The Mazda3 is one of the best examples of the compact segment. To succeed in this segment, it takes a combination of style, value and fuel economy. Fortunately, the Mazda3 delivers on all three. Offered in both 4-door sedan and 5-door wagon body styles the Mazda3 has models ranging from the basic to the high-performance Mazdaspeed3. A new 2.0l four-cylinder engine introduced midway through the 2012 model year produces 155-bhp while turning in fuel-economy estimates of 28/40 (city / highway). Also available with a large-displacement 2.5l four cylinder, power increases to 167-bhp but fuel economy drops to 22/29 (city/highway). The ultimate Mazda3 is the Mazdaspeed3 5-door which manages to put the power from a 263-bhp 2.3l turbocharged four cylinder to the road through the front wheels. Although the SV and Sport models (sedan only) are aimed at budget conscious buyers, the Touring and Grand Touring models are well equipped and competitively priced.

All Mazda3 models wear a new front fascia and lower rear bumper. Modifications to the interior include numerous changes to materials and colors. Mazda3i Touring and Grand Touring models now equip a new 2.0l four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Mazda also made a number of changes to standard equipment during the mid-cycle refresh.