Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2024 Mazda Mazda3
With an overall Carivo score of 8.1/10, the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 earns a Recommended rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.6/10, while Performance at 7.4/10 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. We rate the Mazda Mazda3's reliability at 8.6/10 — among the strongest in our sedan database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. On safety it earns 8.2/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.4/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 8.0/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $23,700–$29,370, 30 MPG, seating 5, the Mazda Mazda3 sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. The 8.0/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this sedan delivers more than most of the class. At 2 years old, it's recent enough that the core feature set holds up well against current competition.
Bottom line: Think of the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
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 2024 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 $23,700 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 14%.
$0 — 3 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
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 2021 Mazda Mazda3 scores 8.0/10 — within striking distance of the 2024'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
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
NHTSA Recalls — 2024 Mazda Mazda3 (3 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Back over prevention / sensing system / camera 26/10/2023 · 23V718000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and MAZDA3 vehicles. Due to a software error, the rearview, front, and/or side camera images may not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the…
Lane departure / sensing system / camera 03/09/2024 · 24V649000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 Mazda 3, CX-30, and 2025 CX-50 vehicles. A malfunction in the forward sensing camera (FSC) may prevent the automatic emergency braking system and the lane-keep assist system from…
Air bags / air bag/restraint control module / Software 29/05/2025 · 25V357000
Mazda North American Operations is recalling certain 2024-2025 Mazda3 and CX30 vehicles. The Sophisticated Air Bag Sensor (SAS) units may set an error code and deactivate the air bags, due to a low battery condition.
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2024 Mazda Mazda3 that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2024 Mazda Mazda3
Is the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 reliable?
We rate the 2024 Mazda Mazda3's reliability 8.6/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 have?
3 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2024 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 2024 Mazda Mazda3 cost?
The 2024 Mazda Mazda3 starts at $23,700 and ranges up to $29,370 across trims (MSRP when new). At 30 MPG, expect roughly $1,750/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.
What problems does the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 have?
The documented issues for the 2024 Mazda Mazda3 are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Back over prevention, Lane departure, Air bags (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Mazda Mazda3
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Similar Sedan to Consider
Other sedans at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
