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By Popular Demand: A Comprehensive Buying Guide to the Mazda3 Fourth Generation (BP)

Posted on By Evan Rothman

We’ve been inundated with messages for a detailed review of the Mazda3. We totally get why. It’s a fantastic vehicle.

The Mazda3 (Fourth Generation), introduced in 2019, is a drop-dead gorgeous vehicle. This model continues to impress buyers worldwide with its blend of style, efficiency, and advanced technology. If you’re shopping for a used compact car, the Mazda3 BP series offers a compelling package that balances cost, comfort, and performance. This guide provides essential advice for navigating the used car market and selecting the best Mazda3 for your needs.

Understanding the Mazda3 (Fourth Generation)

Design and Features

The Mazda3 showcases Mazda’s KODO design philosophy, which emphasizes sleek, aesthetic lines and a driver-centric interior. When evaluating used models, inspect the quality of the interior materials and the condition of the exterior, including the paint and bodywork.

Key Features to Check

  • Infotainment System: Ensure the 8.8-inch display and its functionalities (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) operate smoothly.
  • Engine Choices: Familiarize yourself with the engine options (1.5L and 2.0L) and their respective performance on local roads.

Choosing the Right Trim and Options

Available Trim Levels

  1. Active: The base model offers solid fundamentals and essential safety features.
  2. Dynamic: Includes additional comforts and technological enhancements.
  3. Individual: The premium choice with full features, including luxury finishes and advanced safety systems.

Advice: Prioritise trims based on your must-have features, such as safety technology or luxury interiors, which can significantly influence resale value and driving enjoyment.

Performance and Handling

Test driving is crucial. Experience how the car handles on diverse South African terrains to gauge its suspension and alignment condition. The Mazda3 is known for its engaging drive, so any deviations could indicate wear or needed repairs. Read out thorough Ultimate Used Car Buying Checklist.

Safety and Connectivity

Safety First

Review the safety features each trim offers, especially:

  • i-Activsense Technologies: These advanced driver assistance systems can prevent accidents and could lower insurance premiums.
  • Passive Safety Features: Check for a robust airbag system and a solid chassis.

Connectivity Features

Ensure the vehicle’s connectivity features meet your needs, especially if tech is a priority. Test all functions during your test drive to avoid any surprises.

Running Costs

Understanding the total cost of ownership is essential when considering a used Mazda3. This includes not just the initial purchase price but also insurance, fuel, maintenance, and depreciation – all factors that significantly impact the long-term value and affordability of the vehicle.

Insurance Costs

The Mazda3, while not classified as a luxury sedan, still features modern safety systems that can help lower insurance premiums. Prospective buyers should compare quotes from multiple insurers to find the most competitive rates. Opting for additional security features, such as advanced alarm systems or vehicle trackers, can further reduce premiums. This is especially beneficial in areas with higher rates of vehicle theft, which are prevalent in some regions of South Africa.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a major concern for most car buyers, and the Mazda3 addresses this with its innovative SkyActiv engine technology. For instance:

  1. 1.5-litre Engine: This engine offers an excellent balance of power and fuel economy, ideal for city driving and periodic long-distance travel. It typically achieves around 5.8 liters per 100 km, making it an economical option for budget-conscious buyers.
  2. 2.0-litre Engine: Known for its responsiveness and efficiency, this engine averages about 6.4 liters per 100 km, providing a cost-effective solution for those who desire a bit more power.

For daily driving in urban areas, Mazda’s engines are particularly efficient, thanks to their design that minimizes fuel consumption without sacrificing performance. On highways, the vehicle’s aerodynamics further enhance fuel efficiency.

Maintenance Costs

The Mazda3 is known for its reliability, which helps keep maintenance costs lower compared to more premium brands. Regular service intervals should be adhered to maintain optimal performance. The cost for a standard service can range from R2,000 to R3,000, depending on the extent of the service and the specific dealership or service center.

Depreciation

The Mazda3 tends to hold its value well in the South African market due to its popularity and reputation for durability. Models maintained in good condition and with a full service history typically depreciate slower, making them a good buy in the used car market. Features that enhance connectivity and safety can also improve a vehicle’s resale value.

Overall Impact on Running Costs

For prospective buyers, the Mazda3’s advanced technology and efficient engines mean lower running costs, a crucial consideration in the used car market. By opting for a model equipped with the 2.0-litre engine, buyers can enjoy enhanced fuel economy, which is particularly appealing in South Africa, where fuel costs are high.

Choosing a well-maintained pre-owned Mazda3 with a clear service history can minimize unexpected expenses and ensure the vehicle remains a cost-effective choice. This attention to detail will allow buyers to enjoy the benefits of owning a well-rounded vehicle that combines efficiency, reliability, and driving pleasure without incurring high running costs.

Common Problems

When considering the purchase of a used Mazda3 BP, it is crucial to be aware of certain common issues reported by owners. This knowledge can help you make an informed decision and prepare for future maintenance, ensuring that you choose a reliable vehicle.

Electronic Glitches

Similar to many modern vehicles, the Mazda3 features a complex array of electronic systems including an advanced infotainment system and various driver-assist technologies. While these enhance the driving experience, they can also be prone to certain glitches:

  • Infotainment System: Some users have reported issues such as the infotainment screen freezing or Bluetooth connectivity problems. During your inspection, ensure all components function smoothly and check for any firmware updates that may be available to resolve these issues.
  • Head-Up Display: In models equipped with this feature, there have been occasional reports of the display malfunctioning. Verify that it operates correctly and consistently during your test drive.

Transmission Concerns

The Mazda3 BP typically features a smooth and reliable automatic transmission, but some users have reported:

  • Harsh Gear Shifts: Especially in earlier Mazda3 generations, some owners have noted less-than-smooth transitions between gears during acceleration. Test the transmission in various driving conditions to ensure it shifts smoothly without unexpected jerks or hesitations.

Suspension and Noise

  • Suspension Noise: Check for any unusual noises coming from the suspension, particularly on rough roads. The Mazda3’s suspension components, such as bushings and ball joints, can wear out and may need replacing.
  • Cabin Noise: Some drivers have noted higher levels of road noise infiltrating the cabin than expected. Listen for this during your test drive, as it could indicate the need for additional insulation or that door seals are worn.

Brakes and Rotors

There have been reports of brakes and rotors wearing out sooner than anticipated. Check the brake pads and rotors for wear and listen for any squealing noises that might suggest they need to be replaced soon.

General Considerations

When purchasing a used Mazda3 BP in South Africa, consider the availability of parts and the proximity of service centers. While Mazda parts are generally more affordable and accessible than those of some other brands, it’s wise to confirm that you have reliable service options nearby. Also, check the car’s warranty status; if it’s still under warranty, verify whether it is transferable and what components are covered.

Other Vehicles to Consider

When considering alternatives to the Mazda3 BP in the South African used car market, it’s beneficial to explore other compact cars that offer comparable levels of technology, efficiency, and driving dynamics. Here’s a list of comparable vehicles that prospective buyers might want to consider:

  1. Volkswagen Golf:
    A main competitor to the Mazda3, the Volkswagen Golf offers a balanced driving experience, advanced technology, and a range of engine options, including efficient TSI petrol models and GTI performance variants. It is well-known for its solid build quality and practical interior layout.
  2. Toyota Corolla:
    Known for its reliability and value, the Toyota Corolla is a strong contender in the compact car category. It features high-quality materials, advanced safety systems, and a comfortable ride, along with a variety of engine choices, including hybrid options that appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
  3. Honda Civic:
    The Honda Civic stands out with its sporty design, strong performance, and focus on driver engagement. It offers a spacious and well-appointed interior, along with a range of efficient yet powerful engines, making it a good choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience.
  4. Ford Focus:
  5. This option offers a distinctive style, engaging driving dynamics, and a well-equipped interior. It’s a good choice for those who appreciate a car with responsive handling and a range of efficient engine options, including the performance-oriented ST model.
  6. Hyundai i30:
    The Hyundai i30 is noted for its robust feature set, comfortable ride, and strong value proposition. It provides a well-rounded approach to the compact segment, with advanced technology and a build quality that rivals more established European brands.

Each of these vehicles can be a viable alternative to the Mazda3 BP, offering its own unique blend of features, driving dynamics, and styling. Prospective buyers should consider what aspects are most important to them—whether it’s fuel efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, or overall value – to make the best choice for their needs in the South African used car market.

These May Be Sold by the Time You Read This, but They Set the Bar

2021 Mazda 3 2.0 Astina Auto 5-dr

2021 Mazda 3 1.5 Dynamic 5-dr

2019 Mazda 3 2.0 Individual Auto

2019 Mazda 3 1.5 Active

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Mazda3 Fourth Generation (BP) emerges as a compelling choice for South African used car shoppers who value a blend of style, efficiency, and technological innovation. This generation of the Mazda3 represents a significant evolution in compact car design, showcasing refined aesthetics, advanced technology, and a range of engine options tailored to diverse driving needs and economic considerations.

The Mazda3 BP stands out for its impressive safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems that elevate both the driving experience and the vehicle’s safety profile. Moreover, the Mazda3’s strong performance credentials, especially evident in models with the 2.0-litre engines, cater to those who desire engaging driving dynamics without compromising the comfort and refinement Mazda is known for.

Maintenance and running costs are reasonably managed with careful ownership and regular servicing, ensuring that the Mazda3 remains a cost-effective option in the compact car segment of the used car market. Furthermore, the Mazda3’s popularity ensures robust resale values and widespread appeal, making it not just a purchase but a prudent investment in automotive quality.

For buyers in South Africa, the Mazda3 Fourth Generation offers a compelling package of design, safety, and performance, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone looking to invest in a used car that delivers beyond mere transportation to become a statement of sophistication and thoughtful ownership.

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Evan Rothman

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