbo engine, and the upscale interior and driving dynamics, which continue to attract buyers. Hatchbacks often hold their value slightly better than sedans due to their versatility.
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Cost of Ownership
The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically competitive within the compact car segment, often slightly lower than premium brands but potentially a bit higher than some economy-focused competitors due to its upscale features. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the naturally aspirated engines, with MPG figures in the low 30s combined for FWD models. Routine maintenance follows industry standards, with oil changes and tire rotations being the most frequent needs. Repair costs are moderate; while parts might be slightly pricier than for some mass-market brands, the MAZDA3's strong reliability generally minimizes unexpected repair bills. Overall, it offers a good balance of premium feel without a prohibitive ownership cost.
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
31.04 liters
City Mileage
3.78 km/l
Highway Mileage
2.76 km/l
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
24 months / 60,000 miles
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
24 months / unlimited miles
2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Insurance
Insurance for a 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport competes in the highly contested compact car segment against rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, and Volkswagen Jetta/Golf.
Performance: The MAZDA3 stands out with its superior driving dynamics and more engaging handling, especially when equipped with the optional AWD or the potent turbo engine. Rivals like the Civic Si and Golf GTI offer sportier performance, but the MAZDA3 strikes a strong balance between comfort and athleticism. The Corolla and Elantra are generally more comfort-oriented and less performance-focused.
Features: Mazda excels in interior quality and design, often feeling more like a premium vehicle than its price suggests. The standard 8.8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is functional, though some rivals offer more advanced touchscreens and connectivity options. Standard driver-assistance features are plentiful across trims. The Civic often leads in infotainment tech and overall practicality, while the Corolla prioritizes reliability and ease of use.
Reliability: Mazda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the MAZDA3 generally scores well. Toyota and Honda are often cited as benchmarks for long-term, trouble-free ownership, with the Corolla and Civic being exceptionally dependable. Hyundai has significantly improved its reliability scores in recent years, offering competitive warranties.
Price: The MAZDA3's pricing is competitive, often starting slightly higher than the Corolla or Elantra but offering a more premium experience. The higher trims, especially the turbo models, can quickly approach the pricing of entry-level luxury vehicles.
Recommendations:
Performance: The MAZDA3 stands out with its superior driving dynamics and more engaging handling, especially when equipped with the optional AWD or the potent turbo engine. Rivals like the Civic Si and Golf GTI offer sportier performance, but the MAZDA3 strikes a strong balance between comfort and athleticism. The Corolla and Elantra are generally more comfort-oriented and less performance-focused.
Features: Mazda excels in interior quality and design, often feeling more like a premium vehicle than its price suggests. The standard 8.8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is functional, though some rivals offer more advanced touchscreens and connectivity options. Standard driver-assistance features are plentiful across trims. The Civic often leads in infotainment tech and overall practicality, while the Corolla prioritizes reliability and ease of use.
Reliability: Mazda has a strong reputation for reliability, and the MAZDA3 generally scores well. Toyota and Honda are often cited as benchmarks for long-term, trouble-free ownership, with the Corolla and Civic being exceptionally dependable. Hyundai has significantly improved its reliability scores in recent years, offering competitive warranties.
Price: The MAZDA3's pricing is competitive, often starting slightly higher than the Corolla or Elantra but offering a more premium experience. The higher trims, especially the turbo models, can quickly approach the pricing of entry-level luxury vehicles.
Recommendations:
- Similar Alternatives: For a similar premium feel and engaging drive, consider the **Volkswagen Golf/GTI** (if hatchback preference) for its refined interior and driving dynamics, though reliability can be a concern. The **Honda Civic** (especially the Si trim) offers a great blend of sportiness, technology, and practicality.
- Better Alternatives (depending on priorities): If absolute bulletproof reliability and a more spacious interior are paramount, the **Toyota Corolla** (especially its hybrid variants) is an excellent choice. For cutting-edge technology and excellent value, the **Hyundai Elantra** is a strong contender. If maximizing driving fun and performance is the top priority and budget allows, a dedicated sport compact like the **Honda Civic Si** or **Volkswagen Golf GTI** might be considered, though they come with different compromises.
Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport a Good Sedan?
The 2022 Mazda MAZDA3 Sport is ideal for buyers seeking a compact car that blends sophisticated styling, a near-luxury interior, and engaging driving dynamics without the premium price tag. It's perfect for individuals or couples who prioritize driving pleasure and a refined cabin experience over maximum rear-seat space or cargo volume. It is worth buying for its exceptional value proposition, offering a premium feel that belies its mainstream segment. Buying new offers the latest technology and warranty, while a used 2022 model, especially with lower mileage and desirable options like AWD or the turbo engine, presents an even greater value. Trims like the Preferred or Carbon Edition offer a sweet spot of features and price. It's a compelling choice for those who appreciate design and driving engagement in their daily commute.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.