Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2022 Mazda Mazda3
Our scoring places the 2022 Mazda Mazda3 at 8.1/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this sedan. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.8/10, while Performance at 7.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 8.8/10, reliability is one of this sedan's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The safety score of 8.3/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.6/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. The cabin tech earns 8.0/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $22,278–$27,429, 28 MPG, seating 5, the Mazda Mazda3 sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. The 7.7/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2022 Mazda Mazda3 is a solid, well-rounded sedan that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2022 Mazda Mazda3 ranks #117 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 91% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.6 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $22,278 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 19%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Mazda3 Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Mazda Mazda3 scores 7.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 8.1 — and starts roughly $2,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price
Common Questions — 2022 Mazda Mazda3
Is the 2022 Mazda Mazda3 reliable?
We rate the 2022 Mazda Mazda3's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2022 Mazda Mazda3 worth buying?
It scores 8.1/10 overall, ranking #117 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 91% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2022 Mazda Mazda3 cost?
The 2022 Mazda Mazda3 starts at $22,278 and ranges up to $27,429 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Mazda3 years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Mazda3 years we've rated are 2014 (7.2/10), 2015 (7.6/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.1/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Mazda Mazda3
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More Mazda Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Mazda models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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