2014 / 2015 Mazda3 MazdaConnect Infotainment Review

[@DonMikimax]

I like this system so much that this is one of the main reasons i'm looking into Mazda 3

[@janelllucero9724]

I’ve had my Mazda for 5 years and I have never gone through all the features found out so many I had no idea about thanks!!!

[@jacktyler7599]

We've begun driving a 2014 Mazda3 sGT. The system is just as Alex describes it re: functionality. Phone audio quality is excellent. Alex, you continue to improve your use of the youtube system itself as well as your videos. Excellent job once again.

[@alliejr]

The video-in-video showing the control knob plus screen is a huge improvement in the production of your reviews. Great job!

[@sdfasdfvccvvc]

Hey Alex, I know that many people don't rely on built-in car's navigation and would rather prefer to rely on navigation apps in their smartphones (Google Map, Nokia's HERE, etc.) but I still find built-in navigation very useful. So for your future infotainment reviews, could you please try to show how the built-in navigation looks like while navigating during the car's movement? Particularly how it handles road junctions or highway exits - some navigation systems just show "arrows" and some actually show full, "photorealistic" exit/junction view. Same for voice guidance (how detailed it is when providing directions, especially on complex exits/junctions). Thanks.

[@KeepHimAtBay]

we will do this video in about 4 to 5 years. so be patient!

[@MrMlyarber]

Great video, I am thinking on buying a new MX-5 and you are the only source that takes you through the system. Good job.

[@TrajanowskiRifleworx357]

Good system, my only downside is that the screen doesnt collapse by retracting downwards

[@briantravis4859]

Alex, Other commentators have said that the HD traffic information does not show up in the navigation screen but only on the dedicated HD traffic information screen. In other words the two systems are not connected, which would be a real shame an a terrible oversight on Mazda's part. Can you confirm that you were getting HD traffic data though the nav system and that the system was taking that information into account when calculating the best route. BTW your videos are great, you are easily the most educated and thorough automotive reviewer on KZbin. Thank you.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I am going to need to borrow another Mazda now I think because you have me questioning my recollection. I thought that it did display traffic on the nav map but now that you say that I'm thinking I might have mixed those two up in my head when working on this video...

[@zxbc1]

It doesn't display it on the default nav map. However, I believe it is actually used when the route is calculated. I have driven the same route during different times of day, and the "fastest route" option has given me different routes. It would be nice to display colored roads like in Google Map, or at least to display traffic incidents on the nav map. I have not tried using a wireless connection and getting the traffic data that way though.

[@mikey6482]

....also the highway traffic map is NOT zoomable so it is absoulutely useless if you live in a city with more than one highway

[@kevinmiller8191]

Thanks for the comprehensive look at the MazdaConnect system. I'm keen on getting a new Mazda 3, and this system is very important to me.

[@Houndog38]

What you refer to as a volume and on/off knob does not turn anything on or off, it's just a mute function. If you're playing a cd it will just keep playing but without sound. In fact, I don't find any way to shut off the entertainment system, so that the next time you start the car your last audio source starts playing automatically. Other annoying quirks: when playing a usb flash drive there is no way to turn off the repeat button. You have two choices, repeat song or folder so it does not move on to the next folder.There also isn't a quick one button feature to advance to a new folder, it takes multiple steps. It also doesn't show what track number you are playing even if you include it on the song title within the folder. It's all too easy to keep playing the same folder if you don't remember what the name of the first song was and go through the multiple steps necessary to play the next folder. This is very distracting if you are driving. You also didn't mention that the touch screen becomes inoperable once the car is in motion.

[@PBS-nm1uu]

great demo thanks just brought a mazda 3 2016 trying to figure out how to set up the radio etc.. thanks again

[@AkaiTsume]

This was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you for making this video!!

[@route2115]

Thank you for making this video. I have this system. Your video was informative, and well put together. I love watching your videos. Many more videos to come !!!

[@EdPMur]

Seems like this system is holding up quote well even in 2021!

[@thesailorozzie]

I am getting a 2014 Mazda 3 Sport on saturday which has this system on it, is it still useful? Does it get updates? Thank you

[@damnhockey]

Alex, Thank-you very much for such a well thought out and detailed review on Mazda's infotainment system.

[@amelia8048]

Does the system recognize Spotify? - does it display song information/read playlists?

[@tarek3702]

it does display name if you use USB to play music it shows album cover if u r mp3 has covers on it

[@AS-pz4tf]

Good to know, that was my question also. Thanks!

[@ajcutler54]

Alex, excellent review. I've had my Mazda 3 S Touring for over a week, and picked up a few things from your video. What I consider the Infotainment System's best feature is the Speed Camera warning. It will save me at least $90.00 a year.

[@littleman787]

Or...just don't speed..?

[@bcnkng]

@@littleman787 Impossible

[@jg11596]

Thanks for a pretty good review. How safe is this system to use while driving? With all the options & menus, it seems like many basic functions (change radio station, change bass \ treble \fade, etc) will cause overly distracted driving. Also, how easy is this to use while driving? Thanks.

[@ziglainrecords5832]

in your video at 5:56 you describe the alphabetical list on the right side of the screen, enabling the user to scroll down and find artists/songs that start with a certain letter. however, my screen is not centered and this alphabetical list/column is too far to the right to select and use. how do i center the display enough so this column will be fully displayed so i can use it??

[@pmrp12]

Great review Alex. This has become my favorite HMI design yet. However, I am intrigued by Apple Carplay given my familiarity with their ecosystem. Any thoughts on if Mazda would ever provide the option, or have they just spent too much on this new system?

[@andrewreyes986]

I absolutely love this setup by Mazda!!! but I can't help but worry about what a little mornin' coffe would do to those knobs if a spill were to occur..

[@dustindavis3107]

i really like the mazda3 thanks for this review

[@lostboysvideovault]

Your video was very helpful for me in my decision making to buy a new Mazda 3. Thank you.

[@jtralongo1]

Did you notice how when you're in the navigation screen, there is no upper band to show station setting or song title? It doesn't even appear in the IP information screen. It's annoying having to toggle back to the entertainment screen to make changes. I've never seen this on any other navigation screen.

[@MikeMcLarenDrumming]

I was looking for this video. Thanks!

[@ikonora]

Great video! I am buying this Mazda anytime soon and this was very helpful! I appreciate it!

[@javiergaitan4717]

How was it!? I'm planning to get one as well :)

[@darrylbonner8449]

Great review Alex. I heard there was a rear view camera option. Am I wrong?

[@hamidmghazi]

The trip computer doesn't show the elapsed time.

[@waydeb7402]

Hi Alex, I just came across your site. Great job! We have a 2014 CX5. Our first Mazda. Its a great car. I'm thinking now of replacing my other car , a 2000 VW Passat, with a Mazda 3. I test drove a 2015 grand touring. Very nice car considering the price point. But the heads-up display is gimmicky. I wish I could disable. Also, Im not a big fan of the iPad like screen. I wish it could retract into the dash. Do you know if the screen can be turned off &/or blanked out yet still keep the radio playing for example? Thanks.

[@Zyworski]

What I would like this infotainment systemt to do is run the backup camera into a media recorder, but I can't tell if it even uploads apps. I'm really afraid of placing expensive electronics in a blazing hot environment, but apparently Mazda thinks they know better.

[@maryannarep]

Thank you for your review. For the life of me I can't get the communication to answer a phone call. When I tap answer on the screen you show nothing happens. The dealership can't make it work either. Any ideas???

[@MonelloSavutano]

how to move through tabs ,without touch, like you do at 7:17

[@mg25gal]

Thank you for this review! Just wondering if this system supports video files? So you can watch videos while the car is static, not while driving obviously :)

[@johnholmes2590]

exactly, I am here searching for the same info too. But it doesn't seem like it plays videos and movies. What a shxtty system.

[@carlosramirez3411]

Alex , is the 2019 Masda 3 is a touch screen too.

[@khayam911]

Hi Alex, can u update the system urself? Or u have to take it to the dealer? Ur reviews are really helpful I got my new mazda and helped me a lot to get to know the systems with ur reviews:) Thanks

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Mazda hasn't really said. I suspect you'll be able to do it yourself if Mazda provides the updates in that fashion.

[@tejasjoglekar514]

I think you have to take it to Mazda dealer for latest update,

[@redav415]

Alex--good review. I heard that the touch screen is locked out when driving. Can you confirm that? If it is, how would you perform the drag functionality, like ff & rw within a song, or rapidly scrolling through song lists?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

That is correct. The distance of the screen from the driver makes it somewhat unnatural to use the touchscreen while in motion but it is locked out.

[@marktony9737]

Looks like a much better system than I currently have in my Mazda 6, the NB1 system is the worst ever. My fear is though that current Mazda's fitted with NB1 system will be left high and dry by Mazda when they release the revised Mazda 6

[@cooperdan89]

How does the song integration compare with the 2014 mazda 6 that you reviewed? I saw that it took longer than 2 minutes to sync each time.

[@alexdykes]

Night and day different. The Mazda3's system is very snappy. It plays immediately and loads the playlist data rapidly when you start to browse the device. The Mazd6 is one of my least favorite systems but the Mazda3's is a top pick in my book.

[@juanoouu]

Alex, thanks for your video. i Have a doubt.... why, on the top of the screen, at the right size, appear a signal, battery and wifi indicator?.. is this for the iPhone or its for the MazdaConnect System? thanks!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

This is for the connected phone

[@CopperRed3]

I just bought a 2015 mazda 3. Curious why xm doesn't show the station logo on this display like with my old car which was a Hyundai. Also the title info doesn't scroll.

[@TheTCOLL]

Has anyone noticed there does not seem a way to get the base to go from between zero and +6?

[@amarsinghvazhoor4334]

Hi Alex, Thanks for your video explaining the features of the Mazda 3 infotainment. It was really very useful and easy to follow. I bought my car just 3 weeks ago so far no problem with this. But I have a doubt about the battery sign showing on the screen. Initially it was displaying a 'full' sign but now it shows completely empty. I thought while driving the car it will automatically get charged but is not happening. Is it due to the malfunctioning of any part or is there any method to charge it or can I simply ignore it? I am a bit worried about this. Can someone please answer my query? Thanks in advance

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Amarsingh Vazhoor I'm not too sure on that one. You may want to ask your dealer next time you are in for a visit.

[@amarsinghvazhoor4334]

Alex on Autos Thanks Alex

[@T-Rizzle808]

The battery sign on screen is of the device that's connected to the vehicle

[@carlosspadafora]

GREAT STUFF YOU ROCK MAN!!!

[@K_Sadek]

Could you elaborate on what's inside the vehicle settings tab?

[@XxLowellxX]

Hi Alex, love your reviews. What do you think about the 2014 Mazda3 S T/GT vs the fully loaded 2014 Kia Forte?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Tough one. The Forte is the better value while the Mazda is the better handling vehicle. The Forte 5-door has the new turbo engine that I really like but the Forte sedan still has the old engine lineup.

[@jamesgjt]

quality is in 3 or the new focus favor, equipment is forte favor.

[@marilynmcgreal8839]

recently I clicked the HOME button on the navigation system and although there were main highways all the way home the navigation system took me to a very remote country road, where I became totally lost and lacked the confidence to then rely on the navigation to get me home. Any thoughts or suggestions as to why this may have happened. I have checked all the settings but nothing seems obvious. Any help available???

[@Tragi82]

Great video as always. I wanted to request an update to this review as well as get your thoughts on the Ford Sync3. Thanks!

[@freeurmind5790]

PLS ADVICE: My usb music does not have folders, it's just all listed there. I plug in the usb and it plays the music. I press the NEXT button on the steering wheel and most times it skips to the next music. BUT sometimes it will put the music on REPEAT even if I did NOT press REPEAT on the screen. Is there something wrong with my system? Should I bring it back to the dealer to fix? Thanks!

[@NewYorksFinest1]

how come i can't just say a name of a restaurant and location for nav? it keeps asking me for the complete address of the place i'm trying to go. what if i don't know the full address ?

[@dennissegobola9348]

Hi Alex, I would like to know if it is possible to connect to wifi router but not through a mobile device. For example, I park outside a McDonald with a wifi hotspot and connect to my Mazda 3. I am asking this because I do get a good signal strength on my phone whilst at a parking at work. Usually I do this before leaving work in the afternoon and wanted to know if I can use that time to connect to my Mazda 3?

[@samhuangto]

What is the most up to date version of the software , I have an iPhone 6 , I don't think it is compatible with my current version 27. Any idea how I update the infotainment system ?

[@georgemohr7532]

What is the best way to clean the finger prints off of the touch screen? That's as in what cleaning products are safe to use on the screen?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

George Mohr I generally just use a microfiber cloth that is barely damp. You can use LCD safe window cleaners as well, the products designed for your laptop or home PC.

[@georgemohr7532]

Alex on Autos Thanks. That was a rapid turn-around from question to answer. Impressive.

[@kalng1792]

Hi there! i would like to know is there any current option on displaying the artist album cover while i connect to my iphone bluetooth? i'm driving mazda 2 2016 but every time i connected to my iphone bluetooth to mazda tablet, the music plays without the album/artist cover. Any clue? thankyou!

[@carlmccarden8425]

Hi Alex, how does this system compare to the 2015 Sonata infotainment system for Iphone users? Carplay?

[@maxencemounier5759]

Can I quiclky switch from a favourite radio station to another one by another way than the next button on the wheeldrive ? From the touch screen? For allowing the passenger to do it instead of asking me all the time to switch to another favourite station? CHeerz

[@withloveshyam]

I am connecting my USB thumb drive as an audio source to my 2017 Cx5. I am seeing that the folders/albums don't play back to back. After one folder completes playing, i have to manually select the next one. But, when i play the entire song list (All Songs), they play back to back but the songs are all jumbled up here and not sorted per album/folder. Anyone seen this?

[@mikey6482]

When I pair my android and look at the song lists there is no way to go from one letter to the next. I have to scrolll through 2000 songs. Not possible! any suggestions?

[@jacky9584]

does this system support music info in other languages? E.g. Chinese, korean, japanese.

[@dpkspace]

Hi alex i wanted to know if the 7inch mazda connect infotainment system is available on the market...

[@alexYJZ]

is there anyway to play video on the Infotainment system ?

[@thiscorrosion900]

The media center is fine, I don't like that they deleted the CD deck, and you cannot put one in, because there's no room in the Mazda3 now to put one outboard. Annoying. It does have AUX and USBs though, at least. The stereo system in mine sounds fantastic, though. I also invested in a thumb drive and put tons of music on it, but it's so slow and clunky using it with the media center, I gave up using it a while ago.

[@herrdoktorknowitall]

Great video. But seriously bro, Huey Lewis?

[@MrGagason]

great video. thank you

[@JustAnotherGamer1005]

I'm thinking of buying a Mazda 3. But what I'm wondering with the music options, if you listen to mp3 from a usb stick, does it recognize folders? Because I organize my mp3's to genres in folders. I don't like all the mp3's to be in the same folder. And is it able to repeat mp3 only in one folder and over all the folders?

[@j.w.hunter8126]

Yes it does, with the control roll bar in center aisle.

[@ripper1116]

Hello Alex, I just saw your review about the Mazda 3 2014 connect infotainment system. I have a new mazda since april 2014 and i find it kinda difficult to instal. my music in the system. Is it normal that when i load music from my pc on my usb stick that i first need to convert all songs from mp3 to ogg. It also bother’s me that i don’t see the title song or the artist on the screen? In hope you can help me a bit forward i wish you the best and thanks for your great work and video’s. Greetings from Belgium. Rik S.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I'm not too familiar with the problem. Have you checked with the dealer's service department? They might be the best ones to answer this question.

[@abishuachendriah]

Hello Guys, i've bought a mazda 3 skyactive year 2015. However, nothing is being displayed on the safety settings. Is this normal? If not, can you help?

[@BrandonBrodrick]

Is there a way to change the color theme from red to something else?

[@TheMuriri]

Unfortunatly, i have standard. can this be bought externally?

[@jroddz]

How does the passenger cycle through the radio station presets? I know the driver can cycle through with the steering wheel controls, but passenger has no option to do that.

[@sonyaj6328]

probably with the knob controls?

[@Patrilot]

Only way I've found is to go into favorites and cycle through there. A little annoying, but there's a favorites button on the side anyway.

[@joshuadaviduy6518]

Hi alex! Thanks for the review. I bought mine more than a month ago. But lately i'm having problem. As soon as i connect my phone, the system starts to dial a unknown number and about few seconds it'll hang up and it will do it again. Have you heard of someone else having the same problem? Or maybe you had experienced it as well. I'll wait for your response. Thanks!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

JD U I have not heard of that. What has the dealer said?

[@124angelm]

JD U my gf just bought hers and we are not having that problem but it does crash a lot when connecting to a usb device has also crashed during phone calls so we are waiting on the dealer to get the updated software to install it to the car hopefully this fixes the bugs. unfortunately the tech guy at the dealer had no clue what he was doing and told me there was no update prior to actually looking up the possibility of there being one

[@BuhnanaFone]

just a question, if i get a mazda 3 2014 or higher base model, can i still install this later on?

[@derrickrose387]

+Buhnanafone KZbin i got thesame question, you got the answer?

[@wallacehardy2619]

I just bought a 2015 Mazda3. The salesman paired my I-phone 6 with the system at the dealership. Now, when I try and use the GPS on my phone for directions I am not getting any audio on my phone or on the Mazda audio system. I get the map and detailed directions but, I cannot get sound on either. I am not very technologically inclined.

[@rov_stark]

+Wallace Hardy Make sure your Blutooth is ON after you paired it.

[@osamariyani4745]

Hi Alex... Can u play video in Mazda3?

[@lindajspom]

do i have to buy the navigation system?.. mines just show the map (N-W-S-E) none like yours

[@jillianparsons4225]

i took out the mazda chip for navigation and know i put it back in it sats its unrecognizable any tips?

[@lukavodopivec6007]

Is there a way to change the langauge of gps voice commands?

[@lvtbus3167]

If it updates for the CX9 for 2017 and they add Android play, will that Software update on the display for the 2016 CX9?

[@MOBYDEE7171]

the Scion iA uses the same system since it's made by Mazda. Does anyone know if a 3's Navi SD card will work in the iA?

[@jenny8052]

Alex, does the infotainment recognize foreign languages other than english from paired phone?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

That is an excellent question. If you're doing the pass-thru voice recognition then the system doesn't care what you're speaking. The system itself however seemed to only have French and Spanish as available selections.

[@kidcanada5]

It seems a little small, was it harder to read from the drivers seat?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

At 7-inches it is the same size as most Mercedes COMAND, Volvo Sensus, certain Nissan and Infiniti systems and 1-inch smaller than most MyFord Touch systems and Chrysler uConnect. The graphics are designed to be easily readable so it wasn't really an issue.

[@zxbc1]

I own this car now, and I can say that it is extremely easy to read, due to the excellent resolution and the clear design of the interface. The screen is on the bright side, especially at night, but you can adjust it.

[@ripper1116]

zxbc I also own the Mazda 3 now,wanna talk about it??

[@wawa-bz6nn]

Is there an option to turn off the GPS or is it consistently on? I dont like the idea of constantly having the GPS activated.

[@AryzenI]

Don't buy GPS then...

[@banniegal]

Hi, I have this radio for my 2015 mazda demio. Its in japanese. Any advice on how to change it to english??? Fingers cross you can help.

[@Ilovemymommy123]

How do I turn on the voice directions on my navigation system?

[@1988shamis]

which kind of file I need to watch a movie or video on the screen MAZDA 3 2014????

[@lorimeg8133]

Hi i want to know how to turn off the radio and music ??

[@sheldonpottinger7055]

I have a mazda 3 but doesn't have that radio,where can I get this radio to buy? I'm in Jamaica but cant find it online😪

[@rafaelgomez433]

The Mazda can play video from an ipod?

[@skoenster]

Great video. I like your Swedish songs :-)

[@meagannelson746]

Hi Alex, is there a way to buy this touchscreen? I just bought a 2014 Mazda 3 hatchback and it doesn't have the touchscreen. I am looking around at websites to try and find it for a good price and I am out of luck. Thank you!

[@savydaniel]

I think the touchscreen works only when stationary.

[@dabarlo13]

Hi Alex. Is there a way to take out the lock out features when driving? Its pretty annoying when you're trying to input an address while driving and it wont let you even if theres a passenger in the car to do it for you

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

dabarlo13 Not that I know of.

[@rov_stark]

+dabarlo13 It's not gonna let you..for your own safety.

[@TranceFluenceRadio]

Yes there is ! I've done this

[@mikey6482]

+Rovie Cuneta but using the toggle knob while staring at screen is safe?

[@deanm2517]

once you buy the navigation system is it free or do you have to pay for a service, also with the sd card how do you update the maps if you don't have an sd slot in your computer

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

There is no service, but you would have to pay for map updates if you want them. Most people don't update their systems very often unless they are living in an area that is rapidly expanding. My personal car hasn't had an update in 6 years and in the Bay Area that has only proved to be a problem twice and both times I made do with my cell phone.

[@deanm2517]

Alex on Autos cool, thanks for the info

[@Marko-vb8km]

Hi, what does it mean if the display is showing low battery simbol, and how can it empty if it is only working when the car is running?

[@bumsly1]

That battery symbol is in regards to your phone battery.

[@glennaa11]

any experience with the Head Up Display?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I honestly found it a little gimmicky, but it is better than not having one.

[@sudha4128]

I just bought the Mazda 2 in Japan, and despite negative reviews of the HUD, I like it a lot, as it shows the speed as well as a simple arrow and exact distances for the turns to guide you to the destination without the need to look at the main sat-nav screen. This was designed for safety reasons and it works well, one gets used to this very quickly.

[@jamesgjt]

for my height 5.11. it is good despite that is not that high up. the hud just right at the place where u normally look at ur hood. the navigation guide in hud is good also provide u which lane you should be at. (solid arrow) . will be better if it also show u which gear you are at and also song you are playing.

[@akbarrd]

am having Mazda 3 2015 gx model audio system.can able to install infotainment system

[@deanm2517]

and also when you pair your phone, bluetooth or usb. Does the computer automatically recoginize and sort your contacts, music with an android. Dumb questions, but i have'nt upgraded my car in years

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It automatically pulls down your address book but it doesn't sort them.

[@mariafieldesousa92]

Hi Alex, I now have a new Mazda 3 and in the display tab there is a mode that you can adjust the display brightness. Auto, Day and Night. I'm assuming that the Auto would automatically dim the display at night and then return it to day brightness during the day. Mine is not working. I have to go in and manually change it from Day to Night. Do you know if there is a way to fix this? Thank you.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I'm not sure. It sounds like it may be a software bug? I would mention it to the dealer next time you are there.

[@sudha4128]

In my new 2015 Mazda 2 in Japan, a tiny protruding 'stick' to adjust the trip meter is also the controller to brighten or dim the infotainment panel as well as the speedo/tach lights. Hope it is the same in the Mazda 3!

[@TheTheBigBOSS66]

the touch screen only works if ur not driving or driving very slow

[@rijsberman]

how are the speakers in this car???

[@charlesifeanyif3516]

Hi Alex, how can I connect KZbin to play on Mazda CX9

[@mrsnowman2008]

How do you delete music from the touch screen? Do you have to reset it to factory settings to do this?

[@mrsnowman2008]

I'm using a USB but the music I deleted on the USB is still on the touch screen!

[@alexandermoritz348]

Lee Bottom I think you have to select "Music Database Update" in the settings, as you can see at minute 07:47.