The second-generation Mazda 3, sold from 2010 to 2013, built upon the success of its predecessor with revised styling and improved features. It retained the fun-to-drive character that set it apart from competitors like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Offered as a sedan or a 5-door hatchback, engine choices included the 2.0L MZR and the more powerful 2.5L MZR, both praised for their responsiveness. The controversial 'smiling' front grille defined the car's look, which was part of Mazda's 'Nagare' design language.
While the high-performance Mazdaspeed3 has a dedicated following, standard Mazda 3 models aren't traditional collector cars. Instead, they represent an excellent value for an engaging and reliable daily driver or first car. Their appeal lies in their sharp handling, practical packaging, and low cost of ownership. They offer a more spirited driving experience than most economy cars from this period.
The market for these cars is firmly in the affordable used car category. With just 21 sales on our platform, they aren't frequently traded among collectors. The average price of around $2,200 reflects their age and status as mass-market vehicles. The highest prices, reaching over $8,000, are for very clean, low-mileage examples, likely in the top 's Grand Touring' trim.
Buying Tips
- Check for rust in the rear wheel wells and on the subframes, as corrosion protection wasn't the best.
- The dashboard material is known to become sticky and melt in hot climates. Inspect its condition carefully.
- Listen for timing chain rattle on the 2.5L engine during cold starts, which can signal a need for expensive repairs.
- Test the automatic transmission for any hard shifts or hesitation, as some units developed problems.
- Inspect the passenger-side engine mount, which is a common failure point that results in excessive vibration at idle.
Based on 21 recent sales, prices range from around $550 for project cars to $8,400 for top-spec examples.
1,335 Mazda Mazda 3 2nd Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 460 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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