Mazda 3 vs Audi A3 & BMW 1 Series group test

[@John-tm2hw]

My previous car was a Mazda 3, which I owned for 10 years. No rust, no faults, no trouble. Guess what? I bought the 2016 Mazda 3 (petrol) and have lived with it for a year and it's a great vehicle. They're fun cars to drive, cheap to own, have no serious character flaws and they get you from A to B in fine style. They love a twisty road, rule the motorway and put a grin on your face when you put your foot down. I've driven everything from Porsche Caymans to Renault Meganes and I have to say that, unless you're prepared to shell out an awful lot of money, Mazda's range of vehicles does the job, in style. A lot of people want a German car because of the badge but honestly, I've never had a single thing go wrong on two Mazda 3's and I can't see the point in gambling on another brand. Citroen and Peugeot? I've driven both brands. Nice cars, shame about their reliability issues. BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagen? Again nice cars but shame about their very expensive service packages and (with some models) reliability. Most Japanese cars? Some can be boring (Toyota, I'm looking at you, with the Yaris) but they very, very rarely let you down. The current Mazda 3 (petrol) just loves a corner, loves overtaking, and is a joy to own. I can cram a ton of stuff into the boot (trunk), hit the road and grin all the way to the end of the journey. If I want drama, I can get some but if I want a quiet journey, I can get that too. Love it. Mazda makes a car that becomes your friendly fiend. End of.

[@MrWalker1000]

I got a Mazds because it's a happy medium between Japan and Europe. It has the driving dynamics of a BMW but the reliability of Toyota. Name a better car?

[@User-cb4jm]

@@MrWalker1000 Exactly. It has taken over the crown from Honda of being Japan's BMW

[@farzadjahanfard]

I am getting a Mazda 3 2017, which has very low mileage, and I am so excited. Your comment made me smile. i drive picanto 2012 now ,Mazda is my first propper car I can say that :D

[@wolfmans_mazda3654]

I bought myself a Mazda 3 Sport Nav 2.0 165ps and I have no regrets. It was fully loaded pretty much everything that costs extra with German brand cars. I was going to get an Audi A3 but I couldn't justify paying £10k more than the Mazda 3 just to get it up to spec. Personally, I don't care about the image of owning a German car...I let the Mazda 3 speak for itself. The Mazda 3 is a serious car...I love it.

[@restlessactivity8696]

Nowdays people think they drive Ferrari when they own BMW, or Audi... That's why i don't wanna buy one i rather have something diffrent than these wannabe rich kids.

[@elite2sick225]

EmME spliff I agree with you 100%

[@MrStefano218]

In Italy for my Mazda 3 2.2 diesel automatic full optional I spend 33.000 euro... the Audi A3 Sportback, same engine and option cost 36.000 euro... my previous Bmw Series 1 (buyed New 3 years ago) I spent 35.000 is not a big difference. but here in Italy Mazda is considered a semi Premium brand, that means is very close to the traditional Premium brand.... the image is very similar... and in my opinion also the quality is very similar

[@MrStefano218]

really In Britain people buy an AUDI or a Bmw just for acting like rich people??? ahaha oh c'mon a used Series 1 cost 15.000 euro... same price of a normal Toyota Yaris also here in Italy we have some of this "fake rich", buy used Mercedes or Audi or BMW, but few people believe, just ask how much they earn, and you see they are fake rich .. Here in Italy, in general, we not judge a person wellness by the car, if you buy a German compact car, you're seen as fashionable and cool, but no more rich ... however, the new Mazda, are viewed in the same way, very cool, very fashionable

[@giandeibrughi9860]

MrStefano218, anche per me la Mazda è quasi premium... hanno una bella linea e buona tecnologia, solo che le offrono con dei motori con cilindrate troppo alte per noi, con le tasse che abbiamo... un duemila a benzina è senza senso in Italia, a meno che non sia una sportiva vera e propria... Però a me la Mazda l'avevano sconsigliata perchè da noi non ha una rete capillare, non hanno una buona assistenza, cioè tenderebbero a vendere l'auto e poi non vogliono sapere più niente, è vero?

[@inodesnet]

The thing that isn't explained about these diesels is that Mazda is the odd one out when compared to other diesels. Rather than go the standard 17:1 or 18:1 compression normally required, they chose to flip it on its head and do a record low 14:1. The negative with this is cold starts, which they resolved with feeding exhaust on start up. But what is a benefit is that the low compression burns the fuel more effectively, so they don't need AdBlue or other additions. Secondly, because it's the same compression ratio as their petrol car, they put in lighter engine parts shaving a massive amount of weight (the weight of a person). But it's the sound and rpm that are most noticeable and it's explained in this video without Auto Express explaining why. Because of its weight and compression ratio being so different, it has much high rpm and sound as if it's 1/2 way between a standard petrol engine and standard diesel. It's a lot quieter for that. Post VW diesel issues though, both German and Japanese automotive companies were investigated to determine if they were also cheating with emissions. There was a unnanimous finding that in fact, all manufacturers were cheating to a degree. The Japanese report card was odd though. They found that Mazda was the only brand that had successful results. In real world tests on the Mazda 3 and CX-5, the emissions were basically on par with the emissions reported prior to VW's emissions scandal. Maybe the low compression was a good idea after all.

[@TheLondonCyclist]

I enjoyed reading. Cheers

[@Driver6M]

Was given a Mazda3 GT 2.5 to drive for 2 hours yesterday. Bloody hell it is so good! Anyone that thinks Mazda can't compete with the Germans need to wake up and take one for a drive. I was very surprised at the quality, and the amount of tech you get blows the others away for the money. Engine and trans' was just brilliant too. Very quick

[@tornay131]

I'd rather have a fully loaded Mazda than a "poverty package" Audi, BMW or Mercedes. I bought a 2016 Mazda 3. So happy.

[@AkuotDiri]

Any update? Thinking of getting one.

[@azteka6103]

@@AkuotDiri get one, bought a 2016 22000 miles diesel 2.2 auto, flawless car

[@LupusInfernum]

@@AkuotDiri I have the 2.0 165ps Sport Nav...4.5 years...FLAWLESS!

[@stuey36]

@@LupusInfernum How is the ride on the 18"s?

[@mvwxiv]

@@stuey36 I’ve just bought the 2016 Mazda 3 sport black - the 18’s are fine, the ride seems smooth! However, I’ve come from a VW Scirocco - so most cars feel smooth in comparison

[@OwnedByNemz]

Mazda made impressive cars with a wonderfull design. Good job Mazda.

[@gunhunter]

I pity the fools who stereotype German cars as superior.

[@andreas-pk4uq]

The mazda looks much more powerful and stylish

[@ruthkharen]

This is the video that made me decide on a Mazda 3, 6 years back. I've driven a Lexus, a Mini sport, a VW, a Peugeot, a BMW, a Skoda, and been on a Mustang, amongst others...Mazda feels much better if you drive like someone who "drag races" all the time, especially around curvy roads 😉 I agree about it being good value for money. And man, the brakes and sensitive wheel response, nothing like it!! 😍

[@LupusInfernum]

Same here. Really did a good job selling me on it. I was thinking of buying the 1 series or the A3. However, 5.5 years later and I will never buy german....ever. Buying a Mazda gas taught me alot about cars

[@renaultlover1]

Mazda is definitely best.

[@User-cb4jm]

It’s probably the one still running without expensive mechanical issues or electronic gremlins now

[@LupusInfernum]

@@User-cb4jm ive had mine 5.5 years...not a single issue so far

[@matthewgonano636]

@@LupusInfernum mines 2016 and only issue ive had was infotainment was glitch they replaced whole for free. and the winshield washer stopped working and they fix for free. btw my mazda 3 has 140000 km

[@LupusInfernum]

@@matthewgonano636 im from the UK and have only done 49km since 2016.

[@XwtProd]

In this case I totally agree, I drive an Audi A5 2.0, big Audi fan, but I decided to pop by the mazda show room one day and I was just blown away by the quality of their latest models, they are up there with the Germans believe me!!

[@GT86crazy]

Did the same thing, bought myself a 3. As I posted above, the price difference in my part of the world makes it a no brainer. But Mazda3 vs Golf or Focus is more interesting.

[@ShaMana999]

I drive a mazda and even I don't believe that :)

[@snip84]

You cant say this by looking at a car. Thats unleashes after 20 years of driving. And believe me, a Mazda will rust back to the ground after that time.

[@GT86crazy]

snip84 Mazda do claim that they have used more high grade steel in the current crop of cars. That might make a difference. Can't truly tell until a few years time.

[@ponygt6629]

Mike Liu More than rusting the car isnt perfect, extremely noisy cabin and one of stiffest riding car in its class, let Mazda clear these issues and then I ll agree.

[@mrkruger5108]

Love BMW's but ill have the Mazda

[@frad100me]

I've just bought a Mazda 3. While the Audi and BMW are good cars, I agree with the reviewer, they don't offer the same value for money - possibly because you're paying a bit more for the badge.

[@User-cb4jm]

And they will be expensive to repair when they inevitably have mechanical and engine issues unlike Japanese cars that just keep going.

[@yeolblt]

@@User-cb4jm Exactly. Pay heaps more for the badge, and get clobbered by hefty repair bills. But people are free to spend their money any way they want :)

[@Atelier-AIP]

Mazda runs rings around the BMW and Audi xD Japanese tech will always prevail.

[@adsasadacsdcadcada]

mazda 3 looks way better than the other two

[@victorfu5979]

easily

[@stylesurfers]

This is a true to fact review despite people saying its biased because he owns a Mazda. With the upper tier cars that both the Germans rival offer, absolutely, any one of them would trump Mazda anyday. But this is the comparison of the more affordable, cost effective bang per buck competition which Mazda has proved itself to be quite the competitor ie, the Mazda 6, an award winning car. You need to pay like twice the amount to get the best out of BMW and Audi, for their 3 series and A6s while you can go the Mazda route and pay half and get the best of its class.

[@longrangevolley425]

you can't compare a car with a 2.2 engine against a car with a 1.6 engine because they are the same price ...... It like saying: yeah for 2 dollars I can buy 3 bottles of fake coke instead of buying 1 bottle of Coca Cola, but that doesn't mean Coca Cola is worse ???

[@ACS607]

Longrange Volley Why not? If your budget is around £21k, you're not going to select a similarly powered engine in the Audi and BMW and then spec the same equipment to compare them when you know it would be way out of your budget and therefore would not be able to buy one. Your comparison doesn't make sense and doesn't relate to the context. Besides, in the Audi, your money goes towards the higher grade materials for the interior, the design and the badge because it's otherwise built using the same components as a SEAT Leon. In the BMW, your paying for the rwd platform and the badge too. As the Mazda doesn't have the same brand image and the interior is designed and built to a cost, Mazda have to work harder to attract customers who would cross shop with the BMW and Audi, as well as the mainstream. Therefore they offer you better performance and equipment to tempt you away from them, to improve their market share and brand perception even at the result of a smaller profit margin.

[@AndrewRembel]

Longrange Volley A lot of people look at cars within a price range (e.g. "what can I afford for around $20,000), so this comparison test is very valid for that purpose. Also, it depends on what your criteria are. If you are looking for a more reliable car that won't cost a fortune to service (which a lot of people in this price range would be looking for), then the Mazda beats the German cars hands down.

[@Silverdeamon92]

Longrange Volley Your logic does not compute.

[@ponygt6629]

Andrew Rembel Yea, for the 21000 bracket u get better engines, better mileage,maybe better handling Who ll comprosmise for the unrefined ride quality,super stiff suspension as I felt when I test drove it, ultra crappy cabin insulation, I was literally screaming inside the car @70 mph to speak inside, such a horrible cabin insulation

[@Driftuner]

i dont think this video is biased at all...afterall Mat is basically judging facts mostly, and the Mazda really wins...people that dont "accept" this video are stuck with the classic "german car cliche"...the reality is that the german cars arent half as good as people think they are, and double the price of cars that happen to be much better...and YES, german cars now a days DO LACK QUALITY! as a test driver for german brands (in germany) i know this very well...every test driver colleague of mine is driving either a mazda, a toyota or a honda...those are the only brands with true quality for your money now a days...and again, i work with quality for a living...

[@xmsteel]

Just goes to show what I told my salesman here in the USA why I chose the new Mazda 3 hatch to purchase. All the perks of a Japanese car with all the feeling of a German car. Best of both worlds IMO.

[@PantherP74]

To all you Mazda 3 haters, go drive one and shut up!

[@InfamousGFox]

PantherP74 I love my Mazda. I have a 2010. I'm a mechanic. I like the comfort of the Honda, the reliability of a Toyota but the Mazda is the best at driving experience. I've had my car for 8 years now. I've needed to get a thermostat that's about it to be honest oh and the three engine mounts. Even though it was the last year with Ford being partial owners. I still like it.

[@truckerjames4749]

PantherP74 they are in my top 5 best cars list

[@azteka6103]

@aiM Khalifa before i bought i car i sat in all 3 cars, quality wise? top notch, germany produce rubbish since 2000

[@amberclarisse6928]

Driven one. Mazda sucks.

[@Teeb2023]

_"Driven one. Mazda sucks."_ With such a comprehensive, considered critique, no wonder you're the nobody we all know you are.

[@marky4431]

Had my Mazda 3 for 6 weeks and agree with the review, test drove all of these plus vw and skoda, the Mazda wins hands down.

[@lambosuperl]

Yes! Finally no automatic win for the Germans :) Very refreshing to see a European journalist so open to other models ;D

[@roland7565]

yeah thats totally fair. comparing a 2.2 liter engine with 1.6 liter. hmm which one will be faster?

[@vedranmatanic3653]

bushi its about the best bang for the buck, for the price of an entry level premium hatch you can buy the Mazda 3 with the excellent 2.2 diesel, so which one would you buy?;)

[@MegaVector2011]

Mat owns a Mazda, so do I. The 6 2.2D 150 SEL Nav. People in the know know.

[@waynewang7283]

When considering the service cost, Mazda is the much better of value for money than Audi and BMW.

[@connor6770]

Biased or not, the Mazda is faster, more economical than the smaller engined and slower 1 series, great practicality, reliable, better equipped. It's all just badge snobbery, the Audi and BMW to me are just boring, so many on the road surprised when people don't loose them in the car park, other alternatives like the Volvo V40 outclasses BMW, Audi and Mercedes with its 190 bhp D4 engine that emits 99 grams of co2, 70+ mpg and 0-60 in 6.8 seconds and to top it off, the safest car ever tested by euro ncap. Enough said.

[@Zetverse]

I actually do feel Mazda 3 abd V40 are better cars in segment.

[@robertthedunn]

As someone in the USA, I like to see videos like this of ordinary cars. We don't get any of these cars here in the US aside from the Mazda 3, and we aren't even offered the diesel engine in that. Small cars with diesel engines basically don't exist over here, and similar sized hatchbacks over here have a lot more standard horsepower than they do in Europe. For instance, the Focus has 160hp as standard over here. The biggest difference is in the price. You said the Mazda 3 in the video is ~21,000 pounds. 21,000 pounds is about $32,000. The Mazda 3 is sold at a starting price of $19,000 over here.

[@Autoexpress]

Robert Dunn Check out our sister channel Carbuyer for more ordinary car reviews!

[@robertthedunn]

Auto Express Will do. I'll definitely stick around here more often for more, shall we say, interesting cars.

[@tom-y9p]

U.K. and U.S. markets are completely different so comparing them is like walking through a minefield.

[@innversion86]

Right.. where is the diesel Mazda 3 for the US market..

[@Sky1]

+Robert Dunn I got a 2016 Mazda 6 Grand Touring and in spite of ratings I get an average of 28.8 MPG on Regular Gasoline. when running Air Conditioning. Considerably more without AC running

[@stuartdummkoph128]

I don't understand why people have such a hard time accepting a cheap BMW or Audi is exactly that, cheap. The saddest thing is when people buy them and flash the key fob around a like they actually own a "premium" car. It's the equivalent of putting a sock down your pants. It's all very impressive until you actually have to perform.

[@imyourhuckleberry4208]

+Stuart Osbourne totally agree with you.

[@frankkoolosko4255]

In the United States you cannot buy a BMW and an Audi for the same price as a Mazda. I’m going to trade in my 2017 Mazda six for the new sky active X when it comes out

[@Parliament1mg]

I dont give a f about what other people drive. Exactly that!

[@shyneco.watches5693]

@@frankkoolosko4255 what is the difference between skyactiv and skyactiv x ?

[@ELP1125]

OST unless you’re drag racing, why do you need a performance cars, when you’re using it to commute to work and run errands and such? People nowadays buy Audi, BMW, Mercedes for status not performance.

[@GT86crazy]

Here in New Zealand the BMW 118d (yes, not the 116d as it's not available) costs 57k (NZ dollars). Audi A3 2.0 TDI sportback is 56k these are the base models with no options. I've just bought the top of the line Mazda 3 for 47K. That's difference of 10k!!!!! Would you pay 10k more for a slower, less well equipped, less (objectively) "premium" car? It's a no brainer.

[@usrincludename.h2394]

Exact same thing in Australia. And the base model of the Mazda 3 can bought for $22k, going up to $34k for the highest end model. The base model Audi A4 costs $50k, over twice the the price of the Mazda 3. Factor in the long term servicing costs for BMW and Audi, which are traditionally more costly than Mazdas. Not to mention that Japanese cars are much more reliable than European cars.

[@lkj17]

I bought a 4 years old cx5 only 33k nz dollar, and was top of the range diesel turbo limited edition. Never regret that, and the handling is definitely better than the VWs golf etc (by my own moose test, only small body roll in high speed manuvering) the vw went almost out of control!

[@ljakrtsh1]

I choose mazda 3 even without watching the video

[@lovegames9892]

no matter how i look at it Mazda's design has left the other two premium brands by miles,it's cheaper but it looks more premium,i love it's kodo design

[@samson1380]

I am german and i bought the Mazda 3 2.2 Skyactiv D in january and i love it!

[@mctwain5319]

Research the previous reviews ; and any intelligent person can tell if this was sponsored or not.. I believe it is authentic ! These type of shenanigans tend to be more prevalent with US reviews . But if you know the history and follow a US publication called consumer reports; you will see that Mazda is a dedicated focused engineering company.With a rich history of automotive advancement and sports sucess. They truly stand their accomplishments ..A small company like mazda has the luxury and talent to focus on a passion to bring a car that can compete and beat most luxury cars by driver pleasure and reliability ,and do it by outright dedication to a philosophy that sees the car and driver as one.

[@olivertrajkovski1058]

The Mazda 3's torque is amazing... No other segment car can beat it...

[@hingholo8027]

+Oliver Trajkovski yea 420nm of torque from twin turbo diesel.

[@kdomster9141]

it is great to see non Luxury brand compete with true Luxury powerhouses ... Yes Audi and BMW should be winning these tests as a luxury brands and in some ways 1 series and A3 are clearly better but fact that Mazda can beat them overall is great for car buyers ... nothing better than competition .

[@AdamMusialBright]

Love this fair, price matched test

[@Rickusty]

Very impressed by the Mazda.... German cars are becoming less and less great as other competitors are catching up....

[@whatwouldiknow1759]

The trouble is the Germans want the market the Japanese have. Simple.

[@madaratobi23]

Mazda powa ! i sold my Audi A4 and bought à Mazda 6. i don't regret one second about my choice. Audi is boring, expensive

[@ylagziel]

mazda 3 👍👍👍

[@Danial0152]

BMW and Audi are outdated already. Mazda is the better one

[@maplefreak64]

Mazda was a crisis by capital cooperation cancellation with GM. They challenged technological reform independently to survive. Skyactiv has been developed as first step. This was praised by a car journalist of the world. It's still underestimated, but they're successful.

[@82907]

Ford, not GM ;)

[@loktom4068]

Ford almost ruined the Mazda brand with their Ford's planning and quality control policy. The most notable bad Ford genes were RUST.

[@Sandouras]

This A3 has been exactly the same for what feels like a century. And the BMW looks like a box. I'd buy an Astra, or better yet an A class.

[@MjrAlNlsc]

I find it interesting how depreciation works in Europe; here in the US most luxury cars have a higher depreciation percentage than normal cars, especially the Japanese makes

[@Ccleanerable]

He forgot to mention the terrible reliablity of the german cars.

[@S-Ltd1000]

Anyone looking at the Mazda3 should go for the bulletproof 2.0 petrol as the diesel's haven't got the best reliability record. Petrols come in two states of tune, 118bhp and 165bhp. 165 gets a higher spec interior but the 118 has longer gears so better for motorways. They have also been proven to be outputting a real world 135 to 140bhp. If that isn't enough they can be easily mapped/derestricted to 170/180bhp for about £300. Pre 2017 also benefit from £30 a year tax.

[@devilsadvocate2548]

Gee a lot of people can't handle it when someone says they prefer a Japanese car over a European car! FWP? I'll put in my 2 bobs worth after having owned various European (Opel to numerous BMWs) and Japanese cars (Toyota to Mazda). In MY experience they have all been quality cars but that quality shows in DIFFERENT ways. The European cars have a quality 'feel' to them ie solid/refined and have a real depth of engineering. The Japanese cars however 'feel' like their 'just in time' manufacturing process they love so much ie engineered/materials/feel etc are just enough to do the job it was designed to do at the time and nothing more. Where the Japanese 'quailty' comes through is in their reliability. Everything just works and usualy keeps working long after the European cars start having little niggles that just keep getting bigger if you don't keep on top of them. The European cars I have owned, as brilliant as they were to drive with a much more solid 'feel/perceived quality', couldn't get anywhere near the reliability of the Japanese cars over the long term. With the Japanese cars you could just get in and drive day in/day out and they could handle mechanical neglect FAR better than the Europeans. They BOTH have their good and bad points, it just depends on where you priories are. This is just from my PERSONAL experience from around 23 years of car ownership. If only we could have the 'feel' of the European cars with the reliability of the Japanese cars!

[@Grant2k12]

Sorry i have to disagree. You feel so much better in the new mazda 3 as in the 1 series. You feel that when you just sit in the car and touch the stering wheel, put in gears and especially when you drive them. The mazda engine is way better than the one from BMW and so is the interior... and like in the video shown you get more in the mazda for the same price, when makes it feel even more expensive.

[@devilsadvocate2548]

Grant2k12 I think you may have miss-understood me. The 'feel' I'm talking about is things like the more solid 'thunk' when you closer the door, the NVH (which is only average at best in a Mazda, I know, I've owned 3) and just a more solid feel over less than perfect roads. I totally agree with the feel of a Mazda through the steering. The steering in the Mazda6 (and even the 3MPS I had to a lesser extent) we had was lovely and direct with initial turn in to a corner even better than the 2 BMWs I've had/got. But it still didn't have that 'hewn from solid metal' feel through the chassis the European cars had. However as I said this is only my own personal experience and is only subjective. There is also no doubt about the superior value for money of the Japanese cars I've had over the Europeans.

[@Grant2k12]

Mark Anderson Well yeah in that points you might be right :P

[@pr4efectus]

Had Skoda Octavia 2004, Passat 2006, Peugeot 407, Skoda Superb Mk2 2012, Skoda Superb 2016. Now happy owner of Mazda 3, Sport NAV 2.0 Petrol. What a lovely car!

[@enemay]

Mazda 3 all the way to the bank.

[@Towert7]

This guy went into some pretty good detail which I find lacking in most other auto reviews. Good job!

[@mattheginger]

It amazes me how biased the British are towards Euro cars. Every Mazda/Honda/Toyota review gets a predictable rain of hatred in the comments!

[@derbigpr500]

It's not bias, it's the truth. Go sit in an Audi A3 and then inside a Mazda 3, and you'll see. Japanese cars feels cheap. You close the door on the Mazda, it sounds like they're made out of tin foil. You drive it on the motorway, it's loud, unrefined, not nearly as stable and composed. There's nothing the Mazda does better, realistically speaking. It's cheaper, yes, for a reason. Compare it to a A3 2.0 TDI with 150hp, which also gets better suspension as default, and it will be far faster, quieter, better handling, etc. This BMW and Audi are like the most basic cars the brand offers, while this Mazda is top of the line model, you can't buy a more expensive Mazda 3.

[@mattheginger]

derbigpr500 Haha, this is bias even in reviews between Mondeos and mazda 6's. It really doesn't seem to matter, if it's euro vs Japa then the hate comes out. Oh and the Audi you described would be MUCH more expensive, and have you driven a Lexus lately? Or the latest Mazda 6?

[@derbigpr500]

mattheginger Yes, I have driven a Lexus IS220d and I have driven several Mazda 6's, my father owned the last model of Mazda 6 with a 180hp 2.2 diesel engine. But I expect if I tell you it's not as good as the European rivals, you'd call me a hater. You never could see what makes a premium brand worth more money, all you can say is "you're paying for the name" argument. If you could actually understand the engineering behind EACH detail of these cars, you'd realize why they cost more.

[@mattheginger]

derbigpr500 Firstly I'm not a damn American (you make a lot of assumptions). Secondly I never said a Mazda 6 was better than a 50-100k GBP European vehicle. Matt compares 3 cars at the same price in this video, from the same category (supposed 'premium' cars don't get their own category), and deems that the Mazda is the best on balance. The hate rains down in the comments, but if we'd replaced the Mazda 3 with a Focus it would have been a very different story... Europeans are biased to towards European cars.. It's understandable I guess, but it still makes me laugh.

[@Wojticivic1993]

derbigpr500 OMG you are so stupid that I have nothing to say.. Japanese cars feels cheap? Maybe Micra and new SpaceStar, but overall they are very well built. Lexus is on the same level, or even higher than any crappy audi.

[@eamonnmcdermott1939]

Today is the 26th February 2021. I'm sure that the Mazda has had far less issues than these two rivals after nearly 7 years!

[@LupusInfernum]

Bought my Mazda 3 Sport Nav 165ps in Feb 2016...not a single issue. Flawless!

[@2ndNidaime]

You know what else had Mazda 3 left behind this drag race? Unreliability

[@davea7909]

We now live in a world where people think there's a perfect and direct correlation between brand image and performance. This video is about 3 similarly-priced car and looks fair enough but lot you will never in a million years accept the result as all brainwashed to think Germans makes the best car....well may be they only make best overpriced cars compared to other makers

[@regar4s]

Dave A the point here however is not only about the performance and options, but about materials used, like bodyshells of german makes are certainly better than mazdas and are more persistant to corroison,plastic in the cabin, seats fabric, lights, this stuff makes german cars premium

[@gasgibson]

Regar4s you are definitely wrong when it comes to lighting

[@VD-vv6oh]

@@regar4s Those "premium" materials also break down a lot more and don't last nearly as long as japanese cars

[@MrBomdigiti]

Thailand price mazda 3 staring from 830,000 baht = 15,074 pound bmw 116i staring from 1,750,000 baht = 31,784 pound Audi A3 staring from 2,000,000 baht = 36,324 pound The price gap here is just unbelievable. btw Mazda 3 and Bmw 116i both are assemble in Thailand guess the gov only wants the rich to drive european cars ..

[@FiredEmpire]

+Bomdigiti EU's imposing tariffs on Japanese cars to protect their low quality VAG, PSA and FCA.

[@shujataj5759]

Popp

[@Cenot4ph]

German cars hardly make sense in Thailand except for the top models like the 5, 7 series or Mercedes E, S class. Otherwise its just showing off really

[@ponrix]

mazda is coming up ..😊

[@michaelnguyen8121]

Audi and BMW with their luxurious roots uses Halogen (yellowish) headlights ( My 20 years old Honda Civic has it as well)- Only the Mazda 3 has HID Xenon low and high beam and at half the price.

[@snip84]

I own a Audi a4 1.6 petrol for 7 years now. It has 500.000km down, no rust (just a little on the front fender-right), still takes around 7l/100km and everything works so far. It is also a 1996. I have a few other friends with VWs and Audis with simmilar specs. And i have a uncle and a friend that owned Mazdas and sold them in 2 years due to repairing and rust. I dont say german cars are better but i cant imagine getting a better car that would last me longer. And oh....theres the replacement part prices...it doesnt get cheaper than with german cars if you live in Europe. Finaly theres the 4wd you can get with the audi or bmw, which i dont believe Mazda offers in general. my 2 cents.

[@Sandy-oy2lr]

2017 2.5L 6spd manual HB. If you're a 'driver,' and can't afford the $40K+ for the A3, you'll love this car. Very premium feel, the G Force Vectoring works a treat where the front wheels pull you around a turn rather than just push you wide. Nothing like it for the deal I got. Under $20K new. The tach sucks and there's no remote rear hatch release either in the car or on the FOB. My main criticisms. Otherwise, imho, this IS a driver's car.

[@Pandamasque]

Great review! Very informative and to the point. I'd like to see more comparison tests like this.

[@77936fief]

i have the mazda, absolutely love the car, however i'm going to disagree with you on the handling, especially at high speeds, you have to work very hard not to lose the car in tight corners, otherwise, it's an amazing car to drive

[@branot89]

Would you choose better car or premium badge?

[@Phily1494]

branot89 better car obv. was that a rhetoric?

[@FiredEmpire]

Your video editing skills have improved significantly. good job AE.

[@victorfu5979]

Mazda 3 has the best dash instruments I’ve ever seen.

[@mvwxiv]

I can’t believe he didn’t love it too! It’s unique and looks awesome right?

[@Bezen-hb2be]

The A3 is just a golf with audi badge premium price just buy the golf.

[@Dawood4]

Nice! I just want them to come out with an AWD Mazdaspeed 3 or AWD 3. I currently have a 2015 Mazda 3 S Touring with the 2.5 L engine.

[@Lukos0036]

I love the way the Mazdas look from the front. We just got the 4 door sedan and it's got really nice lines. Though I can attest that the road noise is a bit much. It will get old on long trips. So passengers bring some noise cancelling headphones.

[@froggydoes7092]

And I could only wish that the Skyactive D was available in the USA.

[@areytang5178]

I don't think there is any bias here, it's a real world scenario of if you have these sort of money and you want a hatchback, which one you will buy, simple.

[@Dkcode]

The Mazda 3 rips off the Audi A3's styling. The Mazda is more curvy but the rear and front takes heavy influence from the A3 and interior is practically a facsimile of the A3. Also the Mazda's body panels are made out of rice paper. Buy one and expect to be removing dents caused by stone chips. Don't forget to buy a touch up pen as well because you will need one. I have owned both Japanese and German cars and while Japanese cars are very reliable and I have a lot of respect for the Japanese brands, they are not unfathomable when it comes to quality. Every Japanese car I have owned has been reliable but each one had weird issues, rubbish interior quality materials and cheap paintwork that combine to a greater whole to give the perception of a cheap and tacky feel. The cost cutting is smack you in the face obvious in certain places. The Germans have absolutely nailed fit and finish quality. For people who do not care about their cars this will not be an issue but for those that do this is the reason people buy German cars.

[@cilvrado]

Zoom zoom bitches. Mazda really knocked the ball off the park with the new 3/6/CX series. I think this Mazda 3 will hold its value come resale time. Its Japanese, so more reliable and lesser repair costs once warranty expires.

[@snip84]

Lesser repair cost? Dream on kid.

[@Danial0152]

snip84 lol better than the Germn cars

[@snip84]

TheClubshaker Spelling is not one of your strong sides, is it? Well, at least i dont need a huge silly spoiler on my "worse" German car, because i have dignity. Know what that is? Try google...

[@Ichibuns]

snip84 He's right. At least here n the US repairs are much cheaper. and resale values of BMW, Audi, and mercs are horrible.

[@hingholo8027]

+snip84 you should try google parts for japanese cars are WAYY less than german so he is right you dumbass.

[@polopowered]

Mazda all the way.

[@Bugumir]

No one buys a low-end Audi or BMW because it's the best deal out there. A type of person who'll pick a BMW over a Mazda will do so regardless of how much better the Mazda may be. Which is why you don't compare brand image to a sensible car.

[@inoffect]

Spoke to a German that worked for a few of the German car manufacturers and he told me that they look to Japan when it comes to production standards...nuf said.

[@010karl010]

Wohoo my car kicks ass! :DPetrol version though, 160hp. Choice made on real price/performance. I placed zero emphasis on brand when making my choice.

[@johnmorris6344]

CarWow.....I see Matt Watson is looking young! I have just bought a 66 plate SE-L Nav with this 2.2 skyactive diesel engine and after watching this I can't wait for it to be delivered. Currently in a 2021 Seat Ateca FR Sport DSG that is costing too much to run and pay for so I picked up a nice black one for 9k. I hope i won't be disappointed.

[@farmatas]

How's your new Mazda3? I thinking of buying the 66 plate also but not sure if I should go with an Audi instead. Any feedback with your experience owning it?

[@johnmorris6344]

@@farmatas its decent tbh. Feels very well made but the steering is very heavy on my one. Taking it in to be checked next week but its smooth and pretty nippy and economical. I find it comfortable on long trips as well and the standard sound system is excellent. I would go for the sport nav if I were to choose again though but I got this at a good price so can't complain.

[@farmatas]

Thanks for your feedback.

[@hardwolf5]

The problem with premium brands is that for the price of well equiped mazda you get naked 1 series. But if you have a bit more money there is a lot more potential in premium brands. Tbh, I was hoping for something a bit more exciting than a compact diesel test...

[@guy20201000]

I still have my Mazda 3 after 14 years and its a really well build car you turn the key and the engine starts first and every time.

[@theautobreaker]

mazda now worth 9k bmw 116d now worth 10.5k also please bear in mind bmw has been out since 2012 audi is now worth 11k. the cars checked online are all the same age so 2014 and have similar mileage. all figures are in gbp (£) and checked on autotrader.

[@DabDabGoose]

In Australia a Mazda would hold value much better, in Europe it doesn't mainly due to parts availability.

[@smokebruster]

I have been driving mazda3 for 5 years and I am having fun out of it.

[@ionutvrabie5730]

I was going to buy a Volkswagen Golf as it seems to still take the edge when it comes to family hatches. However when I first sat foot into the new Mazda 3 I was completely drawn to it and I absolutely forgoten about Volkswagen. It is an simply an amazing car at £21,200. look for the Mazda 3 SE-L 2.2 Diesel as it is fully loaded.

[@mandude83]

Just got a 2014 Mazda 3 2.0 petrol. What an amazing little car! It's cheap to buy and cheap to run!

[@bazitube390]

Lol the drag test tho

[@jamescooling76]

It's refreshing to see the German hatches get beaten hands down. The figures really stack up for the mazda, but I doubt it sells as well because of the badge.

[@hingholo8027]

+James Cooling second best selling car in Australia behind toyota Corolla.

[@edwardwang2731]

this gonna be the first car if my life if i could pass the road test next week.. GO MAZDA!!

[@CedrickDivino]

Hi there, just checking if u pass the test and own a mazda .

[@escdilokulu9544]

Only original car that can still be alive. Mazda is like an organic food for car industry which is hard to find these days.

[@HakanWilke]

Why didnt you check which one had the best Mpg for real? My guess is that Mazda would crush the other two.

[@DeLaVeGaGR]

As an Mazda3 2007 owner i would definitely buy a newer Mazda(3 or 6),150.000km and still no issues. But the only thing i don't like on the Mazda 3,is its rear OEM suspension,it's a little bit jumpy

[@ACS607]

What everyone has to remember before making comments about being biased towards the Mazda is 1) It's his verdict based on his perceptions, ideas and the priorities he has (you can make up your own verdict). 2) You have to understand that his verdict is based on what is possible to buy from each brand at around this budget. 3) Audi and BMW have the better brand image which means they can get away with having bigger profit margins just by using the brand image and then making money from the options list. The Mazda can't do that because it doesn't have the brand image to get away with that and therefore has to make do with much smaller profit margins to tempt the same audience by having an all inclusive package at the cost of lower quality materials and a fwd platform. The Mazda wins here because it's the best compromise of all the cars. Full stop. If price was no object, both the Audi and BMW would probably be on top (although this still would depend on his ideas, perception and priorities).

[@ponygt6629]

I think u forgot the VW Golf TDi and Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI and the OPel Astra 2.0 TCDI... want more, first let AE compare these cars and declare a winner rather than musing up with segments

[@GT86crazy]

Ponygt 662 I'd like to see that comparison too.

[@burimi89]

I think you were a little nice about the Mazda 3 interior insulation here Matt. Having driven all three cars, I think the Mazda 3 has such terrible wind noise (especially in motorways) that it makes it unbearable sitting in the front over long distance, let alone if you're a passenger in the back. The handling is superb, amazing interior in the front, cheaper than all its rivals, especially 2nd hand. The 1.5 litre engine is SUPER uneconomical at motorway speeds, STAY AWAY FROM THIS ENGINE! and its massively underpowered. My recommendation to all, is buy a 2nd hand Audi A3 with the 2.0TDI engine.

[@yn7751]

What year is your Mazda? apparently they improved the intruding wind noise but that was back in 2006/7

[@burimi89]

+mak k it was the 2016 Mazda 3 With a 1.5litre engine. The engine was smooth but underpowered and very uneconomical on the old autobahn. Wind noise for rear passengers was quite bad!

[@restlessactivity8696]

Damage control. They can't beat Mazda 3 in speed. Im witing on the next Mazda 3 MPS with the new engine. Fucking hell that car is gonna be à beast.

[@vitormmmonteiro]

Mazda is the best! 😍

[@carlssonlsk]

I dont know which one is better but BMW and Mazda look sporty, now Audi A3 looks premium!

[@kienfung3045]

Mazda all day every day! Love Mazda 's design. And luckely No small doensize engine!

[@Anayatc]

he should have looked at the VW Golf, for £22k you can have the 2.0 TDI on a Match spec and that gets a lot of kit as standard and has just as much power as the Mazda,

[@sebjamrocha]

Hmm, I like new Mazda 3 but when I'm watching this test I have that feeling that This group test was "Sponsored" by Mazda :)

[@Autoexpress]

Krzysztof Jarzyna This group test was conducted the same as any other, with no interference from any manufacturer.

[@alteclansing3333]

The new Mazdas are making waves all over the world

[@buca9696]

Of the three it's the best car money can buy.

[@rongcon_games]

***** Same here in Vietnam. $40k

[@EvilHazeEdits]

you're 100% correct Mazda is a shit car. I'd go with 1 series all day

[@LiamS94]

Mazda fastback or hatchback? Personally I think the fastback looks a lot better but I guess the boot space would be somewhat compromised...

[@sonrisa2802]

mazda actually loaded with needs that today we ask, have a nice car, safe, stable, friendly service, have a sporty handling, the price is right and good yield, and the rest is cuastion of taste and luxury for my three made a good story in the market....

[@TheNostorian]

Alright.... alright. Ive changed my mind. No longer getting a bmw 1 series. Mazda 3 it is.

[@ssedcrfvgbhnjm]

Bought one a few months back. No regrets but i would say opt for the sport nav model as you get lots of convenient features

[@GaaraSama1983]

I don't get why people praise or bash a car solely cause of the brand/nation. You just play in the hands of marketing strategies. I think the best is a mix of hard facts and own experience from test drives. Most of us have a price limit and perception of which quality and configuration a car should have for a specific amount. I had two Audi A3 in a row, one from 98 and the other from 2005. Somehow the second felt like a downgrade in price/perf ratio. In my opinion most german cars got worse in this, especially the three big ones got a little bit to greedy in terms of profit margin per car (which is mostly confirmed by insiders). The cars are not bad, but japan or korean manufacturers give you more for your money. Some elements are worse in quality, but it feels like they focus more on the important stuff where to put the money in. So this time I give Mazda a chance.

[@TheSpecterRanger]

Weren't you guys ever taught as kids that 'brand name' products are often priced based on the name itself and not always quality? This just reminds me of how sad Fiat and Mini pricing is here in the US (idk about elsewhere). I feel bad for people who buy those things. You also need to respect that Mazda has stepped up their game and aren't just riding on their name to sell cars, but are making competitive advancements into luxury territory. Cost is different than value.

[@roggerfrogger2]

I like the Mazda 3 (I own the previous version) but the cars are not direct competitors. Consumers are more likely to be choosing between the Mazda and a Ford or Vauxhall than a BMW and Audi. With the Germans you pay more for less kit because you get things that you cannot buy with the lower down brands - build quality and brand prestige. Many people will pay more for the Audi or BMW just because it will make them look better in the office car park! I will be replacing my current Mazda 3 with this version when the time comes, I think it's great and performance over badge snobbery any day :)

[@MrStefano218]

roggerfrogger2 no, here in Italy they are competitors, I have a new Mazda 3 2.2 diesel, previously I had a Series 1 120d, but the quality is on the same level, is very similar... and Mazda have a very Premium image in aesthetic terms you know Mazda use the same AUDI leather?? in provided form an Italian company, the Gruppo Mastrotto... I'm Italian I know it very well... since 2012 when Mazda separated from Ford, Mazda have a lot of the same component suppliers of the German car makers...

[@MrStefano218]

roggerfrogger2 I don't know in Britain, but here in Italy is very common have a German compact car, there is No prestige to own a German small car... you know, do not cost enough, and may be you buy it used ect.. these cars are too compact to show off the prestige, you need a big Series 5 to do that... the compact car are good looking or not good looking, fashionable or not, cool or not... for all these reason and the good quality, Italian cars magazines consider Mazda a semi Premium brand, that means is very close to the traditional Premium brand

[@DabDabGoose]

Yes you can tell, they smell the same inside, i have owned a few audi's and when i sat in a Mazda 6 with leather interior it smelled exactly the same.

[@mustsilm]

Mat, Carbuyer isnt the same without you!

[@Autoexpress]

Mat works for both sites!

[@danesebruno]

Go Mazda!! That diesel engine is AMAZING! The problem with the german cars is that everything is optional. And the interior of the Mazda feels expensive with soft touch materials all around