The 2024 Mazda 3 brings together elegant design, premium build quality, and engaging driving dynamics, cementing its position as one of the most refined compact sedans available today. Built on Mazda’s Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, it delivers a perfect balance of comfort and agility, while its upscale interior and advanced technology rival even entry-level luxury models. Positioned against rivals like the Toyota Corolla Sedan, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, and Volkswagen Jetta, the Mazda 3 stands apart with its dynamic handling and near-premium refinement.

Blending style and substance, the 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan presents itself as a sophisticated choice for drivers seeking more than basic practicality. Its sculpted exterior lines and driver-focused cabin are complemented by fuel-efficient yet punchy Skyactiv engines. With strong reliability credentials and safety technology included across all trims, the Mazda 3 Sedan appeals equally to professionals, small families, and driving enthusiasts.

If interested in buying the Mazda 3 Sedan, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

Engine Options

The 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan comes with:

• 2.0L Skyactiv-G Petrol Engine – producing 114kW, efficient and well-suited for daily driving.

• 2.5L Skyactiv-G Petrol Engine – producing 139kW, offering more spirited performance.

• 2.5L Skyactiv-G Turbo Petrol Engine – producing up to 186kW and 434Nm of torque (with premium fuel), giving hot-hatch levels of performance in a refined sedan body.

• 1.8L Skyactiv-D Diesel Engine – available in select markets, delivering 85kW with exceptional efficiency.

Transmission Options

Mazda pairs the 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan with either a 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, depending on trim and market. Both options provide smooth and engaging shifts. Select trims also feature Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system, enhancing traction and driving confidence.

2024 Mazda 3 Sedan Grades

• Mazda 3 Pure

• Mazda 3 Evolve

• Mazda 3 Touring

• Mazda 3 GT

• Mazda 3 Astina

2024 Mazda 3 Sedan Interior

Inside, the Mazda 3 Sedan rivals premium brands with its minimalist yet luxurious design. High-quality soft-touch materials, leather upholstery on higher trims, and a driver-centric cockpit create an upmarket feel. The dashboard integrates an 8.8-inch center display operated via Mazda’s intuitive Commander Control, ensuring minimal distraction while driving.

Front seating is well-contoured with excellent support, offering manual adjustments in base trims and full power adjustments with heating and memory functions in higher variants. The rear seats provide decent space for adults, though legroom is slightly tighter compared to some rivals. A 60/40 split-folding configuration allows flexibility when carrying larger items.

Technology includes wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, multiple USB-C charging points, and an available Bose 12-speaker premium sound system. Ambient lighting and a head-up display on higher trims reinforce the Mazda 3 Sedan’s near-luxury feel.

2024 Mazda 3 Sedan Exterior

The 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan embodies Mazda’s “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design philosophy. Its flowing silhouette, sleek LED headlights, bold front grille, and coupe-like roofline create a striking yet elegant profile. Alloy wheels range from 16-inch to 18-inch depending on trim, with premium finishes available on higher grades.

At the rear, slim LED taillights and a clean bumper design maintain the Mazda 3’s athletic yet refined look. Attention to aerodynamics ensures not only improved performance but also reduced cabin noise at highway speeds.

Cargo Capacity

The Mazda 3 Sedan provides 444 liters of trunk space, accommodating daily luggage needs and weekend travel. Though not as versatile as a hatchback, the sedan’s cargo area is practical and can be expanded with the folding rear seatbacks.

Fuel Consumption

• 2.0L Petrol: approx. 6.2L/100km combined

• 2.5L Petrol: approx. 6.6L/100km combined

• 2.5L Turbo Petrol: approx. 7.5–8.5L/100km combined (depending on driving conditions and fuel quality)

• 1.8L Diesel: approx. 4.7L/100km combined

Fuel Tank Capacity

The 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan is equipped with a 51-liter fuel tank.

Ground Clearance

The Mazda 3 Sedan has a ground clearance of 135mm, emphasizing its sporty character and handling focus.

Performance

Driving enjoyment is at the heart of the Mazda 3 Sedan. The Skyactiv chassis delivers a connected and agile feel, with precise steering and balanced suspension tuning that blends comfort with handling finesse. Turbocharged variants provide brisk acceleration, while naturally aspirated models emphasize smooth and predictable performance.

Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus subtly adjusts engine torque for improved cornering stability, enhancing driver confidence. The available i-Activ AWD system distributes power seamlessly to all four wheels, ensuring secure traction in wet or slippery conditions.

Safety

Safety is comprehensive with Mazda’s i-Activsense suite included across the lineup. Features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention alert, and autonomous emergency braking. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera, traffic jam assist, and adaptive headlights.

Reliability

Mazda continues to build on its reputation for reliability and solid engineering. The Skyactiv engines are proven, efficient, and durable, while the interior materials hold up well over time. With regular servicing, the Mazda 3 Sedan offers excellent long-term dependability.

Maintenance Schedule

Routine servicing for the 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan is required every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. Typical maintenance includes oil and filter changes, brake inspections, fluid checks, and tire rotations. Turbo models may require more frequent spark plug replacements.

If interested in buying the Mazda 3 Sedan, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Mazda 3 Sedan Competitors

• Toyota Corolla Sedan

• Honda Civic Sedan

• Hyundai Elantra

• Kia Cerato/Forte

• Volkswagen Jetta

• Skoda Octavia Sedan

If you are looking to purchase the 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan, email us directly via info@newzealandmotors.com, and we will get back to you immediately.