The Good
The 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 offers a dynamic and fun-to-drive performance, appealing to emotional buyers. Its "Skyactiv" technology delivers excellent fuel efficiency, satisfying practical needs. Design is sleek and modern, providing an upscale feel, while reliability is generally strong. It boasts a comfortable and well-appointed interior, offering great value for its price point compared to many rivals.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 include its relatively tight rear-seat space, especially for adults, and higher-than-average road noise at highway speeds. The infotainment system, while functional, can be a bit sluggish or less intuitive compared to newer systems. Some owners also find the ride quality a bit firm for rougher roads, and sedan cargo capacity is modest.
2015 Mazda MAZDA3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G DOHC 4-cylinder engine
- 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G DOHC 4-cylinder engine - Horsepower:
- 2.0L engine: 155 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- 2.5L engine: 184 hp @ 5,700 rpm - Torque:
- 2.0L engine: 150 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- 2.5L engine: 185 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm - Transmission:
- 6-speed manual (standard on most i trims)
- 6-speed automatic (optional on i trims, standard on s trims) - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated, combined city/highway):
- 2.0L Manual: 33 MPG (29 city/41 highway)
- 2.0L Automatic: 33 MPG (30 city/41 highway)
- 2.5L Automatic (sedan): 31 MPG (28 city/39 highway)
- 2.5L Automatic (hatchback): 30 MPG (27 city/37 highway)
- 2.5L Manual (hatchback): 29 MPG (26 city/35 highway) - 0-60 MPH Times (approximate):
- 2.0L: 8.0-8.5 seconds
- 2.5L: 7.0-7.5 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Not officially rated or recommended for towing by Mazda in the U.S. - Key Trim-Level Features:
- i SV (Sedan only): 2.0L engine, 16-inch steel wheels, power windows/mirrors, air conditioning, 4-speaker audio with USB.
- i Sport: Adds power door locks, cruise control, Bluetooth, and a 6-speaker audio system.
- i Touring: Adds 16-inch alloy wheels, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, keyless entry/ignition, and a rear spoiler (hatchback).
- i Grand Touring: Adds 7-inch touchscreen infotainment, rearview camera, sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bose 9-speaker audio system, and available navigation.
- s Touring: Upgrades to 2.5L engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters (auto), and a more aggressive front fascia.
- s Grand Touring: Builds on s Touring with leatherette upholstery, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, LED taillights, heated front seats, and available Smart City Brake Support.
2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2015 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MAZDA3 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HOFU |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1294.55 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 145.54 cm |
| Overall Length | 457.96 cm |
| Overall Width | 179.58 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 270 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| 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) | $18,445 USD |
| Invoice Price | $17,655 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $795 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Have?
Regarding recalls, the 2015 Mazda3 has a few notable ones. One significant recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 15V-518) involved the parking brake, where moisture could enter the caliper, potentially causing the parking brake to disengage unexpectedly. Another recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 15V-736) addressed a potential issue with the fuel tank, specifically regarding a component that could fracture during a rollover, leading to a fuel leak. Additionally, certain units were recalled for potential wiper motor failure (NHTSA Campaign ID: 16V-429).
For long-term reliability, the mechanical components like the engine and transmission are typically durable when maintained properly. However, owners in regions with harsh winters might need to watch for rust, particularly around wheel arches and underbody components, as Mazda vehicles have occasionally shown susceptibility to this over time. Suspension components like bushings and shocks may also eventually require replacement, which is typical wear for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Regular maintenance is key to mitigating these concerns and ensuring a long service life.
How long will the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
In terms of driver-assistance features, the Mazda3 was ahead of many competitors at the time. Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) were standard on Touring and Grand Touring trims, significantly enhancing safety during lane changes and backing up. Optional on the top-tier s Grand Touring trim was Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), a low-speed automatic emergency braking system designed to help prevent or mitigate frontal collisions. Other advanced features included adaptive bi-xenon headlights with auto-leveling and high-beam control, and a rearview camera (standard on Grand Touring, optional elsewhere).
Safety was a strong suit for the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3. Standard safety features across all trims included antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.
Crash-test ratings were excellent. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2015 Mazda3 a perfect 5-star overall rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the MAZDA3 its highest rating of "Good" in all crashworthiness tests and named it a "Top Safety Pick+" when equipped with the optional Smart City Brake Support, which earned a "Superior" rating for front crash prevention. These strong ratings underscore its commitment to occupant safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Prices and Market Value
Depreciation insights show that while the Mazda3 holds its value reasonably well for a compact car, it still follows the typical depreciation curve, losing a significant portion of its value in the first few years. Higher trims, particularly the "s" models with the more powerful 2.5L engine and premium features, tend to retain a slightly better percentage of their original value. Factors affecting resale value include a comprehensive service history, low mileage, excellent cosmetic condition, and the presence of desirable options like the sunroof, navigation, or advanced safety features. Well-maintained examples with complete records will always command higher prices.
2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Cost of Ownership
2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Fuel Efficiency
2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Safety Rating
IIHS
2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Warranty
Basic
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2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of performance, the MAZDA3 often stands out as the most engaging and fun-to-drive. Its precise steering, firm suspension, and responsive Skyactiv engines give it an athletic edge over the more sedate Honda Civic (non-Si) and Toyota Corolla. It's comparable to the Ford Focus in driving dynamics, but generally surpasses the Elantra and Jetta for driver involvement.
Regarding features, the MAZDA3 offered an upscale interior feel and advanced tech for its time, including the intuitive Mazda Connect infotainment system and available safety features like blind-spot monitoring and Smart City Brake Support. This often made it feel more premium than similarly priced Civic, Corolla, or Elantra models, and competitive with the Ford Focus Titanium or VW Golf/Jetta.
Reliability is a strong suit for the MAZDA3, often ranking favorably. It's generally considered on par with the strong reliability of the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, and typically superior to early Ford Focus models, which were plagued by transmission issues. Hyundai Elantra reliability is also decent, but Mazda's Skyactiv powertrains have proven robust.
For price, the MAZDA3 was competitively priced when new and offers excellent value in the used market. Used prices are often similar to or slightly above the Focus and Elantra, but generally below the Civic and Corolla, especially when considering the features offered.
Alternatives:
- Honda Civic (2015): A strong alternative for its exceptional reliability, practicality, and spacious interior. While less sporty than the Mazda3, it's a well-rounded and dependable choice.
- Toyota Corolla (2015): If ultimate reliability and low running costs are paramount, the Corolla is an unbeatable option, though it lacks the Mazda3's driving excitement and premium feel.
- Volkswagen Golf/Jetta (2015): These offer a more refined ride, comfortable interiors, and good fuel economy. The Golf, in particular, has a premium feel similar to the Mazda3 hatchback but maintenance costs might be slightly higher.
- Ford Focus (2015): Offers similar sporty driving dynamics, but buyers must be wary of the automatic transmission issues (especially the Powershift dual-clutch) in non-ST/RS models. Manual transmission Focuses are safer bets.
Final Verdict: Is the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 a Good Sedan?
As a used vehicle, the 2015 Mazda MAZDA3 is absolutely worth buying. It offers fantastic value, having depreciated considerably from its new price while retaining much of its original appeal and reliability. We recommend focusing on Touring or Grand Touring trims for the best balance of features, including advanced safety tech and the superior Mazda Connect infotainment system. If spirited driving is a priority, seek out the "s" models equipped with the more powerful 2.5-liter engine. Always ensure a thorough pre-purchase inspection and verify maintenance records to secure a well-cared-for example. It's a smart, economical, and enjoyable used car purchase.